THE GENERAL'S DISGRACED HEIR

"Do my eyes deceive me?" Elder Maison began as he approached both David and Captain Kaelen, who was now standing. Elder Maison, with a puzzled expression on his face, recognized his nephew from the prestigious main house of De Gor. It was odd, even disconcerting, seeing the disgrace of the family in his own residence.

David turned toward the voice and locked eyes with a nobleman walking toward them with an air of authority. The man was dressed in sumptuous robes lined with luxurious fur, exuding wealth and power.

His silver hair and beard, glistening under the light, framed a face marked by age and experience. He had a stern yet regal expression, his deep-set eyes reflecting wisdom and determination. The intricate patterns adorning his attire, along with the gleaming pendant hanging from his neck, reinforced the aura of command and respect he exuded.

"Elder Noble," Captain Kaelen politely greeted as he bowed down in a show of deep respect, acknowledging the noble's presence.

"Captain, it's good to see you. I assume you have neutralized the intruder," Elder Maison stated, his eyes now on David. "Young Master, what a splendid surprise! By the goddess, what are you doing here?" he asked, his tone a mix of shock and curiosity.

"Ahem," Captain Kaelen coughed, drawing Elder Maison's attention.

"What might be the problem, Kaelen?" Elder Maison inquired, noticing the Captain's strange behaviour.

"Elder Noble, it would seem that the intruder is... the young master," Captain Kaelen explained.

"Captain, is this some kind of joke? No," Elder Maison corrected himself, knowing Captain Kaelen was not a man to jest, especially in his presence. He observed the carnage of fallen, unconscious men, the realization hitting him like a hammer. "How?" he muttered aloud.

David, a mere mortal, found himself confronted by the Awakened guards stationed within the estate. These guards were all skilled swordsmen, ranging from 1st to 4th rank, with capabilities far surpassing the mundane. The question remained: how could he, as a mere mortal, take down so many warriors with such superior abilities?

The grand room was bathed in the soft glow of morning light, exuding an air of timeless elegance. An ornate chandelier hung majestically from the high ceiling, its crystals shimmering like captured stars. Richly upholstered sofas and armchairs, arranged around a central coffee table, invited guests to sit and linger in conversation.

The walls, adorned with antique portraits and tapestries, whispered stories of bygone eras.

The warm morning light cast a cosy, golden hue, illuminating the intricate details of the room's decor, from the marble fireplace to the carefully curated knick-knacks adorning the shelves. Tall windows, draped with heavy curtains, offered a glimpse of the garden outside, adding to the room's enchanting ambience.

David took a seat opposite Elder Maison, who settled into an equally plush chair, while Captain Kaelen stood beside the Elder, his presence a silent guardian. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the three figures prepared to delve into matters of great importance, the elegant surroundings a stark contrast to the tension simmering beneath the surface.