In the recent council, numerous revelations had shaken the noble assembly. They learned that Vandalieu was a reincarnated soul from another world, and that he was not alone; other reincarnated beings, such as Kanako Tsuchiya, also existed. Furthermore, they were told that Vandalieu was the product of countless reincarnations, being a fragment of the souls of the four legendary heroes, including Zakkart, who had perished ten thousand years ago when Guduranis shattered their souls. These revelations, along with many other truths previously concealed, had now come to light.

The Orbaume Kingdom’s dukes, who had been listening to this with bated breath, were profoundly shaken.

The first emperor of the Amid Empire, now known as the Amid Holy Nation, had claimed lineage from Bellwood and had founded his empire on that basis. Even in the present, simply proclaiming oneself as a descendant of a hero could provide enough legitimacy to establish a kingdom.

In Vandalieu’s case, he could assert his identity through Darcia, who was recognized by Vida, the “Goddess of Life and Love.” If necessary, Vida’s endorsement could be given repeatedly, confirming Vandalieu’s legitimacy.

The current Amid royal family, despite their claim to Bellwood’s lineage, was viewed with suspicion by many. Even setting aside the rumors spread by the Orbaume Kingdom’s spies or simple jealousy, there were doubts about their authenticity.

Yet, no matter how prestigious or eloquent a person might be, no one could dispute Vandalieu’s claim of being a hero’s reincarnation—not even with a wealth of evidence or reasons to question it. The approval of a god overshadowed all possible arguments.

The neutral Duke Asserbatt and the cautious Duke Lext trembled at the notion that Vandalieu held the authority to raise his banner, not just over the Bahn Gaia continent but possibly with ambitions toward global unification.