C1096
‘Central Martial Palace Master?’
Raon fixed his gaze on Karoon, his eyes wide with disbelief.
‘What exactly did he utter just now?’
Since childhood, having been the frequent target of Karoon’s envy and hostility, Raon was fully aware that Karoon’s character and temperament had undergone a dramatic transformation. Yet in this very instance, there was neither necessity nor justification for Karoon to advance himself. Had he remained silent, he would have secured the top spot among the successor candidates—so what drove him to speak on Raon’s behalf?
‘Karoon…’
Glenn redirected his eyes while his eyelids fluttered ever so subtly.
‘Did you truly mean those words just now?’
Ever since the succession trials commenced, Karoon had labored relentlessly—day and night—amassing more accomplishments than any other candidate. One might have expected him to be the loudest critic when Raon received multiple Golden Tablets at once, but, to everyone’s astonishment, he was instead advocating on Raon’s behalf.
‘I stand by every single word I’ve said.’
Karoon responded with a composed nod.
‘Even though you haven’t articulated it explicitly, I am aware of the regulations established by the Head of House. You likely intended to award merely a single tablet irrespective of one’s achievements. Yet…’
He then pivoted his attention toward the spot where Raon was positioned.
‘This particular instance must be regarded in a distinct light. The Light Wind Palace Master hasn’t simply secured a benefit for the family; he has achieved a milestone that will have repercussions across the entire continent—even surpassing the influence of the Five Kings.’
Karoon’s tranquil look implied he was merely reciting facts.
‘The Blade Queen, the Warlord, and even an Ancient Dragon of the Gold clan—each of these will serve as invaluable assets in the impending war. Therefore, I am convinced that awarding Raon with five Golden Tablets is well justified.’
He nodded again, affirming that his decision was based solely on reason rather than emotion.
‘In any case, that must not be our own brother, correct?’
Balder lifted his hand, remarking that he needed to confirm whether this truly was Karoon speaking.
‘Could this be a disguised impostor?’
‘Shut up!’
Alice smacked Balder on the back of his head.
‘B-but it’s odd, isn’t it?’
Balder scowled as he massaged his throbbing head.
‘Karoon has existed for so long, his life marred by envy and obstinacy—which have gradually eroded both his innate talent and inner vitality.’
Alice cast a glance at Karoon, her eyes faintly aglow.
‘He must lament that period more profoundly than anyone, so it is hardly surprising that he has transformed in this manner.’
She nodded in a straightforward manner, implying that this behavior was simply Karoon’s genuine nature.
‘Father…’
Burren bit his lip intently while observing Karoon, evidently touched by his remarks.
‘Well…’
The Warlord emitted an exclamation as his gaze fixed upon Karoon.
‘On our journey here, I caught wind of the overall circumstances from my Lord. To render such a judgment—fully aware that it might put him at a disadvantage—Zieghart indeed boasts a multitude of gifted individuals.’
He regarded Karoon with warm, admiring eyes, visibly impressed.
‘You are truly remarkable, aren’t you?’
The Blade Queen flashed Karoon an approving thumbs up.
‘If you ever require assistance, let me know. Your big sister will rush to your side, anytime and anywhere!’
She beamed, evidently fond of Karoon.
–He had mentioned earlier that his father’s gaze had altered…
Wrath emitted a hollow laugh.
–He has transformed beyond all expectation. It’s as though I’m looking at an entirely new individual.
He shook his head, convinced that the man had altered excessively.
‘Indeed.’
Raon squinted as he observed Karoon.
‘I never anticipated him to change in such a manner either.’ (E/N: this scene seems to be repeated far too often now lol)
Not a trace of hesitation flickered in Karoon’s eyes. It wasn’t about impressing Glenn or winning favor with the Blade Queen and the Warlord—he genuinely believed that Raon had achieved something monumental. That audacious metamorphosis, transcending simple magnanimity, was sufficient to make even the strongest hands quiver.
‘Ahem!’
Glenn cleared his throat as he scrutinized Karoon.
‘When Karoon voices his opinions like this, there is simply no room for dissent!’
Given that Karoon enjoyed the backing of the Direct Lineage Swordsmen and had amassed the highest number of Golden Tablets throughout the successor trials, his words were beyond contestation.
‘Since the Central Martial Palace Master has validated it…’
In response, as Glenn swiftly gestured, Roenn ascended the platform carrying a board adorned with five Golden Tablets, as though he had been anticipating this very instant.
‘Light Wind Palace Master, please ascend the platform!’
He summoned Raon while rising from his throne.
‘…Yes.’
