Trash of the Count's Family Vol 2. Chapter 438: …Can I Take It All? (1)

With Clopeh Sekka siding with Cale, and Terosa lining up with the Demon King, the scene unfolding was unexpectedly captivating.

Cale found himself observing their confrontation with mounting fascination.

An intense silence hung between them as they locked eyes, a silent battle of wills taking place.

Despite the severity of their gazes, their expressions remained deceptively gentle, or perhaps, unnervingly calm.

It was quite the spectacle.

Two individuals teetering on the edge of sanity made even this standoff incredibly entertaining, Cale mused.

He briefly entertained the idea of fetching some apple pie, or perhaps popcorn, to enjoy the unfolding drama.

However, the situation suddenly shifted—

This prolonged silence was becoming rather significant, wasn't it?

The stillness between the two was absolute, a stark contrast to the implied tension.

During this quiet interlude, Cale pondered,

Do individuals like them communicate solely through intense eye contact?

Weren't both of them exhibiting signs of being rather unhinged?

On second thought, perhaps not.

They were likely just pausing to gather their thoughts, deeply engrossed in their own internal deliberations, Cale presumed.

His assumption, however, proved to be incorrect.

“Heh.”

Terosa, whose expression had been one of placid composure, finally broke the silence.

“You are indeed an amusing individual.”

A noticeable change had entered her tone.

“There is not a hint of genuine loyalty in your words when you speak of the Demon King.”

Clopeh Sekka had indeed been discussing the Demon King.

Yet, his words lacked any semblance of reverence or devotion toward their liege.

He reminded Cale of Young Master Jimon.

That incredibly arrogant individual, Young Master Jimon.

A man so presumptuous he would attempt to seize territory the Demon King desired.

He, too, displayed no respect or loyalty towards the Demon King.

“And yet, I find you to be trustworthy.”

Indeed.

Despite this, the individual referred to as Kase did project an aura of trustworthiness.

The reason for this was remarkably straightforward.

“You place your trust in me.”

A grin.

Clopeh’s subtle smile widened, a flicker of amusement in his eyes.

As anticipated, she was not easily swayed.

He was aware that while Terosa might not be a formidable fighter, she had graduated at the top of her class from the Demon World Royal Academy and possessed a truly exceptional intellect.

Furthermore, whispers suggested her intuition was frighteningly acute.

“Yes. I trust you, Terosa.”

Clopeh continued, his tone now more relaxed, as if easing into a casual conversation.

“To you, the Demon King represents a legendary figure—and a guiding path.”

For Cale Henituse, he too was a path.

“And for the sake of this path, you have dedicated your life, are currently dedicating your life, and will undoubtedly continue to dedicate your life.”

The validation that my devotion and my life have not been in vain, I can perceive it through the journey Cale-nim embarks upon.

This conviction is precisely why I am willing to stake my life upon it.

“I place my trust in the life you have staked.”

As Terosa listened to Clopeh’s pronouncements, a peculiar sensation began to take hold of her.

She possessed a keen intellect, after all.

“Are you deranged?”

This understanding made her acutely aware of how others perceived her.

It was impossible for her to be unaware of this.

“Hey, you’re going too far. We are merely retainers, and the Demon King is simply our liege. Our sole duty is to carry out his orders faithfully.”

Her unwavering loyalty towards the Demon King.

Her profound faith.

She was already well aware that many viewed her devotion as bordering on religious fanaticism.

“You’ll do anything just to stand out, won’t you?”

Some labeled her as mad. Others suggested that as a mere commoner, she was resorting to any means necessary for personal advancement.

Terosa was privy to every such comment, and she understood their underlying implications perfectly.

She knew precisely how she was perceived by the outside world.

“Terosa, I am weary of this world.”

“But the Demon King truly—”

“I wish to create a world that is no longer burdened by weariness.”

“—was the only one destined to ascend as a demon god.”

The very instant Terosa glimpsed the profound yearning hidden within his world-weary eyes, she resolved to cast her own life aside for his cause.

