Chapter 23: My Victory
“Indeed.”
In the now silent King’s Chamber, I could hear Chancellor Madison nodding. What exactly did he find so enlightening? Ryuguin tilted his head in confusion, and it seemed this was not a taunt but genuine bewilderment. Madison, visibly grinding his teeth, bowed deeply.
“I sincerely apologize for the fact that we summoned you.”
Ryuguin was taken aback by Madison’s apology, but soon his expression turned smug as he puffed out his chest, exclaiming, “Isn’t that right!”
“I am sorry.”
Finally, Chancellor Madison raised his head. His gaze had sharpened, and it seemed Ryuguin was oblivious to the change.
“I will take full responsibility for this matter and ensure that the truth is revealed, along with strict punishment and compensation for you.”
A smile of delight spread across Ryuguin’s face.
“That is only natural. We expect full compensation for all the hardships we’ve endured.”
Chancellor Madison waited patiently for Ryuguin to finish speaking before slowly opening his mouth.
“However, there is a falsehood in your words. One that undermines the very foundation of this discussion.”
“Huh?”
Ryuguin’s face twisted into one of the most foolish expressions I had ever seen, as Madison’s unexpected words caught him completely off guard, despite having initially acknowledged Ryuguin’s claims.
“Hero Ryuguin.”
Called out unexpectedly, Ryuguin stammered, “W-what is it?”
“You have not conquered the Newly Constructed Ultimate Labyrinth. The truth is that the Holy Knight, who is now missing, risked his life to conquer it—am I wrong?”
“W-w-wait!”
For the first time, Ryuguin displayed significant agitation in response to Madison’s inquiry. Large beads of sweat appeared on his forehead, cascading down like a waterfall. The mysteries of the human body were truly astonishing.
“W-what evidence do you have to say such ridiculous things?!”
His eyes darted around unnaturally, like a flying fish flopping about. I had been with Ryuguin throughout our journey, and reflecting on those moments, I could now understand his thought process. It was almost a useless ability to comprehend him so well.
At this moment, Ryuguin was likely spiraling through thoughts like, “Could it really have been discovered?” or “Is this a trap?” and “If there is evidence, how much does he know?” He must have been fully engaged in a mental battle, considering the worst-case scenario that Chancellor Madison had some undeniable proof. That was why Ryuguin couldn’t carelessly demand, “Show me the evidence.”
“Ev-evidence, evidence…”
In a fluster, he stumbled over his words, either mumbling some nonsensical lyrics out of sheer panic or grappling with the desire to demand evidence while fearing the consequences of what would happen if it was presented. A torrent of sweat poured down his forehead—just then, his expression suddenly brightened. I could almost see a light bulb appear above his head. He must have had some sort of epiphany.
“Hmm… yes.”
Regaining his composure, Ryuguin rested his chin on his hand, striking a thoughtful pose.
“I have a simple way to prove that I have conquered seven Nexbees.”
“Is that true?”
“How could I have overlooked such an easy thing… I must have been tired.”
“Then let’s—”
Once again, Ryuguin interrupted Chancellor Madison, riding the wave of his newfound confidence.
“It’s simple. Just ask my three heroes, who have fought alongside me for the sake of the nation. They are my true companions who risked their lives to conquer the Nexbees.”
It seemed Ryuguin was still unaware of the implications of his words.
“Understood. Then we shall accept the Hero’s claim and ask them directly. We will inquire of Saintess Mika, Sage Angelica, and Sword Saint Eris.”
The three of them turned their solemn gazes toward Chancellor Madison.
“From this point onward, you are not permitted to remain silent. Answer only with the truth. As Hero Ryuguin states, is it truly Hero Ryuguin himself who conquered the seven Newly Constructed Ultimate Labyrinths?”
The moment Madison posed the question, Ryuguin wore a wicked grin, as if to say, “Madison, I’ve won.”