A Dark Fantasy Spy

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There are two main ways to exorcise a demon.

The first is to drive out the demon possessing the possessed person through Grand Exorcism, and the second is to push the demon back to hell using a force represented by faith, magic, and mystery.

We decided to use the former method to exorcise the demons operating in the North.

However, circumstances changed.

“This situation cannot be resolved with just Grand Exorcism.”

Grand Exorcism is a method that involves multiple exorcists spending significant time and effort to expel a demon.

The problem lies in that time.

“The Empire’s military wants to wrap this up as quickly as possible. The Inquisition and the old guards believe we need to use a more forceful approach to prevent further damage.”

“Just get to the point.”

“We must exterminate the demons.”

The Saint of the Cult said.

“Exterminating demons is essentially a military operation equivalent to a holy war. It costs a lot of money and causes significant damage. Hence, in the history of the Cult, you won’t find many instances of actual extermination unless demons have caused considerable trouble.”

The situation had already reached an irreversible state. The Cult commanded Saint Veronica to exterminate the demons, and the Empire accepted this order.

That means the situation is grave.

“Do we have a plan?”

“Well…”

Saint Veronica smoothed her jawline and smiled as she spoke.

“Of course we do.”

—

Episode 12 – The Strongest Magician in History

The command center for demon extermination is the Military Government Headquarters and the Inquisition, but the core of the operation is us.

We are like a main offensive unit within the army.

Especially Lucia, together with Veronica, is the only one who has experience facing demons, so it naturally falls to Lucia to take on the direct task of confronting the demons.

“My sister might be a bit naive, but her skills are undeniable. Her lack of experience is a flaw, but it’s one that Colonel and I can cover up sufficiently.”

“Please be specific.”

“We need to prepare. First, I’ll seek out weapons for Lucia. Colonel, please gather the items listed here.”

I made a few phone calls to acquaintances to procure the items Veronica mentioned.

Victor, an ex-sergeant major from the Imperial Army and an Orc businessman, Hormoz, the Dark Elf leader of the Palm Tree Trade Guild, Dmitri, the head of the social department at a media company based in the Magic Tower, among others.

Usually, it wouldn’t be easy to bring goods to the North, but security in the now-chaotic North had holes all over.

It was easy to turn the illegal into legal. A few bribes and the delicate loopholes in laws and regulations created synergy.

“I secured almost everything, such as the Cult’s relic stored by the Kien Empire Archaeological Society, high-grade potions from the Ivory Tower, alchemical pumpkins, high-purity magic stone byproducts, and leaves from the World Tree transported from across the sea…”

“And what about the eternal snow from Mount Parangasan?”

“I can’t get that right now. The area around Mount Parangasan has fallen into the hands of the rebels. Instead, I managed to acquire the leftover water after a nymph washed her hands. They said it could serve as a substitute.”

“Yes, that should be enough.”

All the items would be supplied to Lucia and Francesca.

I couldn’t be certain of their exact usage, but it was clear they were needed to catch the demon.

“What about the weapon you were supposed to give Lucia?”

“It arrived today by ship.”

“Good. Let’s move on.”

—

Once a ship catches the current, it never stops. The international community is the same.

International cooperation to capture the demon accelerated as time passed.

Commander Mikhail ramped up preparations for the extermination. He deployed troops in areas where demons were likely to appear, consulting with the Inquisition, the Imperial Ministry of Magic, and the Magic Tower.

Veronica’s situation was similar. Commanded by the Pope to lead the extermination forces, she utilized her authority to establish an information network. Inquisition Officers placed talismans in all the cities in the North under the Saint’s direction.

By the way, the place with the most talismans installed is the large city in the North, which is now quarantined after the last battle.

Lastly, the Magic Tower.

Along with the Empire and the Cult, the Magic Tower, which also holds a significant role in the extermination, is cooperating diligently.

And in the underground of the Cathedral, a magician was preparing for the upcoming battle with all his might.

-Bubble, bubble.

The sound of liquid boiling filled the underground.

Flames licked the pot like a cunning snake, greedily cleaning it.

