Chapter 216

Chapter 216
Chapter 216: Never Mind The Heir, I’ll Focus On Healing

If fabric treated with those specific dyes could dynamically shift its shade according to the hour and environmental conditions, its utility would be immense.

Particularly…

‘It would prove invaluable during skirmishes.’

The geographical terrain of the Byrdentis Family made armed conflicts a regular occurrence.

The massive mountain range enveloping the domain acted as an optimal defensive barrier against external incursions, yet simultaneously posed a persistent danger to the local inhabitants.

This danger stemmed primarily from the beasts dwelling within those peaks.

The monsters populating the mountain range possessed a heightened state of awareness.

Should even the slightest indication of danger manifest, they immediately conceal themselves without a trace.

Consequently, the Byrdentis Knight Order frequently found themselves enduring multi-day stakeouts in freezing temperatures.

However.

‘If only those dyes were in my possession.’

Merging seamlessly with the natural surroundings would become entirely achievable.

Would that not drastically reduce the time required to neutralize the monsters?

‘Furthermore, the population of demons is on the rise.’

At present, only lower-tier fiends possessing minimal strength and rudimentary intellect have surfaced, preventing this from escalating into a severe crisis thus far, but this trend was unequivocally ominous.

‘They claim the grand barrier remains entirely secure….’

It was an undeniable fact that the monumental seal, forged collaboratively by Patrick Asteri and the former Archbishop, stayed intact.

Naturally, half a century having elapsed, the sealing potency had diminished in isolated areas, yet that fell short of implying demons could breach the barrier.

“Yet it remains perplexing. If the barrier suffers from no defects, why are demonic numbers multiplying? Additional inquiries will prove necessary.”

“We shall manage that matter within Byedantis.”

“You have consistently aided Asteri since our previous encounters. Can this be attributed to an aversion toward untoward incidents mirroring the past?”

“…….”

“Regardless, I extend my gratitude for your cooperation.”

It was a brief exchange.

Initially, the motivation behind assisting Lion and the Asteri Family stemmed purely from the assessment that he ‘might have endured.’

Because it served a advantageous purpose.

Yet, to be entirely candid, presently…

‘I am no longer evaluating matters strictly through the lens of profit.’

Did I not voice it aloud?

Clarentia was actively mending the internal emptiness that had long persisted.

Provided the domain suffered no detriment, she intended to indulge her own inclinations to a modest degree.

‘Besides, regarding the assistance rendered to Lion Asteri…….’

Up to this juncture, the advantages have vastly outweighed the detriments.

Though the exact methods or mechanisms elude me, tangible returns have unfailingly materialized as an outcome.

‘He is a most peculiar individual.’

Thus, truthfully, keeping him bound to the Baidantis Territory was a desirable prospect.

‘Yet my proposal met with refusal.’

Consequently, maintaining our alliance in this current capacity is my sole recourse.

Regardless, Patrick Asteri likewise deemed this circumstance extraordinary and initiated deeper investigations.

This very factor accounted for Patrick Asteri’s overwhelming schedule of late.

The Baidantis Territory correspondingly plunged into a state of heightened activity.

This occurred because the snowy elevations of Byedantis served as the most immediate vantage point for monitoring demonic movements.

In truth, Clarentia’s journey to this location under the pretense of ‘birthday preparations’ contributed to this reality as well.

‘To guarantee the comfort of the domain’s populace, the knights’ armaments require proper adjustment.’

The Byrdentis Family stood as a proud Swordsmanship Family.

Consequently, an institutional skepticism toward magic, exceeding reasonable bounds, had taken root.

During the era when Clarentia still held the title of Young Lady, her perspective mirrored that sentiment.

A robust physique and martial arts perfected through rigorous self-mastery. Armed with gear and armor crafted by dwarves, no threat warranted fear.

Even now, she concurred with that notion to a certain degree.

‘Evolution is mandatory.’

Whether magic or swordsmanship holds superiority.

That distinction lacks significance.

As long as tradition remains uncompromised, embracing external innovations to the fullest extent is necessary, while simultaneously reinforcing our foundations to preclude being subjugated by them.