It was for this reason that she had never concerned herself with the opinions of others.

And yet, why—

Then why was this outsider standing before her—

“Why are you looking at me as if you understand the depths of my heart so well?”

Terosa perceived an undeniable sincerity in both Clopeh’s words and his gaze.

Consequently, she responded.

“You too have devoted yourself entirely to a cause, to the extent that you no longer concern yourself with how others perceive you.”

In response to this, Clopeh merely offered a smile.

“Hah!”

For reasons unknown, a laugh escaped Terosa’s lips.

The mysterious disappearance of Count Lupe.

She possessed knowledge of the truth—that he was deceased, having been transformed into a New World NPC.

After all, she was one of the Demon King’s most trusted confidantes.

This knowledge was precisely why the current stalemate, the delay in her ascension to lordship due to the still-missing merchant guild ownership deed of Count Lupe, was so bothersome.

She could not permit the Demon King’s grand design to falter because of her inaction.

Yet, this stranger, who had suddenly appeared before her, provided her with a sense of ease she hadn’t experienced in a considerable time.

“You are an intriguing individual.”

To Terosa’s statement, Clopeh simply maintained his gentle smile.

An unusual sentiment of shared understanding began to envelop Terosa.

However, her expression soon reverted to its previous, more guarded state.

“If the mana imprinted on that deed is definitively confirmed, via a magical apparatus, to belong to Count Lupe, then I shall accept this birth certificate as valid.”

She had far too many pressing matters to attend to, thus she made her decision swiftly.

No, in fact, this decision would only lead to her having even more responsibilities.

And surprisingly, that prospect did not seem entirely unwelcome.

“I will lend my assistance in securing Young Master Jimon’s mine. In return for this favor—”

In return—

“I require your assurance that Young Master Jimon will be disqualified from consideration.”

Her gaze intensified, fixed squarely on Clopeh.

“And I desire a written declaration from you, stating you will also forgo candidacy.”

Terosa harbored no faith in Clopeh.

Her sole conviction rested with the Demon King.

Every matter required her utmost caution and deliberation.

For the path forward demanded that only his will prevail.

“Indeed. Such an arrangement can be made.”

Even with Clopeh’s swift agreement, Terosa remained vigilant.

Rising from her seat, she regarded Clopeh and his younger brother—whose name she hadn't bothered to ascertain—and stated,

“The sooner this is done, the better, would you not agree?”

“We can convene with Young Master Jimon today.”

“Excellent.”

Terosa proceeded out the door, addressing the subordinate awaiting her.

“Arrange a place for these gentlemen to rest momentarily, then bring them to me. There is an urgent matter requiring immediate attention.”

“Ah, a moment, please.”

Clopeh interjected.

“I have additional younger siblings; I must first go and gather them.”

“Ah. Then bring your younger siblings with you to the lord’s castle. I will ensure you are brought directly to me.”

After conveying this, she paused for a beat before inquiring,

“So, you are not related by blood?”

As her gaze shifted between Clopeh and Cale, Clopeh responded with a smile.

“We are a family bound by trust far exceeding that of blood.”

Terosa nodded at his words.

Not blood relations.

That individual, Kase, was Count Lupe’s sole descendant by blood.

That was the extent of the information she needed.

“Then I shall see you later.”

Terosa departed first.

Click. Click.

The instant she turned and moved away, her expression turned grim.

Young Master Jimon’s mine?

Heh.

That might be his declared objective upon arrival—

but it could not possibly be his true aim.

Count Lupe’s clandestine vault.

That was his ultimate target.

Naturally.

That was how he would ascend to become the proprietor of the Demon World’s preeminent merchant guild.

He had explicitly stated his desire for wealth; a mere mine would never suffice.

His madness was apparent at a single glance.

Terosa had plans to exploit him to locate the secret vault.

Through him, I shall dismantle Jimon and Count Lupe’s lineage, and seize the secret vault for myself.

Subsequently, she would assume the role of lord and channel substantial financial backing into the Demon King’s endeavors.

