The Second Son of The Marquis Runs Away from Home ~ Lacking Talent, He Abandons Everything and Becomes an Adventurer ~ - 78

Chapter 78: Sun and Moon

“Blinding, you say?”

Luminus muttered unintentionally, and Merltina nodded before beginning her explanation.

“To be honest, I’ve met that kid’s older brother, Bardle Grantos, a few times and even had some discussions with him. I’ve found him to be an extraordinary person—a talent with incredible abilities and a genuinely upright character. If someone claimed he received the blessings of the gods, I could believe it.”

“…I haven’t spoken to him directly, but I was present during negotiations with my lord. His demeanor and negotiation skills were impressive.”

“That’s why it might be that way.”

Merltina said, recalling her impressions of Bardle. She continued, flipping through the documents Berg had left.

“Bardle Grantos is like the sun… His overpowering brilliance can overshadow the light of other stars, forcing them into shadows. How many have been forced into the shadows behind that radiance?”

“That’s…”

“Even someone universally acknowledged… or rather, especially those from the upper echelons, people are not quick to acknowledge someone superior to themselves.”

Especially among the upper class, Merltina added with a somewhat ironic tone.

“But he couldn’t belittle himself. At such times, a small society like a school, where attention could be drawn to him, would have noticed him.”

As she continued with the discussion, the documents prepared by Berg were concise but effectively summarized the events and responses.

“I’ve heard some things about him, and seeing him in person, I thought the same. He’s a genius in a different direction from Bardle. However, he doesn’t shine in normal times, especially not in a protected academy. After witnessing someone as overwhelming as Bardle, he probably appeared ordinary.”

“If he felt overshadowed by Bardle’s existence… he must have been a suitable target for venting frustration.”

“…So, by denigrating him, they planned to undermine Bardle Grantos’ standing?”

“People are not purely good. Finding solace in the fact that there’s someone inferior to them… that’s what makes them feel secure. It’s a combination of such factors that pushed him to the brink until he left the country. Ironically, this ordeal polished his talents. It’s a cruel twist of fate.”

“…Despite the complexities of the situation that led Lord Berg here, I’m grateful.”

Luminus expressed gratitude, and Merltina, with a faint smile, picked up the documents again.

“If I were to liken Bardle Grantos to the sun, then this kid would be like the moon… By distancing himself from the sun, he shines prominently amidst countless stars. Even without illuminating as much as the sun, he guides those who gather beneath him.”

“The moon…?”

“Sun and moon, both indispensable in the sky… It suits the two who have become indispensable to both nations now. It might still be in the future. In a world where shadows are cast, the moon, Berg, will shine.”

As she said this, Merltina looked up at the darkening sky, murmuring.

“We don’t know yet. In this shadowed world, the time for Moon Berg to shine may come.”

Multiple shadows approached the nearly setting sun in Heinlberie, their steps frail as if they might collapse at any moment.

“Just a bit more, hang in there.”

One person encouraged everyone, and a figure clad in travel gear lifted their face, murmuring as they saw the defensive wall.

“Serk…”