Chapter 21: Walk and Talk

Chapter 21: Walk and Talk

Spoken for?! Every noble in the room stiffened, their heads snapping towards the impassive but unmistakably smug Nozel, who strode confidently to his father's group. Fuegoleon's eyes widened in utter disbelief as he stared, barely able to process what he was seeing. He clenched his fists, a mix of understanding and frustration bubbling up inside him. What the hell, Nozel? What happened to being rivals, to fighting to see who'd be Wizard King?

Fuegoleon couldn't make sense of it. Sure, they'd never explicitly sworn off relationships, but it had always felt like a mutual understanding—a sort of unspoken bro code. Who has time for romance when you're aiming to be the strongest around, racking up merit and achievements? But here was Nozel, making the one declaration Fuegoleon never expected.

Fuegoleon felt a pang of abandonment. First Sister ran off to the wilderness to do whatever she wants, and now you too, Nozel? Are you giving up on your dream? Our dream? He forced himself to take a breath. It's just an engagement. It doesn't mean he's giving up on becoming the best. After all, Lord Conrad, Lady Acier, Lord Kaiser—hell, even Father—they're all powerful warriors with committed relationships. Not everyone's like Sister or... or a single dog like Captain Julius.

Julius, who'd been rubbing his ears as if to double-check what he'd just heard, would probably have something to say if Fuegoleon voiced those thoughts. Fuegoleon knew that even someone as relaxed as Julius had a bottom line, and bringing up a man's love life—or lack of one—wasn't something to do lightly.

Fuegoleon nodded slowly, piecing things together. Now that I think of it, most strong people I know are in relationships... maybe that's the secret to their strength. He squinted at Nozel, admiration and exasperation mixed in his gaze. Of course you'd figure this out first, Nozel. But keeping it to yourself? Crafty as ever. Fuegoleon threw a sidelong glance at his father, the hint of a new determination in his eyes. When I get home, I'll have to ask Father if there are any marriage offers for me.

Ignatius, catching his son's intense stare, frowned. Does he think he's lost to Nozel? He tried to decipher Fuegoleon's thoughts, suspecting that his son felt bested not in their goal of becoming Wizard King but in something important nonetheless. Given the longstanding Silva-Vermillion rivalry, this sort of "defeat" would still sting. Neither Mereoleona nor Fuegoleon have made any progress in their love lives, and now Nozel's gone and leaped ahead, even though he's younger.

Ignatius chuckled to himself. Amber had been concerned about Fuegoleon's social life for a while now; maybe it was time to start looking for a match for him. As for Mereoleona—well, she was a lost cause. That girl wouldn't marry unless someone could actually beat her in a fight, and where am I supposed to find someone her age who could do that? He sighed, a touch exasperated.

Still, this felt too soon. Nozel was only 16, and yet from the way he announced it, he seemed dead serious. Ignatius glanced sidelong at Sebastian, who was watching Nozel with an unreadable expression. Well, he and Acier certainly caused a scandal back in their day, Ignatius mused, recalling how they'd had Nozel before even getting married. At 17 no less. Maybe these stoic types are just... particularly "passionate" when it comes to matters of the heart.

Watching Nozel, the nobles couldn't shake a single, mystifying question: Why does he look so happy? Nobles don't marry for love, and yet Nozel seemed... enchanted. What on earth did this girl do to "charm" the future Silva patriarch so deeply? And wasn't he supposed to be grieving for the dying Acier? Everyone knew that despite his stoic exterior, Nozel had a profound love for his mother. But here he was, barely resembling the brooding noble they'd come to know.

More than a few nobles eyed Sebastian for clues, but this only deepened their confusion. Nozel took after his father in most things—his serious demeanor, his measured expressions. Sebastian Silva didn't smile unless he was scheming, like the one he wore as he manipulated Augustus right now. But now, for the first time, Nozel was smiling genuinely, almost radiantly, in front of them all. What happened in House Silva?! The nobles felt as if the world had turned on its head.

And yet, there was an even bigger question gnawing at them: Who is Nozel's betrothed? The woman destined to become matriarch of House Silva would be one of the most powerful and influential figures in the Clover Kingdom. Eyes flicked around the room, searching for hints, each noble hoping they'd be the first to learn her identity.

The assumption was that Nozel had accepted an offer from one of their houses, and that was the source of their collective confusion. Securing an alliance with House Silva was no small feat; such a union would vault the lucky house to the very pinnacle of noble society. Not only would they gain connections, but every family in the kingdom would be watching, offering gifts, pledging allegiance, or doing whatever they could to stay in the good graces of the Silvas' allies. Such a declaration would normally be a grand affair, complete with fanfare, announcements, and a surge of status. And House Silva wasn't exactly known for subtlety—no, they reveled in power and pride, flaunting their alliances to intimidate any families nurturing dark ambitions.

