Fantasy Family Simulator

Chapter 255 - 255: Father-Son Exchange

"Oh?" Rhett feigned surprise and paused before saying, "I see. I'll handle this matter appropriately."

Sveta nodded, thinking his lord was about to change the topic, but then he heard, "Sveta, what do you think about transferring Lawrence to the Firemark Mine?"

"But isn't your old comrade, Vedus, overseeing the Firemark Mine?" Sveta asked in surprise. "Mr. Vedus stepped down from the Gorge Defense; his abilities should be more suited than Lawrence's."

"I understand that, and there's no doubt about Vedus's capabilities. He's more than qualified to guard a small mine. However, I think it's time for Lawrence to be challenged in a different environment," Rhett said thoughtfully.

"Are you considering giving Lawrence some experience in a new role?" Sveta said, suddenly understanding. "Now that you mention it, Lawrence has served as the sheriff of Dark Hawk City for a year. If you intend to groom him into a capable leader, familiarizing him with different positions across the territory is indeed crucial. You've thought this through more thoroughly than I did."

Rhett smiled and nodded. "Exactly. Plus, Lawrence's quick shift in affection concerns me. I don't want him to develop a habit of being fickle. Transferring him to the Firemark Mine could serve as a test for both him and Aura."

"This plan achieves multiple goals—how wise of you, my lord!" Sveta said admiringly.

Rhett smiled without saying a word, pouring himself a glass of blueberry juice.

"My lord, I have another question. Now that you've been granted the title of marquis, where will the new territory be? Should we consider recruiting more personnel?" Sveta asked.

"There's no rush this time. Due to the special circumstances, and given the level of a marquis, the selection of the territory doesn't have to be immediate. We have up to two years to report it," Rhett explained.

Sveta nodded. "Do you have any preferred locations in mind?"

"Hm, I'm considering expanding toward the direction of the Whitescale Mountain Range," Rhett said casually. The option to split his territory was already at its limit. Any further expansion would require applying for a territory exchange, but he had no intention of doing so at the moment.

It seems my lord has a particular fondness for the magical beast mountains, Sveta thought, then asked with a cheerful tone, "My lord, should we prepare a grand banquet tonight to celebrate your elevation to marquis?"

"There's no need for that," Rhett quickly declined. "Too much time has passed; there's no point in holding a delayed celebration. However, I will increase the salary of every servant in the estate by double from now on. That's the appropriate compensation for serving a marquis."

"Heavens, shared honor! I'm sure they'll be so thrilled they won't be able to sleep tonight," Sveta said with a smile.

Rhett took a sip of his blueberry juice and stood up. "You can go ahead and announce the news. I'm going to rest in my room."

"Rest well, my lord. I'll take my leave," Sveta said, bowing before heading downstairs.

Walking through the corridor back to his room, Rhett noticed that everything remained unchanged.

Except for a square package on the desk, with a white envelope underneath it.

The package was covered in alchemical runes, securely sealed. Rhett walked straight to the desk, first opening the envelope and quickly scanning the contents. It was mostly Hyphestus's sincere gratitude and curiosity, along with a description of the gifts—a potion and the Emerald Token.

Already aware of these, Rhett then followed the instructions in the letter, extending his mental energy.

Rhett discovered that the alchemical device contained specific earth elements, arranged in a unique pattern and density that required the precision of a mage-level or higher mental power to manipulate. Otherwise, it would be impossible to unlock.

The letter detailed the necessary adjustments to the alchemical device's earth elements. Only by following these instructions could it be opened, similar to entering a password into a lock. Any attempt to force it open would require several times the usual destructive power.

Rhett carefully adjusted the elements as instructed, and soon enough, the square alchemical device made a clicking sound as the top lid popped open.

Glancing inside, Rhett saw a potion bottle lying quietly, its liquid inside resembling a blazing fire. The bottle itself was still, but the fiery liquid inside gently swirled.

Touching it with his fingertips, Rhett felt a faint warmth.

"A Saint-level potion... This will definitely help improve Tuck's talent!" Rhett smiled, tucking the potion into his coat.

