Yamiyo no Hotaru

Chapter 165

 "...I must say, I was quite surprised. Who would have thought you'd make such a hasty decision? It's unlike Minister to take such a risky path, isn't it?"

 In the dignified study of the palace, those words echoed with meaning.

 "..."

 Despite the sudden familiarity from the official who employed him as a scribe, the elderly nobleman continued his duties without reproach. With a warm smile, he remained silent for a moment before speaking.

 "Oh? Didn't you agree? I thought it was a perfect opportunity to weaken the exorcists."

 The attack on the envoy, the kidnapping of the representative— the chaos that ensued from these events was significant. The fact that such outrage occurred in the heart of the capital region shook many, leaving even some attendees stunned and speechless.

 It was proof of how the court had underestimated this matter. They probably thought that just by sending an envoy in a parade, the other party would surrender easily. Their naive expectations were quickly shattered, and they realized that.

 "It's impressive how you can manipulate a chaotic assembly to get the order for suppression. But still, it was reckless, don't you think? Wasn't the Minister of the Right skeptical? It's not admirable to draw suspicion when you're about to criticize that household."

 The Ryuen family, one of the families that have traditionally inherited the position of Minister of the Right, is especially cautious. This is true even when it comes to marriage. Due to their vigilance towards connections and blood relations, even Nue, who has reincarnates in various forms, has not been able to penetrate the bloodline of that family. The decision for the Minister of the Left's granddaughter to marry into that family in this generation was the culmination of a plan that had been in the works for over half a century. And...

 "But it was also an opportunity. The Middle Counselor (Chuunagon) was also a bit troublesome, just like the Minister of The Right."

 The elderly Middle Counselor was knowledgeable nobleman in both the courtly and military matters, quick-witted, and even able to entertain. Even in retirement, one couldn't let their guard down. If possible, it would have been better for him to die early.

 "Moreover, the opponent is that snake. The expedition team will likely be destroyed. But that's fine. That is what is desired."

 He didn't anticipate the divine snake. It was a natural consequence. It was bound to provoke the snake's wrath. The sacrifices would pile up.

 And yet...it was all just the remnants of past glory. The tarnished court would send assassins without concern for appearances. Eventually, they would be defeated. And then disaster would be unleashed. Divine punishment would strike the people. It was doubly delicious for him.

 "According to you, Master, you have invited them (the snake) several times in the past, right? I've heard that Master was rejected."

 Despite the deep connection with the imperial court, it also signified something profound with the master right in front of him. The ghost (the master) had tasted the bitterness of the past, much like the snake.

 "Cooperation is impossible. Neglect could lead to unforeseen consequences. The snake, with its unnecessarily high status, could become an uncertain variable in our plans. Therefore, we should make the most of it while we can, even if it means using it up. Along with the Tengu."

 If the extermination squad is annihilated, the Tengu will have no choice but to fully engage in conflict with the imperial court. Whether the Tengu will submit to the snake or it will become a three-way struggle... in any case, weakening the imperial court is essential.