Their attention turned to Sebastian, silent pleas for answers written on their faces. But Sebastian gave nothing away, merely standing still as Nozel walked toward him. Julius, Kaiser, Conrad, Damnatio, Ignatius, and Fuegoleon all looked on, visibly intrigued. Finally, Nozel stopped in front of his father, meeting his gaze with unwavering certainty.

Sebastian leaned in, his voice low and serious, meant only for Nozel and the few ears discreetly eavesdropping around them. "Are you sure about this? You only met her yesterday." Despite his calm tone, there was a faint bite to his words, one that only Nozel would understand. His father wasn't exactly thrilled about how fast this was moving.

Nozel held his father's gaze without flinching, his eyes shining with an intensity that few would question, least of all Sebastian.

Around them, even Damnatio and Kaiser looked momentarily off-kilter, their typical poise disturbed. Fuegoleon, meanwhile, blinked at Nozel, as if seeing him for the first time. You win, Nozel, he thought, almost dazed. I always thought I had an indomitable will, but even I wouldn't make a decision this quickly. This must be what Sister means when she says I'm too cautious, too conservative. Even a Silva is braver than me.

For the first time, Fuegoleon felt that he wasn't quite as fearless as he'd believed himself to be.

Conrad's eyes narrowed in thought. Just met yesterday...? It couldn't be, could it? He scratched his chin, piecing things together. Just two days ago, he'd run into Sebastian in Hage Village, looking to recruit a young girl with purple hair. Then yesterday, I get paperwork for a new recruit to add to the Magic Knight registry... Dorothy, right? He shot Sebastian a questioning look. So that's it? No wonder you were in disguise and acting suspicious. I thought you were only looking for a successor for Acier, but apparently, you meant to fill more than just her place in the Silver Eagles...

Conrad shook his head, a wry smile playing on his lips. Nobles are usually so cryptic, dragging things out just to seem powerful and composed. But sometimes, they're shockingly forward. Here stood the Silvas, legendary for their pride and formality, pushing this engagement forward like commoners swept up in a whirlwind romance.

Feeling Conrad's eyes on him, Sebastian stubbornly ignored the silent probing, focusing instead on his son, who returned his gaze, firm and unflinching. Sebastian lowered his voice to a tense whisper, trying to reason with him. "Have you even asked for her opinion before pulling this stunt? Her consent, her grace? Her permission?" He repeated it in as many ways as he could, as if sheer repetition would make Nozel see sense.

But Nozel's expression only grew puzzled. "Why, of course I did," he answered with that infuriating calm. "It would be unbecoming of nobility to force such a relationship. I asked her last night and reconfirmed with her this morning. Her response didn't change—she said to go for it." A small, fond smile spread across his face.

The seven bystanders encircling them exchanged glances, eyebrows twitching in disbelief. Fuegoleon, Julius, and Conrad looked at Nozel as if he'd lost his mind. Meanwhile, Sebastian fought down the urge to shake his son and demand an explanation. What on earth happened between you two?! Did a witch curse you both with a love spell?!

Yet, as he studied Nozel's eyes, Sebastian knew it was real. Sighing, he straightened up, turning his gaze to the nobles gathered in the circular courtroom. Making a swift decision, he cleared his throat and raised his voice. "As my son has stated, he is now in a committed relationship. You and those who could not be here will receive invitations shortly for my son's engagement ceremony, scheduled for next month. I look forward to seeing you all there."

With that, he turned away, gesturing for Nozel and their small entourage to follow him toward the courtroom exit.

Before they could leave, Speaker Francois, curiosity brimming in his eyes, couldn't resist. "Lord Silva, may I ask—who is young master Nozel's betrothed?"

Sebastian didn't slow his step, nor did he bother looking back. "You may not. You'll see her at the ceremony." His tone was clipped as the twin doors swung open, and he exited with his son and their allies close behind, leaving the nobles to murmur among themselves, no one daring to follow or press further in the face of his dark mood.

When they find out she's not noble, and a foreigner on top of it... no matter how powerful her magic is, some will look down on her. Sebastian grimaced. I'm not about to paint a target on her back before the ceremony. He glanced sidelong at Nozel. Now, let's just hope this 'romantic' son of mine doesn't start making eyes at her at the Silver Eagles base or on missions and expose her identity too soon.

The group exited the courtroom and walked through the grand halls, their footsteps echoing softly on the polished marble floors. Sebastian followed, feeling mildly irritated as he realized that everyone seemed to know where they were headed—except him.

