How To Live As A Writer In A Fantasy World

Chapter 171: Forbidden Magic (2)

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.Follow the latest novels at novelhall.comore, 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.”

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.

Translators note: