Chapter 15

Chapter 15

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[Translator Kie]

[Proofreader Demon God]

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You are even mocking me!

Unable to contain his anger, Count Ettark threw the document forcefully, but even the paper seemed to mock him as it fluttered weakly to the ground. He vented his frustration by kicking the paper with his shoe, letting out a stream of curses.

All the refined demeanor seen throughout his life seemed nothing but a facade as harsh words poured out, lacking any hint of noble dignity.

Though pushed to the far-off village of Hastin amidst factional strife, he was still a Count, no matter how rotten he was.

Despite the looming danger akin to the ancient center, Hastin was a functional territory.

Explain.

Glaring at the servant with bloodshot eyes, the Lord of Hastin, Count Ettark, intimidated the maid who cowered on the ground, her hands worn out from begging. Even that seemed to fuel his derision, prompting the Count, who had been pacing, to draw the sword resting on the ornate stand. The room filled with the sound of terrified sobs.

Explain! I demand an explanation!!

He brandished the sword as if about to strike at any moment. Count Ettarks hand trembled, unable to focus even his gaze due to his anger.

It took a significant pause for some semblance of composure to return. As the maids whimpering ceased, the Count, who had been bristling with anger, managed to regain control.

No I need to think calmly. This isnt the maids fault.

As if dispelling his rage, he threw the sword aside, clattering loudly on the floor. Watching the fleeing maid, terrified and muffled, the Count, who had momentarily prevailed, picked up the crumpled paper again. He re-read the notification of the dungeon conquest, like confirming an execution order.

A blatant notice.

It wasnt seeking permission but a unilateral notice.

For dungeons estimated at B-rank or higher, approval from the local lord must be obtained before entering. This was because failures in dungeon conquest often led to monsters spilling into human settlements, causing havoc. Assessing the potential success of a conquest team was a crucial duty for the lord, as incorrect judgments could directly result in territorial loss. Therefore, the judgment on entering a dungeon was an indicator of the lords capabilities. And unless the royal family intervened, no one could overlook this unique authority.

Within the territory, the power of a lord was almost comparable to that of an emperor, perhaps with a bit of exaggeration. Hastin was no exception. Even though pushed to such an obscure place, Ettark was law, the justice of Hastin.

Sending such a unilateral notice, especially with the scheduled conquest date being two days away, was a direct challenge to his authority.

Ettark clenched his teeth. The Third Eye. Those damn Imperial-affiliated bureaucrats. He had been pushed away due to factional feuds, and he had no intention of getting involved with the royalty. Furthermore, the backers behind the notice were linked to Paimour Du Bellay, a reputed major investor.

This reeked without even needing a royal seal. Aside from the wax seal not bearing the imperial emblem, it was essentially a royal decree. There was no way to refuse it. Coming in the form of a notification was an implicit threat to heed their commands.

This is unbelievable

Not only the investors and the expedition force but also the lord would suffer losses if the expedition failed. It was a perennial method of subjugating nobles by nobles. It was also a legal method. Labeling it a fault due to unclear judgment, they could attach any blame they wanted.

Do you think this expedition force can conquer the Primordial Core?

After barely calming his excitement, the Count asked the servant again. The servant shook their head.

Ettark thought the same. Most likely, everyone else thought the same. It was too ambiguous. He had considered the involvement of the royal family in a re-conquest, considering the death of the warrior Vern, but this was too inadequate. The figure mentioned as the Raid Force Leader, Niphrim, was an unknown individual.

What were they thinking? Were they even burying themselves along with their own reputation?

Oh well, youre right.

Completely ignoring the Count.

Facing such blatant disregard within his own domain, the Counts gaze was buried in the commotion. Even his reproachful glances were lost in the noise. The maids footsteps echoed as she retreated, breaking a teacup in the process.

What is happening?

Simply put, weve come to clear the Primordial Core.

The vibrant voice echoed in the Counts mind.

Well, well. I just wanted to provide some accommodation for a few days unless theres something urgent. We were planning to leave right after visiting Wing.'

The Wing? What What is the purpose of going there?

To kill them all.

At the sudden statement, the Counts face stiffened. In the distance, the sound of a maid breaking another cup could be heard.

What What nonsense is this?

If youre wondering, we came all the way here for one dungeon. Primordial Core, as stated in the documents you received.

Th-the dungeon?

Exactly. We were about to leave for it right away. However, we got a new schedule, so we might have to go tomorrow. Is that okay?

Why, a schedule? What do you mean? And two days, isnt that too impatient? It would be fine to recover your strength thoroughly before going, especially for such a momentous task.

Oh no, is it? We heard the schedule changed while coming here. Using magic to eavesdrop was quite easy with such lax security. I heard everything. You plan to entrust the mission to Wing, right?

The Counts face became rigid. Even his attempts to regain control seemed futile.

Well If you must know, were here to eliminate any hindrance. After all, the stronger force will ultimately challenge the Primordial Core. So, if we survive, you wont have to worry, Count. Isnt that right, Count? Niphrim asked.

The Count, after a moment of silence, muttered.

Pardon my outspokenness.

Kahaha, thanks to the Counts kindness, I cant decide whether I should be grateful or not.

Satisfied with the humble response, Niphrim reached for the remaining half of the snack.

Crunch!

Even the sound of the snack being chewed felt unusually sharp.

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[Translator Kie]

[Proofreader Demon God]

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