abcnovels
Chapter 14
Chapter 14
Chapter 14
Ugh
Brother!
The one-eyed slave boy regained consciousness with a murmur, nestled against Kais back.
It wasnt long after Kai had carried the boy to transport him to a priest due to his severe injuries.
Despite the boys condition appearing critical, he regained consciousness much faster than expected, causing the younger sister walking beside them and even Kai, who was carrying him, to look back in surprise.
However, only Logan remained unfazed.
Hes really quick to get back up.
It was a natural consequence since he had been secretly using the power of a Force Core throughout the journey.
The life-energy Logan had poured into the boy, using the maximum output he could manage for over 30 minutes, was far better than the sacred magic of average low-level priests.
The boys recovery was nothing unexpected to Logan. However, what concerned him was the younger sister, who kept glancing back and forth between her brother and Logan.
Could it be
Even knights sensitive to the matter didnt notice the foreign aspects of his Force in experiments.
For example, Kai, who carried the boy, didnt sense anything unusual, so how could such a young child?
It must be a coincidence.
Dismissing it casually, Logan flashed a bright smile at the regained boy.
Awake now, Victor? Congratulations on escaping the troubles of a violent master.
But the response that came to his smile was a sudden punch.
Die!
The speed of the punch was surprising, coming from a boy so thin and frail.
Despite the childs attempt, the punch was harmless against Logan.
As Logan dodged the punch with a baffled expression, Kai, who was holding the child, immediately turned and pinned him down.
Crash!
Ugh! St-Stop. Let me go!
Brother!
R-Ria?!
What should we do with this one, employer?
In the chaotic turn of events, Logan sighed and gestured to Kai as they looked at Victor, who had been subdued with an arm twist.
Kai took the hint to let go, and the instant he stepped back, the boy, Victor, lunged at Logan again.
Ria! Run awaugh!
Is he full of fight, or just foolish. Sigh
Logan gripped the boys neck and lifted it to meet his eyes head-on.
Kid, do you not see the situation? Do I look like those slaver bastards youre used to?
An overwhelming murderous intent, surpassing that of the average Force user, blazed from the two red eyes.
It was so surprising that even Kai, standing behind him, was startled, and it was impossible for the young boy, Victor, to bear it.
Victor instantly groaned, his face turning pale.
Gackack
Brother, ple-please, mercy
Ignoring the young girl clinging to his feet, Logan only stared coldly at Victors increasingly pale face.
Its good to have spirit, but you have to choose your battles.
Grargh
Only death awaits a dog that cant discern who to fight, kid.
Thud.
Ugh. Cough!
Logan coldly spoke while looking down at the boy coughing on the ground.
Let this be your last warning, Victor. Follow my words and your sisters safety will be guaranteed. But if such an incident occurs again
Ssshhh.
The murderous intent filled in his red eyes bore into Victors very soul.
Not only you but also your sister will be disposed of.
Crack.
As Logan casually crushed a pebble in his hand, the color drained from Victors face.
Then, he slowly nodded.
Good.
Believing that the lesson had been taken to heart, Logan finally offered a carrot.
I intend to teach you martial arts. I will have you trained as a knight and eventually make you one.
At those words, Victors head shot up.
His eyes, a mix of red and blue, widened dramatically.
Me I mean, are you talking about me?
Not only Victor was surprised by Logans words.
Kai, who had overheard the conversation, couldnt hide his shock, and neither could the dwarf, Hammar.
The unexpected move to make a knight out of a slave child they had just bought seemed outrageous to them.
But Logan looked steadily into Victors eyes without a hint of uncertainty.
Yes. As you might know, a knight is a rank of nobility. Naturally, this would free you from the status of a slave.
But
The expression of the blue-haired kid, which had been filled with nothing but venom, changed rapidly in a matter of seconds.
Whether he should trust those words and if he could indeed undergo knight training.
A whirlwind of thoughts must be swirling in his head.
However, Logan did not give him much time to ponder.
If you faithfully follow my instructions and become a knight, I not only will clear your name but also your sisters. Furthermore
I will do it!
Victor responded before the sentence was even complete.
Apart from the agonizing screams, it was the first robust voice Logan had heard from Victor since they had met.
Logan noted that this eager response came immediately after the welfare of his sister was mentioned.
Indeed, this kid
The presence of the small girl who clung tightly to his side reassured Logan that she might be the key to taming any untamed ferocity within a potential noble killer.
Good. Your sister will receive basic education, including literacy and etiquette. But if you become lazy or cause problems again
I-Ill work hard!
The differently colored eyes blazed intensely as if shooting flames.
Satisfied with that fiery gaze, Logan nodded slightly and smiled contentedly.
* * *
Having acquired a new objective in a future Aura user, in addition to the dwarf and battle instructor, Logans step was light.
However, returning to the MacLaine domain would take some time.
Victor and his sister appeared much smaller than their peers due to insufficient nutrition and could not endure a journey at full gallop on horseback.
Still, Logan couldnt constantly adjust to their pace.
He showed consideration by slowing down the journey that would normally take three days to five days.
Theyre actually holding up quite well.
Logan had the siblings ride on Kais horse and Hammars pony.
Despite the sore from riding the bouncing horses on the first day, by the next, they smoothly adapted to the movement, and by the third day, they endured even the challenging gallop.
It wasnt just Victorwho was aware he would become an Aura user and thus might be talented in physical controlbut his sister also managed well.
Could it be their bloodline?
As Logan contemplated revising the siblings education plan, their group arrived at the MacLaine domain.
The old castle that served as a fortress to block mountain monsters when the MacLaine had been Lords of the southwestern region had become the modest stronghold of the now-declining MacLaine family.
