Chapter 40: Descendants of a Noble Lineage
Golda, Octavia’s mother, stood in the main hall, staring at Arthur—who sat before her—with nervous eyes and a tense posture. Her daughter had spoken highly of him, often calling him kind and gentle, but she hadn’t believed a word of it. Especially after hearing that he had executed the Baronet and his son, and imprisoned many without clear reason, she grew increasingly fearful that he might do something terrible to her daughter. That’s why she always warned her, calling him a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Not to mention, his wild hairstyle unsettled her somewhat.
Out of fear, she slowly extended a hand and placed it on the shoulder of her youngest son, Cole. She didn’t know why they had been summoned, but she was sure it wouldn’t be for a pleasant matter, especially given that Arthur had remained silent for quite a while since they entered.
In contrast, Cole, the twelve-year-old boy, was staring at Arthur with wide-eyed wonder. From time to time, he glanced around the hall, amazed by how clean and beautiful it was. He even thought that their entire home could fit inside this grand chamber.
Like his older sister and mother, Cole had gentle features, brown hair and soft blue eyes.
Meanwhile, Octavia stood beside the silent Arthur, slightly puzzled by his behavior. When her mother and brother entered a few minutes ago, he made a strange expression and said very little afterward.
Tension began to thicken in the air, until Arthur finally spoke, "Golda, you know your daughter has become a mage now."
Golda responded quickly, "Yes, my lord. Thank you for your generosity. I will ensure that my daughter serves you with complete loyalty."
Arthur noted her tense posture and anxious tone, then sighed silently.
’Why does everyone assume I’m going to do something terrible whenever I summon them? Haven’t they seen how well I treat my followers?’
People fearing him wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it served as a deterrent, making them think a thousand times before saying or doing anything foolish.
Still, as someone who had lived in a civilized world, Arthur often wished he could simply have a normal conversation. He was tired of measured words and theatrical deference.