Terminally-Ill Genius Dark Knight

Chapter 74

Within the universe of Inner Lunatic, several vital considerations emerge.

First and foremost, you must strategically leverage the core traits of your character, as initially determined by you, the player.

Should you choose a [Sword and Martial Arts Genius], your attention should predominantly center on skills within the sword and martial arts domain.

Conversely, a [Mana Sensitivity Genius] would be primarily adept at magic. Similarly, a [Colossus] or any other talent would necessitate an emphasis on their complementary skills.

Should you lack swordsmanship talent, fear not. With persistence, your potential achievements are evident.

Your limitations will reveal themselves.

In contrast to other games, where so-called “scum” might survive, Inner Lunatic forbids this.

Remember, talent comes with a cost.

Take my character, for instance: dual genius traits coupled with the negative [Time Limit] trait – a perilous and challenging path.

Survival is only possible by meticulously crafting your character’s journey.

Secondly, consider the factions.

Surprisingly, their prevalence within games is high.

Two, or sometimes even more, clashing factions exist, allowing players to choose sides and dictate their gameplay accordingly.

This aspect of gameplay has received widespread appreciation.

It benefits both developers, by extending the game’s lifespan, and players, by allowing them to delve deeper into the world.

It’s a mutually beneficial scenario.

But then, the game turned into reality, and……

What if I’m faced with the daunting task of choosing between multiple factions?

The answer would likely vary.

Inner Lunatic contains three major factions. Their balance is precarious, each posing a threat to the other.

Like three fragile spheres on the brink of shattering.

In essence, this reflects the current predicament of the Empire.

For clarity, the three main factions are as follows:

First, the Imperialists, steered by the Holy Family.

Second, the Organization for Rebellion, orchestrated by the underworld and the criminal faction known as Lunatic – the Radicals.

Lastly, the Highlanders, under the leadership of Eleanor de Rivalin. Their alignment shifts according to the player’s choice, always opting for the most beneficial side.

Each faction grapples with its own conflicts and growth.

Further complications arise with the addition of the resistance – individuals disenchanted with the nobility’s actions. Every decision made is pivotal.

Choosing the wrong path and landing in an unfortunate position is typical.

Even the [resistance], mainly based on people’s rebellion, albeit weakly financed and lacking in power, possesses a latent threat.

This political intricacy stems from a single ally – the Emperor.

“Esteban von Arkheim. The father of Princess Penelope, he was once revered as the Holy Trident. But now, he lies fallen.

The once-unifying Holy Emperor, the founder of the Arkheim Empire by merging the Holy and Dark Houses, is no more.

It’s this vacuum that fuels the growing cries for rebellion.

“Young Master, the decision is yours…….”

Zitri’s voice brought me out of my contemplation.

“Master, I am forever at your side. Please, make a choice that aligns with your heart.”

“I understand…… I know. That you stand with me, I knew it from our first encounter.”

When I first crossed paths with Zitri.

She began as a spy but altered her loyalties to remain steadfastly by my side.

I trust her.

Indeed, there are a few more individuals I hold in such regard.

Rona, Carl, among others.

Their loyalty has shaped me and made me who I am.

I took a moment to collect my thoughts.

This letter, it’s a double-edged sword.

While enticing me with promises of reward, it could, depending on my choices, place those around me…

No, they could face peril.

Externally, I may appear the villain, but internally, I’m not.

Perhaps it’s remnants of my modern mindset…

Nevertheless, I cannot dismiss the significance of a life so lightly.

Thus, I made my decision.

“Inform the Princess that I will journey to Talonfeather. You will not accompany me. That is an order.”

“Young Master.”

A flicker of fear flashes across Zitri’s slender pupils.

Her emotions clearly conveyed, yet my intentions remained resolute.

“I’m not fond of repeating myself.”

Entering enemy territory.

A locale unsuitable for those I trust, given its absence of protective barriers.

I’m a player, not a mere bystander who’s idled for two years. It’s time for me to make this crucial choice.

A necessity to free myself from my current confinement.

An absolute necessity.

* * *

Approximately two days ago, a carriage containing Princess Penelope von Arkheim and myself set off towards the capital city, Talonfeather.

Inside the four-horse-drawn carriage was the epitome of comfort. The carriages of House Reinhafer were luxurious, but this imperial vehicle was in a class of its own.

One could easily discern the lavish expenditure and layers of enchantments adorning both its exterior and interior.

Comfort.

A sensation I hadn’t experienced since falling into the Middle Ages.

‘This could become somewhat addictive…….’

My musings were interrupted by none other than Princess Penelope.

With her left hand crossed over her chest, she inclined her head in a slight bow.

“Allow me to express my greetings once more, Nox von Reinhafer. My deepest gratitude for saving my life. The capital shall duly reward you for preserving the bloodline of the imperial family.”

“Hmph, you should indeed feel gratitude. It isn’t often a dark house’s scion receives such honor.”

Echidna’s words fell on deaf ears.

Her dusty pink hair and vertical pupils surveyed me momentarily.

A hint of displeasure in her gaze.

But it bears no consequence.

She harbors animosity towards me.

