I Became the Son of a Corrupt Lord, so I’ll Enjoy an Easy Life in Another World ~but Please Stop Revering Me as a “Saint”!~

Stage 3-10. The Forbidden Magic Archive

Feeling a pleasant ache, Reina and I finished breakfast and made our way to Father’s study, where he awaited us.

But Father was glaring at a single invitation placed on the table, and the room was filled with an oppressive atmosphere.

According to Father’s investigation, there was one noble who hadn’t lost their memory.

His name was Duke Juke Andraus.

The Andraus family had long supported the Rondism Kingdom financially, but recently, suspicious rumors had been swirling around them.

Though not a duke, Juke’s influence was said to rival that of the four great ducal houses, and in truth, Father’s investigations pointed to him as a central figure in the kingdom’s corruption.

The difference between the Andraus family and the four great ducal houses lay in their military accomplishments during past wars, but in terms of current financial contributions, they were more than comparable.

Among the old guard, only Juke, the current head of the Andraus family, retained clear memories of Frone.

Above all, the fact that he sought contact with me through Father made his intentions unmistakable.

“…It’s a trap, no doubt about it. They’re lying in wait for us to stick our necks out.”

Apparently, he planned to host a party in a week and insisted on my attendance.

For one thing, rumors of my zero aptitude for magic made it rare for me to be invited to parties.

Even as the son of a duke, most deemed me a “failure,” making attempts to curry favor with me seem futile.

While many nobles were aware of my involvement in the Frohne of Thunder incident, it was unlikely that years of accumulated disdain could be overturned so easily.

Moreover, only a select few knew about the commendation I received from His Majesty the King.

Yet Andraus invited me. Suspicious was an understatement.

“The timing… They might be looking to establish ties with me, considering Ogre’s future. But it’s undoubtedly connected to Frohne.”

“We mustn’t go. It’s far too dangerous.”

“…I agree.”

Charging into the unknown when we knew nothing about dark-attribute magic was the height of folly.

There was no way I’d offer myself up to such an obvious trap.