The smile gracing Terosa’s lips widened.

A matter that had been obstructed might finally commence its progression.

She issued an instruction to the knight who had been waiting outside and had followed her.

“Summon Mol.”

“The commander of the Third Army?”

“Precisely. I shall assign him as an escort for those two.”

The Demon King's eight formidable armies.

Among them, Baron Deshuran, the commander of the Sixth Army, was currently unaccounted for.

At this juncture, the leader of the Third Army was stationed within this vicinity.

Typically, he too would be departing soon, however—

He is perpetually idle, so I might as well put him to use.

If an individual of his standing were to abandon his command and laze about, the least she could do was ensure he earned his keep.

He will find it enjoyable.

He was an eccentric demon by nature, thus he would likely relish the task of escorting two common merchants.

He is also astute. He will manage independently.

The presence of the Third Army here was meant to be concealed.

As long as his identity remained veiled, she could infiltrate him into the vicinity of Young Master Jimon, straight into the heart of the lineage.

Excellent.

Terosa welcomed this unforeseen development.

And—

“Human, are we preparing to depart for the old fortress immediately?”

Back at their residence, Cale nodded as he stowed their meager possessions into his spatial pouch.

“Yes. Clopeh managed the situation exceptionally well.”

In response to Cale’s statement, Raon cast a sideways glance at Clopeh.

Flinch.

Clopeh tensed momentarily, then failed to conceal the nascent smile forming on his lips.

Unaware of the smile, Cale continued his packing. Raon spoke.

“Then what is my role?”

Cale opened his mouth to speak.

However, Clopeh answered before him.

“Terosa will likely assign someone to monitor us. It would be prudent for you to remain unseen and follow discreetly.”

Cale closed his mouth.

It’s convenient when someone else answers for me.

Clopeh, that scoundrel.

He truly was useful.

“Then I am curious if we are merely tagging along!”

To Hong’s question, Clopeh replied with a composed smile.

“On and Hong may accompany us. You will serve as the Fourth and Fifth.”

Hong tilted his head.

“If Noona is Fourth and I am Fifth, then I am curious about the identity of Third!”

“Sui Khan-nim, naturally.”

“Hm?”

Sui Khan, who had been passively reclining nearby, appeared bewildered.

“I am Third?”

“Sui Khan, I shall convert you to my hue as well!”

Gleefully, Raon lunged forward and dyed Sui Khan’s white hair a shade of black.

Blood continued to seep from the bandages encircling his arm, yet with the application of potions and medicine, its flow had been impeded as much as possible.

Cale observed it and began to speak, but once more, Clopeh was quicker.

“Yes. You must travel with us.”

“No, that is not the point. I am Third?”

“Then would you prefer to be the youngest?”

Clopeh inquired, looking perplexed, and Sui Khan found himself unable to provide a response.

Pffft.

A soft, deflated chuckle escaped Cale as he observed Sui Khan below.

Under Cale's scrutinizing gaze, Sui Khan opened his mouth, hesitating without a sound for a moment before shutting his eyes tightly.

“This is…”

His sigh went unheard.

Cale began to speak.

“Clopeh will manage most of our interactions with the other demons, so our objective is to remain as quiet as possible and focus on concealing ourselves to prevent our identities from being discovered.”

Cale then directed a question at Clopeh.

“You can handle Terosa and the Demon King’s people on your own, can’t you?”

“Yes. Leave it to me.”

Clopeh had handled Terosa with more skill than Cale had anticipated.

Do people with similar eccentricities truly understand each other?

This thought crossed Cale’s mind just as—

“Heh.”

Clopeh let out a low laugh, murmuring softly.

“Terosa is still immature. I had overestimated her.”

“Hm?”

Cale inquired with confusion, and Clopeh responded nonchalantly.

“She is more shallow than I anticipated.”

After stating this, Clopeh remained silent.

Cale was curious about the exact meaning of Clopeh’s assessment of ‘shallow,’ but he chose not to probe further.