Raon returned Karoon’s composed look before making his way up to the platform beside Glenn.
‘In acknowledgment of your role in bringing the Blade Queen, the Warlord, and the Ancient Dragon to Zieghart, I hereby award the Light Wind Palace Master with five Golden Tablets.’
Glenn presented the five Golden Tablets to Raon, struggling to contain a smile that threatened to break free.
‘Thank you.’
Raon lifted both hands to accept the Golden Tablets from Glenn with caution. Perhaps due to their number—or the weight of Karoon’s words—they seemed far heavier than normal.
‘Moreover, you shall be granted five additional entries into Zieghart’s Treasury.’ (E/N: I lost count of how many opportunities he possesses. Not sure if he’ll ever utilize them.)
Glenn provided this treasury access, acknowledging that this accomplishment surpassed what could be quantified solely by Golden Tablets.
‘Thank you.’
Raon bowed deeply in gratitude to Glenn.
‘I ought to enter soon.’
Since he still hadn’t employed the Treasury entry pass obtained after overcoming the Leader of the White Blood Religion, it was high time to make use of it and acquire the necessary items.
‘…’
Raon methodically stowed away the Golden Tablets and spun around.
‘Woaaaaaah!’
‘Sword Emperor! Sword Emperor! Sword Emperor!’
‘The Light Wind Palace shall grow even mightier!’
‘They could very well become Zieghart’s most formidable martial force. Or maybe they already are?’
The executives erupted in applause and cheers of approval.
‘A great change has indeed taken place.’
In his early days standing here, there was not a single cheer. As an executive, he received half applause and half envious stares. But today, every person present offered congratulations. His heart filled with warmth, as if he had at last become a genuine member of the Zieghart family.
‘Perhaps…’
Raon allowed a slight smile as he observed Karoon applauding serenely.
‘It’s all because that man has transformed.’
Now that Karoon, the representative of the Direct Lineage, had endorsed him, the entire family seemed to embrace him.
‘Just as I influenced Karoon’s change, perhaps Karoon, in turn, has altered me as well.’
His heart pounded, as if he had finally been welcomed into the true inner sanctum of the family.
‘That concludes today’s proceedings…’
Just as Glenn lifted his hand to signal the end of the assembly,
‘Just one moment, please.’
Raon stepped forward to the platform once more, lifting his head.
‘There is one more matter. Dorian.’
He then turned, motioning toward Dorian.
‘Bring it forth.’
‘Ah, certainly!’
Dorian beamed, as though he had been anticipating this very moment, and delved into his pouch. With a deep rumble, he spread both hands wide, releasing an enormous array of apparently untapped weapons and armor from within.
‘W-what is all this!’
‘There are too many to tally! So many indeed!’
‘It’s not merely about the number; the quality is superb as well! They resemble the finest dwarven craftsmanship!’
The executives gawked at the vast heap of weaponry and armor amassed at the center of the audience chamber.
‘My…’
Even Glenn’s eyes widened in astonishment.
‘There are also gold bars included here.’
Dorian continued, stacking additional gold bars alongside the weapons and armor.
‘These items have been donated by Lord Paratheus for the forthcoming war. Kindly utilize them for the benefit of the family.’
Raon bowed respectfully while explaining that these were contributions from Paratheus.
–‘Are you really unveiling everything?’
Wrath’s eyes widened in astonishment.
–‘What has come over you, you greedy fool?’
‘Not everything,’ Raon replied. He wiggled his fingers from side to side.
‘I reserved the very best equipment exclusively for our people.’
Even though the unveiled weapons and armor were of top quality, he had kept the finest pieces safely tucked away in Dorian’s pouch for the Light Wind Palace Swordsmen.
‘He bestowed all of that?’
‘Now, we have no alternative but to place our trust in the Dragon!’
‘Indeed! Has he not completely exhausted the treasure of his lair?’
The executives nodded in agreement, indicating that they now felt confident in trusting Paratheus.
‘Well, it’s not that much, really…’
Paratheus lifted his chin with arrogance, evidently delighted to finally receive some commendation after being routinely overlooked by both the Blade Queen and the Warlord.
‘No…’
Unlike the rest, Glenn regarded Raon with eyes filled with profound regret.
‘You ought to have mentioned this sooner. This is quite an accomplishment as well…’
His lips quivered, hinting that perhaps Raon might have earned an additional Golden Tablet had he brought this up earlier.
‘Ah, don’t you agree?’
Glenn directed his gaze toward Karoon, seeking affirmation.
‘Given the circumstances, wouldn’t it be acceptable to grant one more?’
