Starting With an SSS-Rank Swordsmanship Talent

Regression

Inside a spacious bedchamber, a young man could be seen sleeping on the bed. His eyebrows were furrowed as if he was experiencing a nightmare. 

Suddenly, his eyes sprung open and he abruptly sat up straight. 

Looking around, he was confused and disoriented. 

He clutched his head and organized his messy thoughts. 

I thought I died after getting shot by an arrow. How did I survive?

Alaric could still vividly remember the last scenes before his death. The comrades who died for him, the enemies he had slaughtered, and the arrow that ultimately killed him… He remembered it all. 

While he was recalling the scenes of that battle, a series of knocks on the door pulled him from his thoughts. 

"Come in." 

Alaric was surprised by the young voice that came out of his mouth. 

A young maidservant pushed open the door. She bowed to him the moment she stepped inside the room.

"My lord, it's almost time for breakfast." 

When he saw the familiar yet unfamiliar face, Alaric was shocked, disbelief written all over his face.

"Nana?" 

His voice trembled as emotions welled up in his heart. 

The young maidservant was embarrassed when she heard this endearing nickname. 

Just as she was about to say something, she saw Alaric slowly approaching her, his eyes filled with a mixture of joy and guilt. 

"I-is… it really you? You're alive…" 

Alaric's voice choked as he stared at the young girl. 

She was Elena. She has been with him since her parents sold her to his family. She was only six years old at that time, while he was ten. 

At first, he didn't like being around with her. He felt that she was a nuisance, but Elena's sincere and innocent heart moved him. 

He didn't treat her like a servant. He cared for her like she was his real sister. 

However, something tragic happened. This innocent young girl later committed suicide after being repeatedly abused by his uncle. She was only seventeen when she died. He only found out the true reason for her suicide a few years later when his uncle, with a slip of his tongue, accidentally mentioned it in his drunken stupor. 

Looking at Elena's childish face, Alaric took her in his arms and embraced her tightly. 

When he felt the warmth of her body, he could no longer hold back his emotions as tears slid down his cheeks. 

"M-My lord?" 

Elena raised her head in surprise when she felt him trembling. And when she saw that he was crying, she was flustered. 

"W-Why are you crying, my lord?" 

Hearing her worried voice, Alaric smiled as he gently stroked the back of her head. 

"I'm just happy to see you again. I missed you so much, Nana…" 

He could still remember the days when he cried every time he visited her tomb. 

The remorse and the regret from his past life made him even more emotional.

Elena was embarrassed and shyly lowered her head. 

"S-Stop saying such embarrassing things, my lord. And please don't call me Nana in front of other people." 

Looking at her pouting her lips and hearing her shy voice, Alaric felt the warmth that he had been seeking for a long time. 

He wiped off his tears with his hands.

"Yes. Yes. I won't call you Nana in front of other people." He smiled as he gently brushed her hair with his fingers. 

"Hmph! You're teasing me again!" 

Elena looked away from him, feigning anger with her arms crossed.

"Alright. Alright. I won't tease you anymore." 

Alaric squeezed her bulging cheeks which earned another glare from Elena.

Suddenly, Alaric saw his reflection in the mirror. 

He was stunned. 

In the mirror was a young face, handsome and filled with vigor- silvery white tousled hair, chiseled jawline, and a pair of golden crimson-colored eyes. 

It was far from the haggard and depressed face that he was used to. 

"Elena, what is the date today?" He asked, his voice shaking with uncertainty and confusion.

"The date? Hmm… It's the third of August, Year 208 of the Astanian Calendar." 

"Year 208?!" Alaric's eyes widened. 

Countless thoughts flashed in his mind in that instant.

He had actually traveled more than 10 years into the past!

Just then, he remembered something important. He grabbed Elena's shoulders and asked with a hint of anxiety in his voice. "Where are my parents?" 

Elena was bewildered. He was acting a bit strangely this morning. 

"His lordship and the madam should be at the dining hall by now." She responded.