Next, he picked up the Emerald Token beside the potion. It felt cool to the touch, glowing with a jade-like green. The token was oval-shaped, like a coiled vine with tiny wings spread on either side.

After examining it, Rhett concluded that it was just an ordinary alchemical object, with no special abilities. However, there was a tightly sealed formation inside, hiding a certain aura, likely for identity verification. The only noteworthy aspect was its extreme durability; even with his strength, Rhett couldn't damage it. It must have been made from rare materials.

After playing with it for a moment, Rhett stored the token in his space ring and then left the room.

Dark Hawk City.

Rhett hadn't visited in over six months, and as he walked along the main street, he took in the sights of the city.

Dark Hawk City had developed significantly, with the flow of people on the streets and the increasing number of supernaturals. In terms of activity, it was now on par with Twilight City. Since the news of Rhett's promotion to marquis had spread, many had relocated from Twilight City—those with foresight who recognized the city's greater potential.

"Look, that's Marquis Rhett!"

"Oh, my goodness, they say Marquis Rhett is elusive, but we're seeing him in person."

"He's so handsome and composed, the epitome of mature male charm."

"If only I could marry him."

"A sixth-level mage now, destined to become a grand mage one day, and a renowned figure in the kingdom! He's the pride of the southwest border!"

As he walked, Rhett noticed many unfamiliar faces discussing him, most likely recent arrivals to Dark Hawk City.

Rhett smiled and nodded occasionally to those on the street before heading to the administrative office.

The semi-oval doors of the administrative office were tall and wide, with several desks on the first floor where staff attended to the city's residents and visitors, handling policy inquiries, house rentals, complaints, and more.

"Welcome, my lord."

"Welcome, my lord."

Rhett's arrival was like a deep-water bomb, rousing the busy staff who hurriedly stood to greet him.

"Thank you all for your hard work. The construction of Dark Hawk City couldn't have happened without your help. Please continue to focus on your tasks," Rhett said with a smile, offering brief encouragement before heading upstairs to the third floor.

"Father, your son Ryleigh offers his heartfelt congratulations!" Ryleigh said with a bow and a smile as Rhett entered the room. "Congratulations on your promotion to marquis, Father!"

"That was a month ago; there's no need to mention it again—I've heard it so many times it's becoming tiresome," Rhett said with a wry smile, shaking his head. He stepped forward and patted Ryleigh on the shoulder. "You've done well while I was away. I see the population of Dark Hawk City is growing, and I'm sure the work has become increasingly demanding?"

Ryleigh chose his words carefully. "It has, but I'm enjoying it."

"I'm glad to hear that, but even so, I'll find someone to help ease some of your burdens," Rhett said, sitting down on a nearby chair.

Ryleigh poured his father a cup of tea and handed it over, asking, "Who do you have in mind, Father?"

"You know him—Vedus, my old comrade," Rhett replied. "I trust his abilities. He can assist you in overseeing all security matters in Dark Hawk City, so you won't need to worry about that anymore. Of course, the ultimate authority will still be yours."

"Mr. Vedus..." Ryleigh repeated the name, then slowly nodded. "Since you've decided, Father, Mr. Vedus will be the new Chief of Security in Dark Hawk City.

When will he start? I'll notify the other officers and patrol knights in advance to ensure they're prepared to welcome him."

"It may take a few months; I'm just giving you a heads-up," Rhett said, taking a sip of tea. "I also plan to transfer Lawrence to the Firemark Mine to take over Vedus's previous position."

Ryleigh paused briefly, then said thoughtfully, "Why are you thinking of transferring Lawrence out of Dark Hawk City? Did you hear about him and Aura? Are you worried that Karina might retaliate later?"

"I did hear about him and Aura, but Karina and I are on good terms—she's currently tacitly allowing the relationship," Rhett replied, looking at Ryleigh. "I simply want to give Lawrence more experience and ensure he doesn't develop a wandering heart."

"Understood, Father," Ryleigh said. "But from what I've observed over the past six months, Lawrence hasn't shown signs of being unfaithful—he's just been full of youthful energy and a bit inexperienced."

