Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix-Chapter 207: King’s Blade

"My dear daughter," he said, his voice softening. His gaze held a certain fondness as it rested on Branden. "She has chosen her own path, as have you, Branden. And in observing your journey, I am reminded of the qualities that make a true leader, a true protector of our realm. I hope that you can find happiness with her.

It is said that a ruler must seek counsel from those who embody the very principles that guide our land. In this spirit, I find it fitting to recognize not only your valor but your unwavering commitment to our kingdom." A hush fell over the hall as the King's words carried a profound weight.

"As a token of gratitude and admiration, I can think of no better honor than to welcome you all into our ranks as knights, defenders of the realm. From this day forth, your organization shall bear the name 'The King's Blade,' an embodiment of your dedication to safeguarding our land." The King's voice swelled with authority and emotion, his words carrying a definitive decree.

Once more, the hall reverberated with applause, a thunderous ovation that echoed through the space. It was a tribute to the King's announcement, a declaration that resonated deeply with all present. The air was charged with an energy that spoke of camaraderie, shared purpose, and a collective commitment to a brighter future.

"... I don't like this," Rain thought.

The title "The King's Blade" carried a certain weight, one that wasn't lost on Rain. It implied a direct service to the King, which had its own set of responsibilities and expectations. While the recognition and honor were undeniable, the idea of being directly beholden to the King gave Rain a sense of unease.

It wasn't just about their prowess on the battlefield; it suggested a more intricate involvement in the politics and decisions of the kingdom.

However, as Rain observed the jubilant celebration around him, he couldn't deny that the majority saw this as a momentous occasion, a validation of their efforts and sacrifices. The hall was alive with cheers, clinking glasses, and laughter. The atmosphere was electric with camaraderie, and Rain understood that his reservations were not shared by all.

The title also hinted at the King's intent to continue expanding the kingdom's territories, an ambition that Rain found troubling. While he was more than willing to fight to protect their lands or to regain what had been lost, he didn't wish to partake in wars driven solely by greed and expansionist desires.

Amid the festivities, Rain maintained a facade, a carefully crafted smile that concealed his inner thoughts. He mingled with the crowd, exchanged pleasantries, and joined in the celebration. A wine goblet in hand, he took measured sips, allowing the rich taste to wash over his senses, the alcohol providing a small reprieve from the complexities of the situation.

Before long, night fell, and the party ended… Some members of the organization went to some taverns to continue the party by themselves. Still, Rain split up from his friends and then headed home. freёwebnoѵel.com

"I have been pretty passive until now, but I can no longer keep things like this… it is time to play the bigger game," Rain thought.

With the ceremonial armor set aside, Rain retreated to his room, a simple space that held only the essentials—a bed and a closet. It was a stark contrast to the opulence of the castle's halls and the grandeur of the celebration outside. He closed the door behind him, shutting out the echoes of laughter and celebration, and let out a slow exhale.

Rain's mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, each one more pressing than the last. As he sat down on the edge of the bed, he knew that he needed to shift his focus toward the future to the challenges that lay ahead. The title of "The King's Blade" was a double-edged sword, one that brought honor and prestige but also carried obligations that could potentially complicate his life.

Leaning back against the bed, Rain allowed his thoughts to unfurl. He knew that with this new recognition, he would become a more visible figure in the kingdom, a pawn in the political games of the royal court. He had seen it before, how those in power often sought to manipulate and utilize those they deemed valuable.

Rain's gaze shifted to the window, the moon's soft glow casting shadows across the room. He pondered how to navigate this new reality and how to use this recognition to his advantage without becoming a puppet of the crown. There were decisions to be made, alliances to be formed, and caution to be exercised.

"The King's Blade… I can't exactly leave until my sisters' education is completed," Rain thought. "In the worst case scenario. I need to keep working with them for nine years until Gila becomes fifteen."

Rain's thoughts were a tangle of considerations as he paced his room, his mind whirling with possibilities and potential paths. He knew that he held the power to accelerate his sisters' training, to mold them into formidable warriors faster than anyone could imagine. Yet, he hesitated.

His sisters were still young, and despite their talents, Rain wished for them to experience a semblance of an everyday life, free from the pressures and dangers that often came with wielding extraordinary abilities.

As he continued to ponder, Rain's determination to avoid being solely defined by his title as "The King's Blade" grew stronger. He was no pawn to be maneuvered by those with power, no mere tool for their ambitions. The idea of perpetually fighting to satisfy others' greed didn't resonate with him.

He knew that there were other ways to make a difference and contribute to his world without being consumed by endless conflicts.

The matter of his enemies among the magic people weighed heavily on his mind. He understood that his actions to recover their lands had made him a target of their ire. It was very possible...