Chapter 24: Farewells [Bonus chapter]

"Forgive me, Milord, but has the sun risen from the west this time? Because listening to a child who could have been crushed like a child was a little expected from you." Shin spoke as he watched his master, the Grand Duke, silently sitting at the table.

A few minutes ago, Ivan was here and talking to Duke about his plan against Marquess Sailcoat territory. Of course, he didn't reveal his entire plan since he didn't want others to take this job. Ivan was only 12, no, 13 years old now. His agile and sturdy body aside, an adult with a considerate level should be more efficient in investing resources since the Duke agreed to support Ivan in his mission. He didn't know what kind of support, though, since he was not present at the meeting time.

Had the Duke of Flareottems gone soft? He will crush anyone like an insect if anyone comes on bad terms with him. So seeing Duke leaving Ivan alive piqued his curiosity, not that he was complaining about Ivan being alive since Ivan was still Shin's 'son.'

"While I could say the same for you, Shin. I mean, you did lose to him on the duel." A corner of his lips curled as Tsar said he watched Shin's face distort for a moment, saying, 'please don't mention that anymore.'

Tsar put the cup of tea he was sipping down, walked to the window behind his chair, and started gazing at the beautiful scenery.

At first, it looked like he was admiring the scenery when he was thinking about something else.

'Am I not that scary looking anymore?' Tsar thought, making some of his signature expressions that could petrify any commoner. Of course, he didn't let

He had natural shoulder-length silver hair combed with a short beard and birthed a grumpy face. He looked a lot older than he was. Many people mistook his natural expression as if he looked down on them, but he didn't care. As the grand Duke, it helped him act as a proper tyrant noble.

However, today was a different story. Not only Ivan, just a mere commoner, was able to stand and talk back to his pressure, but his daughter also rebelled.

Normally, Anastasia would freeze in her position with even the slightest stare and abide by his orders without complaining. Today, she tried to defend Ivan and stood against him.

As for Ivan, let's say, Tsar was very interested in the little butler 'this time.' His physical attributes aside, Ivan had a good brain on his head; seeing how he tricked Shin and foresaw Tsar's plan explained his high level of thoughts.

However, there was just one problem. It was Ivan's fear of blood. Tsar wasn't very well versed in human psychology, but he did see some afraid of killing humans. It was one thing about killing innocent, but it was impossible to employ him around Anastasia anymore after hearing Ivan not killing assassins.

"You are also going with Ivan, Shin," Tsar said as he continued to practice his aggressive expression But then he realized that his wife had refused to see him because of what happened to Ivan. He should soften his face if he wants to see her.

"I am sorry, Milord, but I think I didn't hear you correctly. C-can you please repeat?" Shin asked with a little shaky tone.

"Didn't head butler of Flareottems duchy lost to a 13 years old child just recently and sighed on a bet? It will taint my honor if I can't enforce the contract my servant signed." Tsar turned around, carrying a grin.

Tsar wanted to laugh, seeing Shin losing his mask and distorting his expression in annoyance. It was truly priceless.

"You mean…"

"Take two months off and help him adjust Sailcoat. While you are at it, train him and upgrade some of his skills. Your first objective is his 'request' while the second is the terms you agreed upon."

"Milord, this is… I can't just excuse my job. I am the head butler of this place. Please reconsider it…!" Shin replied, dissatisfied with Duke's order. He would like to train Ivan, but Ivan wasn't a 'good child,' so he can't waste his time on him.

"Then you should have used your brain before underestimating your enemies. Shall I remind you how you lost a 13 years old child?"

"No, certainly not."

"Then you should also take leave and prepare for the travel."

"Certainly, Milord."

"One more thing."

"?"

"If he doesn't 'improve' in that period, dispose him."

A smile curled on Shin's face, "Certainly, Milord."

---

I was standing with three women as it was the time for my departure.

"I am sorry, Ivan, for going through such a request." Lady Alexi said and then gave me a gentle hug.

Oh dear, it was the best moment of my life. A new form of energy ran through my body as her soft bosoms against my face, showing me the true way of enlightenment. They were so soft and squeezy that I wanted to dive in. She was one of the reasons why I liked to work in the castle.

"Hehe, Lady Alexi, anything for you~" I chuckled as I looked at her.

She also chuckled before placing a gentle peck on my forehead before bidding farewell and returning to the castle. Ah, it was nice.

Not until I turned around and found Anastasia's flustered face with anger.

"Ivan, do you want to die so early?! If so, let me do it!" Anastasia said, fuming with anger, but didn't try to hit me.

I laughed and stroked her head lightly, "You are getting cuter day by day. Prince Arthur must be the luckiest person to win over your affection."

"Shut up!" She tried to shake away my hand with rosy cheeks, but I contained to stroke her head. In the end, she accepted it with a rosy pout.

She looked so cute that I wanted to hug and cuddle her, but I didn't want to invest myself further in trouble.

"Thanks for everything, Ann. Just wait for a little. I will return soon." I smiled.

"Un." She nodded and followed her mother.

For the departing gift, she gave me a Rare Ranked Dimensional Ring where I could store some of my stuff like weapons and important documents.

She also gave me some health potions, seeing how often I break my bones.

That was the benefit of having a generous employer.

"You are not following her, Kasumi?" I asked the dark-haired maid.

"No. I will help Ototo-chan to the gate." She said, carrying small luggage.

I sighed and lightly pulled her cheeks, "Listen here, Kasumi. Take good care of Lady Anastasia while I am away. If she sleeps straight position, turn her around. She still finds it hard to sleep at night. You understand?"

She nodded with a tint of redness on her cheek but remained blank.

I smiled and caressed her cheeks, "Take care of yourself too. I will be sending letters each month to both of you, so make sure to write a reply, okay, Nee-chan?"

She remained silent, but I could see smoke coming from her ears.

"Make sure to work on the disappointment too."

"Shut it."

Why does she have to ruin the mood?

Although she was pretty, her sharp tongue destroyed her beautiful and sophisticated image. Well, aside from her creepiness, she was good in her duties and cared for me, so I had no complaints.

She expended her arms before I could leave. I smiled, and we shared a brief hug. If I was physically closer to someone, then it was Kasumi.

Seriously though, are Japanese girls supposed to grow so fast? Maybe I can marry her in the future.

I then waved my hand to the far gate of the castle, where I saw Shin waiting for me on a horse.

I raised my brow and smirked, "You look good in a casual outfit, Mr. Shin."

"Hurry up and hop on the horse. We are getting late." Shin replied, but his signature smile was nowhere to be seen.

Yeah, he doesn't like me much. I don't care, though. Thanks to the Duke and Anastasia enforcing the contract, I can use him for my mission.

I adjusted my luggage on my horse and climbed as well.

Shin hit the halter and went ahead while I followed.

It was time to get some treasures and skills for the upcoming raging future.