“It is true that His Majesty takes this matter seriously and has entrusted the military with the investigation, but that doesn’t mean he disregards the importance of relations with Welharun.”
During the last meeting, the Emperor had shown trust in Theo's assessment that something unusual was happening in Welharun. At the same time, he had expressed understanding for the ministers' concerns, who emphasized the need for precise verification due to the diplomatic implications.
“In other words, under no circumstances must Welharun catch wind of our military's attempts to investigate this matter.”
The atmosphere turned markedly solemn. If any indication that the Empire suspected a friendly nation were to leak before solid evidence was found, it would not only render the investigation futile but also put the Empire in a highly vulnerable position.
“So, what you’re saying is that we’re to find evidence of their covert violations as quickly as possible, without letting them catch on?”
At Luke’s pointed question, Theo nodded.
“Precisely. That’s exactly what His Majesty said.”
In this regard, Cedric was undoubtedly correct. Theo and Luke had already captured Benji in Calum and discovered clues suggesting Welharun was involved with Nox, a shadowy organization. However, those clues were insufficient to shake the foundations of international relations or accuse a sovereign state outright.
Moreover, Nox’s leader had severed all communication the moment Benji was apprehended, destroyed evidence, and even prepared to frame Benji for everything. Under such circumstances, demanding explanations from Welharun would yield nothing but denials and excuses.
If Welharun, in turn, expressed dissatisfaction at being doubted, relations between the two nations would inevitably deteriorate.
While treaties might resemble contracts we commonly encounter in life, they carried enormous weight when signed by a dominant Empire on the continent. Recklessly approaching Welharun with suspicions could backfire spectacularly, causing irrevocable harm.
“For this reason, we had no choice but to minimize the team size.”
No matter how much secrecy was emphasized, the more people involved, the higher the risk of leaks. That’s why, when Theo asked Leo to compile the team roster, he had one particular request:
“Select members from the 7th Unit who are diligent, principled, and tight-lipped.”
It was Theo’s way of minimizing risks and eliminating variables.
“Have the materials related to Welharun been prepared?”
At Theo’s question, Paul and several members brought in multiple boxes, stacked with documents.
“We’ve gathered everything available from within the military.”
“And this is just from the military?”
Leo let out a long sigh.
“Let’s start reviewing. The foundation of any investigation is knowing your subject thoroughly.”
“Hold on. What about documents related to the treaty with Welharun or reports filed during past diplomatic missions?”
At Luke’s sharp inquiry, Paul scratched the back of his head awkwardly.
“Those are managed by the Imperial Palace. Access requires approval from the relevant ministers.”
“Ah, the approval of those old bureaucrats.”
“Pardon?”
Paul was taken aback by Luke’s blunt remark, calling the ministers “old bureaucrats.”
“I’ll handle getting the approval myself,” Theo interjected calmly, as though he had anticipated this.
While these materials were essential to the mission, it was nearly impossible for lower-ranking personnel to request them without facing obstacles. Even if the Emperor’s orders backed the request, ministers often disregarded those of lesser rank.
Thus, Theo knew it would be faster if he took care of it personally.
“While reviewing the documents, identify any critical points and report them to me. Leo, I want you to discreetly gather intel on Welharun’s current state through reliable contacts.”
Leo’s wide network and keen judgment made him perfect for such a task. As a marquis’ son, he also had connections with influential figures.
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“Yes, understood,” Leo replied, then exited the office with a few members in tow.
“And Luke, you’ll come with me to the Imperial National Library.”
“Huh? Why the library?”
“I want # Nоvеlight # to investigate Nox as well. It’s a shadowy organization, but we might uncover some leads.”
It was a valid point, but Luke glanced around uneasily. There were plenty of others in the unit—why did it have to be him?
“Does it really have to be me?”
“Yes. It has to be you.”
Luke’s veiled resistance was futile against Theo’s unwavering resolve. With a resigned sigh, Luke nodded.
“Paul, you’ll be in charge here while Leo, Luke, and I are away. Contact us through the crystal in case of any issues.”
“Yes, sir!”
Leaving Paul’s sharp salute behind, Theo and Luke headed to the mana preservation zone. They were preparing for a quick warp to the library.
“Don’t use your mana. I’ll handle the warp,” Theo instructed, glancing at Luke’s right hand. It was to prevent any amplification of the corrupted mana lingering in Luke’s body.
“It’s annoying, not being able to use my mana freely,” Luke grumbled.
“Don’t worry. I promised I’d take responsibility, so I’ll find a way to fix your hand,” Theo said, gripping Luke’s hand firmly as he began the warp spell.
While contact wasn’t strictly necessary for the warp, Theo held Luke’s hand anyway. Luke didn’t dislike it and simply let it happen.
***
The Empire had two national libraries. One was the Imperial Library, which housed documents related to palace affairs. The other was the Heinearn National Library, open to all citizens.
The latter was incomparably massive, a landmark that had stood since the Empire’s founding.
“No matter how many times I come here, this place always feels special,” Luke remarked, taking in the historic grandeur of the building.
Its sheer age gave it an air of nostalgia, and the palace poured significant resources into its upkeep every year.
The two climbed the stairs and entered through the main doors. Theo’s uniform and recognizable face drew glances from the early visitors.
“Commander, welcome,” greeted a librarian who hurriedly approached them.
“Apologies for interrupting your work,” Theo said.
“Not at all. I was informed by your aide. Please, follow me—I’ll guide you.”
It seemed Theo had planned this visit in advance. Following the librarian deeper into the library, they were enveloped by the musty scent of books.
The library’s size was staggering, with countless shelves packed tightly with books and documents. Luke felt a wave of nausea just looking at the sheer volume.
Research and study weren’t his strengths. He preferred action—fighting and solving problems on the field.
“By the way, Theo, I should’ve asked earlier, but did you really need to bring me along?”
Luke’s patience was beginning to fray. Now, he was starting to resent Theo for dragging him to such a tedious place.
“You tell me. Why do you think I brought you?”
“Is this a quiz?”
“Not really. But give it a guess.”
Luke stroked his chin, genuinely pondering the question. The sight of him taking it so seriously made Theo suppress a chuckle.
“Ah, I know why!”
“Go on.”
“It’s because I’m smart. My analytical skills must’ve impressed you.”
Theo turned his head slightly to hide his smile.
“Sure, that’s one way to think of it. But no, that’s not it.”
“What’s the real reason, then?”
Theo met Luke’s gaze, his expression saying, “Do you want me to tell you?” Luke frowned in annoyance.
“Never mind. I’ll figure it out myself,” Luke declared, striding ahead with a determined air.
“Even when you’re sulking, you’re pretty endearing,” Theo muttered under his breath, watching Luke’s retreating back.