Even the intelligence agency of a certain superpower had its blind spots—like failing to predict planes hitting the Twin Towers. Though Shadow Phantom was undoubtedly the continent’s top underground power, the idea that they controlled *everything* was pure fantasy. Take the recent major rebellion in the Messiah Kingdom: they only realized it after the fact. Agents were later sent to infiltrate, yet the true instigator remains unknown. True, rebellions can be irrational and unpredictable. When people are driven to despair, cries like *“Are nobles born to rule?”* or *“The Blue Heaven is dead; the Yellow Heaven shall rise!”* ring out naturally. But lately, similar uprisings have erupted repeatedly—even in ordinary nations where rebellion seemed unthinkable. The Ten Shadows of Night dispatched three investigators, yet found no answers… until Aelia dropped this remark.
Honestly, none grasped her meaning at first. Sharper minds like Trist instinctively thought she meant targeting the Messiah Kingdom’s most corrupt nobles. But they were already doing that—so why state it? True, Aelia was physically in the kingdom, yet whether or not they knew her Saintess identity, they trusted she wouldn’t be so narrow-minded or petty. The conclusion became glaringly clear. For the Saintess, the only true enemy… could only be the Demon Lord’s Army.
This world comprised the mainland and demonic islands to the northwest. Because the planet was round, the Southern Realm naturally served as humanity’s undisputed rear stronghold. Even as the Demon Lord’s Army grew bolder, the Southern Realm remained the safest of the continent’s five regions. Since all recent rebellions occurred there, they’d instinctively ruled out the Demon Lord’s Army. But now, prompted by Aelia’s words, a single name flashed in their minds—
Bain, the Rooster of the Twelve Demon Generals.
His ability, “Crane Among Chickens,” granted unmatched skill in commanding vast armies.
If *he* was inciting rebellions across the lands… a chill sank deep into their hearts.
“Princess Moonshadow, thank you for your help,” Aragorn said first, shooting a meaningful glance. The three investigators vanished instantly; others hurried off to alert allied forces. In moments, only Aragorn and a thoroughly baffled—and slightly anxious—Aelia remained.
*(What’s going on? Did I say something wrong?)*
“Moonshadow, go rest. We’ll handle the rest,” Aragorn approached, voice warm like a boss checking on an employee. “Oh, and here’s your salary for the past two months.” He knew some in the Ten Shadows recognized Aelia’s dual identity—but as long as it stayed quiet, he approved. Many fans adored her in both roles; learning the truth doubled their joy. Relieved the leader wasn’t scolding her—and even paying her—Aelia thanked him, took the money, and left.
“Wait.”
Aragorn called as she reached the door, but Aelia walked away without glancing back.
Luke knew the call wasn’t for her.
“As expected of Shadow Phantom’s leader. You’re the first to detect me.” Once the “trash Saintess” was out of earshot, Luke dropped his invisibility, feigning wariness.
Aragorn simply settled into the nearest chair, signaling no threat. “I didn’t detect you at first. When designing this system, I accounted for Goddess-blessed beings like the Heroic Saintess… But don’t worry—I don’t know what you did, nor your ability.” In ability-user conflicts, revealing your hand first meant disadvantage. His words were pure goodwill.
“My thanks.” For Luke, being overlooked was courtesy enough.
“And *I* should thank *you*. Please continue protecting Aelia.” In Aragorn’s eyes, Princess Moonshadow’s “night assault” on the Hero was staged. Luke’s invisible escort could only mean he guarded the woman he loved… Luke mentally scoffed at their wild assumptions—but admitted he *had* covered for her.
“Rest assured, I will protect her.” To secure goodwill and exit smoothly, Luke said it without batting an eye.
“I leave it to you… Ask anything. I’ll answer within my limits.” Noting Luke lingered, Aragorn realized certain topics intrigued him.
“How do you compare to the Twelve Demon Generals?” Luke asked bluntly.
Aragorn smiled—*“As expected of the Hero”*—then turned grave. “We each have strengths… But in a direct clash? I’d win.”
*(Yeah, you’re doomed.)* Flag or not, Luke now gauged their caliber.
“Thanks. If you need help later, find me. I’ll assist where I can.” Polite, but Luke had no plans to partner with Aelia long-term—still, Shadow Phantom was worth cultivating. Having asked his question and owing no further favors, he bid farewell and hurried after Aelia to the palace.
Palace chaos had settled. The king fumed over Princess Moonshadow’s brazen intrusion—but since even the Hero failed to capture her, he could only protest to The Church, urging them to command Aelia or send a pursuit specialist. But that was for later. Seeing Aelia obediently return to her room with no sign of doubling back, Luke retreated to his quarters and collapsed into sleep.
The night passed peacefully. But upon waking, recalling last night, Aelia itched for trouble. Yet she couldn’t beat him in battle or scheme effectively. She was running out of tricks.
“This won’t do. I can’t let things continue like this between them.”
Yet someone else was even more anxious.
Shortly after breakfast, a golden-haired elf maid intercepted Luke and led him to a quiet morning garden.
Then—
“Lord Luke, it is time to confess your love to Lady Aelia!”
