Zack and Capella
“Capella, I’m afraid I must trouble you, but I have a request.”
“Understood. Leave it to me.”
After finishing their discussion with Reiner and Reed, Zack and Capella moved to the reception hall’s office room. Now, the two were seated across from each other at a desk, conversing. Eventually, Zack muttered with a somewhat frustrated expression.
“Still…Reed is not to be trifled with. To have you swear fealty to him in that situation.”
“While the loyalty pledged there may cause some hindrance to future missions, I don’t believe it will have a major impact.”
Zack silently nodded at his response. It was Zack himself who had suggested to Elias that Capella should become Reed’s subordinate. Originally, Capella was supposed to become Raycis’s shadow and Zack’s successor in the future. However, after witnessing Reed-Baldia’s innate talent and latent abilities firsthand, Zack changed his mind. Under the current circumstances, he believed that sending Capella as Reed’s shadow would ultimately lead to prosperity for the nation and the Riverton family.
If Reed grew along with Farah as his wife, even Renalute’s position might undergo some change in the future. Reed was an unconventional prodigy capable of overturning common sense to such a degree. At that moment, as Zack pondered with a pensive expression, the expressionless Capella inquired.
“…However, while I don’t doubt Lord Reed’s status as a prodigy, why are you so enamored with him?”
Among the Shinobi under the Riverton family’s control, Capella was the most formidable. Making him a subordinate of another country meant reducing their own combat strength.
While Reed certainly had his charms, Capella could not see him as someone worthy of such high regard. Seeing Capella’s unconvinced demeanor, Zack grinned mischievously.
“Well…it’s simply because he’s captivated by the portrait of my family, Eltia, and if he treasures Farah, isn’t that enough?”
“Please don’t jest, my lord.”
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As Capella flatly admonished him, Zack gestured with a “my, my” before explaining.
“You dull fellow, very well. The reason I’m enamored is simple. If Reed continues growing as he is now, he will eventually shed his naive innocence. When that happens, I expect him to become a deterrent not only for Renalute but also the Empire, Barst, and other foreign nations…”
“However, he is ultimately an Imperial citizen. Will he act for our Dark Elves’ sake when the time comes?”
Capella understood Zack’s point but remained skeptical about whether Reed would take action for the Dark Elves. Sensing Capella’s intention, Zack gave a sly smile.
“No need to worry about that. Reed’s mother has fallen ill, and he is desperately searching for a cure himself. If his feelings for family are that strong, then once he marries Farah, he will undoubtedly take an active role if any issues concerning her arise. Well, that’s precisely why I’m sending you to ensure it happens.”
After finishing, Zack’s expression became as cold and ruthless as befitting the head of an intelligence agency. Capella understood his true mission: to tame Reed. The content was the same as what Norris did to Raycis, but to infuse it into an even more fundamental level, acting without the target or those around him noticing, essentially a form of brainwashing. After pondering, Capella murmured.
“…What about the information on the magic he displayed?”
“Consider that a mere byproduct. Instead, prioritize facilitating a good relationship between Farah and Reed. If those two end up in a favorable situation, we will naturally reap the benefits as well. Think of it as an upfront investment.”
Despite his expressionless demeanor, Capella was inwardly astonished. The magic Reed displayed was remarkably potent, yet Zack regarded it as a mere byproduct, implying he expected Reed to achieve even greater feats in the future.
“Understood. I will ensure Lord Reed and Princess Farah’s relationship proceeds smoothly. By the way, what about information on the Baldia family?”
“Only the bare minimum is necessary. Your goal is to gain the trust and confidence of Reed, or rather, the Baldia family. Carelessly divulging information while under their watchful eye will undermine your value. Instead, focus on being a subordinate…if needed to gain trust, you may discuss facts about Shinobi.”
Even the experienced Capella was inwardly shocked at being permitted to discuss the Shinobi. Talking about the Shinobi was only allowed with those Zack deemed trustworthy and reliable. Capella’s brow twitched slightly before he responded.
“I will stake my life on gaining Lord Reed’s trust and confidence.”
“Understood, I’m counting on you. However…from now on, you will be serving the Baldia family. Try to move your facial muscles a little.”
Facing Capella’s expressionless demeanor during their conversation, Zack admonished him. Capella seemed perplexed, then reluctantly formed an awkward smile, asking, “Like this…?” Upon seeing that expression, Zack grimaced unusually before clearing his throat, “Ahem…”
“This could be a good opportunity for you as well. You should practice smiling a bit more.”
“…Understood.”
From that day until he began serving Reed, the formidable shadow Capella desperately practiced smiling day after day. To those who knew him, his appearance was said to be so comical and unforgettable…
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