I, the “Clock User”, Was Kicked Out of the Craftsmen’s Guild for Being Incompetent, but at the Dungeon’s Depths, I Awakened My True Power – Even Though I Was Told to Return Because They Couldn’t Handle the Work, It’s Too Late Now, and I Will Live Freely as an SSS-class Adventurer V10C18

  Translated by Hamster


---

### Volume 10: Reunion 

**18: Emissary of Peace**


Cyclo, while receiving skeptical looks, spoke confidently.


"Even a Demon King could not possibly overwhelm the conqueror of the 'Worst Dungeon' through sheer force. Otherwise, why would that dungeon have remained unconquered? Therefore, I hold myself to be at least on par with, no, certainly above, a Demon King."


First, Cyclo emphasized his strength as being equivalent to or surpassing that of a Demon King. Without this, the conversation wouldn't hold.


"I myself will serve as the greatest deterrent against the Lustgard Empire, which relies on the might of the Demon King to invade our nation."


Upon Cyclo's words, one of the king's aides spoke out.


"Then do not speak of peace like some coward."


"Unlike the unreasonable empire, our kingdom does not seek to spread the flames of war. Doing so would invite criticism both domestically and abroad."


In other words, Cyclo hinted at opposition from nobles who strongly wished not to expand the conflict.


"And there's no guarantee the empire will accept an emissary of peace. If they cannot agree to the terms, the likelihood of resorting to force is high, as history has shown."


The empire has been in constant conflict with the Heinburg Kingdom solely because it does not recognize the kingdom's founding. Thus, depending on the terms of peace, the empire might still take action.


Cyclo spoke, then continued.


"Even without our provocation, if the barbaric empire's demons attack, we would have a just cause to retaliate."


"---I see. They do not abide by reason. Thus, the peace negotiations," the king nodded, understanding Cyclo's intent to provoke the other side into making the first move under the guise of peace talks.


Of course, this was also part of Cyclo's strategy to make them mistakenly think this was his only intention.


"---Understood. Baron Owen, I appoint you as the emissary for peace negotiations with the Lustgard Empire."


"I am grateful, Your Majesty."


Thus, it was decided without issue that Cyclo would go to the Lustgard Empire as an emissary for peace.


However, one person glared at Cyclo with clear animosity. It was the cardinal of the Skill Selection Cult, standing alongside the king's officers, who made no effort to hide his displeasure with the peace negotiations.


After the investiture ceremony concluded successfully, a celebratory party was to be held next. Cyclo and his companions spent the interim time in one of the palace rooms.


"Hey, big brother."


"Yeah, what's up?"


"That old man from the Skill Selection Cult was glaring at you the whole time. Is it because he doesn't like you succeeding?"


"Ah, I see. That's not quite it."


When Alice asked, Cyclo explained.


"While he certainly doesn't like me advancing, his blatant dislike has another reason. It's just a guess, but the Skill Selection Cult would be troubled if the war could actually be stopped through peace negotiations."


"I see... Wait, but isn't that true for the other nobles as well?"


Alice's question was reasonable.


The Heinburg Kingdom does not recognize the Lustgard Empire, hence the ongoing war. If peace negotiations succeed, it might tip the scales towards recognizing the empire's founding.


"No, most nobles probably don't care either way."


Cyclo explained, including his speculation.


"The ones who most want war are the church. There's the religious reason of the empire worshipping the power of a different god, the Demon God, and also because war strengthens the church's political leverage through the distribution of skills. For the church to gain more power within this country, it's more convenient if there's a war with the Lustgard Empire."


After Cyclo spoke, Karim added further clarification.


"And if peace were to be established, it would reduce the church's influence within the kingdom, allowing the nobility to increase their power, whether they are reformists or conservatives. Neither group wants to hand the country over to the church. No matter how they maneuver, a successful peace would be to their benefit."


"Since peace works in their favor, the nobles won't strongly oppose peace negotiations. But the church is the only one at risk of losing out. So that's why he was glaring at you, big brother?"


"That's about right."


Alice succinctly summarized the situation, which Cyclo confirmed.


"Well, now that our stance is somewhat clear to the church side, they'll definitely make some move during the party. We need to stay sharp!"


Upon Cyclo's words, all three nodded, steeling themselves once again.


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