Entering the decrepit castle, Logan encountered peeling eyes of surprise, parting like waves.
Many domain residents avoided from far away, while those who could not escape close contact immediately fell flat and trembled at the sight of him.
Looking at the even worse treatment than before his departure, Logan could only flash a bitter smile.
It was not unlike the treatment a tyrant deserving scorn might receive.
Even Kai, usually without expression, glanced at Logan from time to time, and the faces of Victor and his sister darkened in real-time.
Too many questions lingered, but before anyone could voice them, the unwitting dwarf spoke up.
Master. To come home to such treatment, what on earth did you do out there?
With a wry smile, Logan tuned his hearing to grasp the whispers echoing from afar.
Hes lost it.
Monster enthusiast
I heard hes into corpses.
Either way, not normal.
Putting the family to shame
Why summon mercenaries to heighten the unease
He even bought young slaves. Whats he planning
Whispers were spreading at an alarmingly baffling rate.
How did they find out about what happened in Harun already?
And every single rumor had bizarrely twisted the truth, plunging the already rock-bottom family reputation even deeper underground.
Its just rumors. Its not relevant to your duties, so dont worry about it.
Despite their unease, the party could only nod at Logans calm demeanor, but Logan himself had a nagging feeling.
This may become a hassle
That ominous premonition turned into reality as they entered the castle.
Your Highness!
Although it had been a while since he had seen him, Ricks face was somewhat contorted by his hasty entrance as he shouted fervently for Logan.
And before Logan could even respond, Rick screamed as if crying out.
What have you been doing out there!
Although he somewhat anticipated it, the reaction was even more intense than expected.
What is this talk of spending over 150,000 gold on useless monster meat? The most absurd rumor Ive ever heard! It must be a lie, a misinterpretation, right? Tell me its so!
Rick pressed on without a breath, and his appearance was almost pitiful, but Logan remained unfazed.
Its true.
Logans indifferent answer turned Ricks expression more desperate.
The rumors all over say that youve lost your mind! The Lord wants you home immediately!
Hm, I see
You see? What are you seeing? This is not the time for you to be calm!
Its alright.
Its not alright!
Is your speech getting shorter?
You really dont seem to grasp the situation! Ive been trying to explain and excuse it, but to think all that was actually true
Though Rick was visibly more distressed about the situation than him, Logan simply smiled.
Dont worry. It will be resolved quickly.
Aagh! Are you even listening to me?
Ignoring Ricks desperate pleas, Logan made his way straight to the Lords residence.
Logan here.
Come in.
Almost as if expecting him, a deep voice beckoned, and Logan entered without delay.
As I thought.
The sight of the two people seated at the head of the meeting room oozed coldness.
As soon as he entered, a cold voice that matched the sight addressed him.
So, was your runaway pleasant?
It was a meaningful outing on my part.
Hearing the rumors, it seems youve enjoyed a mad escapade. At least it was worth it for you.
Sigh. This is becoming troublesome
His fathers reaction was worse than he expected.
But, unlike his inner thoughts, his reply was ready and immediate.
Rumours are merely that. There is no shame in my actions.
To those words, his stepmother, Merian, showed an incredulous expression, while his father, Patrick, seemed slightly hopeful.
Are the rumors misconstrued?
Im not sure which rumors you refer to.
The Grand Duke has been collecting monster meat, bought a young slave and a dwarf. Recruited hundreds of low-level mercenaries into the domain. Ive omitted the hyperboles and stated the facts.
Merian helped him kindly with an explanation, which made Logans brows furrow, but his demeanor remained unchanged.
Is there anything among these you wish to apologize for?
Not at all.
Patricks eyebrows twitched at the confident answer.
That means theyre all true.
Yes, they are.
Look! You see? The Grand Duke lacks self-awareness. He doesnt realize how his actions tarnish our familys honor
Mother, that is too harsh.
What?
I used the money obtained from my annulled engagement as I saw fit. Father has already stated that it is not his concern.
The two locked gazesMerians sharp eyes and Logans bold red eyesexchanged sharp glares.
A heavy sigh emerged from the other red-eyed individual, Patrick.
You heard it, dont you? Even now, will you continue to take his side?
Enough
The Grand Duke is fundamentally wrong
Enough, Madam!
Patricks voice boomed intimidatingly, resounding within the room as Merians face turned white.
Y-You How can you speak to me like that
Madam. Please step outside. I would like to have a word with Logan alone.
You really
This will be my last warning to Logan.
The word warning seemed to mollify her a bit, whether it was the effect of the previous scolding or something else. Merian shot one last venomous glance at Logan before exiting silently.
Of course, there was a bit of lingering resentment.
Bang!
Even after the study door closed with a noise that could break it, Patrick gazed at his eldest son with a heavy look for a long time.
And soon, a voice heavier than his gaze filled the room.
What exactly is the problem, Logan?
It looks like I wont be able to get away with a simple answer.
Upon hearing his fathers voice, Logan sensed it.
His expression hardened as he contemplated his answer, but his fathers calm voice proceeded ahead.
Lets have a frank conversation. Whats the issue? Whats the reason for all this?
If I told you, you wouldnt understand.
You dont wish to be understood?
Thats not it.
Do you actually have a reason?
Yes, I do.
Ugh
The sigh transmitted a palpable frustration.
Patrick was about to continue when a low voice, filled with complex emotions, silenced Logans response.
Are you aware of how people are speaking of you?
I have some idea.
Do you? They say youre violent, cruel, obsessed with money, and recently, youve gone crazy.
Among these, how much have you actually heard? Shall I detail more specific rumors?
Patrick wasnt seeking a real answer, so Logan quietly kept his mouth shut.
How long must I shield you? Is there an end in sight to this