Without bothering to change his clothes, Alaric hastily stepped out of his bedchamber and headed to the dining hall, a mixture of excitement and apprehension settling over him. 

"My lord! Wait for me!" Elena called out, but he didn't stop.

The servants in the hallway were surprised to see him running in his nightwear, but Alaric ignored them and headed straight to the dining hall.

As soon as he got there, he saw a middle-aged man with a gaunt face. With broad shoulders and visible battle scars on his arms, he looked incredibly intimidating. This man was none other than Baron Lucas Silversword, the current head of House Silversword. 

The baron was known as the Shield of the North because of his commitment to defending the northern border of Astania. His strong martial power also solidified his position as one of the greatest warriors in the empire. 

However, five years later, in the year 213 of the Astanian Calendar, the mighty baron would die and leave the world, full of regrets.

Upon his death, House Silversword fell into the hands of his uncle and Alaric's mother died a year later due to her grief. 

Sitting beside the baron was a woman who looked to be in her late twenties. 

Her long black hair fell over her shoulders and she had a pair of obsidian eyes that radiated with gentleness. She carried herself with grace and she had this unique charm of a mature woman. This woman was Alaric's mother, Maria Keller. 

Maria Keller was the daughter of a rich merchant. Just like her merchant father, she was also skilled in business management. It was because of her efforts that the impoverished House Silversword was able to accumulate a decent amount of wealth in recent years.

Seeing his parents alive and well, Alaric felt the urge to cry once again. 

Dad… Mom…

He had so many words to say, but it was stuck in his mouth. 

"What are you standing there for? Sit down." 

The baron's stern voice drifted into his ears. 

His father was just as he had remembered, strict and cold. However, Alaric knew that behind his stern face was a loving father and husband who would do anything for his family. 

Alaric held back his emotions and took a seat beside his father. 

"Why are you still in your nightwear?" 

Maria asked with concern as she stared at her son's face.

Lucas didn't say anything, but it looked like he also wanted to hear Alaric's explanation. 

"About that… I woke up late…" Alaric found a random excuse. 

"You should sleep early tonight. It won't be good for your body if you always sleep late." His mother reminded him. 

"Yes, mother." Alaric smiled as he nodded his head. 

At the corner of his eyes, he noticed Elena sticking her head out by the door, peeking at him while making a funny face.

Alaric beckoned to her. "Nana, come and sit beside me!" 

Elena was so shocked by his words that she immediately hid herself.

Seeing this, Alaric chuckled and shook his head in amusement. "Dad, Mom, I'd like to invite Elena to dine with us." 

Lucas and Maria were already aware of the close relationship between Alaric and his young maidservant. In truth, they were already planning to make her his concubine as soon as she reached a marriageable age. 

"Alright. She can join us to eat." 

Lucas nodded. He then made a hand signal to the old butler who was standing behind him. 

"Elena, come in and sit with us," Maria called out gently, while the old butler quietly grabbed a chair for Elena.

The young maidservant who was hiding outside jolted when she heard this. 

Oh my god!

She was screaming nervously in her heart. 

She never thought that Alaric would actually boldly ask the baron and the madam to let her join them for breakfast. 

Left with no choice, Elena nervously entered the dining hall. She bowed at Lucas and Maria, her eyes shifted with anxiety.

Meanwhile, the old butler placed a chair next to Alaric and returned to his spot behind the baron. 

"Come here, Nana!" Alaric patted the empty seat next to him. He even pulled it closer to him. 

Elena blushed in embarrassment when she heard him calling her with that nickname.

Grr!! I told him not to call me that in front of others!

She timidly lowered her head and walked towards the empty seat. 

After sitting down, she didn't even dare lift her head. 

It was the first she had sat with them at the dinner table so she couldn't help but feel uneasy.

"Relax. We are just going to eat." 

She felt Alaric's warm hand patting her head. 

"Stop teasing her. You are only making her uncomfortable." Maria gave him a look of reproach. 

"I-I'm fine, madam. Lord Alaric isn't making me uncomfortable. I'm just a little bit nervous." Elena spoke in his defense. 

