Illuminati

In front of a round table that shone like amethyst, everyone took their seats. The Dragon King Artorius, without a doubt, occupied the head seat, radiating an aura of majesty as he surveyed his surroundings.

"Everyone."

Artorius began, his voice steady and powerful.

"I won't waste words with unnecessary talk."

"You all know why we've gathered here."

"A common and great goal has united us, pushing aside our prejudices and solidifying our determination. That goal is the salvation of humankind. Therefore, I've named our assembly the Illuminati, hoping that we can ignite ourselves to illuminate the path for humanity."

Artorius's voice resonated with authority.

"Our ultimate objective is to ensure the everlasting existence and prosperity of humanity. Our mission is to become their guardians and guides. To achieve this, we must bring the entirety of Europe under the rule of a single nation, facing the first challenge of uniting the Germanic peoples, including the Franks."

"As for the specifics, I believe you all have a good understanding."

"But, what about our specific targets?" Morgan interjected. "Could you be more precise about which group or individuals? After all, the Franks constitute a significant portion of the Germanic peoples, numbering in the hundreds of thousands."

"In specific terms, it is Clovis..." Artorius stated, prompting everyone present to wear expressions of confirmation.

For those familiar only with TYPE-MOON, 'Frank' would likely bring to mind Charlemagne, as well as Astolfo and Bradamante. Upon hearing the name 'Clovis', one would probably be perplexed, unaware of who he was.

However, for those well-versed in European history, hearing that name would undoubtedly trigger a moment of realization, followed by a comment such as—"Ah, that one."

Clovis was the founder and first ruler of the Frankish Kingdom. While the Franks reached their peak under Charlemagne's rule, the transformation from an ordinary Germanic tribe into a nation was led by Clovis.

He led the Frankish tribe, vanquishing the Romans and the Visigoths, thereby establishing complete dominion over Gaul. This laid the groundwork for the further expansion and growth of the Franks.

—The king of the Frankish barbarians. it's only natural to think about it.

Clovis's standing and significance in this world were beyond the scope of previous historical accounts.

Embracing the great fate of the Germanic peoples, the formidable fate of the founder of the Frankish Kingdom. This barbarian king had now grown into the greatest enemy of the Germanic Military Region.

Artorius's sudden emergence, the establishment of the Germanic war zone under his leadership, and his simultaneously gentle and ruthless treatment of the Germanic peoples rapidly fractured this fearsome nation.

They were faced with a choice—either obey the orders of the Great General Artorius, submit to the Red Dragon and the Black Eagle, transform from forest wolves into domesticated dogs, or join forces with the Frankish King Clovis, becoming part of his terrifying wolf pack.

Under Artorius's pressure and attacks, the power of the Germanic peoples weakened compared to its historical state. However, in contrast, they grew more united and cohesive.

Clovis, the leader of the Franks, became even more formidable than he was in history.

All the Germanic peoples who desired a life of turmoil.

All those who sought plunder and gain without effort, outnumbering those who sought rewards through effort among the Germanic peoples.

Those who yearned for war, pillaging, and conquest among the Germanic peoples.

Those who thirsted for slaughter, annexation, and aspired to rise above the rest among the Germanic peoples.

They were all gathering under Clovis's banner, becoming participants in the invasion of Gaul.

"After returning to the Germanic Military Region, I will launch the war." Artorius declared calmly. "I will defeat him, crush him, and then usurp his fate."

As Artorius spoke, his gaze swept over Vivian, Morgan, Scathach, and Merlin one by one.

"Your goal is to ensure that, as I defeat Clovis, you simultaneously perform the spell to usurp his fate. It must be done at the same time, and this point must be guaranteed."

"Morgan, Vivian, Scathach, and Merlin."

When he uttered the final name, a flicker of disdain flashed through Artorius's eyes. "You are the most outstanding mages in this world. It will be up to you to create the spell for usurping fate. Is there any problem?"

"It can be completed within three months..." Scathach replied. "But I will need a helper."

"Then, I entrust this matter entirely to you."

"Don't forget the promise you made to me."

"Of course." Artorius nodded. "Someday, my spear will pierce through your body. Until then, put your intelligence and talents to good use in my service, Teacher."

Having completed this conversation, Scathach closed her eyes, indicating that her task was finished and she would no longer speak.

"Now, Lady Morgan..." Artorius turned his gaze toward Morgan, "You—"

"I believe Your Majesty needs a proper court mage by his side." Before Artorius could say anything, Morgan preemptively spoke.

She said cheerfully, "Compared to lazy folk like Merlin who lazes around all day, I'm a better choice. Can't you consider it?"

"But I need an envoy..." Artorius said, "I need a powerful mage to help me recruit people—for the collaboration between the Atlas Academy and the Wandering Sea, as well as the establishment of the third mage association. I need to concentrate enough Mystery and research capabilities. Prepare for the future."

"Preparations after the Age of Gods ends and the Mystery fades?" Morgan asked.

"Yes." Artorius nodded, "I need a magecraft system that can adapt and function even after True Ether disappears."

"You've already mastered the Third Magic, or at least you're about to master it. Isn't that enough?" Merlin asked with keen interest.

"Both personal strength and the strength of my people. I want both of those." Artorius replied.

"In that case... let me go~" Merlin grinned and said, "Perfect timing! I happen to know quite a few excellent mages."

"..."

Hearing him speak like that, Artorius fell silent.

Merlin himself was indeed talented, and Artorius believed him when he said he knew outstanding mages. The only question was whether Merlin would be willing to work hard and seriously.

No matter how Merlin pretended or said things like—"Trust me~" Artorius wouldn't believe him at all.

"For this matter, please let Sir Kay supervise." Artoria, who was by Artorius's side, spoke up, "I believe we can achieve the goal."

"Very well." Artorius nodded, "Next, Vivian."

"Yes, yes."

The fairy queen seemed unable to fully adapt to Artorius's transformation, from a cute and gentle boy to such a majestic man. Although her heart was pounding, she also felt nervous.

"You will assist Scathach. Can you do it?"

"No, no problem."

Vivian nodded. She felt a bit disappointed.

As a fairy, she could no longer adapt to a world lacking True Ether on the surface, so she could only stay in the Land of Shadows and couldn't be by Artorius's side like Morgan. It made her feel a bit disappointed.

Now one couldn't see the slightest trace of her yandere appearance from back then. Now, she looked obedient, like a junior high school girl.

"I'm counting on you then."

Artorius said gently to her, making Vivian smile.

With all the tasks properly assigned, Artorius surveyed his surroundings. He saw the elite members under his command. A small but exceptional group.

The Awakened Dragon King, the Inhuman Incubus, the Fairy Queen, the Vengeful Witch Queen, and the Gatekeeper of the Land of Shadows. It could be said that talents were abundant.

Seeing this, Artorius couldn't help but feel pleased. With so many big figures, how could he not succeed in his grand plan, the rise of humanity? With their help, he would destroy Gaia, slaughter the Wandering Stars (Velber), and crush the Outer Gods as easily as turning his hand! Breaking free from Earth, ruling the galaxy, and establishing a human universe was just a matter of time!

"Our future is full of light."

In the dimly purple-lit meeting room, Artorius muttered.

"The future of humanity is also filled with light."