LIGHTNOVELSTORY Chapter 43
Chapter 43: The Crack (5)
After demonstrating the overwhelming gap in skill to Christian Havertz, Martin contacted Sien, asking her to gather the key retainers.
Despite the sudden summons, they quickly gathered in the office.
Present were:
– Vincent von Igreet, head of the Igreet family.
– Oriana Flores, elder of the Adalbert main family.
– Lucas Hoffman, captain of the White Dragon Knights.
– Philip Alofs, captain of the Gold Dragon Knights.
Both Vincent and Oriana commanded their own factions, while Lucas and Philip led powerful military groups.
To gain real power, one needed strength, and with these four individuals, Martin had been able to seize control of the Adalbert main family’s authority.
‘Well, it’s hard to say that Elder Oriana is completely mine.’
She only followed him because of threats and hadn’t truly sworn her loyalty. But Martin didn’t place much significance on that.
‘She has no other path but to follow me.’
Oriana had already been branded a traitor by the other elders and heads of branch families.
With the internal conflicts within the family, it was impossible for her to survive alone.
If Martin abandoned her, she would fall immediately. Thus, she had no choice but to stick with him.
The only issue was that she often treated important matters with indifference.
But this time was different.
Her eyes gleamed more intensely than ever, likely because the long-awaited opportunity to become a lord was finally within reach.
Martin glanced at everyone in turn and then began to speak.
“Elder Aren, Elder Marius, and the heads of the other branch families are gathering their closest confidants. They intend to lead their elite forces to find the core.”
“We should also decide who will go on our side. I assume you and Sien are confirmed?”
“Exactly. However, I’d like Vincent to remain here.”
“Hm. You want me to keep things steady at the main family?”
“Yes. When the reward for destroying the core is officially announced, many lords will likely react aggressively.”
“I can imagine. Haven’t adventurers already been flocking to Varehein City due to the waiver of fees? That weakened the forces in other regions.”
“Once word spreads that there’s an opportunity to gain territory, even noble adventurers won’t stay idle. The strength of Varehein City’s forces will increase, but other areas will suffer losses.”
“That will make the other lords furious, and they might blame us. They could even try to pressure us with military force.”
“That’s why I’m asking you to stay, Vincent. As the family’s strongest, your presence will prevent any major unrest among our members.”
“Good grief. Just when I thought I’d finally get to stretch my legs a bit. Now I won’t even be able to expand the family’s influence.”
“I’m sorry, but I have no one else I can entrust this task to.”
Martin stood up and bowed his head.
Vincent waved his right hand dismissively.
“Raise your head, young lord. I was only joking.”
Even with Vincent’s words, Martin didn’t lift his head.
With a short sigh, Vincent stood from his seat and forcibly raised Martin to his feet.
“The Igreet family’s land is one of the largest in the Altaria Empire. I don’t need Rustal’s old territory. If I took it, it would likely cause unnecessary conflict. Besides, I’m too old to be wrestling with monsters. So, please, lift your head, young lord.”
“Thank you for your consideration.”
“No need for thanks. Now, if I’m not going, I suggest you take all three of the others here with you. Four 7th-circle masters and a 5th-circle expert should be able to reach the 30th floor without much trouble.”
“I agree with Vincent’s suggestion. Considering the complex geography of the dungeon, a small elite force would be better than bringing a large group.”
“I feel the same.”
Philip Alofs was the first to respond, and Lucas Hoffman nodded in agreement.
Then Martin’s gaze shifted to Elder Oriana.
“I’m curious to hear your thoughts, Elder.”
“Before I answer, may I ask you something, young lord?”
“Go ahead.”
“If I destroy the core, will you still give me Rustal’s old territory?”
“Of course.”
“And are you sincere about making me an independent lord?”
“Yes, I am. I have no intention of lying. However, even as an independent lord, you must support the Adalbert family as the leader of the northern territories.”
“That goes without saying.”
Elder Oriana answered cheerfully.
She had secured a chance to become a lord. Moreover, Rustal’s territory was vast and wealthy, more so than most baronies.
“But what if the opposing side destroys the core?”
“Regardless of who destroys it, I will keep my promise. Though personally, I doubt there’s anyone who can surpass us.”
After all, they had four 7th-circle masters on their side.
Sien was also a formidable force. Inheriting the Igreet family’s physical prowess, she was likely the strongest among all 5th-circle warriors.
“I’m curious about you two as well. Don’t either of you want to become a lord?”
At Oriana’s question, Lucas and Philip exchanged glances.
A moment later, Philip spoke first.
“It would be a lie to say I haven’t thought about it. After all, it’s the dream of any noble in the Altaria Empire, or even across the Cracian Continent, to become a lord.”
“I agree with Commander Alofs. So, I’d like to ask something. Since the commander and I both desire to become lords, that makes us rivals. How can we cooperate smoothly under these circumstances?”
“Easily.”
“What makes you so sure?”
“Well, I doubt you’re looking for a textbook answer like, ‘Since we swore loyalty to the young lord, we’re obligated to follow his orders.’”
“Yes. I want an honest answer from the former leader.”
“It’s simple. The young lord promised. He said he would properly recognize the merits of his vassals and give rewards accordingly. Since the lord said so, isn’t it the duty of a vassal to trust him?”
“Trust….”
