Chapter 166

Words : 1567 Updated : Sep 29th, 2025

Chapter 166 “Whew. Much time has passed, let’s quickly deal with the simpler issues. First, Master Clayton, how much more funding do you require for the tower of magic?” “For starters, the issue of the tower’s expenses and recruiting apprentices pales in comparison to the cost of the research...” “Yes, I understand the necessity of that research. Please tell me the amount you need. I will support you, no matter what it is.” Without mentioning specific conditions, Logan approved the request generously. Clayton’s face brightened at the promise that seemed to grant everything he desired. “However, I will make certain to check how the money is spent. Through Dwayne, we will audit the procurement of materials and expenses rigorously, so please state the necessary amount within reasonable bounds.” Logan drew a clear line. The line between being taken advantage of and making an investment. Clayton then realized the excitement on his face and let out a wry laugh. It was amusing how disappointed he was in himself. ‘Since when did I have such an abundance of funds?’ And, if providing proper evidence allowed for any needed support, there was no reason to hesitate. “Understood, Your Grace. For now, a sum of ten million gold should suffice.” Ten million gold. The tremendous amount casually stated silenced the crowd for a moment, but then... “Fine. Dwayne, we can manage that amount, can’t we?” “...Yes, it will be tight, though.” “Then that settles it. Sir Clayton, does this solve the research issue for the time being?” “Indeed, my lord. Thank you, Prince.” “Not at all. Please endeavor further. The day your research succeeds, you will receive rewards far exceeding all your efforts.” “Rewards? This is already more than enough!” “Excuse me?” “The chance to realize the dream of our school in real-time is reward enough for me. I will strive even harder to be more helpful to the territory.” They exchanged pleasantries with smiles, yet within those courteous words lay the significance of the research Clayton was conducting. Most of the retainers noticed and their eyes brightened, but none dared to probe into what Logan chose not to disclose.Upttodated from “Next on our agenda is the workshop for which... hm, bringing in the dwarven artisans should solve the issue, and the workshop’s budget is sufficient, so I’ll entrust that to Philip who has experience with the trades. Philip, you won’t have any issues, right?” Expecting a positive response, Logan posed the question. And yet... “I think it may be better to postpone it for now.” The young man with grey eyes expressed his concerns with a troubled look. “Why is that?” Hamar stared at Philip, while Damian next to him tugged at Philip’s sleeve. Unfazed, Philip began to explain his thoughts. “The largest... uh, human market in Harun City has been one of the main stages of the civil war. With the market currently paralyzed, trying to acquire dwarven artisans might mean their already expensive prices could increase tenfold, or even more. Now is not the right time.” “And when would be?” “Within one or two months at the earliest, three months at the latest, the market will flood with supply which should considerably lower the artisans’ value. It would be far better for the territory to wait and then acquire... bring them over.” Even Hamar, who instinctively frowned at the talk of supply and acquisitions, nodded at Philip’s explanation. ‘Philip, as always, is sharp when it comes to money.’ Logan also couldn’t help but smile, putting aside thoughts to revert him back from administrative duties to his main profession soon. “Yes, Philip. That was a very sound suggestion. Hamar, please be patient. You understand my intention?” “Huh. Of course, my lord.” As the matter of the workshop was settled, Logan turned to Heinke. “The knighthood matter my father mentioned should be discussed with Sir Heinke. Please speak frankly on your thoughts.” “...Your Highness. As I have already told the lord, I am considering retirement.” “What? Why would you say that!” Padrick raised his voice in dismay, but Heinke’s expression remained unchanged. “I do not believe it proper for someone looking to retire to speak on matters regarding the knighthood.” “Hmm, always such a person...” Logan let out a sigh. “Sir. The family fully understands your situation and is grateful beyond words for your sacrifice and loyalty. However, Sir Heinke, the family needs your experience