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Chapter 171 – Forbidden Magic (2)
August 20th, 2023
When Arwen noticed the trembling of Fieren’s body, she almost burst out laughing. On the surface, because of forbidden magic, she had to be serious, but inside, she couldn’t stop herself from laughing.
In Xenon’s Biography, the combination magic, or ‘fusion,’ as it’s theoretically called, was undoubtedly a highly dangerous magic. Fusion sacrifices oneself as an offering and goes so far as to indiscriminately absorb the surrounding energy, making its dangers impossible to ignore.
However, Fieren’s true concern was not about the danger of fusion. If you carefully review the process of fusion mentioned in Xenon’s Biography, you could only roughly grasp the idea.
It would be enough to subtly hint at the future that may happen later if forbidden magic was mentioned in a book. It was excessive to cause a fuss to this extent.
Furthermore, Fieren already knew that fusion was a magic that only elves could use. For Fieren, who ruled Alvenheim for centuries, it was an easy task to prohibit specific magic.
Moreover, since the last speech, the popularity of the Queen, Arwen, in Alvenheim has risen dramatically. If Arwen strictly prohibited it, the citizens would follow obediently.
‘But the problem is the fusion between elves and dark elves.’
The problem lies in the fact that the subjects of fusion are not elves and elves, but elves and dark elves. Although it was overshadowed by the issue of mixed-blood, the appearance of dark elves has captured readers’ attention.
Who are the dark elves? Another race of elves with completely different culture and traditions, despite sharing the same origin.
Sometimes they appear in human society to buy necessary items or conduct investigations, but they really come out very rarely. This is why humans look at dark elves with curious eyes or express their curiosity directly when they meet them.
Like this, Dark Elves were originally one of the lesser-known races in the world. However, when they appeared in Xenon’s Biography, many people paid attention, wondering if Xenon knew a lot about Dark Elves.
Furthermore, the Dark Elves’ portrayal based on the information advised by Siris was so close to reality that it was almost indistinguishable. Starting from their specialization in covert attacks to their ability to permanently conceal their bodies.
One could overlook the differences in their titles, as it was the least of the concerns. The biggest issue lay in the relationship between Elves and Dark Elves. Despite being overshadowed by the matter of mixed-blood, Xenon’s Biography also elaborates extensively on why the relationship between Elves and Dark Elves became strained and the event that led to the Dark Elves’ banishment from Elvenheim.
Thanks to Xenon’s Biography, the fact that the Dark Elves chose to exile themselves to avoid an internal conflict became widely known. The truth buried deep in the history of the Sanctuary was revealed through Xenon’s Biography.
Elven scholars, including humans, began serious research to verify its authenticity, and some even set out on journeys to the habitats of Dark Elves. Although it is currently a quiet period to gather evidence for confirmation, once it is proven, Alvenheim will be engulfed in yet another shock.
‘The Dark Elf problem is somewhat progressing positively.’
Arwen anticipated that the matter concerning Dark Elves would proceed smoothly. After all, they have been exchanging interactions with the Dark Elves for this very purpose.
Instead, she should express her gratitude to Isaac. Despite Rain stealing the manuscript, the Dark Elves were portrayed favorably in Xenon’s Biography.
Therefore, the fusion of Elves and Dark Elves described in Volume 14 can be seen as a true integration between the two races. The conflicts that once divided the two nations during times of crisis are set aside as they come together to fight against the evil threatening the world.
As the saying goes, “One’s clothes get wet in light rain,” and it’s only a matter of time before Alvenheim’s perspective on the Dark Elves gradually changes. If the Alvenheim citizens view the Dark Elves even slightly differently, it won’t be long before they are allowed into Alvenheim.
No matter how hard Arwen tries, if the people of Alvenheim continue to fear the Dark Elves, assimilation will be nearly impossible. However, through Xenon’s Biography, if their perspectives change, they can overcome misunderstandings and take a step forward.
To prevent that from happening, Fieren planned to censor Volume 14 of Xenon’s Biography. The pretext was the presence of forbidden magic, but the real reason was the dangerous intent hidden within.
“Sigh… Fieren, the Grand Councilor.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“Is this really because of the Dark Elves? You also know well the significance of Elves and Dark Elves fusing in this book. It represents the unity of two races that were once divided by the past conflicts. It might be a very sensitive matter for some individuals who insist on purity of blood.”
“The Dark Elves are those who hide in the darkness. We can’t trust those who don’t even show their faces.”
When Arwen pointed out sharply, Fieren seemed to have no intention of concealing his true feelings anymore, and he expressed his inner thoughts. Arwen almost showed a scornful expression but managed to suppress it.
In the end, his obsession with purity of blood remained. Though uniting was dangerous, and the fusion might be a forbidden magic, it’s merely a pretext.
On this occasion, disregarding the usual protocol and even displaying rudeness, he had come to the Audience Chamber, leaving the members of the parliament behind. But nothing had changed. It was evident that Fieren had rushed in recklessly, speaking out of turn and causing a commotion.