This served as her personal penance for her elder brother, who succumbed to demonic temptations, transformed Byedantis into a crimson expanse, and subjected the territory residents to immense hardship.

Such constituted the present mindset of Clarentia Bydenntis.

She perceived no injustice in atoning for transgressions she had not personally committed.

‘That is the inherent burden of the Duke’s station.’

It represented a position soaked in the blood and transgressions of Byedantis.

Though hardly comfortable, Clarentia possessed the fortitude to endure.

Regardless, to fulfill that objective…!

‘Importing every available resource of utility is my only viable path.’

Clarentia clenched her diminutive hands, scarcely sized for gripping a blade, with palpable determination.

“…….”

Lion observed her demeanor briefly before turning his gaze back toward the colorants.

‘Does this truly hold such immense appeal?’

For reasons unknown, she had been staring fixedly at this vial of pigment, radiating a fierce competitive drive ever since arriving.

Even while recognizing it remained an unfinished prototype!

‘That reaction is understandable.’

Though still incomplete, upon its finalization, would it not evolve into a remarkably versatile substance applicable across numerous domains?

For instance, integration into the attire of nobles favoring flamboyant aesthetics, exactly as Andri had suggested.

“In that case, I shall take a single bottle for preliminary study.”

“Should you do so, my gratitude will know no bounds! Please feel free to take the entire inventory rather than merely one flask!”

“Hahaha. A solitary bottle suffices. In truth, I must make a stop at the blacksmith’s workshop as well.”

“The blacksmith? Then I shall personally deliver the garments you commissioned directly to the estate! Along with the apparel formerly utilized by the Marquis of Byedantis!”

“Would you be so kind?”

Realistically, she preferred delivering them personally, yet an unexpected visitor had just materialized, had they not?

A patron who would harbor deep regret should this opening be squandered, a visitor harboring the ‘resolve to make a purchase.’

Regardless of how much Lion relished his leisurely lifestyle at the mansion, turning away an unannounced client did not align with his character.

‘Furthermore, considering the Marquis of Byedantis….’

Is the individual not remarkably refined? And amiable besides.

That exact quality renders him an ideal match for Rikschel.

Lion suppressed this sudden notion, deposited the pigment vial into his satchel, and departed from ‘Boutique Andri.’

“Has your perspiration subsided somewhat?”

“It has improved drastically.”

The underlying reason for a Sword Master to perspire remained a mystery, yet the Marquis of Byedantis was undeniably a man burdened by multifaceted circumstances.

To the extent that accommodating any sudden emotional shift with quiet resignation had become second nature.

“In that case, the subsequent stop is…….”

“The colorants.”

“Pardon?”

“Upon completion, ensure you offer them to me. Generous compensation will be provided.”

“…….”

Lion found himself momentarily at a loss for words.

For one, the Marquis of Byedantis displayed absolute certainty.

The unwavering belief that the dyes would reach completion.

‘And prior to his departure, no less…….’

Naturally, the prospect was far from impossible.

‘Did I not exhibit a distinct lack of such conviction previously?’

If forced to articulate it, his past tendencies leaned toward valuing internal virtues far above external manifestations.

Even acknowledging that.

‘He must have caught wind of the rumors, correct?’

Despite being encircled by mountain ranges and experiencing a temporary decline in familial prestige, his lineage remained a Marquisate renowned as a distinguished Swordsmanship Family.

“My lord Marquis, though this inquiry may border on impertinence.”

“Proceed.”

“To what extent are you acquainted with my background?”

“Hmm.”

Breaking from his usual demeanor, the Marquis of Byedantis gazed toward the horizon in response to Lion’s query.

“Where is your attention wandering?”

“This is a standard establishment. Pray refrain from diverting the conversation.”

“…….”

It appeared the Marquis harbored zero intention of addressing the inquiry directly.

“In that case, how much do typical nobility understand regarding my existence?”

“Uncertain. Even should information reach them, their intelligence network would pale in comparison to that of the Archbishop or the Second Prince.”

“…….”

That implied rumors had yet to permeate the wider aristocratic circles, whereas the two specific figures cited by the Marquis possessed a substantive awareness.

‘Weighing the depth of intelligence accessible to the Second Prince….’

