Regressor of the Fallen Family Novel - Chapter 287
C287
When Burdell met Ronian in the southern mountains, a group visited McLaine Castle. Approximately thirty individuals quietly entered through the side entrance without displaying any flags. Despite the discreet arrival, Grandpia seemed prepared for their visit, as if they had been expected, and they were warmly received.
Dwayne announced, “The representatives from the Allied Three Kingdoms have arrived.”
Logan’s eyes sparkled with anticipation.
“So soon? They must be very determined.”
“It appears Ignis has been brought directly. A Tria envoy is in possession of it.”
“Excellent. Let’s meet with them.”
As Logan made to stand up with a smile, Dwayne halted him with a concerned expression.
“Your Majesty?”
“Hmm?”
“I understand the need for secrecy in this matter, and why Victor volunteered for ‘that task.’ No one in our kingdom would oppose Your Majesty’s intentions. However, if you plan to make a bold move, please consult with someone trustworthy first.”
“But what?”
“If you’re planning something daring, please share it with us before proceeding. It doesn’t have to be me, but someone from your inner circle.”
Dwayne’s worried face drew a chuckle from Logan.
“… What did Damian say?”
“It’s me who’s concerned, Your Majesty! That look on your face—you’re plotting something, aren’t you?”
“… No, I’m not?”
“Ah… Your Majesty? Your Majesty!”
Despite Dwayne’s persistence, Logan hastily left the room, leaving a trail of concerned sighs behind.
“It’s an honor to meet you, Your Majesty. I am Richard Blair,” greeted the Tria envoy, bowing respectfully. He seemed to be in his fifties, with neatly styled brown hair and striking blue eyes.
‘An esteemed knight…’
Logan had heard of Richard Blair before—known as a close aide to the King of Tria. While it was uncommon for a knight to act as a diplomatic envoy, it made sense to send a loyal knight to verify an already decided matter and carry a special item.
As Logan observed Richard with keen interest, representatives from other countries present knelt before him one by one.
“I stand before McLaine’s ruler. I am Yordan Malins, envoy from the Kingdom of Liberty.”
“I am before McLaine’s sun. I am brad Farrell, envoy from Teronan.”
Although not as lively as Richard, both middle-aged men—one with thinning hair and the other scholarly appearance—had eyes that spoke of a life lived with honor.
“You’ve traveled far. To save time, let’s skip formalities and proceed to the treaty that has been agreed upon,” Logan cut to the chase, disregarding diplomatic protocols.
The envoys were surprised by his direct approach, but Knight Richard promptly presented the documents, shimmering with blue mana even to those without Logan’s acute senses.
“As per international customs, we have prepared a mana oath. It contains only personal identification of the involved parties, with no additional magic woven into it. Please review it,” Richard explained.
Although not as binding as a private magical contract, the oath retained magical evidence that even a superhuman couldn’t erase once agreed upon—crucial for a covert treaty like this.
After a brief scan of the oath, Logan passed it to Damian.
“Damian, ensure everything is in order and inspect the magic. How long will it take?”
“Half a day should suffice,” Damian replied.
“Good. Let’s reconvene here in half a day. Oh, Tria envoy, you have something to give me, correct?”
“How could I keep Your Majesty waiting? Please wait a moment.”
With flattering words, Richard bowed and Logan accepted graciously.
“It’s fine.”
The curiosity on the other envoys’ faces suggested that the information about Ignis hadn’t leaked yet.
“You may rest for now. I will call for you once the document is reviewed,” Logan dismissed them, ignoring their inquisitive glances.
An hour later, Logan met privately with Richard Blair. In Richard’s hand was a striking item, transported discreetly—a spear blade gleaming as if light itself was frozen in place. The shaft emitted a warm glow, captivating to behold.
“Holding this weapon privately would have been forbidden even for the Emperor of the Empire, but I see it’s different for Your Majesty. Here is our national treasure, Ignis, from the Tria Kingdom.”
Richard’s hand trembled slightly as he offered the weapon, hesitant to let go.
“Who is that…?”
Richard glanced at Logan’s back, where a somber mage appeared mesmerized by Ignis.
“That’s the royal mage I brought to authenticate the artifact. He’s one of my close allies, so you can trust him with any secrets.”
