I Am The Madman Of This Family

Chapter 38: I’m Sefira’s Solver (2)

“Sir Luke and Lord Keter have left, Lord Besil,” reported Suvide, the elderly man with a monocle.

Suvide was the head butler.

Besil, who was dealing with a mountain of paperwork, didn’t take his eyes off the documents and asked, “Did he leave quietly?”

“Oh, uh...”

“It's alright. Go on.”

“Lord Anis challenged Lord Keter to a duel but was ignored.”

“Haha. Anis does have a strong competitive spirit, so that’s understandable. But ignored? Does that mean Keter refused the duel?”

“According to the soldiers...”

Suvide recounted how Keter had thrown two arrows with just his arm strength, and how Anis had caught one but was tripped by a rock that the other arrow had struck.

“Injuries?”

“They say Lord Anis wasn’t hurt because he used his aura to protect himself.”

“He must’ve used Overshield. He probably collapsed of exhaustion by now.”

“No, my lord. Lord Anis went back to the underground training area. I checked myself, and he seems even more invigorated.”

“Overshield would be the only way to defend against an unexpected attack like that… Are you sure you saw correctly?”

“How could I lie to you, my lord? You are the patriarch,”

The Overshield was considered a last-resort technique for aura users. It was used when one believed they could not block an attack, or in life-or-death situations as a way to avoid death. The technique involved exploding all of the body’s aura in a sudden burst to shield oneself from attacks on all sides.

Though it was an incredibly effective defense, the aftermath was severe. The violent release of aura from within the body took a huge toll, leaving the user drained and in need of at least a day of rest to recover their strength and stamina.

Yet, Anis was reportedly unharmed. For that to be possible, there could only be one explanation.

“It would be possible if he used Aura Skin.”

The mastery of aura could be classified into three general levels. First were the Bruisers, who could only manipulate aura in large chunks. Next were the Bladers, those who had gained the ability to shape and mold their aura. Finally, there were the Shifters, who had achieved precise control over their aura, capable of manipulating it at the most refined levels.

The distinction between these levels was simple: it all came down to the overall mastery of the aura user and, more importantly, whether or not they could execute specific advanced techniques.

Aura Blade.

This was the hallmark of a Blader. One had to be able to use this technique to become a Blader. However, the Aura Blade technique was not used in the Sefira family, known for their archery, so other techniques determined whether someone had reached the Blader level.

Aura Skin, and Aura Arrow.

Aura Skin involved wrapping a thin layer of aura around the body. While it didn’t block major damage, it could defend against weaker attacks like the blows or stabs of common thugs. The key benefit was that it doesn't place a significant burden on the body, neutralizing low-level damage without risk.

“Anis has finally reached the level of a Blader.”

There was no need to ask him directly. Anis had broken through and surpassed his limits. And it had coincidentally happened after his interaction with Keter.

“I guess Keter was the catalyst…”

Of course, Besil had given plenty of advice and teachings to his children as both a father and the head of a master family. But no matter how excellent a teacher, it meant nothing if the student wasn't ready to learn. Anis had easily become a Bruiser, but he had been stuck at the threshold of becoming a Blader for the past three years, blocked by an unbreakable wall.

Now, that impenetrable wall had finally been shattered, and Besil couldn’t help but smile. His son's growth was his happiness as a father.

Besil, whose concentration on his paperwork had been disrupted, decided to take a break and stood up from his desk.

“I will prepare some coffee, my lord.”

Suvide was going to prepare coffee as usual, but Besil raised his hand to stop him.

“I’ve been having trouble sleeping at night. My body feels stiff too. More importantly, have we received a response from Mr. Ultima?”

“I'll check the messenger pigeons and return shortly.”

While magic was undoubtedly the fastest way to communicate, it was reserved for a select few nobles and royalty. As such, most relied on land routes or messenger pigeons. Fortunately, the messenger pigeons were housed just one floor above the office, so Suvide returned quickly with a small scroll, handing it to Besil.

“This is the document from Mr. Ultima. It seems like they replied promptly.”

“Hm.”

Besil had sent an apology on behalf of Keter's actions. Now, he opened the sealed letter to see Ultima’s response.

To Count Besil El Sefira, the patriarch of the House of Sefira.

