Chapter 169 - 132 Kael: Hassaka, what are you burying your head in? (11000, 45/65)_4
"So, when you go over tomorrow, you just need to display your talent and advantages,"
Kael nodded, but he wondered in his heart, was he being too presumptuous in presenting his career path like this?
After all, many things look entirely different from the perspective of the natives compared to that of players, and he had not yet fully accustomed to viewing these issues from the natives’ perspective.
But he didn’t say much, just chatted and laughed with Fox about recent events.
...
Let’s turn back time by a few hours.
[Northwest of the Royal Capital - Lion Heart Castle - Central Hall]
At this time, the sky was growing dark, and the Magic Lamps inside the castle had quietly lit up; a dozen composed and reliable maids and guards stood by quietly, waiting for the arrival of the Duke of Lion Heart. Nôv(el)B\\jnn
On the long dining table were placed various exquisite plates, with delicious dishes giving off a hint of steam.
The Runes etched on the plates, charged by the Magic Stones, kept the delectable food at a suitable temperature.
Next to the dining table, a distinguished lady named Flandre, dressed in a black-and-gold gown etched with a clear depiction of mountains and valleys, sat by the Duke’s side, accompanying him during the meal.
The Duke of Lion Heart’s meals were known for being large and meaty, befitting a powerful Lancer who wielded an altered enchantment. He needed copious amounts of food daily to sustain his rigorous training regimen.
The massive chunks of meat, as large as an ostrich, would be cleanly consumed in just two or three bites before him.
After continuously eating three large portions of meat, the Duke of Lion Heart seemed to come back to his senses and, with a dissatisfied grunt, turned to the woman next to him and said:
"Lately, that fellow Luxius has become increasingly disobedient. Before, he tried to promote his student’s academic achievements through some tricks, even sneaking in two worthless projects to boost the value of his student’s work.
Today, he came looking for me again, and I almost kicked him out. I’ve already given him face by offering support, but instead of reflecting on how to properly use that financial aid, he wants to advance that project even further.
That young man doesn’t strike me as one who would file reports carelessly for the sake of funding; how did he change so much in just two years?"
remarked the Duke of Lion Heart coldly.
Flandre, at the age of 33, had the ripe allure of maturity without the traces of aging on her. Her face was as pristine as cold jade, marked by fully matured charm.
Below her delicate and fair neck, her appealing collarbone was distinctly visible. She was the younger daughter of the Duke of Lion Heart, but without a doubt, in the Briania Duchy that carried Lion Heart Blood through five or six generations, she was considered one of the elders—
Of course, age doesn’t directly relate to generation.
Being the youngest born, although she was a bit older now, she was undeniably a beauty rewarded by tender years, whose graceful figure could captivate the fancy of many seasoned men.
Unfortunately, she had no interest in men, and the Duke of Lion Heart, with his many children, did not lack her contribution to the duty of procreation.
Over time, as she aged, she lost the emotional investment of her younger years.
The beautiful woman slightly furrowed her eyebrows, her red lips lightly lifted, and her clear, resonant voice filled the air:
"Lord Luxius is a top-tier genius in the Mage World. Although he has some character flaws, it seems out of character for someone who became a Mage Monarch at his age to completely disregard the rules of the Duchy.
Father, a few years ago I visited Mr. Luxius, and I could tell that he is a conscientious and responsible mage. I think there might be some misunderstanding between you two."
Flandre said softly.
Her words made the Duke of Lion Heart pause, and he stopped eating, looked up at her, and shook his head, saying:
"I don’t understand much about your mages’ matters. I’ll have someone fetch that item from the study."
After the Duke of Lion Heart finished speaking, the housekeeper beside him promptly bowed and went upstairs.
Seeing her father stop eating, the daughter moved her chair a bit closer to him and said in a soft voice:
"Father need not worry too much; there are plenty of talents within the Duchy. Someone will help resolve the concerns you have."
The Duke of Lion Heart shook his head with a somewhat worried expression and said in a grave voice, "It’s not as simple as that. In recent years, other voices have begun to surface within the federation.
The Papal State of Brinia has always been regarded as the most likely leader for humanity, and even after all these years, it still holds a prestigious reputation within the Duchy.
The Caesar Governor wishes to sweep away forces aligned with the Pope Country from the major duchies, but clearly, even some old friends have begun to disagree...
I know Caesar too well; he doesn’t tolerate situations that could pose a hidden danger to the federation. If things don’t give him the chance to intervene, well and good, but once he makes a move, it will be a thunderous strike!
At that point, regardless of the influence of powerful families or factions, he won’t consider past relationships."
Flandre’s eyes flickered; she waved her hand, and the maids and attendants stepped back, leaving the hall.
She rested her chin on her hand and looked at her father, her face showing increasing concern, silently listening to this man who had fought for humanity for over two centuries talk about the various difficulties he had encountered in recent years.
As the Duke of Lion Heart told his tale, her emotions surged; her eyes filled with admiration and conflict, flickering back and forth.