The way she retorts with her sharp words, it’s becoming quite endearing.

Watching her irritation flare when I don’t respond in kind is quite amusing, so I choose not to react.

“I’m honored. As a citizen of Reinhafer within the Empire, I was simply adhering to emergency protocols. I don’t believe I did anything warranting an audience.”

I respond courteously, then divert my gaze toward the window.

‘Talonfeather is within reach. We just need to endure this uncomfortable journey a little longer.’

Soon, the carriage arrives at the capital’s border.

In fact.

Talonfeather, the capital city, is relatively close to Eldain Academy.

More accurately, Eldain Academy was established in proximity to the capital.

The primary reason for founding the academy was to consolidate imperial power.

In essence, to avoid losing talent to other nations.

Here lies the nation’s water source, the Ark River, which, as previously mentioned, is strictly reserved for the nobility.

Why, you ask?

The Arkheim Empire originated from a coalition of self-serving noble groups.

Consequently, the forces bolstering them are often aristocratic and inherently entitled.

They believe in entitlement.

The well-being of the lower classes is inconsequential to them. This mindset led the current Emperor, Esteban von Arkheim, to decide:

A river that significantly enhances one’s abilities upon immersion.

To reserve it exclusively for his own forces.

Indeed, this applies to both nobles and commoners.

Those deemed worthy may experience the Ark River, yet it remains primarily the preserve of the Holy Houses.

The current Emperor knows no compromise.

He openly favors the Holy House, much to the Underworld’s discontent.

This imbalance fuels the Underworld and the Lunatics’ rebellion, driving them toward war.

In the midst of my reflections, Penelope poses an unusual question.

“I must confess, I didn’t understand why you saved me that day. I couldn’t comprehend.”

A starkly honest query.

Her intention was clear.

In truth, her suspicion regarding my assistance, being one of the leading candidates for the Imperial throne, is justified.

The chasm separating the Holy and Dark Houses is immense from the outset, and overcoming it is more challenging than one might presume.

The Dark House has no reason to save the blood of the Holy House, least of all the blood of the Emperor.

Moreover, I’m the youngest of the prominent House Reinhafer from the Underworld, notorious for its mischief.

Yet, I saved her.

…Simply to preserve the narrative, a truth I can’t reveal to her.

Her doubts are, therefore, perhaps warranted.

But I responded as audaciously as possible.

“Is it problematic for a person to save a princess?”

Penelope’s countenance subtly shifted.

The corners of her mouth rose into a frigid smile, replacing her customary warm demeanor, a clear signal of her transformation into the Cold-Blooded Princess.

I swallowed, bracing myself for her impending words.

“If you intend to keep your motives shrouded, it might serve you temporarily… yet I advise against it.”

“What do you imply?”

“I once heard a statement: ‘The most tormented corners of hell are reserved for those who stay neutral during times of moral crisis.’ You’ll have to choose a side eventually or risk elimination, irrespective of your rank. Regardless of the luster you possess.”

Princess Penelope continued with seeming indifference.

“I can assist you because your origin and identity matter little to me.”

“Is that so?”

I retorted, meeting the Princess’s unyielding gaze.

For a fleeting moment, her face seemed to merge with that of another woman. However, I quickly dismissed the thought. No matter how I construed it, no link existed between her and Penelope.

I stood, absorbed in my thoughts, studying Penelope.

Truthfully, her words’ implications are clear.

I’ve renounced the Underworld for the Imperialists. She suggests that aligning with her faction could serve my interests.

Indeed, she is working towards becoming Empress.

She’s resolved to oust numerous dissenting nobles and ascend to the highest position in the land. In doing so, she requires my assistance.

One could consider it a recruitment effort.

Yet, I harbor doubts.

‘It’s possibly connected to Rick. While it’s uncharacteristic of the Princess to pursue the Imperial throne in a cowardly manner… I must remain cautious.’

In the future, this fierce fourteen-year-old is destined to etch her name among the greats. And she achieves it.

The fundamental predicament, however, does not cease there.

Repeatedly, even the most virtuous of maidens are gradually corrupted by encroaching darkness.

This path doesn’t bode well for the continent or me. Soon, she will be known as the Coldblooded Empress.

The cause remains obscure, yet something is sure to occur that will irrevocably shatter her fragile persona.

I consider the Princess’s proposal impartially.

It’s not undesirable in the grand scheme of things. It parallels the discourse I shared with Rick.

Eventually, according to the narrative, the Princess assumes the role of Empress, granting her unrestrained power.

However.

Much like my previous discussion with Rick, my response remains unaltered.

“I must apologize. I don’t believe I am suited for the task, Empress.”

“Hmph, you’ll regret declining this opportunity.”

Echidna scoffed.

But what else could I do, commit to her faction now?

That would jeopardize my ability to play the villain.

It could end up complicating matters further.

“I respect your decision if that’s your final stance.”

To my astonishment, the Princess responded with a solemn nod.

Penelope refrained from further discourse, and soon enough, we arrived at the capital.

Talonfeather.

The sight of the continent’s most advanced mage-engineered city was breathtaking.

I observed nobles garbed in silk leading their squires down commercial lanes and the faces of those who respectfully bowed their heads to the imperial carriages.

