There were many of noble blood in the vast territories of Avalon, but only five families could claim the highest seats: the five Dukes. Their unique qualities had become the focus of Avalons affairs in recent decades.

Firstly, it is a pleasure to introduce the Sword of the Empire, the center of the Circle, Duke Aden von Agnus.

Another Master, of the oldest family in the Empire: Duke Tremblin of the east.

Hailing from a family known for producing Prime Ministers and other high-ranking politicians, Duke Prius of the west. It was said that Duke Tremblin and Duke Agnus lead by strength of arms, but Prius leads with his nobility.

Duke Reiye of the north, known as the Empires military counselor, was a master of diplomacy and strategy.

Finally, in the south: Duke Pontier, who controlled half of Imperial trade.

These were the five unshakeable pillars of the Empire.

But times were changing. It seemed that one of the pillars was at risk of collapsing.

The room was ten square meters, modestly decorated.

The woman was 170cm tall, just right for her age. Her hair was tied back in a neat ponytail, like fire being bundled into a blinding sheaf; it had its benefits, though: it left her neck exposed. Ruby-like eyes twinkled underneath slightly raised eyebrows. Her reclining posture did nothing to hide her curves and cat-like beauty, which displayed the distinct features of the southern people. She was easily one of the three most attractive women in the entirety of the Avalon Empire.

Young Lady Charles, it is time to go.

The woman sighed deeply as she was interrupted from her reverieIndeed, she was a woman now, having just turned eighteen.

Cox, do we really need to go now? Cant we just stay here? A rude noise escaped from her bright red lips.

Time and labor had creased Coxs face, but it was safe to say he still loves money.

You know you cant do that, right? If you disregard these customs, they will look down on you. That is the great nobles for you. But its more than that; we should consider the Dukes heart.

Those motherfuckers Her sweet mouth blistered with curses. Marquis Crombell.

A lot has changed in the last five years. Duke Pontier, one of the most prominent figures in Avalon, had slowly declined. The absence of their patriarch had left the Pontiers in a worse position than expected.

They lost for the first time. It wasnt just their financial strength, as crucial as it was. The number of knights, their quality, and the quantity of rank-and-file soldiers all fell behind Crombell.

And then, the Mercenary King. The Ax Master. Someone outside the Twelve Families and Nine Stars, someone with his own rules and no laws.

I dont want to rub it in, Cox continued glumly, but with the continual decline of the Dukes health, Im afraid that the Young Lady will have to take over soon.

Charles bit her lip anxiously.

This birthday of the First Prince is only celebrated once a year. So please, Young Lady, dont let the Pontier name die.

I understand, Cox. Charles sighed and rose from her seat with a resolute expression. There wasnt much time left till the feast, so she had to prepare immediately.

Do you mind going out for now, Cox? Im afraid Ill need to rush my preparations now.

Yes, Young Lady. Cox smiled softly. Ill instruct the attendants to assist you.

Yes. Thank you.

Cox bowed and left Charles to gaze out the window.

None of her sources were reliable anymore.

But why do I still remember the face of the boy who broke my heart? Do I miss him?

That was a time when she could be carefree, like a child.

Hahh

Charless long sigh carried the weight of a world.

The door to the 9th Battalion captains office slammed open.

Are you slacking off again?

Gah! The rooms owner fell off the sofa where he was lazily napping in the warm sunlight.

Tch. He scratched his head. Sir, Im not slacking. You know, while I had my eyes closed Ive defeated more opponents than you have. Isnt that the most important thing?

Youre full of shit. The middle-aged intruder sighed and shook his head. Did you forget, Valmont?

Sir What are you talking about?

This is not a joke, Rod den Hogg, commander of the Imperial Knights, answered. Its the First Princes birthday. Do you think its fine for one of the captains to be sleeping in the corner while everyone needs him?

Isnt that a job for the top three battalions? Valmont pouted at him.

Its just in case. Dont be so relaxed.

Meh. Youd have to be crazy to attack the prince while hes surrounded by the most elite knights in the Empire.

Valmont! Hogg, also known as the Rod Night, scowled.

Ahh! No matter how proud the 9th Battalion is, theyre not happy! Their only job was to patrol the outskirts, like a lousy sub-battalion.

Rod sighed again.

Cant you just accept it? If you do your best, no one will be able to ignore your menI mean, isnt it obvious when you see him? Dont tell me you still dont understand how he changed the 11th and 12th Battalions from chaff into some of the finest in the Knights Templar.

That kid is a monster. Valmont scowled.

So are you, in my opinion. When you were in your twenties, you and your B-Class status were equally monstrous. You might be lazy, but I know you, Valmont den Brown, are one of the most talented leaders in the Imperial Knights.

Well, Im not a kid anymore, he replied, but his lips curled into a pleased smile. I didnt think the commander thought so highly of me, though. Valmont stood up, still wearing that smile.

Now that hes a baron, I think he might have a little too much work. Valmont paused to think and then shrugged. Well, not that I mind. Im a viscount.

He turned to his superior.

Where is he now, by the way?

Unlike you, hes out there doing his duty.

He must be excited because of the banquet. Valmont grinned cruelly. Ah, Id better make an appearance as well.

Valmont. Unlike Valmonts twinkling silver eyes, Rods expression was irate.

Yes?

The difference between being the best and being a Master is enlightenment.

Valmont stared at the Knight Commander, startled by his seriousness.

Exploring new things and fighting stronger swordsmen are better than practicing alone. I already told you, youre the most talented person I know; if youve hit a wall, its because you lack experience. Youre still a kid, after all.

He knew? As expected. Valmont smiled bitterly.

Commander.

Rod paused as he was about to walk through the door.

Dont worry, I wont let you down. I will prove that Im better than Joshua.

Thats what I thought. The commander closed the door behind him with a soft laugh.

Valmont pondered his words.

Its Baron Joshua.