It is unfortunate that we must exchange words under such circumstances, and I share your regret regarding the incident with Lord Keter. However, how could I ever hold you accountable, my lord? In fact, it is I who feels the need to apologize. Please, do not trouble yourself over this matter. That said, I do have one request to make…

As Besil was about to continue reading, interested in what Ultima had to say, Suvide called upon him.

“Your expression seems serious, my lord. May I ask what the letter says?”

“...”

Glancing at the last part of the letter, Besil approached the fireplace.

Whoosh!

The letter thrown into the fire blazed up in an instant.

“My lord, why would you…?”

The scrolls used by carrier pigeons are not ordinary scrolls. They were made from sturdy sheepskin that did not get wet, even in the rain. Sheepskin was very expensive, so it’s typically either stored for records without burning or reused by erasing the contents. Of course, blind workers handled the content to ensure no one outside the recipients would read it.

However, burning it outright was unusual, so it was natural for Suvide to be shocked.

Shaking his head, Besil said, “Mr. Ultima was quite angry. There was something too difficult to look at, so I couldn’t leave it behind.”

“How unfortunate... Did Mr. Ultima say they would cut ties with us? If so, we should consider seeking another guild or even setting up our own.”

“Fortunately, he didn’t say they would cut ties. But he did say that if something like this happens again, he won’t tolerate it.”

“Mr. Ultima is quite arrogant. I understand he is the only merchant dealing with us, but his attitude toward you is exceedingly disrespectful, my lord.”

“What can I do? It’s all my fault. Just let it go, as you always have.”

Crackle, crackle.

The letter was completely consumed by the flames.

“Now that I think about it, I wonder if Keter has brought new life to our family.”

“Do you see Lord Keter’s actions in a positive light, my lord?”

“Taragon wandered for a long time, unable to find his path. But after continuously running the training field, it seems he’s finally developed an interest in security.”

“And how do you feel about Amaranth coming out into the world?”

“I’m fine with it. Amaranth and Keter don’t seem to have a transactional relationship. If anything, it’s closer to a master-servant dynamic. That’s why I judged it safe to leave them together. Not just that—there’s a new breeze blowing in the forge as well.”

“What sort of breeze?”

“Volkanus has declared he will create equipment fitting for a new era.”

“My lord, change doesn’t always bring positive outcomes. Right now, wouldn’t it be safer to stick with the traditional ways?”

Suvide, the head butler, had served two patriarchs and also served as an advisor, so he expressed his opinions without hesitation. Of course, Besil relied on him a great deal, as Suvide was much older and had a broad, deep perspective. But that didn’t mean Besil thought he was always right.

“I’ve failed, haven’t I? The person I am right now has failed.”

“That’s not true. Who dares to say such a thing? You have not failed, my lord,” Suvide argued.

“Do I really need someone to tell me? Sometimes, you have to realize it yourself when no one else tells you.”

Besil brushed back his hair, his lips smiling but eyes void of any emotion.

“I still have much to do, yet here I am making such discouraging remarks.”

Returning to his seat, Besil picked up his fountain pen to resume his work and asked, “Is Elder Panir still refusing to eat and remaining silent?”

Elder Panir, who was suspected of being a traitor, was confined to his residence, and he had not spoken a word since.

“Unfortunately, yes.”

“I’ll visit him this evening. I should have dinner with him. I was overly emotional at the time. Looking back now, I realize we didn’t talk enough. I must correct my mistake before it’s too late.”

“I will make the arrangements immediately.”

“Thank you.”

Suvide bowed respectfully and left the office. With quick steps, he exited the main mansion and made his way to Panir’s residence.

His gaze had changed; it was no longer the gentle look he had shown before Besil. His narrowed eyes were filled with a fierce hostility.

* * *

“Lord Suvide.”

A knight spotted Suvide and saluted.

“Is everything alright?”

“Yes, my lord.”

“And Lord Panir?”

“The lord is not sleeping and remains sitting all day.”

“Tsk, open the door. Lord Besil has stated he would meet Lord Panir personally this evening.”

“Understood.”

Outside Panir’s mansion, knights were guarding the perimeter to prevent him from escaping. In contrast, there were no knights or soldiers inside the mansion. This arrangement was made for the convenience of the servants working in the house.

