“You like it?”
The voice of Old man Duke cuts through the room, instantly capturing my attention. I startle slightly, my body tensing in surprise as I turn to face him. His presence commands respect, and I find myself looking up at him, taking in his white long-sleeved shirt and black pants, adorned with ropes around his neck.
“Ah, I am just admiring the sword,” I say, sheepishly rubbing the back of my head.
A mischievous grin spreads across Old man Duke’s face as he chuckles. “I have been watching you for a while, my boy. I know there is more to it than just admiration. And since I am getting on in years, don’t you think it is time I pass this weapon on to my worthy heir?”
I let out a sigh, realizing he saw through my intentions. “I do admire the sword, but I think it would be more fitting if you gave it to Zamira. She is also participating in the tournament, and it would benefit her greatly.”
Old man Duke nods in agreement, his grin softening. “You have a point, my boy. Zamira has shown exceptional skill and dedication. I shall bestow the sword upon her.”
As our conversation continues, Old man Duke shifts the topic to a recent event. He mentions Zamira’s report about my act of freeing a Demon-rank beast and allowing it to roam freely on the planet. He explains that since then, there have been no reports of beasts attacking vampires, as if the presence of the Demon-rank beast has deterred other creatures. As a result, he has ordered a halt to the hunting of beasts on the planet, instead creating teleporters that link to other worlds where adventurers can pursue hunting opportunities.
A smile of relief spreads across my face as I absorb his words. It is gratifying to know that my actions have had a positive impact, contributing to the safety and balance of the vampire planet. I had hoped that by releasing the Demon-rank beast, it would bring about a shift in the ecosystem, and it seems my expectations have been fulfilled.
“Thank you for telling me this information, your Majesty,” I say, gratitude lacing my words. “I am glad to see that my decision has yielded positive results. It gives me hope for the future. Moreover, with the Demon-rank Beast now under my control, the beasts on this planet will serve as soldiers.”
Old man Duke’s eyes twinkle with pride as he looks at me. “You are growing into a remarkable leader, my grandson. Your choices and actions reflect wisdom beyond your years. I have faith in your ability to guide our kingdom towards a prosperous future,” Old man Duke says, glancing at the ceiling.
The atmosphere changes…
“What brings you here, though?” Old man Duke asks, his voice filled with curiosity. He gestures for me to take a seat at the round table in the center of his room, and I oblige, settling into the chair.
“Your Majesty, I came to see you on behalf of some vampire lords who sought an audience with me this morning,” I begin, my tone respectful. “They expressed their remorse for supporting the Freeman family and Sanguine Family, and they plead for your forgiveness. Punishing them at this point would only exacerbate the situation. The true culprits responsible for the recent turmoil are the leaders of those families.”
“Edward has informed me about the events that transpired,” he says, his voice tinged with frustration. “My initial instinct was to take immediate action and deliver punishment. But Edward urged me to have faith in you and Zamira, especially in light of the upcoming tournament. He assured me that justice will be served once the tournament concludes, and the patriarchs of the Freeman family and Sanguine Family will be apprehended.”
A sense of relief washes over me as Old man Duke reveals his trust in my abilities once again despite having not seen me in action.
“Thank you for placing your trust in me, Your Majesty,” I say, bowing my head respectfully. “I assure you that I will do everything in my power to ensure that justice is served and that our vampire kingdom finds peace. The tournament will serve as a turning point, and once it concludes, we shall bring the culprits to account.”
“Okay, okay, I understand,” Old man Duke says, his voice accompanied by small coughs. “There is something that has been bothering me, though. I heard about your marriage to your mother. Haa~ What shocked me even more was when Zamira revealed her feelings for you and her plans for a marriage after the tournament. Let’s set aside the cultural aspects for now, although it’s still unusual. But what confuses me is how you managed to win her heart.”
I meet Old man Duke’s gaze, his eyes filled with genuine curiosity. I can’t help but chuckle at his words.
“Well, it’s quite simple, really,” I reply, shrugging my shoulders. “I challenged her to a duel, and I emerged victorious.”
Old man Duke lets out a sigh, his frustration evident. “That muscle-head daughter of mine, I can’t believe it,” he mutters, shaking his head in exasperation.
I can’t help but smile at Old man Duke’s reaction. His genuine concern and surprise are endearing, despite the unconventional nature of our relationships. The dynamics within our vampire culture are complex, and it’s understandable that he would have questions and reservations.
“Be rest assured, Your Majesty,” I continue, my tone assuring. “Zamira and I share a deep connection and understanding. Our bond goes beyond the initial duel. We have come to respect and care for each other, and our marriage is not simply a result of circumstance but a choice based on love.”
Old man Duke’s expression softens, his gaze reflecting a mix of disbelief and acceptance. He reaches out, placing a hand on my shoulder.
“I may not fully comprehend it, but I trust in your judgment,” he says, his voice laced with fatherly affection. “Love works in mysterious ways, and if you have found it with Zamira, then who am I to question it?”
A sense of relief washes over me as I realize that Old man Duke, despite his initial reservations, supports our relationship.
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