I doubt I’d get a satisfactory answer if I asked more.

Clopeh Sekka. It was generally best to avoid extended conversations with that individual.

Based on all his prior experiences, Cale turned away from Clopeh.

As he made preparations for Cale’s comfortable journey, Clopeh’s thoughts turned to Terosa.

Her conviction is weak.

She claimed to have staked her life on the Demon King.

But—

It lacks substance.

By Clopeh’s own standards, it was insufficient.

She observes the reactions of others.

He could perceive that she was influenced by the reputation and judgments of those around her.

This was precisely why Clopeh’s words had managed to comfort and reassure her.

Absurd.

If her faith in her chosen path had been genuinely unwavering, she would never have wavered in such a manner.

Clopeh’s gaze then shifted to Cale, who was meticulously examining Sui Khan’s bandages.

Cale-nim—

Living alongside Cale, Clopeh was well aware of how others perceived him.

He knew they considered him to be insane.

However, he paid them no mind.

The only gaze that registers is the one directed towards Cale-nim.

Cale had traversed numerous worlds.

The eyes of countless individuals had turned towards him, filled with both awe and profound respect.

And I, standing beside such a man, traverse the same path he walks, together with him.

Clopeh found himself unable to suppress the surge of emotion welling within him.

“Haa—”

He exhaled deeply, managing only with great effort to push the feeling back down. He then considered:

The secret vault.

Terosa will undoubtedly assign someone to watch us, believing I possess it.

That, too, could prove useful if strategically leveraged.

It might even be possible to place the vault directly into Cale-nim’s hands.

“Heh—”

A laugh escaped him before he could consciously stop it.

Hm?

His eyes then met those of On.

Then Hong, standing beside her.

And beside them was Raon.

The children, who appeared to be around ten years old, were Fixatedly staring at him.

“……”

Clopeh regained his composure, and On released a small sigh.

*****

“The department head of the New Business Department, whom you met earlier, will be accompanying you as your guide. And here—just in case of any unforeseen threats—are the two subordinates who will be responsible for your protection.”

She had assigned not one, but two escorts.

One was a serious-looking middle-aged man, and the other was a young man who appeared to be in his late twenties.

“A pleasure to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you!”

Standing unobtrusively beside Clopeh, Cale observed that unlike the older knight’s neat and reserved greeting, the younger knight’s greeting was imbued with vibrant energy. Clad in a formal knight’s uniform, the blond knight offered a smile with an open, amiable expression.

Just then, Raon, who was some distance away under invisibility, communicated with him.

—Human, that knight seems powerful!

The knight Raon was referring to was the younger one.

And then—

—Sniff sniff.

The Sound of the Wind suddenly reacted.

—That’s peculiar. Why do I detect the scent of a divine relic on that knight? It’s an aroma I’ve never encountered before.

From Raon’s observation and the Sound of the Wind’s reaction, Cale arrived at a conclusion.

A divine relic would not typically be in the possession of an ordinary, newly appointed escort knight.

This young knight, assigned by Terosa—Cale had no knowledge of his true identity, but he was undoubtedly strong. Furthermore, the likelihood of his position being anything but ordinary was high.

After all, he carried a divine relic as casually as if it were a commonplace item, something even Terosa herself did not possess.

And yet, this knight—

“Then please, board the carriage! I shall drive! I am looking forward to working with you! Hehe!”

For some reason, his smile appeared unbelievably dopey.

He radiated an air of sheer dim-wittedness.

—Human, that knight is smiling as if he’s definitely planning to swindle someone!

Truly.

It was a different sort of warning than what Cale had sensed upon first meeting Crown Prince Alberu Crossman, yet his instincts nonetheless sounded an alarm.

Unlike His Highness, that fellow simply reeked of being a complete charlatan!

Cale’s expression shifted.

Without conscious thought, he replied.

“I too look forward to working with you! Hahaha!”

—Human, why are you smiling as if you’re about to scam someone too?

Ah.

I reacted reflexively.