"I hope so, and I hope he stays that way," Rhett said as he finished his tea and stood up. "I just wanted to discuss this. I'll be leaving again for a few months, so I'll need you to continue overseeing Dark Hawk City."

With that, he handed over the transfer documents for Vedus and Lawrence to Ryleigh.

Ryleigh glanced at the papers, then looked at his father in surprise. "Leaving again?" But he hesitated before finally shrugging. "Alright, Father, you must have important matters to attend to. I wish you the best."

"You're a responsible child; I'm confident in your care of Dark Hawk City," Rhett said with a gentle smile as he turned and waved. "Goodbye, Ryleigh."

"Goodbye, Father."

After leaving the administrative office, Rhett made his way to the extraordinary district, heading straight for the Rattlesnake Tavern at the northwest corner of the crossroads.

However, upon entering and inquiring, he learned that Lilith had gone on a business trip to inspect raw material sites and wouldn't return for at least a week.

This meant they wouldn't be able to meet this time, so Rhett left a note with some greetings and instructions.

He then left the tavern once more.

At the training ground.

"Tadell, your attack angles are too tricky—I always feel like I can't fully use my strength."

"Master Tuck, that's because your physique is too powerful. You're much stronger than most, and it's hard for me to go head-to-head with you," Tadell said with a wry smile.

Tuck, now shirtless, scratched the back of his head and laughed. "Alright, Kurs, let's spar again."

Nearby, Kurs removed his armor and prepared to step forward.

But just then, a stern voice called out from behind them.

"Tuck, come here. I have something to discuss with you!"

The three of them froze momentarily. Tuck was the first to react, a look of delight on his face. "Oh, it's Father's voice!"

He then looked at Tadell and Kurs, asking, "When did Father arrive?"

"Um, maybe... while we were sparring?"

Tadell's eyes darted around as he seized the opportunity to blame Kurs. "You were standing idle, so why didn't you alert us when you saw the lord arrive?"

"Idle? That's a big joke. I was worried you were too weak and might get seriously injured by Master Tuck, so I was too focused on watching," Kurs replied, feeling guilty but offering a retort.

"Haha, Father, I've missed you!" Tuck seemed to forget the previous question as he ran towards Rhett like a small giant, his arms outstretched habitually. But seeing the stern look on Rhett's face, Tuck suddenly stopped, chuckled awkwardly, and abandoned the idea of a bear hug.

"Tuck, it seems you've been keeping up with your training—that's commendable," Rhett said, looking at his sweaty but upright son.

"Of course!" Tuck said with a proud smile. Then he asked, "Father, where have you been for the past six months? How did you suddenly become a marquis? It was such a surprise..."

Rhett didn't rush to answer. After a pause, he said, "Come with me first."

"Oh." Tuck, watching his father's retreating figure, obediently followed.

The two left the training ground and rode on Firecrest to the deeper regions of the Dark Vein Eagle Range.

In a secluded grove, Firecrest landed, setting Rhett and Tuck on the ground before leaping onto a branch to wait quietly.

"Father, why did you bring me here?" Tuck asked, glancing around at the quiet surroundings, where even the insects seemed silent.

Rhett first carefully scanned the area with his senses, ensuring no one was nearby. Then he turned to Tuck and said, "I brought you something good."

With that, he took out the Saint-level bloodline potion and held it in his palm for Tuck to see.

"What kind of potion is this? It looks beautiful," Tuck said, intrigued as he stared at the potion in Rhett's hand, captivated by its stunning appearance. But he had no idea how significant the item was.

"This is a potion that can enhance your talent."

"A potion to enhance talent... A bloodline potion?!" Tuck blurted out, his curiosity replaced by shock. His eyes widened, his mouth forming a perfect O shape as he stammered, "Th-this is unbelievable, Father. You must have gone through a lot to get this for me, right? Is this from that organization you mentioned before?"

"That's right." Rhett hesitated briefly before nodding. He had previously attributed the Saint-level potion to the mysterious organization behind Black Star as part of a cover story. But now that he knew Hyphestus was the leader of that organization, the lie had essentially become the truth.