The Kingmaker System

The day of the parade arrived.

Kai had stayed overnight at Eldarf, and Davian had rushed back to the royal palace during the night, so neither of them returned to Ryujin.

I was in the training grounds, alone, practicing by myself. It was still quite early in the morning. Since it was a day off, the servants had decided on working in shifts—some were already up and about, while others were relishing the rare luxury of extra sleep.

I walked over to the weapons stand and picked up a spear. The familiar weight settled into my palm like an extension of my arm. I began to train in rhythmic silence, the blade of the spear slicing through the cool morning air in clean arcs.

But I could feel them. Eyes on me. Not just one, but several. The guards stationed around the mansion, as usual. And one more—someone closer, watching intently from the shade of a tree off to the side.

I paused mid-spin and lowered my spear, turning my face toward the figure leaning casually against the trunk.

"I remember cancelling the morning training of the knights today," I said.

Alex straightened up at once, his posture reflexively respectful.

"Yes, Master. But I’m the Captain. I couldn’t possibly skip my training."

I sighed softly, already expecting that answer. Then I beckoned him over with a wave of my hand. He approached quickly, eyes alert.

"Get a sword," I said.