“However, Your Majesty must also be aware of the danger of the fusion. It’s a highly perilous magic. By now, it must be impossible to conceal it since it was already discovered. Before the forbidden magic spreads widely among the Dark Elves and others, we must quickly ban its publication.”
“You know that it isn’t practically feasible, don’t you? Alvenheim has been engaging in exchanges with other countries for decades now. Moreover, Xenon’s Biography has recently gained immense popularity even within Alvenheim. Are we suddenly going to halt all of that? Don’t you know it would erode trust in diplomacy?”
In the past, Xenon’s Biography was only read by a few in Alvenheim, but after the 12th volume, the demand skyrocketed.
Firstly, the fact that the heroine, Mary, is an Elf, attracted a lot of attention. And the tragic love story of Kair and Elisha caused a social stir and there was the half-blood situation.
Above all, even if by chance, the revelation of the contamination of the World Tree’s roots was enough to capture the Elves’ interest. Thanks to this, the publishing house was enjoying exceedingly happy days.
“Of course, I understand that. But even if the publishing house is unaware, isn’t mentioning the Minerva Empire a sensitive matter? Even if Xenon were from the Michelle Territory, nobody knows where he currently resides. The authority over Xenon’s Biography lies not with the Minerva Empire but with the publishing house.”
However, Fieren was not to be taken lightly. As he said, Xenon, or rather Isaac, had only mentioned being from the Michelle Territory, without granting authority to the Minerva Empire.
If Isaac were to reveal his identity and join the Minerva Empire, things might have been different, but for now, the situation remains the same. Moreover, there is a high possibility that a worst-case scenario, “serial discontinuation,” could occur if the higher-ups caused harm to the publishing company.
Having experienced the bitterness of serial discontinuation and its consequences, the Minerva Empire would find itself in a difficult position. Despite being a book that sells well in their country, they have no real authority over it.
The only thing the Minerva Empire can do is receive taxes from the publishing company. They try to squeeze out whatever they can by conducting unexpected inspections every month, but the publishing company’s CEO was already skilled in evading such situations, leaving the Minerva Empire with no real gains.
“So, even if we censor it in our Alvenheim, the damage will only fall upon the publishing company, and Minerva Empire will be barely affected. Moreover, we have the pretext of forbidden magic, so there should be no problem with censorship.”
“A pretext…”
Arwen mumbled softly at the word ‘pretext’ that Fieren had mentioned. Up to Volume 13, she could easily dismiss the nonsense the council had spoken, but this time, the pretext was solid.
Forbidden magic, an ability that should not even be mentioned in books. While there are ‘books’ about military tactics, there are no ‘spell books.’ If even a little detail is described, it must be burned without a doubt.
And the depiction of fusion in Xenon’s Biography was somewhat ambiguous. The process of fusion was not explained in detail, filled with rather abstract phrases.
Is that enough reason to censor it? She sighed after contemplating for a while.
“I do not allow it.”
“But…”
“Do you really not know how significant an impact Xenon’s Biography has? Do you think censoring it will prevent forbidden magic from spreading?”
There’s a saying: If someone tells you not to do something, you want to do it even more. Especially scholars and wizards with a strong thirst for knowledge often make such mistakes.
It’s understandable to censor Xenon’s Biography, there was a very good reason to believe that forbidden magic is contained within. However, scholars and wizards already dispatched here may raise doubts upon hearing the news. They might wonder why this magic is forbidden.
Above all, the biggest flaw was that it has already spread widely in the human world. Many elves live in human society, some of them even of mixed blood. The powerful force and influence of their already-rooted culture cannot be stopped simply by censorship.
“Let alone children…”
Arwen almost blurted out her real thoughts in her excitement. She quickly composed herself and continued smoothly.
“…even if they read those books. It’s doubtful if censorship can do anything. Don’t you think it might just lead to more illegal activities?”
“… …”
“Just earlier, you said that Dark Elves are unreliable individuals. But, Grand Councilor, do you really believe they would unite in vengeance to threaten our Alvenheim?”
“…It’s not entirely impossible, but Your Majesty, do you truly trust them? Even those whose appearances and hearts are dark?”
Fieren wrinkled his nose in disdain and mentioned the Dark Elf’s skin color. In response, Arwen let out a light snort.
“I can’t tell who’s black-hearted just by looking at them. It’s often those with the most sinister intentions who appear the most trustworthy. At least the ones who are blind to the light are more believable. They have the ability to see through the darkness and perceive the truth.”
“… …”
“I won’t censor anything. Leave Xenon’s Biography imported to Alvenheim as they are. Do you have anything else to say?”
“…Your Majesty, do you really plan to take them back to Alvenheim? It’s been hundreds of years since they were banished. Centuries have likely brought significant changes to their culture and traditions.”