Inside the large pot, an unidentified solution bubbled vigorously. Occasionally, rising bubbles burst with a pop, and a heavy odor stimulated the nostrils.

I descended into the basement, usually quiet even within the bustling Cathedral, and knocked on the wide-open door to greet.

“Is everything ready?”

“…..”

Francesca’s head lifted slightly.

Having ignited the fire under the alchemical pot, she sat on a chair with leather laid beneath her feet.

She stepped on the edge of the leather, pulled it taut, and smoothly rubbed a dull blade—a clear stance of a swordsmith sharpening a blade.

However, the strange symbols etched into the sword hinted that it was no ordinary sword.

Francesca, polishing her rune sword, straightened her previously hunched back.

“Yes, Colonel. Everything is progressing well without any issues.”

With a snap of her fingers, a melodious sound resonated from the pot.

“I was making potions for the battle.”

“Are these newly developed items?”

“These are the potions I used during the attack by the Corpse Spiders last time. The main ingredient in the cauldron is the venom of the Red Arrow Frog.”

“That’s a frog species found in Great Forests. Known for reproducing after centuries of exposure to high magic levels, it’s infamous for its extreme toxicity—which even strong magicians could find themselves in a life-or-death scenario with a single misstep.”

“I didn’t know you were knowledgeable about poisons, Colonel.”

“This area has the World Tree, right? I read reports written by armies fighting the Elves.”

The venom of the Red Arrow Frog is renowned for being effective against even quite capable magicians.

Once magic enters the body, it exerts a lethal effect, with its lethality increasing in proportion to the magic affinity of the person. That’s why it’s often used in assassination missions targeting magicians.

Despite that, Francesca’s face remained serene while handling the toxin.

After neatly setting down the rune sword, she peered into the bubbling cauldron, casually wearing protective gloves before adding several ingredients to the potion.

I crossed my arms and quietly observed Francesca making potions.

“Will that potion be able to capture the demon?”

“If you’re asking about its probabilities, I’d say it’s a fifty-fifty chance.”

She leaned forward on the cauldron with a blank expression as she opened her mouth.

“Most of the potions I create follow the standard manufacturing methods of the Magic Tower and the Ivory Tower, but this type of potion deviates from the norm.”

Francesca gazed at me seriously.

“A significant portion of the manufacturing methods from the Alchemical School has only recently been established. This was the result of a break in the line of alchemy continuing from ancient times through witch-hunts, inquisitions, and independence wars. Especially for combat potions, many of the manufacturing methods have fallen out of use.”

“……”

“On the bright side, the potion I’m currently making is based on a recipe left behind by one of the last great archmages.”

“Highly reliable?”

The alchemist nodded.

It’s true that her potions tend to be more effective than regular ones. Just look at how she dissolved the carapace of a Giant Spider that could withstand tank fire.

I quickly found myself agreeing.

As Francesca continued to work, she suddenly tossed her jacket aside. Thanks to the waistcoat hidden beneath, the curves of her body were revealed unfiltered.

After hanging her jacket over a chair, Francesca approached a desk where potion bottles were neatly displayed.

“How are Saint Lucia and the Hero doing?”

“They’re preparing to fight like you.”

I stuffed my hands into my pockets and recounted the current situations of the two.

“Lucia is checking the weapons sent by the Cult. She’s also assisting Saint Veronica.”

The Inquisition had delivered weapons for Lucia to use. The diplomatic package that arrived included various equipment used by active Inquisition Officers and exorcists.

“There were many intriguing items. I didn’t get a good look, but Camila is practicing magic with the Empire’s combat magicians.”

“Ah, I’m aware of that. The Hero did come to find me as well.”

While inspecting the potions, Francesca tilted her head in curiosity.

“But didn’t the Hero decide to sit this one out?”

Her amethyst eyes twinkled. I met her gaze and answered in my usual voice.

“It’s just personal training.”

I shrugged and added nonchalantly.

“Of course, if needed, I’ll join the fight.”

Preparations for the extermination operation were already complete.