He fixed an intense look on Karoon, urging him to voice his thoughts.
‘Right? He truly deserves it.’
‘Hah…’
For the first time, Karoon shook his head, visibly exasperated with Glenn.
***
Ultimately, Raon departed from the Lord’s Manor having been awarded six Golden Tablets.
‘I too shall take my leave.’
Just as Karoon, who remained until the very end, bowed to Glenn and prepared to exit the audience chamber,
‘Karoon.’
Glenn lifted his hand. Notably, he addressed him as Karoon instead of “Central Martial Palace Master,” signifying a desire for a more personal dialogue.
‘Please, speak.’
Karoon once again approached the platform and fixed his gaze on Glenn.
‘Are you genuinely okay with this?’
Glenn’s brows furrowed slightly.
‘The Golden Tablets you toiled to amass for over a month have been equaled by one solitary achievement. Can you truly be content with that?’
He exhaled a troubled sigh, seemingly concerned about Karoon’s feelings.
‘Thank you for your concern. However, my heart feels…’
Karoon lifted his right hand and gently pressed it over his heart, on the left side of his chest.
‘Calmer than ever—I truly feel at peace.’
He smiled, declaring that he was in the finest state imaginable.
‘W-why?’
Burren, who had been waiting for Karoon, could no longer remain silent and interjected.
‘Burren, you must view the whole picture, not just the minutiae.’
Karoon caressed his chin with a gentle, reflective gaze.
‘Raon hasn’t merely amassed achievements for Zieghart; he has forged an accomplishment capable of altering the course of continental history. The act of recruiting the Blade Queen, the Warlord, and that Ancient Dragon carries immense significance.’
He offered a soft smile as he gazed at the sunlight streaming in behind Glenn.
‘Ascending to the role of Zieghart’s successor—or even leading the house—holds little meaning if the family cannot be sustained. His feat merits not merely six, but perhaps even ten Golden Tablets, leaving no room for regret.’
Karoon nodded emphatically, his sincerity unmistakable.
‘Karoon…’
Glenn, sensing Karoon’s genuine emotion, widened his eyes.
‘I understand…’
Burren clenched his fist in pride, impressed by Karoon’s sentiments.
‘Moreover…’
Karoon waved his fingers up and down.
‘It’s no joy to rule alone. A worthy adversary renders the battle truly meaningful.’
He nodded, implying that he wished for Raon to pursue him in combat.
‘Does that suffice as an explanation?’
Karoon looked up at Glenn with a smile after addressing Burren.
‘It is sufficient.’
Glenn nodded, acknowledging that he comprehended every word.
‘Then…’
Karoon bowed respectfully toward Glenn before exiting the audience chamber accompanied by Burren.
‘This…’
Glenn’s smile deepened as he gazed at the spots where Karoon and Raon had once stood as Palace Masters.
‘Whomever ascends as head of the house, I suspect I will feel both regret and relief simultaneously.’
***
While Raon made his way toward the annex building, accompanied by the Blade Queen, the Warlord, and Paratheus, he noticed a recognizable figure in the distance.
‘So, you’ve come back.’
The Gambling Monster furrowed his brows as he observed Raon.
‘It took quite a while this time—what have you been doing?’
He took a hearty swig from the bottle in his hand, remarking that it would surely become an entertaining drinking tale.
‘I have escorted Senior Blade Queen and Senior Warlord to Zieghart, accompanied by this Ancient Dragon…’
Raon briefly recounted details about his companions trailing behind him.
‘Puhwaaak!’
The Gambling Monster erupted, spraying his drink like a fountain upon noticing the Blade Queen and the Warlord following Raon.
‘I-I am Harian Zieghart, famously known as the Gambling Monster!’
His usually indifferent, bored face transformed into one of utter shock.
‘Just refer to me as Blade Queen.’
‘Pleased to meet you; I am Yuber.’
In response to the Gambling Monster’s greeting, the Blade Queen and the Warlord introduced themselves.
‘P-pleased to meet you!’
The Gambling Monster’s hands trembled, as though he hadn’t been drinking, as he bowed deeply before the Blade Queen and the Warlord.
‘I shall explain everything in detail at the training ground.’
‘Ah…’
The Gambling Monster nodded, droplets of alcohol and saliva dripping from his chin, seemingly deferring the matter to Raon. As Raon passed the quivering Gambling Monster and made his way toward the annex building,
‘Oh! You’re back?’
The Ragged Saint Federick gestured with his hand.
‘There are quite a few guests today—who might they be?’
He smiled warmly, requesting an introduction to the group following Raon.
