Chapter 960: Not Just a Ruler, But a Father ( 960 )

Garius gave a gentle smile, exhaling as he looked at Alf and Erinnette. "I’m sorry if I’ve ever been a burden to you both, all the way from childhood until now."

"My lord," Alf replied, bowing respectfully, "I’ve told you before: you’ve never been a burden. Serving you was my responsibility, my promise to the late Lord, and my promise to you. Even if one day you don’t need me, I’ll still be here."

Before Garius could respond, Erinnette’s expression turned serious. "My lord. If it hadn’t been for you, my little brother and I... we’d have ended up as someone’s slaves."

Her voice softened, glancing briefly at Alf.

"You bought us, gave us freedom, and gave me a new life. Because of you, I even found my soulmate." Her cheeks flushed as she looked at Alf, her husband and the father of their sons and daughters.

"So don’t ever say that again, young master!"

Garius chuckled, shaking his head. "Erinnette... that title belongs to the past."

Erinnette glared, arms crossed.

"Yes! That stubborn, annoying little brat from back then is about to become the real Sovereign and King of Armand Nation, and you should never talk that way again. It’s thanks to you that Hesbeirn became who he is now. Though, honestly, he’s a drunkard general who’s still rude, because you let him get away with it."

Garius laughed. "Erinnette, that’s just how Hesbeirn is. No need to be so strict with him."

"Still, I’d prefer my brother show more respect to his savior, his lord, and his ruler," Erinnette huffed, bowing deeply but still sending a sharp look at Garius.

Garius laughed, shaking his head.

"Hesbeirn has always followed my orders and shown respect in his own way. Not once has he rejected my command, and you know that. Besides, I actually prefer him the way he is."

Alf then spoke softly, "Let us carry the burdens together, my lord, as we always have. If it weren’t for you, who knows what the future would have been for both of us."

Garius gazed out the window, the faint reflection of the golden mantle shimmering behind the glass as he exhaled softly.

"You know, Alf, Erinnette..."

"Yes, my lord?" Both bowed respectfully, giving him their full attention.

"I still have one thing that weighs on me. I’m standing here today because I had you, Erinnette, Hesbeirn, Rasdingen, and so many loyal people. Even the old veteran protectors who risked their lives to help me reclaim Armand when I was just a boy, you all were my shield and my circle. But my sons... they don’t have that."

Alf’s brow furrowed with concern. "My lord, is there something troubling you?"

"We’re all just human, Alf, Erinnette. We each exist with our purpose, but in the end, all of us grow old. Someday death will come knocking." Garius managed a gentle smile, glancing their way.

"It’s not that I don’t trust my sons. Every one of them is gifted and capable, even Heres, the quiet one, who’ll be marrying Kliatana soon. But none of them have a circle like I did, a band of comrades, friends, people who would fight and bleed together. I wish..." He trailed off, sighing. "I wish there were someone, like the two of you, who could guide them when the day comes for me to step down."

He looked at Alf and Erinnette, the weight of a father’s worry clear in his eyes. "I just want someone by their side, the way you’ve always been by mine."

"My lord, we don’t think you should worry so much about that," Alf said gently. "That day is still far off."

"I know, Alf... It’s just, I’m their father. Of course I worry. I want the best for all my children." Garius replied, his voice softer.

Erinnette shook her head, smiling.

"You’ve already given them your best, my lord. Just look at the difference. Other noble houses? Their sons are arrogant, power-hungry, selfish. They only care about wealth or their own privilege, entitled and rude, always abusing authority for personal gain. Your children are nothing like that."

Alf nodded.

"Yes, my lord. Your sons aren’t spoiled, nor are they blind to duty. All of them care for the people. Look at Master Marcellus and Master Cedric. Always leading by example, protecting and supporting the people in times of need. Master Aelius and Lady Athine devote themselves to Armand’s economy and market, ensuring not just growth, but that everyone benefits, from merchants to farmers to families. Even Master Heres, quiet as he is, always puts the people first. Remember the reports from Arjam? He worked day and night to keep the peace and made sure everyone had enough during those shortages."

Erinnette smiled softly.

"And your youngest son, my lord? Of them all, he may be the cheekiest, the most mischievous, always a bit of a troublemaker. But never once has he abused his power. He always puts the people’s safety first, listens to their needs, and goes out of his way to solve their problems. Even his inventions, mana talkies, relay towers, puppet knights, they were never for show or to build his own status, but to protect Armand and make life easier for everyone. He’s earned the people’s trust, and their love."

Garius smiled at their reassurances, but before he could speak, Alf stepped forward and bowed.

"If that truly worries you, my lord, I’ve already begun training several promising people as successors, ready to serve your sons when their time comes. With your gift, those eyes of truth, you’ll be able to assess their abilities yourself."

Erinnette nodded, her tone warm and confident.

"Yes, my lord. You have nothing to fear. Every one of our units, battle maids, elite battle maids, shadow units, and all the special corps are preparing new leaders for the next generation. You can evaluate them early, see their strengths and flaws, and pick only the best to serve your children. But for now, my lord..."

"Yes, Erinnette?"

"It’s time for you to head to the Throne Chamber and make all of this official. I’m certain your best friends are waiting for you, and your future bride, too."

Garius laughed and shook his head. "Yeah... if I stall any longer, Francesca will never stop nagging me about postponing the wedding with Mylezra."

Alf took the lead, opening the door with a respectful nod. "Shall we go, my lord?"

Garius grinned, falling into step as Erinnette followed closely behind. "Yeah... let’s get this over with, so I can finally put an end to all these headaches."

( End Of Chapter )