This is the Arkheim Empire, the apex of this continent. This represents the might of the Imperial Family.

With this insight, I entered the imperial castle. Exiting the carriage, I accompanied the Princess to the inner chamber, the realm of the King’s guests.

There sat the ‘indifferent emperor’. Esteban von Arkheim, a visage of boredom etched on his face.

“Welcome, Nox von Reinhafer, and my daughter… Penelope.”

Two disarmed pupils.

The Emperor had already succumbed.

His voice, reminiscent of a defeated, extinguished candle, was a testament.

I took a moment to revisit the game’s setting.

‘Originally, Emperor Esteban wasn’t characterized as tyrannical… but a narrative shift transformed him. The events of the first part are scarcely revealed, but it likely entailed a tragedy.’

Amid my reflections, the Emperor’s gruff voice echoed.

“Nox von Reinhafer, my daughter’s savior. You rescued Penelope von Archheim. In return, you may request a favor from the imperial family.

Now, speak. I will fulfill your request, within reason.”

“……I.”

Kneeling, I fixated on the royal alcove’s floor, adorned with a series of blue insignias. A silence so profound that I could count the floor’s checkered patterns ensued.

A chill of anticipation ran up my spine.

I was, metaphorically, in the heart of enemy territory.

What if I made even a minor misstep?

I could be unreasonably hunted down and killed.

Despite being a member of the distinguished Reinhafer family, I remain the youngest.

If you believe Theo, Nox’s father, would be moved by the death of his youngest, you’re gravely mistaken.

I swallowed hard, momentarily raising my gaze.

‘In truth, I’ve known what I desired from the beginning. But whether the Emperor will concede is another matter. He is likely to deem it excessive.’

The reward I seek is Arkriver.

An opportunity to bathe in it. But as I mentioned, it’s primarily reserved for the Holy Houses.

‘But if not now, I, a scion of the Dark House, will never gain the chance to bathe in the Arkriver, a sort of Hidden Piece.’

The silence extended, culminating in an increasingly troubling situation.

It’s about making the most of adverse conditions.

An approach I’ve employed countless times while gaming.

As you may know, Inner Lunatic was exceedingly difficult, and I was the last player standing.

So, I simply have to contemplate.

The organic interaction between characters.

And the most effective strategy I can deploy to turn the situation in my favor…

‘…I already hold the answer.’

The more I deliberated, the clearer it became.

The most significant advantage of Nox’s alter ego is personality. I can harness the trait that strongly binds me.

‘My key trait is being an absolute asshole.’

He is a jackass, unconcerned with politics, only interested in personal gain.

There’s no need to decipher the High and Low dynamics.

An asshole disregards all that, doing as they please.

Thus, I made a bold demand.

“Please allow me, the privilege of immersing myself in the sacred river of Talonfeather.”

At this, the princess’s face turned stone-like.

As did Echidna’s.

How audacious, a scion of the Dark House demanding the Imperial House’s treasure, the Arkriver, for a bath?

A daring proposition seemingly challenging imperial authority.

Echidna raised her voice in alarm.

“Your Majesty, no matter how substantial the reward, bestowing such a boon upon a scion of the Dark House is…….”

“Who dares interrupt the Emperor’s words?”

“……My apologies.”

The Emperor spoke, his gaze vacant, puppet-like.

Echidna hastily apologized. She realized she had overstepped, showing disrespect in the Emperor’s presence.

She might have already been executed if not for her status as House Xenos’ eldest daughter.

She acknowledged her error.

However, my attention was elsewhere at that moment.

The reason was straightforward. The words just spoken hadn’t originated from the Emperor himself but had been manipulated by another.

Then, from behind him, a man emerged.

Blonde, golden-eyed.

A man bearing a striking resemblance to Penelope, a smirk adorning his face. Of course, I knew who he was.

He grinned, spreading his arms wide.

“Ah, what an intriguing guest…… did you say your name was Nox? Splendid. I, acting on behalf of the current Emperor, Esteban von Arkheim, grant your request.”

Penelope and Echidna’s expressions turned ashen.

They were acutely aware of the peril this man posed.

“You are….”

“Ah, I apologize. I failed to introduce myself. Please understand… The imperial family’s affairs can be overwhelming, leading to such oversights.”

My danger alarm rings.

Quite intensely this time.

The man in front of me.

He instilled a chill in my spine.

A foreboding sensation engulfed me.

The blond, golden-eyed man extended his hand in greeting.

“Delighted to make your acquaintance. I am Louis von Arkheim. First Prince of the Empire.”

I shook his hand, thoroughly convinced.

This man had now surpassed the ‘Clueless Emperor’ to wield true power in Arkheim. Undoubtedly, he represented the most significant obstacle Penelope must overcome to become Empress of the Empire.

‘We must prevent him from becoming Emperor. We must halt his ascent, regardless of the cost.’

To clarify.

As the villain, it’s my duty to outmaneuver him and ensure the crowning of the Empress.

Why, you ask?

Simply because Louis is a despicable character.

The First Prince earned the moniker of Ending Maker among users.

The Architect of Bad Endings.