‘I have brought Senior Blade Queen and Senior Warlord to Zieghart, along with this Ancient Dragon…’
Raon reiterated what he had already informed the Gambling Monster.
‘Ah, those bearing such formidable titles… eh?’
Deep wrinkles etched themselves across Federick’s normally composed visage.
‘D-did you just mention the Blade Queen and the Warlord…?’
He gaped in astonishment.
‘You heard correctly.’
‘Though I may be unworthy, I am known as the Warlord.’
Both the Blade Queen and the Warlord nodded in acknowledgment toward Federick.
‘I—I am Federick, a healer.’
Federick preferred to call himself a healer—a term he had used in his younger days rather than his title of Ragged Saint.
‘If you’re truly a healer, then we shall cross paths frequently.’
‘We are well aware of your title as the Ragged Saint. Please watch over us.’
The Blade Queen and the Warlord greeted Federick with respect.
‘Ah, y-yes.’
Federick straightened his stooped back and inhaled sharply.
‘I shall visit you soon.’
Raon patted the bewildered Federick’s shoulder gently before proceeding into the annex garden.
‘Son!’
‘Are you injured anywhere?’
‘You’re so late!’
Edgar, Sylvia, and Sia, who were present in the garden, all rushed over simultaneously.
‘I’m back.’
Raon bowed to Edgar and Sylvia.
‘Is this our Lord’s mother? Or does she appear more as an elder sister?’
The Blade Queen exclaimed in apparent astonishment at Sylvia’s striking beauty.
‘She certainly does not exude a maternal aura.’
The Warlord too stroked his chin, clearly taken aback by Sylvia’s appearance.
‘I’m the older sister!’
Sia frowned, insisting that she was in fact Raon’s older sister.
‘My! Who might these distinguished guests be?’
Sylvia, clearly delighted by the compliments regarding her looks, clasped her hands and requested introductions.
‘The individual before you, Mother, is the Blade Queen, the man behind is the Warlord, and at the end stands Paratheus, an Ancient Dragon of the Gold clan.’
For the third time since departing the main building, Raon introduced his companions.
‘T-the Blade Queen and the Warlord?’
‘You must be joking; that’s impossible!’
Sylvia and Edgar widened their eyes in utter disbelief.
‘Who?’
Sia tilted her head, clearly clueless as to who they might be.
‘I truly am the Blade Queen. I have never uttered a falsehood in my life.’
‘I am the Warlord, Yuber.’
The Blade Queen and the Warlord casually introduced themselves, as if accustomed to such situations.
‘Kuhup!’
‘W-what did you do to manage bringing the Blade Queen and the Warlord…?’
Sylvia and Edgar collapsed onto the ground, their faces registering breathless shock. Both fixed their gazes upon Raon, silently pleading for an explanation.
‘This is…’
Raon grinned as he observed the astonished expressions of Sylvia and Edgar.
‘It’s rather amusing, isn’t it?’
Witnessing everyone’s uniformly shocked responses to the titles of the Blade Queen and the Warlord naturally elicited a smile from him.
‘I wonder if there is anyone else we can astonish—someone who would react even more intensely.’
–‘That’s enough of that!’
Wrath waved his hand, signaling him to cease.
–‘If you continue to act this wild, there will truly be no hope for you!’
***
‘Whew…’
No sooner had he returned to his room than Raon collapsed into a chair.
‘Now, I feel somewhat more at ease.’
Since, even in his eyes, the titles of Blade Queen and Warlord carried significant weight, returning home and being able to relax seemed to alleviate some of the mental strain.
–‘You’ll feel better after a hearty meal and some rest.’
Wrath smacked his lips, insisting that he should indeed eat and rest.
‘That does sound appealing, but…’
Raon removed his outer garments and grasped the Heavenly Drive.
–‘Y-you’re not seriously considering…’
‘I ought to do some training; there’s still ample time before dinner.’
Since he had been unable to train adequately on his return journey, he felt the need to stretch and loosen his body.
–‘You’re already quite mad, but when it comes to swords, you’re utterly insane. Not even the sword-obsessed demons in the Devildom compare to you!’
Wrath gritted his teeth, remarking that he felt ill just watching him.
‘Being labeled as crazy has become a compliment now.’
Just as Raon stood from his chair with a smirk, the door burst open with a resounding noise and the Blade Queen and the Warlord entered, bearing Sia in their arms.
‘Our Lord’s sister…’
‘Concerning your sister…’
They thrust Sia forward with faces flushed in genuine excitement.
‘May we accept her as our disciple?’
‘May we impart our martial arts to her?’
-
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