Volume 5 Chapter 26 Interlude - Margrave Shield Parent-Child Conversation
Count Shield and his legitimate son Will had been discussing the transfer of the family headship and how to report it to the throne for nearly three hours. Since preparations had been underway for some time, the transition itself posed no problems. However, they were troubled over how to explain the recent trade deal with the High Elves of the World Tree Forest.
"Father, wouldn't it be better to be honest about this?" Will finally suggested after much hesitation.
"Hmm... yes, perhaps we should tell everything," Margrave Shield agreed slowly. "But for that, we'll need solid evidence and a clear explanation to convince the court."
At first, Margrave Shield was reluctant to accept Will's proposal. Then, stroking his chin thoughtfully and closing his eyes, he reconsidered.
"That's right, that's right. It would be wise to bring that Zain fellow along. It would serve as a kind of revenge, and it's a good plan, Will. I will accompany you to the audience with His Majesty."
"Really? That's reassuring, but won't you be going to the World Tree Forest?" Will asked.
It took about two weeks by carriage from Margrave Shield Territory to the royal capital, so Will had planned to bring Diana along for the journey.
"It's fine. I intend to stay in the World Tree Forest for about a week this time. I'll slip out on the day of the audience. I can extend my stay while I'm away," Margrave Shield explained.
"Are you going to use the Teleportation Staff to get to the royal capital? But, if I remember correctly, Cain hasn't been to the capital yet, right?"
"That's true. But Zain has been there many times. I'll ask him to transport us directly to the audience with His Majesty."
Margrave Shield spoke with an unusually cheerful smile as they finalized the plans — adjusting the date of the audience and arranging for a welcome party outside the royal capital.
"Will, if all goes well, from next year you will be the lord of Margrave Shield Territory. I'm sure you understand already, but to develop the territory further, you must make good use of Cain's power."
"Yes, I'll keep that in mind. I'll be careful to maintain a good relationship with Cain. Especially, I'll make sure no nobles with ill intentions toward him get close."
"Of course, that's important. But we must act proactively to protect both the Shield and Sanroze families from malicious schemes. This is just my intuition, but I believe Cain will endure attacks against himself until the very end. However, if the attack targets his family or close allies, he'll go on the offensive with full force."
Margrave Shield recalled the events in the World Tree Forest as he spoke persuasively to Will. Will nodded slowly, seeming to remember something. Together, they spent the next while identifying nobles and city officials to watch carefully.
"Father, when we next visit the World Tree Forest, if we can get the Sento fruit, please eat it immediately with Luke. Only you can accompany the rejuvenated mother," Will said.
"Haha... still, using such a legendary item before His Majesty is a bit difficult," Margrave Shield responded with unusual hesitation.
"I deeply respect your loyalty to His Majesty, Father, but from now on, you should prioritize mother. Though it hasn't been made public, she deeply regrets being the only one who has rejuvenated."
"That's true. I was a little harsh back then."
"And what if this? Even though it's a legendary item, only mother and Lydia have used it. Before offering it as a test to His Majesty, why not try it yourself?"
Margrave Shield quietly murmured, "That might be true," as he listened to Will's suggestion.
Notes:
• Will - Margrave Shield's son, Aisha's brother, and Cain's uncle. He is playful and enjoys teasing his father. He is a fan of Cain's 'hamburg' recipe.
• Margrave Shield - Cain's grandfather. An elderly man, robust, with white hair.
• Zain - A man in his 30s with long ears, possibly an elf or a similar race. He works in the basement of Ms. Merida's shop and is highly perceptive, noticing Cain's incredible mana from a distance.
• Diana - Will's wife and Cain's aunt. She is polite and cautions Jody about asking for recipes too casually.
• Luke - Cain's father.
• Lydia - Cain's Stepmother.
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