In the hall of the mansion stood a single figure: Prosciutto, Panir’s personal butler. Prosciutto also looked unwell. He had been fasting along with Panir and spent most of the day standing in preparation for any potential visitors.

“Butler Prosciutto.”

“Who... Head Butler Suvide?”

Prosciutto, who was spacing out, looked up and recognized Suvide.

“What brings you here...?”

“The patriarch is coming to visit this evening. He plans to have dinner with Elder Panir.”

“... Now, he decides to come?”

It was clear that Prosciutto didn’t like the idea.

“Try not to blame the patriarch. There was not only suspicion; there was solid evidence. It was a natural course of action. I’d like to ask you, too—are you truly innocent?”

“Do you also suspect me as well as Lord Panir? Why would we betray Sefira? The records were kept to identify any potential traitors that might exist.”

“Of course, I do not suspect Lord Panir. That’s why I plan to clear up this misunderstanding today, so I ask for your cooperation.”

“Phew, my apologies. I will escort you to the lord myself.”

“In that condition? Sit down and rest. You know that I am just as familiar with the layout of this mansion as you are”

“It is my duty to manage this mansion. Therefore, I should escort you...”

Thud.

Suddenly, with a swift motion, Suvide jabbed his thumb between Prosciutto's chin and neck. Prosciutto collapsed to the floor due to the unexpected ambush. He wasn’t dead, just unconscious.

“Come,” Suvide called over a passing servant. “Prosciutto seems to be quite tired. Take him to his room. Do not wake him under any circumstances.”

The servants thought this made sense. After all, Prosciutto hadn’t eaten or slept for quite some time, which was worrying even for them.

Assuming he had fainted from overwork, the servants took Prosciutto to his bedroom without any suspicion. Thanks to this, Suvide was able to head to the kitchen without interruption. The head chef recognized him immediately and removed his chef’s hat, bowing in greeting.

“Head butler Suvide.”

“Chef Hulan, how have you been?”

“Very well, but what brings you here today?”

“The patriarch is scheduled to have dinner with Elder Panir this evening. May I see the condition of the ingredients?”

“Of course. Right this way.”

Hulan signaled to his subordinate chefs to finish their tasks and led Suvide to the pantry.

“Hulan.”

Suvide’s voice suddenly changed. His deep, resonant tone made Hulan tense.

“Yes, sir.”

“Now is the time.”

“...!”

Rustle.

Suvide took out a small glass vial from his pocket and handed it to Hulan. Hulan accepted it, almost in a daze.

Gulp.

Hulan gulped nervously and looked at Suvide with trembling eyes. Suvide nodded.

“You will use it this evening,” Suvide said.

“For whom…?” Hulan asked.

“Lord Besil.”

“Hup!”

Hulan was so tense that he covered his mouth and trembled all over. Suvide gently patted his shoulder.

“Do not worry. It’s just a potion that causes stomach pain. I promised it wouldn’t harm you in any way. And—”

Clink.

Suvide slipped five gold coins into Hulan's pocket.

“This is a reward for your efforts. But remember, this must be taken to your grave.”

Hulan nodded in a haze, too breathless to even respond.

“You should come out after a little while. You’re sweating too much.”

Suvide, who left the kitchen, still had more business to do. In his possession was a letter—the one that Akrah sent to Besil, detailing the existence of Keter. This letter was how Besil figured out that there was a traitor within the family.

When Suvide was wandering around, pretending to search the estate, he secretly hid the letter inside a portrait to avoid the gaze of the servants. He planned to make it appear as though Panir had stolen Besil’s letter. It was a scheme to sow discord between the two.

However, the expression on Suvide’s face as he carried out this plan was neither wicked nor filled with anger. Instead, the eyes of the old butler were filled with determination.

There was only one reason for Suvide to do this: it was for the sake of the family.

While Keter was away on a mission, the Sefira family was steadily crumbling from within, just as it had in a past life. Panir would be completely branded as a traitor under Suvide’s orchestration, leading to a future of uncontrollable internal strife.

Yet there was one fact that Suvide overlooked, or rather, one he was unaware of: the reckless Keter and Katherine, the rose of Sefira, didn’t exist in the past life. Katherine was alive, thanks to Keter’s plotting, and now, Panir’s fate was also about to change through the seed that Keter planted.