right now. Could you possibly lend your assistance a while longer?” “...My opinion may not be of help.” “Whichever the opinion, our knights, including myself and my father, will greatly respect it.” At those words, the old and battered knight looked up to the high seat with a vacant gaze. Aware that it may cause sorrow, but still moved by the pitiful eyes and gentle smile of his lord, Heinke sighed deeply, reflecting on his regrets before falling silent in thought. Under everyone’s anticipatory gaze, he voiced his opinion. But now, Logan chuckled internally. “That’s an excellent idea. Let’s do just that. You shall be in charge of that, Ronian.” “Me?” “Yes. Since it was your suggestion, take the responsibility for establishing the security force. Initiate it around centers like the twin towns and Bifrost Castle, it seems like a good way to see results.” “...Yes, brother. I’ll do my best.” “Great, I count on you. And moving forward...” “Yes?” “Do well.” He grinned. “Yes, brother.” With that, Logan concluded the meeting that day with an odd smile. * * * “Sir Heinke, a word, if I may.” “Your Highness...” “I heard you refused the offer when my father suggested granting you a territory. Aren’t you regretting it? That was an opportunity to establish the Fides barony.” Fides. An ancient word meaning loyalty and faith, it was the title bestowed to Heinke had he accepted the barony. “...What would a man without heirs do with his own territory? Once I’m gone, it would only burden the family.” “Why speak of such things when you’re well? To live healthily without force... Ah, my apologies.” “Why apologize? It was an injury sustained trying to protect the lord. I take pride in it.” “...Really?” Logan looked at Heinke bewilderedly. “I’m well aware of the lord’s care and concerns. It was my lack I perceived that led me to refuse. Don’t trouble yourself over it.” “We wish to reward your sacrifice in any way possible. Should you desire anything, name it. Both my father and I are willing to do anything for you.” “I know. I understand you want to compensate for what I’ve lost.” “Then accept our gratitude. Father has felt downcast by your repeated rejections.” Hearing Logan’s genuine voice, Heinke broke the short silence. “When I first met the young lord, he always said one thing.” “What was that?” “That he would one day restore the glory of the MacLaine past and asked that I join him on that journey.” “...!” “That young lord’s dream inevitably became mine.” “Sir...” Heinke continued, his voice steady and calm. “Of course, we were confronted by reality, met with failure, and for a while, I forgot that dream. But it was you, Your Highness, who fulfilled it.” “Only possible thanks to you.” “Hardly. Though I won’t deny my small part, that’s why I’m more grateful.” Heinke suddenly bowed, leaving Logan unable to hide his surprise. “Your Highness, you’ve made my dream overflow. So, what more could I ask for?” A tranquil smile settled on Heinke’s face, one of utter contentment, devoid of any regret. It seemed like he could drift away any moment now, and Logan urgently grasped his hand. “We still need your strength. Not as a knight, but your experience alone has much to offer. Forget the retirement, consider staying for a while longer...” “Yes, I’ll reconsider my retirement.” “...What?” Easily resolving what Logan had been requested by his father to handle, Logan was left speechless. “What did you just say...?” “I thought myself insufficient and powerless, which led me to decide on retirement. But today’s meeting reminded me that I still have a role within this family.” “...?” “As a knight, it may be a stretch, but as a drill instructor for the soldiers, I’m confident. I know Kaisolon is an excellent trainer, but I have my own way to contribute. Appoint me as an advisor for the soldiers. I’ll utilize my abilities to their fullest to benefit the family.” “Sir Heinke...” The man given nobility volunteering to lead soldiers in training baffled Logan. “I no longer just want to live with a fulfilled dream. I want to dream bigger with the lord and you, Your Highness. Won’t you allow me?” “Of course, Sir Heinke. Whatever dreams you may have, I promise you will see even grander ones come true.” Logan committed to allowing the loyal knight to dream freely and to see those dreams not only realized but surpassed in scale and splendor. That was his promise, reaffirmed time and again.

Chapter 166

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