I had collaborated with experts from the Empire, the Cult, and the Magic Tower to devise a strategic plan, running through simulations dozens of times to correct issues.

The ideal scenario would be for the demon to still be alive beneath the collapse site. As long as the sealing formation and barrier function properly, we could unload firepower and kill it while trapped. Otherwise, we could just dash in and decapitate it ourselves.

Veronica was doing her best to command the Inquisition, and I was likewise. I made sure Lucia, Francesca, and even the most concerning Camila were all thoroughly prepared.

Now, the only thing left was the actual battle.

That is, fighting the demons.

“I’m not someone who gets caught up, so I can at least take care of myself.”

Francesca made a playful jab, drawing a smile at the corner of her mouth.

“You’re treating women rougher than I expected. You must not be a gentleman.”

“Let’s leave the banter at that.”

“Sure. By the way, would you like a healing potion? The one I made this time has pretty good recovery capabilities.”

“If you offer, I’d appreciate it, but more than that, I want to know how the task is progressing.”

Turning her gaze away, Francesca began discussing the conditions at the Magic Tower nonchalantly.

“The final checks on the sealing barrier and totems, and the rune stones have been completed without issues. The flow of magic and arrangement of circuits were reported to be perfect. As long as the magic continues to be supplied, it should operate without problems for at least a week.”

The Magic Tower’s barrier, supporting the sealing formation set up by the Cult, had been solidly completed.

Carefully analyzing the papers and field inspection reports obtained through Dmitri, it concluded that the output and structure are quite stable with a significantly low chance of defects occurring.

“A week, huh. For a large-scale composite magic circle, that’s quite stable considering it was hastily constructed.”

“That’s because it was constructed with experts’ utmost efforts.”

“Was Martínez the final inspector?”

“Yes, Sir Martínez personally confirmed it. He’s still frequently checking the site at every opportunity. He must be really busy. He had planned to reconstruct most of the North’s sewage system, but who would’ve guessed it would crumble like this?”

“Such is life, huh. By the way, how’s medical support and combat preparation coming along?”

Currently, the area assigned to the Magic Tower in the North involves medical and combat support.

While the Cult had provided healing priests, the sheer number of casualties at the site was overwhelming.

Fortunately, the Magic Tower offered specialized medical devices and pharmaceuticals utilizing advanced magical engineering techniques, easing the strain. The Oracle provided a significant portion of the equipment and medication needed for patient treatment and rehabilitation free of charge.

For reference, Francesca was the person who spearheaded that support.

“Thanks to that, I’ve been less burdened. The Military Government Headquarters is quite appreciative.”

“There’s no need to thank me. The Oracle didn’t decide to provide free support out of pure intentions, either.”

Of course, this was just a quick response to the urgent situation the Magic Tower faced. The one causing havoc in the conflict zone had been a Necromancer.

The Imperial Ministry of Defense had already been at their wits’ end due to the conflict.

Worried that the enraged military might once again roll tanks in front of the Magic Tower, the Oracle quickly took affirmative action before they could act.

“Everything has a price, after all.”

Francesca evaluated the circumstances of the Magic Tower bluntly. Her tone had a hint of sarcasm.

I nodded in agreement.

“Good things always come with a price, right?”

In any case, it was a good thing for me.

—

Insomnia is one of the occupational hazards that come with being on a payroll.

When working at a company that calls you at all hours, it’s not uncommon to lose sleep.

Even with your head resting on a soft pillow, if your mind is as sharp as a tack, you won’t settle down easily.

Maybe that’s why I found myself drinking quite a bit tonight.

But tonight, it seemed even alcohol was of no help.

In the single room prepared in the Cathedral, I threw on just a shirt and stepped out onto the terrace.

“……”

The northern winds of December were rather fierce. Even the intoxication coursing through my veins couldn’t withstand the cold that dug in to the bone.

Looking at the clock, it was already 11:18 PM. The moment when today fades into tomorrow.

Tomorrow is December 31st.

The last day of the year and the very day the demon with the black eyes had foretold.