Elder Oriana now looked at Lucas.
Without any hesitation, he immediately responded.
“I do wish to become a lord. However, I won’t be bound by it.”
“Is it because of the young lord’s promise?”
“Of course, that’s part of it, but there’s another reason.”
“What is it?”
“I hate to say this in the presence of the young lord, but ever since the former lord took over, there’s been an increase in lords in the north who act only for their own interests.”
“I suppose… that’s true.”
“I don’t believe the young lord would simply sit back and watch that happen. So, what do you think will happen?”
“…The current power structure in the north could collapse.”
“Exactly, Elder Oriana. I’m sure there will be a power vacuum, and I believe it’s only right that we, who have pledged our loyalty, will fill it. Therefore, there’s no need to force a conflict with you, Elder.”
Elder Oriana’s face went blank at the unexpected response.
Vincent, on the other hand, burst into hearty laughter.
It was only natural since Lucas’ response all but hinted at a large-scale purge.
And not just within the Adalbert family, but across the entire northern region.
‘Good grief.’
Martin shook his head with a bitter smile.
He couldn’t believe Lucas would say such a thing with him right there.
That said, he had no intention of criticizing him.
It wasn’t like Lucas had said anything wrong, and a slight warning to Elder Oriana seemed necessary.
“You’ve got a scary vassal, young lord.”
“I didn’t expect such a response either. Anyway, Elder Oriana, I believe it’s time for your answer.”
“With such a blatant mention of a purge, how could I refuse? I’ll go with you.”
“Thank you. However, I think gathering all this force from the start would be inefficient. How about we join forces on the 20th floor?”
“Inefficient? Once we get to the floor where the core is located, we can find it. Wouldn’t it be better to concentrate our forces and descend as quickly as possible…?”
Elder Oriana stopped speaking.
Then, as if she couldn’t believe it, she shook her head.
She had realized Martin’s true intentions.
“You want us to clear out as many monsters as possible from the 1st to the 20th floor, don’t you, young lord? Your desire to squeeze every bit of use out of us is so strong, it’s giving me chills.”
“It’s for the sake of the citizens, so please don’t take it too badly, Elder Oriana. In any case, we’ll depart in three days… Let’s meet on the 20th floor in fifteen days. Also, don’t forget to bring as many protective stones and potions as possible.”
“It’s been a while since I’ve gone down into a dungeon, but I’m not so old that I’d forget such things.”
“Good. Then, let’s all meet tomorrow in the White Dragon Room. The grand conference isn’t over yet.”
At Martin’s words, Vincent was the first to rise from his seat.
“One bait. But so many greedy fools are swarming around. The next grand conference is going to be something to look forward to. It looks like we’re in for some real entertainment.”
Laughing, Vincent left the office, and the others followed.
Then, Sien, who had remained silent until now, spoke up.
“That was unexpected. I thought you’d reveal that the Fire Dragon Sword had become your vassal right away.”
“Come on. You can’t play your trump card too early.”
“So, when are you planning to reveal it?”
“When it’ll shock everyone the most. I mean, accepting a 7th Circle master as a vassal has to make an impact, don’t you think?”
Sien clicked her tongue and shook her head.
“You’re such a bad person.”
“But it’s more fun this way, isn’t it?”
“You’re not someone who seeks only fun. You’re aiming for something more, aren’t you?”
“Sien, you really know me too well.”
“Stop trying to change the subject.”
“Well, you’ll find out naturally later.”
As Sien had predicted, Martin had already spoken with Christian about it.
‘Everyone’s going to be so surprised.’
He couldn’t help but look forward to their reactions.
* * *
After three long days, the grand conference finally came to an end.
The heads of the branch families, the elders, and the leaders of the military groups all decided to explore the core.
Right after the conference concluded, Martin headed to Varehein City’s town hall.
Martin was all but certain to become the next head of the family.
Moreover, having recently spent much time in the dungeon defending against monsters and foreseeing the crisis by gathering adventurers in advance, his popularity was soaring.
With his official appearance, it was only natural that many people would gather.
“Even though it is my duty as the young lord of the Adalbert family to ensure the peace and safety of the citizens, I have failed to fulfill that duty. For that, I sincerely apologize.”
Martin bowed politely as he spoke.
Murmurs spread through the crowd.
The citizens were genuinely taken aback by this unexpected gesture.
However, as soon as Martin spoke again, silence fell.
“Over the past three days, I, along with members of my family, have deliberated on how we can resolve this crisis swiftly. I stand before you today to inform you of that solution.”
Martin steadied his breath.
Then, he shouted powerfully.
“To end this monster wave, we must destroy the core in the dungeon. Therefore, I declare this here and now! Whoever finds and destroys the core will be granted the former territory of the Rustal family and will be made an independent lord!”
“However, for those without unique abilities, do not be discouraged! Should you destroy the core, you will be compensated with a reward equal to the value of the territory!”
“If we can overcome this crisis, neither I nor the Adalbert family will hold anything back! This is my resolve!”
The moment Martin’s declaration ended,
“Uwaaahhh!”
A thunderous roar erupted from the crowd.
But it wasn’t just the citizens of Varehein City who were moved.
Those with ambition or desire for power also cheered at Martin’s proclamation and immediately began heading toward Varehein.
Once again, Martin had succeeded in shaking the Altaria Empire to its core.
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