Lord Summoner's Freedom Philosophy: Grimoire of Love
Chapter 283: The Formal Bestowment of Nobility

Chapter 283: The Formal Bestowment of Nobility

The sun shone brightly over the capital city of Astellia, casting a golden glow over the bustling streets and majestic buildings. A great crowd had gathered in the main square, their eyes fixed on the grand balcony of the royal palace. The air was thick with anticipation, whispers of curiosity and excitement rippling through the masses. On the balcony, Crown Prince Erich stood tall and regal, his presence commanding the attention of all who looked upon him.

"My people of Astellia," Erich began, his voice strong and clear, resonating across the square. "Today marks a new Chapter in our kingdom’s history. I stand before you not only as your prince but as a servant of justice and progress."

The crowd erupted into cheers, their faith in the young prince palpable. Erich raised a hand, and the crowd fell silent once more, eager to hear his words.

"As many of you know, we have been plagued by corruption and deceit within our noble ranks," he continued, his tone solemn. "The Duke Ravindor of Astellia, once a trusted ally, has been exposed for his treachery. His schemes have brought suffering to our people, and his actions have betrayed the very values we hold dear."

A murmur of agreement swept through the crowd. The Duke’s fall from grace had been a shock to many, but it had also been a necessary reckoning.

"With the help of our loyal nobles and brave warriors, we have removed the Duke from power," Erich declared, his voice rising with conviction. "His corrupted influence has been purged, and those who conspired with him have been brought to justice. Today, we celebrate the dawn of a new era—one of integrity, prosperity, and unity."

The crowd roared its approval, the sound echoing through the city. Erich smiled, his heart swelling with pride. This was the moment he had worked so hard to achieve, and it was only the beginning.

"To ensure the continued strength and stability of our kingdom, I am appointing new nobles who have proven their loyalty and dedication to Astellia," Erich announced. "These individuals have shown exemplary courage and wisdom, and they will lead us into a brighter future."

The crowd listened intently as Erich began to call out the names of those who would be elevated to new positions of power.

"First, I am pleased to announce that Sir Julius, captain of the royal knights, will be granted the title of Viscount," Erich said, gesturing to a tall, striking red-haired man standing proudly at the base of the balcony. Julius stepped forward, his expression resolute as he accepted the honor.

Julius bowed deeply, his eyes twinkling with pride and a hint of modesty. The crowd cheered, recognizing the names of those who had fought bravely for their kingdom.

"And finally," Erich said, his voice carrying a note of deep appreciation, "Arnold, the mercenary whose leadership and strategic brilliance have been indispensable. Through his extraordinary service, Arnold will be granted the title of Baron and appointed as the commander of our forces."

Arnold, a rugged and battle-hardened man, stepped forward with a solemn nod, his eyes reflecting a mixture of humility and determination. The crowd’s applause was thunderous, a testament to the respect he had earned.

"And now," Erich said, his eyes scanning the crowd, "I am proud to bestow a special honor upon someone who has been instrumental in our success. Lyan, a man of unmatched skill and wisdom, will be granted the title of Baron. He’s the hero, the one who slays the Goblin King! He will take the land of Grafen and be known as Baron Evocatore of Grafen."

Lyan stepped forward, his expression calm and composed, though his eyes shone with quiet pride. The crowd erupted into cheers, recognizing the man who had played such a crucial role in their recent victories.

As the ceremony concluded, the celebration began in earnest. The streets of Astellia were alive with music and laughter as the residents joined in a grand banquet. Long tables were laden with food and drink, and the air was filled with the scent of roasting meats and freshly baked bread.

In the midst of the festivities, Lyan found himself gathered with Arnold and Julius at a quieter corner of the banquet. They shared a jug of ale, their camaraderie evident in their easy laughter and relaxed postures.

"Can you believe it?" Borton said, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "We’ve come a long way, haven’t we? From mercenaries and knights to barons and commanders. It’s almost surreal."

