Chapter 113: The Man in the Shadows
{TL: By Creed}
The lord of Leafland is not appointed from above but is chosen through an election.
It is an unusual system, but...
Previously, a lord appointed by the state used his power to commit various atrocities, worsening public safety. The situation nearly escalated to the brink of rebellion, leaving a blemish on the record.
Reflecting on that experience, it was decided that the lord would be chosen by the people's vote.
Even if a foolish lord is elected, it’s the people who voted for them, right? The authorities can use that as an excuse. Plus, the citizens are not fools. Since the lord affects their lives, they choose carefully.
In fact, Edward Ascart, who was elected in the last election, implemented good governance. He strictly adhered to the law and did what was expected. It may seem like a small thing, but it is the most important aspect of being human.
Such qualities were appreciated...
It was said that Edward would be re-elected in the next election. He had earned that much trust from the citizens.
The one who resented him was his political rival, Ice Needle.
Ice had suffered a major defeat to Edward in the previous election. Whenever he recalled the humiliation, a fierce anger surged within him, making it hard for him to sleep at night.
The next election was six months away. Although he was steadily preparing for his rematch... it felt futile. The hearts of the citizens were firmly grasped by Edward, and no one paid attention to Ice.
"Damn it."
In his home office, Ice drank and cursed.
Edward, Edward, Edward...
No matter where he went in the city, he heard Edward's name.
They believed Edward would further develop the city. They vowed to vote for him in the next election as well.
Ice? Who's that?
Hearing the city's voice infuriated Ice. He had declared his candidacy earlier than anyone else for the upcoming election to avenge his previous loss... but no one had any expectations for him.
"I am the one who deserves to be the lord of this city... Damn it, why? Why does no one see me?"
He had majored in city governance and graduated at the top of his class. He not only amassed knowledge but also gained ten years of practical experience in related work. He had even presented innovative ideas that astonished scholars.
So why wasn’t he chosen? Why did no one pay attention to him?
This city should be governed by the most capable person. It couldn't be left to Edward, who was only known for his steadiness. He was convinced that he was the truly suitable ruler.
...Well, Ice genuinely believed these things. His self-righteous mindset was why the citizens distanced themselves from him, though he never realized it. Essentially, people like him, with a dictatorial attitude, do not reflect on themselves.
"Excuse me."
The door opened, and an elderly man named Riken appeared. He casually sat on the sofa and made himself some tea.
"I heard you had something to discuss?"
"...I want to borrow your strength."
Ice had met Riken not long ago.
Riken had appeared out of nowhere, proposing a deal to showcase his skills. Naturally, Ice didn’t believe him. He assumed Riken was a shady adventurer and tried to turn him away... but Riken swiftly defeated the guards. Ice couldn’t even see what he did.
Normally, this would be an outrageous behavior, but…
Ice had his own personality issues. He decided to buy Riken's skills and bring him into his inner circle.
"Hmm, you want to borrow our strength… is that it?"
"I haven’t given you any proper tasks until now. It's time for you to be of real use."
"I don’t mind, but what do you want me to do?"
"You know Edward Ascart, don’t you? I want you to… kill him."
It was a very simplistic approach. However, Ice, whose calm was disturbed by impatience and irritation, did not understand how foolish this method was.
He just wanted Edward gone. That single desire drove him.
"The target is the lord of Leafland… and a master of the Divine King Dragon Swordsmanship."
"Can’t you do it?"
"I can."
Riken answered immediately. It wasn’t bravado; Ice could sense a solid confidence.
"But, you’d be better off not doing it."
"What?"
"It’s a very short-sighted idea. While I am confident I won't get caught, what about you? If things go wrong, you could lose everything."
"Ugh…"
Riken's reasonable point made Ice regain a bit of his composure, and he groaned.
"However… if you find the lord to be troublesome, there is something I can do to help. What do you say? Will you listen?"
"I’ll listen."
TL Note: Villains banding together?
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