MTLNOVEL Chapter 17: 17
"Twelve Demon Moons..."
The large, messy words were barely legible, but Seryu Ubiquitous could still make them out.
And that bloodstain—undeniably a direct, mocking provocation.
Her expression twisted with fury.
At first, she assumed such carnage must have been done by Night Raid.
But now, this new group—the Twelve Demon Moons—had become her worst enemy.
They had done something she could never forgive.
Her mentor, her first guide to justice...
The kind, gentle man who taught her everything was now just scattered flesh with no intact body left.
Tears streamed down her cheeks again.
"Master..."
"I will avenge you!"
"Whether it's the Twelve Demon Moons or Night Raid!"
Seryu pressed her forehead to Ogre's cold body, crying bitterly.
Even though her justice was twisted, her feelings for Ogre were sincere—like a daughter grieving her father.
The next day, the entire Imperial Capital was in turmoil.
Two major events sent shockwaves across the city.
First, the sudden disappearance of Daki destabilized the underground factions, sparking a bloody turf war.
Second, Ghost Ogre had been murdered. His body was so mangled it was unrecognizable.
Twenty-eight members of the Imperial Garrison were also slaughtered.
This was the greatest loss in years—and no one could ignore it.
The name "Twelve Demon Moons" spread like wildfire.
Many feared a connection to the Revolutionary Army.
Even the factions under Minister Honest were rattled.
One night of bloodshed had thrown the empire into a panic.
Akaza's appearance had earned Rivo massive rewards.
The Twelve Demon Moons had become the new storm in the capital.
Just one night of terror had gained Rivo over 700 Prestige Points.
And with Daki and Doma still active, his gains only grew.
He knew—soon, no one would dare call him a puppet.
Three months later, news came from the northern front: General Esdeath had returned in triumph.
She would arrive in the capital within two weeks.
[Empire Summoning System]
[Host: Rivo]
[Servants: Twelve Demon Moons – Upper Rank Two, Three, and a Lower Rank]
[Prestige: 1520]
[Skills: Summon Servant, Recycle Servant]
The prestige wasn't as high as Rivo expected—but it was enough.
He had deliberately not summoned anyone new during those months, waiting for Esdeath's return.
Akaza's name had already shaken the capital.
He had challenged every powerful figure—the Imperial Fist Temple, the underworld elites, even generals.
He even clashed with Great General Budo, though Akaza ultimately fled before dawn.
Rivo understood: not all demons were equally useful.
"Each Upper Moon has a role. Kokushibo. Gyokko. Muzan..."
"They'll be my best pieces going forward."
"And the others... they did just what I needed them to do."
He sat on the imperial throne, waiting for the court meeting to begin.
Even he, the emperor, had already arrived—but most of the ministers were missing.
Only a few had come—those not aligned with Honest.
The last loyalists under Budo's protection.
They all looked furious.
For the emperor to arrive first was a disgrace.
Clearly, Honest had sabotaged them.
But none dared speak.
They had seen the consequences of defying Honest.
Remaining neutral would protect them.
Opposing him meant certain death—for themselves, their families, their friends.
This was why Honest could rule unchallenged, why even Budo kept silent.
"So slow…"
Rivo sat on his throne, resting his chin on one hand, annoyance flashing in his eyes.
General Budo, standing closest, looked at him with unease.
"Strange... His Majesty seems different today."
"Is it just my imagination?"
"No... something's changed."
To be honest, Budo wasn't loyal to Rivo—only to the empire.
That blind loyalty allowed Honest to seize control behind the scenes.
And Rivo had no plans to use someone like Budo.
Just then, Honest swaggered into the chamber, still wiping food grease from the corner of his lips.
Rivo greeted him calmly, no sign of displeasure.
Sayo, disguised as a maid and standing nearby, drew no attention.
There were too many palace maids—Honest wouldn't recognize them all.
"The minister still has a good appetite."
"So lunch ran long."
"But what's your excuse for being late?"
Rivo's eyes softened toward Honest, but as he looked at the arriving ministers, his gaze turned sharp.