Chapter 99: Waiting (Part 1)

The wide Lae River surged down from upstream, flowing past Constein Town. Mist rose off the river's surface, gathering and shrouding the riverbanks, making much of Constein seem to be floating in clouds.

The weather had warmed a bit in recent days, and early in the morning, people were already bustling about. Some were heading to the river to cast their nets, hoping to bring fresh fish to the vibrant markets of Pagus City for a good price. Small traders also gathered outside the town, selling imported wares to the simple townsfolk.

Constein was a lively town, and with so many people starting their day early, it wasn't uncommon for disputes to arise, creating a bit of chaos. But now, things had changed. Ever since the new baron had taken over, knights clad in shining armor patrolled the town's surroundings. Anyone caught disrupting the order was swiftly apprehended and harshly punished.

While the methods of these intimidating knights were often severe, they were undeniably effective. Constein's order was better than ever, and traders felt more inclined to visit, collecting local goods to sell in distant places. Gradually, Constein Town grew even more prosperous.

A carriage rolled slowly into Constein, carrying a young man with dark hair and blue eyes. He lifted the curtain, observing the town's scenery with an air of casual interest.

"Not bad. The town looks even livelier than before—seems my father has quite the talent for managing an estate!"

The young man in the carriage was Merlin, visiting Constein Town to find his father, Old Wilson. As he observed the bustling scene, he felt reassured that Old Wilson was running things well.

"Baron, we've arrived," Moss announced softly as the carriage stopped before an ancient castle.

Merlin stepped down from the carriage, gazing up at the castle. There were many castles in Constein, but Old Wilson had chosen one of the better-preserved ones to make his residence.

Entering, Merlin noticed the layout of the castle seemed to mimic Wilson Castle back in Blackwater, as if Old Wilson had arranged it that way out of nostalgia.

"Merlin?"

A woman in noble attire approached from within. Merlin gave her a polite bow. "Madam, where's my father? I have some matters to discuss with him."

This woman was none other than Lady Wilson, Snow's mother. To assist Old Wilson with managing Constein, she had come to live with him in the castle.

"The master's in the courtyard practicing his swordplay. I'll take you to him," Lady Wilson replied.

She led Merlin to the back courtyard, where the air was filled with a searing heat, as though surrounded by blazing flames. In the midst of the fiery aura stood a towering figure, emitting an intense energy.

Lady Wilson sighed. "He's been like this for days now. Merlin, you should persuade him not to push himself so hard."

Ignoring her plea, Merlin narrowed his gaze, focusing intently on Old Wilson, feeling the violent energy and scorching flames radiating from him. Instead of concern, a smile appeared on Merlin's face.

"A third-tier Flame Swordsman! Father, you've broken through?" he called out.

The flames and powerful aura vanished instantly, as though they had been mere illusions.

"Merlin?" Old Wilson turned, spotting Merlin, a warm smile crossing his face. "Yes, I broke through three days ago!"

Old Wilson had long been at the peak of the second-tier Flame Swordsman, his breakthrough only a matter of time. After arriving in Pagus, he had finally been able to focus on his training, achieving this new level.

"Congratulations, Father," Merlin said, genuinely pleased. Originally, he had hesitated to leave Pagus City for the Dark Spirit Domain, worried about Old Wilson and his family's well-being. But now, seeing Old Wilson's advancement, Merlin felt reassured.

With his powerful talent, impressive strength, and mastery of the mysterious poses from the sculpture, Old Wilson's skills would only continue to grow. Even now, his abilities rivaled those of a fourth-tier Swordsman.

With his father's newfound strength, Merlin could leave without worry, his resolve to find the Dark Spirit Domain even firmer.

"Father, I need to discuss something with you," he said, his expression turning serious.

Old Wilson nodded and led Merlin to the study. "What is it?"

After a brief hesitation, Merlin spoke with newfound determination. "Father, I want to leave Pagus for a while to find a sorcerer organization."

Old Wilson's expression grew complex. He looked at Merlin in silence, a heavy mood settling between them.

Finally, he sighed deeply. "I knew this day would come. Merlin, you are my pride, the pride of the Wilson family. You deserve to seek a broader world beyond my side…"

Hearing this, Merlin's face brightened. "So, you agree, Father?"

If Old Wilson approved, he could begin preparations, swiftly heading for the Kurde Mountains in search of the Dark Spirit Domain.

But Old Wilson raised a hand, stepping closer, an uncertain look crossing his face. "I am proud of you for seeking greater strength and a broader path. Yet, the Wilson family must endure. I know about you and Princess Sherlis; that's good, but you must also accept Avril."

A faint smile played at Old Wilson's lips as he added, "I'll arrange for the wedding soon. When either of them bears your child, ensuring the family's legacy, then I will let you go and pursue your path."

Merlin was momentarily stunned. He hadn't expected that his father had foreseen his departure and made such thorough plans to preserve the Wilson lineage.

To someone like Old Wilson, a noble of the old world, ensuring the family's continuity was the highest priority.