Fieren continued in a composed tone, sensing that Arwen couldn’t be swayed by his words. Arwen listened to him half-heartedly, expecting more empty talk.
However, contrary to her expectations, Fieren’s words were quite realistic.
“A clash of cultures often leads to ruptures. Although Your Majesty may see it with hopeful eyes, they may not be the same. Their own culture and traditions might be consumed by fear. That fear could soon cause another social turmoil, much like the Half-Blood situation.”
“… …”
“Are you certain, Your Majesty? Are you certain about the integration of two different races with the same roots but different stems? I want to ask about practical solutions, not just relying on books. Dark Elves have witnessed the consequences of the Half-Blood situation, so please reconsider once more.”
As an Elf secretly engaging with the Dark Elves, Arwen found the question absurd. However, the Council, including Feren, remained unaware of this fact, making the question valid.
The issue was that within the question, whether intended or not, Arwen was being underestimated. The half-blood situation was different from this one, where Dark Elves are involved.
Though the half-blood issue was contained just before it went awry, the Dark Elves were already divided. Fieren was questioning if Arwen’s ambitions were realistically achievable.
‘It’s truly remarkable how you manage to infuriate people.’
Since the Racial War, the kings of Alvenheim have been frequently replaced before Arwen’s reign. The Council’s constant probing could easily wear down one’s patience.
But Arwen was different. Born a half-blood, she excelled in all sorts of strategizing and this did not faze her much. With a smile hidden within, Arwen spoke in a soft voice.
“You speak of ambitions… Then let me ask in return, Councilor Fieren, what are your ideals?”
“Naturally, it’s the peace of Alvenheim. If that peace were to be disrupted, I would do anything to preserve it.”
“Then, would you even risk your own position for that peace?”
“… …”
Arwen’s direct question left Fieren without an answer. No, he couldn’t answer.
“Ruling Alvenheim peacefully… It may seem good at first glance. But Councilor Fieren, that peace is nothing but stagnation. The people might be content with what they see without knowing what’s wrong. Ignoring inconvenient truths is akin to being a frog in a well.”
“Are you truly intent on shattering the peace, Your Majesty? That would be tyranny.”
“No, I too prefer the tranquility now. However, look at humans. They achieve endless progress while disturbing their own peace. Even in the racial war, humans have initiated aggression against us and triumphed gloriously. To achieve progress, one must be prepared to disrupt peace. But…”
She then gazed down at Fieren with a disdainful gray glance. A good-for-nothing waiting to be defeated without even putting up a fight.
“What do you really want? ‘Peace’ and ‘comfort’ must be clearly distinguished. You are facing a huge storm, yet you are only thinking of avoiding it without any preparation. At least, that’s how I see it.”
“… …”
“But when the typhoon grows stronger, even avoidance becomes impossible. There will be nowhere left to escape. However, those who are prepared and ready for the impact? Unlike those who are completely engulfed and disappear, they will endure steadfastly. That’s development, and behind the typhoon, peace will inevitably come. It has always been that way throughout history.”
Having given a lengthy explanation, Arwen delivered the final blow.
“Was my explanation too difficult? Then let me ask another question, sir. Why are you involved in politics?”
“… …”
“Do you think Alvenheim will truly become peaceful by merely implementing policies that turn a blind eye and amount to mere bluff? I believe it will only lead to an increase in smuggling and the rise of lawless people.”
Clench-
Arwen was directly denying even the significance of the Elder Council’s existence, yet Fieren could only clench his fist as she voiced her straightforward remarks. From the standpoint of a politician engaged in politics, such words could only be regarded as highly offensive.
However, what stirred an even greater anger was the fact that there was no way to refute her. The Queen, who was thought to be a novice, had gained even more influence since the half-blood incident.
And the decisive reason for this increased influence… only one came to mind immediately.
After barely suppressing the boiling rage within him, Fieren quietly spoke. It was a statement tinged with hidden anger due to him being so furious.
“…I understand Your Majesty’s thoughts. Let’s treat the censorship as if it never happened.”
“Understood. Is there anything else you wish to say?”
“No, nothing else. However, I will personally handle the matter of Xenon’s whereabouts. Simply the fact that he knows forbidden magic is enough to identify him as a dangerous individual.”
After having visited the publishing house already, Arwen responded as if nothing had happened, repressing her inner thoughts.
“Do as you please. If you think you can handle the storm that will come when you touch Xenon.”
“He won’t be broken so easily. Farewell for now.”
Fieren left with those words, walking confidently towards the tightly closed door of the study. Once his figure had completely disappeared, Arwen released the tension in her body and let out a sigh.
It had consumed a great deal of mental energy, but it wasn’t entirely in vain. She looked around and then down at her thigh with a pleased expression.
On her thigh lay Volume 14 of Xenon’s Biography, which Fieren hadn’t collected.
“Still, it wasn’t entirely useless.”
Arwen chuckled and began reading the book with a gleeful expression.