Lord of Caldera - Chapter 85

Chapter 85: Chapter 85
Count Bill had returned three days earlier. According to reports, he had successfully dealt with the demon he faced, with minimal casualties—a near-miraculous outcome considering the adversary. Yet, even that impressive result paled in comparison to what Sylas and his group had achieved.

“I’m so proud of you both!” Count Bill exclaimed, embracing his two sons. The challenges they faced were far greater than his own: a city almost overtaken, survivors held hostage, and relentless mental assaults. Yet, Sylas’s team overcame all of it without a single casualty.

“I heard a bard’s already singing songs about your deeds. I’ve never even been mentioned in one!” Bill laughed heartily.

“You’ll have one soon, Father. After all, you dealt with your demon just as brilliantly,” Sylas replied, earning another laugh and an embrace from the Count. It was a polite compliment—everyone knew that Bill’s victory hadn’t been quite as dramatic.

“And you did well too, Dani. You managed the estate admirably in my absence,” Bill said.

“It’s my duty, and I’m relieved to see you back safely, Father,” Dani replied, his tone calm, though he was seething inside. While he was genuinely relieved his father was safe, he couldn’t hide his frustration at seeing both his brothers return unharmed.

‘Damn it. They’re both fine. If only one of them hadn’t come back.’

Had his older brother Ulrich died, Dani would have been next in line to inherit the family title. If Sylas had perished, he would have been rid of the bothersome thorn in his side. But both had returned without a scratch, leaving Dani bitterly disappointed.

“With this, we have fulfilled our noble duty. Let us celebrate our victory with a grand banquet,” Bill announced. It was customary, whether fighting enemy soldiers or demons, to hold a banquet if the battle wasn’t a complete defeat. It served both as a victory celebration and a way to honor the fallen.

“But I know you must be exhausted. Return to your rooms and rest. We’ll hold the banquet in three days.”

“Yes, Father.”

“Oh, and Ulrich, stay with me a moment.”

“Yes.”

Sylas stepped aside, while Ulrich followed his father to the study. Once inside, the Count placed a gentle hand on Ulrich’s shoulder.

“You did very well, Ulrich.”

“Pardon?”

“I’m proud of you for remembering your role as the heir and refraining from any reckless acts. At your age, it would’ve been easy to let your blood boil over,” Bill said warmly.

It was then that Ulrich understood why his father had called him. Bill had noticed his unease about being excluded from the tales and songs. He was reassuring Ulrich that, as the heir, he didn’t need to risk himself in such ways; his survival and stability were what mattered most.

“If the core wavers, everything wavers. I’m glad you understand this truth.”

“I only did what was necessary, Father,” Ulrich replied, his tone composed.

“The world is full of people who can’t manage to do the necessary,” Bill pointed out, prompting a faint smile from Ulrich. Indeed, many noble sons had rushed heedlessly into battle, only to die young. In that sense, Ulrich’s prudence was more than commendable.

“You truly are my rightful heir. Don’t ever forget that.”

“Thank you, Father.”

“Forgive me for keeping you so long. Rest well.”

“Yes, Father.”

Ulrich left the study with a calm expression, but the moment he exited, his smile faded. It was time to take urgent action against his half-brother.

“You called for me, my lord?”

Oscar bowed slightly, pressing a cold egg to his bruised eye. Ulrich coughed uncomfortably at the sight.

“Ahem, apologies. I suppose I was on edge after all we went through.”

“No need, my lord. I understand,” Oscar replied, recalling the recent events in Valtor. The demon’s attacks, the saint’s peril, and Sylas’s heroic feats—it was enough to strain anyone’s nerves. He counted himself lucky he hadn’t blurted out anything else that could’ve led to more bruises.

‘Good thing I didn’t mention that bandage,’ Oscar thought with relief as Ulrich sighed and began to speak.

“Father called me in for a talk, reminding me that I am the true heir to the family.”

“As he should,” Oscar replied instantly.

“Indeed. No matter how much Sylas raises his reputation, he will never be the heir.”

With two legitimate sons in line, Sylas, an illegitimate son, could not claim the inheritance. No matter how much his renown grew, Ulrich’s position as the heir was unshakable.

“But that’s not the issue. The problem is that his name will now spread in the coming age of turmoil.”

In truth, the empire’s current state was like a ticking time bomb. Barbarians were stirring in the north, great houses clashed fiercely in the south, and monsters swarmed the west, forcing any capable warrior into service—hence why even a woman like Ray could gain a knighthood. Only the east remained stable, but the recent demonic events had shaken the public’s confidence.

“Meanwhile, the emperor continues his complacency, and the crown prince is obsessed with restoring imperial power without actually supporting the lords.”

“Indeed. Everyone’s patience is stretched thin. No one would be surprised if things erupted soon.”

The precarious balance persisted mainly due to inertia and fear of civil war. People dreaded the consequences if they all rebelled at once. Someone needed to take the first step. But so far, no one had dared.

“Yet it’s only a matter of time. Once someone challenges the empire, the lords will follow.”

“Exactly. And that time is less than a decade away.”

The emperor had lived too long, and the crown prince was eager to subdue powerful lords. Once the prince took the throne, chaos was almost guaranteed.

“My half-brother has grown too powerful. Do you understand what I mean?”

“You fear he may become a ruler?”

“If he doesn’t become one, he’ll become someone’s weapon. Either outcome is disturbing.”

Sylas’s talents were undeniable, and he now had the hero-level knight Toby under his command. On top of that, his recent achievements had greatly enhanced his reputation. Many families would be eager to make him their sworn sword.

“You realize that now, while his fame is still spreading, is our last chance to act. Miss this moment, and we’ll never be able to touch him again.”

Ulrich’s face was tense. Truthfully, it was already risky to make a move now, especially since Sylas was connected with the church’s saint. Yet, this was still within the realm of possibility.

Oscar, who had been thinking deeply, finally spoke.

“It’s too late to kill him. And Toby’s strength is too valuable to waste. So there is only one solution.”

Ulrich nodded, understanding the suggestion immediately. “It’s the best course, though I’d rather not use it.”