Arnold chuckled, his deep voice carrying a hint of amusement. "Aye, it’s been quite the journey. But we’ve earned it. Every step of the way. But it’s surely great to refuse the title and convert it to money like you did, Borton,"

Lyan nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Damn, right. That’s quite a cheat option you chose there,"

"Not as a cheat as yours, Lyan," Borton said with a smirk.

Julius raised his mug in a toast. "To new beginnings and to the challenges ahead. May we face them with the same courage and determination that brought us here."

They clinked their mugs together, the sound a testament to their bond. As they drank, they watched the festivities unfold around them. The capital’s residents danced and sang, their joy infectious.

Erich, standing at the center of the celebration, managed to steal glances toward Lyan and his companions. Beneath his regal facade, there was a longing in his eyes—a desire to join them, to shed the responsibilities of his title, if only for a moment. But his duty kept him tethered to his role, and he continued to greet and converse with the nobles and dignitaries who sought his attention.

Arnold noticed Erich’s subtle glances and leaned closer to Lyan. "Looks like our prince could use a break. He deserves to enjoy the fruits of his labor as much as anyone."

Lyan smiled, his gaze following Erich’s. "Indeed. He’s done more than anyone could have asked of him. But his responsibilities are great. We can only hope he finds a moment of peace amid it all. Well, all kinds of troubles that just happened and are going to happen would be his responsibilities anyway,"

Julius leaned back, stretching his arms. "Speaking of peace, what are your plans now, Lyan? You’ve got that exclusive contract with the crown prince. Not many nobles have that kind of freedom."

Lyan took a thoughtful sip of his ale. "I’m planning to head to Arkansas, the city of mercenaries and merchants. I’ll pack my things and gather my companions. Together, we’ll rebuild Grafen and make it a place of strength and prosperity."

Arnold raised an eyebrow. "Arkansas, huh? Sounds like a good place to start. It still surprises me how fast you climbed your way to the Mythril rank. And your companions—you’re talking about those extraordinary women who fought by your side?" Arnold said with a smirk.

Lyan nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yes, they’ve been with me through thick and thin. Their skills and loyalty are invaluable. We’ll make Grafen a nice home."

"I really envy you, having all of those beauties all for yourself alone. Tell me the secret, Lyan," Borton pressed on.

Lyan shrugged. "It’s all a matter of charisma, my friend,"

Julius grinned. "Sounds like a solid plan. And what about you, Arnold? Now that you’re a commander and a baron, what’s next for you?"

Arnold’s expression grew serious. "I’ll focus on strengthening our forces and ensuring the safety of our borders. The neighboring countries and their schemes are still a threat. We can’t afford to let our guard down. There seems to be potential wars in the future,"

Lyan nodded in agreement. "You’re right. The duke sowed some dangerous seeds of conflict in various places. We must be vigilant and prepared for whatever they might throw at us."

As they continued their conversation, the celebration around them showed no signs of slowing down. The people of Astellia reveled in their newfound hope and the promise of a brighter future. The bond between Lyan, Arnold, and Julius grew stronger, forged through shared experiences and mutual respect.

Erich, still engaged with the other nobles, cast another longing glance toward his friends. He yearned for the simplicity of their companionship, the freedom to laugh and drink without the weight of his title pressing down on him. But he knew that his role was vital, that his people depended on him to lead them through these tumultuous times.

The night wore on, the festivities gradually winding down as the stars began to twinkle in the sky. Lyan, Arnold, and Julius found themselves leaning back in their chairs, a comfortable silence settling over them as they reflected on the day’s events.

"We’ve come a long way," Arnold said quietly, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon. "But there’s still so much more to do."

Lyan nodded, his eyes thoughtful. "Yes, there is. But we’re ready for it,"

Julius raised his mug one last time. "To friendship, to the future, and to the bonds that will carry us through."

"For wealth and luck," Borton added.

They clinked their mugs together once more, the sound a promise of the unbreakable ties that bound them. As the night drew to a close, they knew that their journey was far from over. But with each other by their side, they were ready to face whatever the future held.

And so, beneath the starlit sky of Astellia, four friends shared a moment of peace and camaraderie, their hearts filled with hope and determination. The path ahead was uncertain, but they were ready to walk it together, their bond a beacon of light in the darkness.