Sitting on the terrace with a beer bottle in hand, I stared up at the night sky and let out a deep sigh, eventually lowering my gaze.

“What are you doing?”

Turning around at the suddenly heard voice, I found myself staring directly into Camila’s blue eyes. Peeking her head through the slightly opened door, she broke into a smile and fully opened the terrace door.

“I was just taking a break.”

“Taking a beer alone at this hour?”

She pointed at the beer bottle while asking, making me feel a bit embarrassed for being caught looking pitiful in the night air. So I set the bottle down and sniffled.

Camila approached with brisk strides and plopped down next to me.

“Are you worried about something?”

“Is there anyone in this world without worries?”

I tried to laugh off the question, but it fell flat. Camila, leaning on her arms behind her and staring at me, smiled faintly as the corners of her mouth twitched.

“That’s true. There doesn’t exist anyone who lives a care-free life.”

She turned her gaze towards the deep blue night sky. The North, with no light pollution, boasted clearer starlight than any other place on the continent.

“Is it about the demon?”

With a sudden, blunt question that caught me off guard, I lowered my gaze in silence.

Not answering seemed to suffice as an answer.

“Sigh!”

Camila exhaled dramatically, throwing her head back in exasperation.

“You worry too much. Why are you worrying so much?”

Her upfront way of asking was so confident it caught me off guard, making me tongue-tied with disbelief. I questioned her back.

“But Camila, you don’t worry at all?”

“Me? Well…”

Camila, starting to murmur, blinked her protruding eyelashes thoughtfully.

“Worrying…well, of course, I worry. I’m human too!”

See? Even she worries, but then admonishes me for worrying too. I clicked my tongue as I raised the beer bottle to my lips, but Camila cut me off before I could drink.

“But what’s worrying gonna change?”

Her red hair tilted to one side. As she tilted her head, her hair swayed left and right.

“We’ve made thorough preparations, and we’ve taken all necessary precautions. What remains now is just the real battle. Sitting around worrying won’t change anything. The results will show the care, effort, and time we’ve put in so far.”

“……”

“Isn’t that enough?”

With a gentle smile, Camila playfully nudged my thigh with her knee.

“Don’t worry too much. This isn’t a battle you’re fighting alone.”

Then she stood up, dusting off her backside as she spoke.

“It’s cold, so let’s go inside quickly. Don’t suffer from a cold.”

Camila hurriedly stepped away, crossing the threshold of the terrace.

I turned to watch her retreating silhouette, then swallowed the remaining beer.

—

The pointless musings of the night ended as Camila left. Once back in the room, I adjusted the light settings and sat at my desk to check my gear.

These were the items previously approved for import after negotiations with the Imperial Ministry of Defense and the Military Government Headquarters.

Body armor and helmet blessed by Veronica, personal firearms sanctified with holy water, the pistol that I’ve carried since entering the Empire, various small accessories, and the heavy protective gear and gas mask that I never want to wear again.

I tried on the gear before sleeping.

I fitted the body armor snugly and tightened the helmet chin strap to minimize any shifting. I had checked the position of the magazine several times, so when combat broke out, I wouldn’t find myself fumbling for my ammunition like in the good old days.

Additionally, I filled my backpack with batteries, extra ammunition, and other supplies while pacing around the room, meticulously checking for any discomfort.

“…hmm.”

Has it been more than 30 years since I last left the field? It definitely felt slightly off.

When had I last worn this gear? Eastern Europe? The Middle East? Or maybe the last place in Africa? Certainly not South America; I went there in the very beginning.

While I was pacing around the room late at night, my work phone left on the desk rang loudly. It was a work phone set up when I was appointed as a diplomat.

Was it a contact from the Military Government Headquarters?

I opened the phone to see the number flashing on the screen. My expectations were correct. The interpreter officer Lyudmila was calling.

“Yes, Senior Lyudmila. What’s the matter? Calling me so late.”

-‘It’s an emergency.’

In that moment, my mind went blank as if I’d been hit by a hammer, and cold sweat ran down my spine.

Lyudmila didn’t say much.

-‘Please come to the Headquarters right now.’