Once outside, moving through the meticulously manicured palace gardens, Sebastian's patience finally snapped. Glancing at Conrad, he asked, "So, where exactly are we going?"

Conrad raised an eyebrow, looking amused. "The Magic Knights' headquarters, of course."

Sebastian held back a sigh. Yes, I figured that much. Trying to stay patient, he pressed, "And why, exactly? What is this grand event everyone's so eager to attend?"

Kaiser, rubbing his mustache thoughtfully, spoke up. "Why, the annual War Merits Conferment Ceremony, naturally."

Ignatius, nodding, shot Sebastian a mildly chastising look. "As Acier's health declines, you're in charge of the Silver Eagles. You ought to be more aware of these events—and Nozel here is among those receiving a promotion."

"Me too." Fuegoleon chimed in, unable to hide his excitement.

Sebastian scratched the back of his neck, feeling slightly embarrassed. It's in my predecessors' memories somewhere, he mused. But with all that's been happening lately, it just slipped my mind.

He shot a sheepish grin at Nozel. You could have reminded me, you know.

Nozel, somehow oblivious to all social nuances that didn't involve Dorothy, gave his father a blank look. "How was I supposed to know you'd forget?"

Sebastian chuckled awkwardly as the group exchanged a bemused glance. Quickly changing the topic, he turned to Damnatio, who was strolling alongside them with his usual serious expression. "And why exactly are you tagging along?"

The pale, stoic boy continued walking, gaze fixed forward. "I'm here to assess your motives for the, shall we say, unusual display in court today. Besides, as the new patriarch of House Kira and chairman of the Magic Parliament, I have a duty to familiarize myself with the kingdom's future protectors. And... troublemakers." He cast a sharp look at Julius.

Julius laughed, scratching his cheek. "Come on now, Yami's a good kid. He's got a solid heart."

"He's an impressive person," Fuegoleon added, nodding.

"For a foreigner... he's acceptable," Nozel admitted with the barest hint of reluctance.

Damnatio shook his head dismissively. "That doesn't erase his track record. I'm well aware of the 'incidents' he's had with his partner's brother. As far as I'm concerned, they're both trouble waiting to happen."

"It's hardly fair to judge Morgen by his brother's actions," Julius countered easily. "Besides, who among us hasn't played a few pranks as a teenager?"

"Not me," the others all replied in unison, causing Julius to sigh and wilt a bit under their unimpressed gazes.

"Anyway," he cleared his throat, "the point is that Yami's different now, and he's grown into a remarkable Magic Knight."

Conrad nodded in agreement, giving Damnatio a knowing look as they continued down the path. "The Grey Deer Brigade's famed Light-and-Dark duo have achieved significant merits for the kingdom. Give them the benefit of the doubt; their contributions to Clover's future are invaluable."

Damnatio's eyes narrowed slightly, his tone firm. "I'll be the judge of that."

Kaiser, sensing the thickening tension in the group, cleared his throat, attempting to ease the mood by turning the conversation to Julius. "And let's not forget that you have yet another in your squad being recognized for his achievements today—the Vangeance child, if I recall. Makes one quite envious," he added with a gentle smile.

Julius's grin widened, unable to contain his pride. To see two of his wards—one a foreigner and the other the illegitimate son of a noble with a scarred face—finally being recognized by the kingdom was a moment of personal triumph.

Ignatius chuckled. "The only one among us who has no reason to be envious is you, Sir Kaiser," he mused. "After all, you have three of your own receiving commendations today."

"Gueldre Poizot," Nozel acknowledged with a nod.

"And Jack," Fuegoleon added. The mention of Jack's name caused Nozel's expression to sour, remembering the less-than-pleasant memory of the lanky mage challenging him to a duel "for looking strong."

Then, with an unmistakable fondness, Julius chimed in, "Let's not forget Zara." The name reverberated in the group, prompting a brief pause. Zara Ideale—the first-ever peasant to join the Magic Knights—was a person few could ignore.

Julius cut in, "That doesn't answer the real question, Sebastian. What's in it for you?"

Sebastian flashed a wide grin. "That's none of your business."

What? Everyone stared, making sure they hadn't misheard him.

Before anyone could respond, Sebastian continued, "Have I committed any crime?"

"...No," Conrad replied.

"Do you have any actual evidence that I've done anything to threaten this kingdom's safety?" Sebastian pressed.

Ignatius grumbled, "We don't."

"Then you have no right to question or detain me. All you're going off of is suspicion and bias. You're basing everything on the man you think I am, assuming I'm up to something," Sebastian said, leaving them all at a loss for words.