Well, they grasped the majority of the details, save for the most pivotal core.

And the Marquis of Byedantis was similarly cognizant that they were actively compiling intelligence concerning him.

That outcome felt somewhat anticipated.

Yet, an entirely unforeseen individual surfaced.

The Archbishop, of all people.

‘As expected, external appearances provide a deceptive measure of character.’

Beneath a facade of benevolence and mercy lay a capacity for espionage rivaling that of the Second Prince.

“Possessing such exceptional competence, I ought to have secured his allegiance within the Baidantis Territory, regardless of the financial toll.”

The Marquis emitted an exaggerated sigh before shaking his head.

…Witnessing such expressive behavior paints him as an agreeable sort, yet observing his gaze reveals an ongoing desire to abduct him on the spot.

“It remains a fortunate stroke that he resides securely within the bosom of his family. Haha. Ha… Come, let us proceed.”

“What constitutes our destination next?”

“The forge. I maintain an acquaintance hailing from Byedantis there.”

“The artisan responsible for crafting the stiletto.”

“Precisely.”

Fortunately, owing to the uncharacteristic consideration displayed by the Marquis of Byedantis alongside Lion’s frantic evasive maneuvers, the dialogue concluded swiftly.

“What purpose does that magical apparatus serve?”

“It represents a mechanism designed to deploy a canopy automatically during precipitation.”

“Can its functionality extend to snowy conditions?”

“My understanding is that its structural integrity withstands heavy weight loads. Should the necessity arise, establishing contact with the Magic Tower on your behalf is entirely feasible.”

Subsequent exchanges drifted primarily into such trivial subjects.

The Marquis inquired regarding various innovations he deemed advantageous for implementation within the Byedantis Territory in alignment with his overarching strategy, while Lion responded earnestly, producing accomplishments that fell somewhat short of true marvels.

Following a leisurely traversal of the village coupled with a brief stroll, the intended destination naturally hove into view in the distance.

Accompanied by drifting plumes of haze and the percussion of heavy metal striking metal, clang! Clang!

Radiant heat radiated outward merely by standing within the vicinity!

“Hm? Does that figure not resemble the Young Master!”

At that instant, a farmhand organizing completed agricultural implements caught sight of Lion and hastened forward in a rush.

“Ah, and the companion accompanying you is…….”

Upon perceiving the Marquis of Byedantis positioned nearby, the worker cast a sidelong evaluation.

He projected an aura of nobility distinct from common breeding.

A mask of unreadable expression coupled with an unyielding posture.

Furthermore, the blade secured at his waist, evaluated purely by its hilt and scabbard, constituted a magnificent weapon.

Above all else…

‘If this person travels in the company of the Young Master….’

Drawing from historical precedent, the Young Master rarely consorted with ordinary individuals.

Had he not introduced a Bear Beastman only days prior?

A physical titan possessing monstrous strength.

‘Caution is warranted here.’

Making a rapid mental calculation, the farmhand lowered his head respectfully.

“By the way, where has Mudu betaken himself?”

“Ah, Brother is slated to arrive somewhat tardily today.”

“Has some difficulty arisen?”

“Negative, merely… the two youngsters absconded with his hammer to deter Father from attending to his labors.”

“Indeed? Hahaha.”

As Wood and Ipari continued maturing, their escapades escalated in boldness.

Such mischievous behavior naturally accompanied the development of young children…

Today, however, carried favorable tidings requiring delivery, necessitating an interruption to the household’s domestic tranquility.

“My apologies, yet would it be possible to summon him presently? A matter of importance requires discussion.”

“Understood! Retrieve him I shall!”

“Meanwhile, feel free to inspect the surroundings. This gentleman harbors a profound admiration for bladed arms, you see.”

“Acknowledge!”

Just as Son prepared to sprint off in execution of Lion’s directive.

“Huff, huff! Such measures prove unnecessary!”

Approaching from afar, Mudu traversed the distance rapidly on short, churning limbs.

Fortunately, he appeared to have recovered the tool purloined by Wood and Ipari, clutching it firmly within one hand.

…Judging by his dust-covered exterior, the price paid for that brief yet vigorous bout of play was evident.