After a while, Smith entered the room, holding an ornate case engraved with the emblem of the Chalon Family.
"Here is the item you requested, Lord."
"Hmm."
Maximin took the case from Smith.
Smith glanced at Theo with a slightly displeased look, then approached Maximin closely.
"Lord, I must inform you of a peculiar situation."
"Go on."
"There are reporters, and representatives from various guilds and nations surrounding the vicinity of this room, Lord. From what we've gathered, there are at least thirty of them. Some even show hostile intentions towards our Chalon Family."
"Hahaha, it seems they have quite the interest in the young prodigy of the Waldeurk family."
"Shall we take any measures, Lord? While we haven't detected any traces of magic or artifacts, they might attempt to eavesdrop or engage in other disrespectful behaviors."
"No need. As always, Smith, you're thorough. Take some rest; you've done well."
Maximin gently patted Smith's shoulder with a faint smile.
"Yes, Lord! I'll take my leave then."
"Alright."
Smith responded with a grateful tone, bowing respectfully to Maximin before exiting the room.
Theo observed the scene with an indifferent expression.
'He certainly has him well-trained.'
Truly befitting the head of one of the continent's most prestigious families.
Using both carrot and stick effectively.
That's something one should learn.
'Now, about that case Smith brought.'
Theo had seen it in the game.
It was an ornate case exclusively for the head of the Chalon family.
Maximin handed the case to Theo.Discover new chapters at novelbin(.)com
"This might not be enough as a token of appreciation, but please accept it."
Theo took the case from Maximin.
"This is a gift we present to a select few we hold in high regard, young Theo. Check its contents. If it's not to your liking, I can offer something else."
"Thank you. Just the fact that the 'Demon Hunter' himself has offered me a gift is more than enough."
With some lip service, Theo slowly opened the case.
Inside was a ring.
It bore the elegant emblem of the Chalon family, and it was quite a tastefully designed piece.
Just as he expected.
Theo projected the item's details before his eyes.
● Commemorative Ring of the Chalon Family [Grade: Rare]
: A commemorative ring produced in limited quantities by the Chalon Family.
When worn, it slightly enhances stamina recovery.
The recovery effect also applies to one's mental strength.
Upon equipping, the ring binds to its first wearer. [More details]
Externally, Theo maintained his indifferent façade, but internally, he was quite pleased.
This ring is exclusively given to those closely affiliated with the Chalon family.
Just wearing it lets everyone recognize that you are associated with the Chalon family.
If someone becomes hostile to a person wearing this ring, they risk becoming enemies with the Chalon family as well.
Recalling the main plot, Theo gave a bitter nod.
"I understand. I'll do my best."
In a flash, it was past 10 PM.
Inside Natasha's room.
Scribble, scribble.
Natasha was in the midst of drafting a report for Rok.
Scribble... Snap!
She threw her pen onto the paper.
"Ugh, my head."
She looked down at her report, rubbing her temple in frustration.
Right now, her head was swirling from stress.
"There's so much to write... But I have to get it done."
Natasha had been urgently brought in on the day of the seminar because Mari's assistant was sick.
Mari had then asked Rok for help.
She should have been enjoying her precious weekend lounging in bed, going through hero photo albums or magazines.
But unexpected overtime awaited her.
"I swear, I better get overtime pay. And also some extra vacation days."
She grumbled.
Yet, there was just so much to report on.
And the biggest issue was undoubtedly Theo.
From the content of his paper presentation to the beef with Johnson, the secret connection between Maximin and Theo, and more.
“Excuse me, Ms. Natasha, I know it’s late. Can you spare a moment? We need a photograph for the headline article of our journal tomorrow.”
“I'm from the Commoner Hero Association. Despite his noble status, Theo is more commoner-friendly than anyone else. I'd like to discuss the future of the hero society.”
“I came all the way from the Eastern Empire to see Theo! Can we please have just a minute of your time?”
Journalists and representatives from various guilds & nations were making a ruckus outside.
She'd have to document those annoying individuals who had been causing her stress for hours.
Regardless of the stress, overtime, or whatever, Natasha believed in completing the tasks she'd been given.
But there wasn't much she could say to those people.
After all, they were all after Theo.
“Has there ever been a first-year student who caused this much commotion?”
Natasha was an avid fan of heroes.
She was well-acquainted with the stories and information of various famous heroes.
But none had consistently stunned her as Theo had.
He was unpredictable.
Like an enigma, breaking all conventional norms.
"Speaking of Theo, when is he coming out?"
After the seminar, Theo immediately went to see Maximin.
Given the noise outside, he still hadn't returned.
"Ugh, whatever. I need to finish this report."
She couldn't even think of going outside right now.
The moment she'd open her door, she'd be surrounded.
Just as that thought crossed her mind, an unexpected voice sounded from outside.
"This is Amy, Theo's secretary. Natasha, could you please open the door?"