Damnatio seized the moment. "He's right," he said, nodding. "Under the Clover Kingdom's laws, there's no grounds for questioning or detaining him. And let's remember: Sebastian Silva is not only the head of House Silva but also His Majesty's royal advisor." The unsaid not someone you can touch hung in the air.

Despite his initial intent to scrutinize Sebastian closely, Damnatio's real purpose was clear: he'd come along to prevent any reckless moves against Sebastian by citing the law. As the head of the Magic Parliament, Damnatio's word wasn't something that could be ignored.

Since yesterday's encounter, Damnatio had made up his mind. Sebastian wouldn't have gone to the trouble of blocking his own father's schemes only to undermine Conrad later. Moreover, Sebastian had offered him an unspoken show of trust by suggesting Acier's recovery was possible.

For Damnatio, this was reason enough to reciprocate. Besides, if his uncle became a figurehead, House Kira's status would remain unthreatened, because they'd still be the ruling family, and a stronger Clover Kingdom might finally be within reach. This was justice. Damnatio Kira had made his decision: he'd join Sebastian's little camp, whatever game he was playing.

Damnatio's only hesitation lay in one concern: was Sebastian really planning to dismantle the entire class system and follow Conrad's vision to the letter? Would he erase the boundaries between peasants, commoners, nobles, and royals?

If Sebastian could hear Damnatio's worries, he'd laugh and reassure him. No, he had no grand plans for a classless utopia. All he wanted was to improve the quality of life for the lower classes, allowing them some dignity and control over their own lives. But full equality? That was never in his agenda.

To Sebastian, a "utopia" of equality was an illusion, and a risky one at that. First, reforms of that scale wouldn't land equally. Not even the veto power of the kingdom's five pillars could prevent the nobility from revolting, risking the Clover Kingdom's stability. If a civil war broke out, opportunistic kingdoms like Diamond or Spade would swoop in without hesitation.

Second, the notion of democracy seemed too idealistic, impractical, and ultimately ineffective. Equal power for all often leads to fragmentation rather than unity, with governments unable to reach consensus or implement real reforms. Why is it that countries with defined leadership, like China, Russia, or Saudi Arabia, manage steady progress while countries with complex democracies, like the US or the UK, seem stalled or even regressing?

In Sebastian's view, it was because the former have supreme leaders who can make decisive moves, while the latter often get bogged down by needing approval for every step. Both systems have a ruling class and corruption, but in centralized hierarchies, the ruling class maintains stability, occasionally granting minor benefits to the people. In looser democracies, however, the ruling class becomes too broad, torn by competing interests, often failing to deliver anything substantive.

That's why Sebastian had no intention of eliminating the ruling class; instead, he wanted to reshape it. He'd reform it enough so that nobles would be inclined to support the lower classes to some extent—but without stirring thoughts of insurrection in the name of equality. People don't thrive simply by being "equal"; they inevitably seek power and hierarchy. So rather than breaking down class barriers only to repeat the same cycle, Sebastian preferred to secure his place and use his power to build a stronger, more prosperous Clover Kingdom. Just because he held the reins didn't mean those below couldn't live well.

Sebastian met Conrad's gaze with a steady smile. "I'm not sure why you're so upset. All I did was help bring you one step closer to achieving your dream."

Conrad narrowed his eyes. "But that's exactly the issue, Sebastian. I can't help but question your intentions. I've tried to pass similar reforms before, and each time, you shut them down."

"No, they weren't similar." Sebastian interrupted, his tone sober.

Conrad raised an eyebrow in confusion, prompting Sebastian to explain. "Your dream is to build a Clover Kingdom where everyone can laugh together, right?"

"...Yes," Conrad replied, though a bit uncertainly.

Sebastian shook his head. "In those earlier reforms of yours, only the peasants and commoners would've been laughing. There was nothing for the nobles—everything to lose."

Conrad, and indeed everyone around them, fell silent as the implications of Sebastian's words sank in.

Conrad's past attempts had been acts of charity, asking nobles to give up their wealth without offering anything in return. Naturally, no noble would be eager to agree to such terms. But this new proposal was different. It was an investment, where the nobles' authority remained largely intact, and they stood to gain substantial returns. For the first time, Sebastian had crafted a vision where both the lower and upper classes could prosper together, each with a share of the rewards.

Conrad cleared his throat, a bit embarrassed. "Even so, Ledior was clear that my goal is to erase the barriers between classes. Are you really saying you're ready to give up your royal status?"

"No," Sebastian replied calmly. "Because that will never happen."

Julius narrowed his eyes. "What are you talking about, Sebastian? Everyone signed the bill knowing that this was a possible consequence. Why are you so certain that won't come to pass?"