“Yes. …But his expression…”
Richard’s doubtful tone elicited a dry laugh from Logan. Even Clayton seemed oddly entranced, showing a joy Logan hadn’t seen in years.
Only after Logan cleared his throat multiple times did Clayton approach cautiously.
“I am Clayton, a mage of McLaine. I have a title but no surname yet. That’s not important now. May I examine Ignis?”
Clayton’s words tumbled out, worsening Richard’s skepticism, but he relinquished the spear to him.
“Incredible… What manner of item is this…?”
As Clayton’s hand traced down Ignis, his entranced expression alone seemed proof enough.
Meanwhile, Richard, still gripping the spear, watched Clayton suspiciously. He seemed torn between stabbing him or not, earning a wry smile and nod from Logan.
“It appears to be authentic.”
“Indeed.”
On Logan’s confirmation, Richard’s demeanor darkened, but he eventually released his hold on Ignis.
Logan understood his reluctance and didn’t rush him.
“In Tria, knights almost exclusively use spears as a tribute to the Spear King’s memory.”
“Yes.”
“Fortunately, we lack many spearmen in McLaine, so unless something unexpected happens, this spear will go unnoticed by outsiders.”
“… Your consideration is appreciated, Your Majesty.”
With Logan’s assurance, Richard finally let go of Ignis. As if acknowledging a new owner, the weapon emitted a mournful hum.
Even as Logan took possession, he mirrored Clayton’s captivated expression, gently caressing the spear with a smile.
‘The magic imbued was the Flash of Magic Dissolution, correct? Sir Clayton. I trust you will advance in artifact study as promised.’
The commitment wasn’t made lightly. Originally, it was Clayton who had expressed interest.
‘Is this sufficient?’
‘More than enough.’
Their silent agreement reflected in their eyes as Logan grinned.
Though he vowed to keep Ignis hidden, he never promised not to utilize it for research.
With utmost solemnity, Logan declared:
“I, Logan McLaine, swear that this will stand as a testament to the friendship between our nations. I will uphold the promises made with the King of Tria.”
As long as you don’t betray me first.
Unable to read minds, Richard bowed tensely.
“Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Despite his gratitude, Richard Blair kept glancing back at Ignis, reluctant to leave. His evident regret, while unrelated to Tria’s royal lineage, symbolized the importance of their founder, Spear King Tria Cassel, in the kingdom.
Thud.
As the door closed behind Richard, Logan turned to Clayton.
“Sir Clayton, how long until we see results? I will ensure the necessary time is allocated, even if issues arise.”
“… The unique mana pattern and compound structure… how is this possible…”
“… Sir Clayton?”
“The materials were a concern; if there’s a mistake, this could be…”
“Sir Clayton!”
Startled by Logan’s sudden outburst, Clayton refocused.
“Please, take the research to the lab for thorough examination. How long will you need at a minimum for any findings?”
“… I’m uncertain.”
Logan’s expression hardened at the unexpected response.
“However, the chance to study this artifact implies potential discoveries from Kraun’s research journal. The opportunities are abundant.”
“Research journal?”
“Kraun’s research journal.”
“Ah… You were still investigating that? I thought it was a clue for artifact research?”
“… It serves the same purpose. It contains multiple methods for imbuing objects with magic.”
“Methods from an organization?”
“Yes. It’s unlikely the work of an individual. The volume alone surpasses what a single genius could accomplish.”
“Hmm… Well, it doesn’t matter. I anticipate the results.”
“I will give my best. Thank you for entertaining such a bold request, Your Majesty.”
“I didn’t expect it to be so easily accepted when I proposed the idea. It leaves a nagging feeling.”
Reflecting on Ramon I’s expression as he held Ignis, Logan pondered his intentions.
‘I should prepare for the worst.’
Determined, Logan dismissed the eager mage and summoned Rick immediately.
“Bring the envoys from Liberty and Teronan.”
“But, Your Majesty, you said you would meet the emissaries after half a day…”
“I have information that could assist their plans. Inform them accordingly.”
“Understood.”
Sensing unease from Tria, Logan excluded Richard from the discussion. Consequently, the envoys from Liberty and Teronan faced Logan earlier than planned, surprised by his proposal.
“… And? What are your thoughts?”
“Ah… Well, indeed…”
After a shared glance, the two envoys hesitated, showing evident apprehension.
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