Chapter 79

Chapter 79 When I had arrived in the capital, I never expected to acquire a talent like Eileen. The sparring with the Sword Duke had also provided a clue in my swordsmanship training. Things seemed to be going smoothly, however, some uncertainties still lingered. King The situation in the capital as described by Philip showed no significant changes. There were no signs of impending civil war, nor any disturbing news about the royal family or the king. Contrary to expectations, there was nothing substantial to be gleaned. Even the so-called royal secret obtained through Knox for a hefty million gold turned out to be mere information about the power dynamics between the factions of the first and second princes. Some belonged to the opposing faction, of course. Information that will be revealed the moment a civil war breaks out. It felt like a waste of money, and my heart ached at the thought. Still, I could be certain of one thing. There are no nobles preparing for civil war yet.Updated from The kings death. It was indeed a sudden death as had been known in my past life. A death unexpected by any of the kingdoms nobility. The certainty I gained from this alone made the trip to the capital worthwhile. Yes. That alone is enough. It would have been perfect if I could have gained the trust of my master and made the acquaintance of the third prince. To seek him out forcefully would only result in suspicion. As I planned to make the third prince king eventually, meeting him after the outbreak of the civil war would not be of much concern. So there was no need for further regrets now. Moreover, since my masters child would be born soon, I ought to start thinking about names. After the naming ceremony, it wouldnt be a bad choice to return home with Eileen. As I was organizing these thoughts, Logan heard an unexpected voice from his master. Where are you off to? To the royal palace. Me? Yes. Get ready quickly and follow me. Startled by the Sword Dukes abrupt statement, Logan was at a loss for words. Why suddenly all of this without any prelude? It was sudden news to me as well. But when His Majesty calls, what can one do? Pardon? It seems he has heard the rumor that Ive taken in a disciple. Staring blankly at Logans flabbergasted look, the Sword Duke faintly smiled. He was proud to show the king the respect he rightly deserved, especially in a realm where too many nobles considered themselves above their ruler. From the Sword Dukes perspective, who had grown weary of such nobility, a disciple like Logan was a welcome change. Of course, the disciple himself had entirely different thoughts. Why? How? The opportunity for a country barons heir to meet the king was beyond his wildest dreams, something he hadnt even considered. While questions arose, there was no time to delve into them. Suddenly, a new possibility had presented itself. I will go no matter what! He had no choice but to seize the opportunity and knock on the door. * * * Loyalty! Duke Esperanza, your identity has been confirmed. Please follow me. The grand white gates, emphasizing the gracefulness of their lines, split open to reveal the opulent interior. Beautiful as the barriers flanking the entrance that couldnt quite be told apart from art, still, nothing compared to the inside. As the doors swung open, the kingdoms finest royal garden meticulously care by the top gardener unfolded before my eyes. But even this magnificent garden merely served as an ornament, set against the overwhelming gold luminescence of the distant palace. Later, even the conqueror said, Its too beautiful to destroy. Preserve it as it is. And thus, the symbol of the kingdom the Granpia Palace maintained its beauty throughout decades, even as it became a spot of soreness when repurposed as a governors office after the empires war. The majestic sight of the palace I was now witnessing for the first time brought back memories of the past life which Id thought were fading. I will stop it at all costs. My resolve strengthened under the weight in my chest. I clenched my fist. Are you feeling the burden? Pardon? Do not worry. His Majesty cherishes talent. This meeting will bring you more gain than loss. Understood. It certainly would be beneficial, albeit in a slightly different sense than one might expect. Logan still looked solemnly at the back of his walking master. * * * I am honored to meet the master of this nation. Thud. Following my masters lead, I knelt on one knee and bowed. An aged voice with a hint of lethargy echoed from above. Oh, this lad. I always tell you theres no need for such formality If the seniors dont keep to their etiquette, who will? my master, Sword Duke Felix Esperanza, bowed his head with the right attitude. The king chuckled at his gesture. Youre always the same. It is reassuring to see such unchanging devotion. Very well, my old friend. Raise your head. And you, his disciple. I would like to see your face. Even with the audacity to accept such an item, Logan couldnt simply take it without some humility. He hesitated slightly, which prompted the king to stretch out his hand further. Think of it as recompense for resolving both my friends and my own grievances. Take it, and quickly, before I change my mind. The kings face showed a smile that clearly indicated he was joking, but fearing a real change of heart if I hesitated longer, I swiftly yet respectfully took the kings gift. Your overwhelming grace, I will cherish it in my heart. Logan! Such things must not be accepted so lightly. It is a treasure of the royal family Fel, enough! Since Ive done nothing for you, lets consider it for your disciple. The kings assertiveness left the Sword Duke at a loss for words. Logan Maclaine. Do you also find my gift too generous? I will make sure to use it with great care. Ha, ha, ha! Your aspirations indeed exceed your masters. The king laughed heartily then looked at Logan with a warm smile. I hope this gift fosters a bond that leads to a brighter future. Your Majesty Take this to heart: serve your master as if he was the heavens themselves, and work for this nation as he has. For the nation. Why did such an obvious statement seem to weigh so heavily? Logan remained uncertain if his future actions would truly be for the country or, perhaps, for his own benefit. But one thing he was sure of. I will definitely stop the empire. Gazing at the face of the king he was seeing for the first and possibly last time, Logan slowly but sincerely bowed. Yes, Your Majesty. I will do just that! Leaving the audience with the king behind, the master and disciple walked in silence for a while until they nearly exited the inner palace. Then, the Sword Duke spoke softly. It seems His Majestys heart has softened considerably. Pardon? He was not one to be so talkative. His desire to meet you and his current concerns worry me. Do not worry excessively. What? Stopped in his tracks by Logans calm words, the Sword Duke looked at him. If His Majesty had been troubled, he would have confided in you, Master. If he did not mention anything, it must be a matter that you neednt concern yourself with. Right. Yes, your words are true. Perhaps it is just the fretting of an old man. Oh, seeing my disciple receive a royal treasure has unsettled me. Logan flinched at the unexpected reproach that jumped his way. Instinctively he covered the wrist bearing the bracelet. That is the Bracelet of Regeneration, an artifact embedded with a 5th Class Rapid Healing magic. Its singular focus on one magic makes it quite powerful, offering effects equal to a high-ranking priests divine spell. The Sword Duke provided accurate details of the artifacts effects. Divine spells of high-ranking priests. An ability that, coupled with the acknowledged fact that magical healing is less potent than holy healing spells, essentially meant it was an artifact with the maximum healing magic capacity. As expected, it was an invaluable treasure. Is it really alright for me to have something like this? You ask now? After accepting it without a second thought earlier? Such slyness. Ahaha I didnt realize it was something so remarkable. It was an unavoidable truth, so Logan merely responded with an awkward smile. Well, it eases my mind that youve obtained such a formidable object. Thanks to you, Master. I appreciate Until now, Ive pushed you to the brink of death. But now, you can go a bit further. Be prepared, starting today. A spasm ran across Logans smiling face, but he quickly recollected himself. I will do my best to live up to your expectations. He embraced the time for growth ahead. The greater the challenge, the greater the reward.