Sebastian glanced at them thoughtfully. "Do you really think royalty was always royalty? That nobility always existed? The Clover Kingdom and the Silvamillion family didn't arise at the dawn of time. Before kingdoms, humanity lived in fear of magic beasts. But over time, we came together, formed villages, then towns, and eventually, the Clover Kingdom. My ancestors started from nothing and rose to power with vision, powerful magic, and noble ambition."

"Now, I won't say that the current generation measures up to them, but House Silva has not fallen so far that by ceasing oppression of the lowborn, we'd suddenly be oppressed in turn."

"Any noble family that loses its power after these reforms was never truly deserving of it in the first place. But House Silva will never fall into that category. In any era or generation, we will remain among the kingdom's finest."

"The reforms may improve the lives of peasants and commoners, but we, as the royalty of the Clover Kingdom—the foremost nobles—will not be affected. If the lowborn grow ambitious or power-hungry and think they can challenge us, they're welcome to try. Greater men have."

Kaiser, Julius, and Conrad exchanged glances, noticing Damnatio, Fuegoleon, and Ignatius nodding along. It dawned on them that this wasn't mere arrogance on Sebastian's part; it was profound pride and unwavering confidence. For him, true nobility wasn't just a title—it was a legacy. And even if others dared to challenge, they were certain they would always emerge as the victors, reigning supreme

Sebastian cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention back to him. "I've said it once, and I'll say it again," he began, his tone firm. "Everything I've done, and everything I will do, is for the prosperity of the Clover Kingdom. Of course, that includes benefits for House Silva—and for myself. If you're that curious about how this works out, just wait. You'll see soon enough: the greatest winner will be House Silva."

The six gathered around him exchanged unreadable glances, each lost in their own thoughts.

Omake (Chapter 20 Part 2 Because You Guy's Wanted It):

Acier blinked looking at Sebastian, registering what Nozel said, it took her a moment to equate this man with her husband.

"Sebby?" Acier questioned softly.

Sebastian awkwardly nodded, as Nozel really wanted to leave.

Acier looked to the wall, before turning back to Sebastian. "I'm still not recovered, and Noelle is just a year old, isn't it a bit too early, for a round five?"

Huh? Sebastian blinked incredulously, as it took Nozel a moment to understand his mother's innuendo, causing him to flush in embarrassment.

But Acier paid them no attention as she continued. "I mean unless you want to do all the moving, but I don't think I can take it as I am-mpph."

Sebastian quickly clamped her mouth shut, sweating in anxiety. Who knew Acier Silva was so freaky?! But then Sebastian paused himself, wait, this woman had a baby at 17, and with the strength gap between the two it would be impossible for Sebastian to force himself on her.

Unless she consented... or was actively willing? Sebastian blinked as he scanned her up and down, suddenly finding her 'innocence' not so innocent. And her pure aura, nowhere to be seen.

Sebastian then looked over his shoulder at Nozel. I thought his charm came from me, but what if... Sebastian then turned back to look at Acier, as a strange thought came to his mind.

What if Acier Silva was the one who seduced Sebastian, not the other way around?

That night Sebastian would try to recall his predecessor's memory that he was actively avoiding. Sebastian's and Acier's first time. That night Sebastian got no sleep.

Author's Note:

[1] Guys I've been so sick these past few days, which is why there was no update yesterday, and only half a Chapter today. I'm so sorry HooleeFuck guy, but you'll still have to wait two more Chapters for the update. It appeared like I always had to break my promise. I caught something from my dad, making it impossible to stand looking at my computer. I even left school early today, and seem so exhausted and unmotivated.

[2] Updates will be slower since it's final projects and final exam season

[3] I should've explicitly stated the reason why I decided to make Luck, Charlotte's half-brother. It wasn't some random idea. In the original work Luck and Charlotte were reincarnated as elf siblings, moreover, Luck is the bastard son of someone, and has blonde hair and blue eyes like Charlotte, mana on par with nobles, so many have guessed he is Charlotte's half-brother, sharing the same father. It was a shame that Tabata dropped that plot point, so I'll strive to fulfill it here.

[4] For compensation for all of this, I tried to use AI to generate an image for the current Sebastian. For Webnovel and A03 users I'll try to embed it directly in the comments or text. For fanfiction users, you can check them out on this Google Drive: /drive/folders/1OderhyAv56h5aZocxxOPbHhNqq1BrHli?usp=sharing

[5] Also to people who want to draw art for this, stop asking me and do it. I don't make any money from this, so I'm not going to pay you for a drawing. Please stop sending me messages, especially fanfiction users.