Alaric smugly smiled at his mother. 

Watching them bicker, the baron's lips curved upwards. 

A while later, the servants came in to bring their food. 

SSS-Rank Swordsmanship Talent

 After a hearty meal with his family, Alaric went to the bathroom for a quick bath. 

Inside the bathroom, Alaric was comprehending how he was able to return to the past. Were all the things he experienced just a long nightmare? 

He wanted to make himself believe that it was just a dream, but he knew that he had truly traveled back in time.

He sighed and sorted out his thoughts.

Ten years from now, the current emperor of Astania would die. His death would later fracture the empire because of the civil war caused by his sons who were both vying for the throne. 

However, this wasn't the most important thing in Alaric's mind. 

He had to prevent the death of his family and the downfall of House Silversword!

His main priority was to observe his uncle. 

That guy was the main culprit for the fall of House Silversword!

He secretly plotted to take over Lucas's position to replace him as the new head of the household. To achieve this, he bribed one of the servants and asked them to poison Lucas's food. 

Even though Lucas was a powerful warrior, his body gradually weakened under the influence of the potent poison. 

That was how the mighty Baron Lucas Silversword fell. 

I should observe my Uncle's movements discreetly.

Alaric's face turned cold as he recalled the image of that kind-looking middle-aged man. 

He might looked like a harmless guy from his outward appearance, but beneath that kind facade was a venomous beast of a human! Just the thought of him filled Alaric with profound rage. 

Out of nowhere, a transparent cyan screen suddenly appeared before him, almost making him jump up in surprise. 

[Loading system.]

[Scanning the host.]

Alaric Silversword [Knight Apprentice] EXP: 70/100

Potential: B

Traits: Horseback Riding (D), Swordsmanship (D), Close Combat (D), Archery (F), Hunting (E), Tracking (F)

Strength: 17

Stamina: 18

Agility: 15

Vitality: 17

Endurance: 17

Mana: 3

Battle Points: 0

[You received a newbie gift pack.]

An image of a golden gift box appeared on the screen. 

[Do you want to open the newbie gift pack?]

[Yes] [No]

Alaric was baffled by what he was seeing. He even thought that he was hallucinating. 

He closed his eyes, but when he opened them, the translucent cyan screen was still there. 

He reached out his hand and tried to touch the screen. 

[Yes]

He accidentally clicked [Yes]. 

[Opening newbie gift pack…]

[You received x1 SSS-Class Talent Card.]

[You received 1000 Battle Points.]

[You received x1 Elite Knight Card.]

Alaric took his time to understand what was happening, but he was still perplexed. 

The screen displayed what seemed to be the quantification of his physical abilities. It also displayed his set of skills and even the progress of his training. 

Is it showing my abilities?

His brain spasmed as he tried to understand what the letters represented. 

I'll deal with that later. Now what's this newbie gift pack thing?

From the newbie gift pack, he received two cards and 1000 battle points. One of the cards was golden in color and with a sword drawn on it. The other one was a blue card with the image of a knight. 

[Do you want to use the SSS-Class Talent Card?]

[Yes] [No]

The words on the screen were written in a language that he couldn't recognize, but strangely enough, his mind automatically translated them into the language of Astania. 

After some hesitation, he clicked [Yes]

[You awakened the SSS-Class Swordsmanship Talent.]

Suddenly, his mind shook as if he had experienced enlightenment. 

The sword moves that he found difficult to execute in the past seemed to have become simple and easy to understand. He could even recall the subtle movements that he failed to notice before.

He was in this magical state of comprehension for almost ten minutes. 

When he regained his senses, he finally realized what that sword talent thing was. 

What the hell?! It actually helped me comprehend those difficult sword movements! What is going on here?!

He was dumbfounded. 

I think I stumbled upon an immortal relic!

This thing might be left behind by an immortal.

My return to the past might be related to this as well.

He absentmindedly stared at the cyan screen. 

[Do you want to use the Elite Knight Card?]

[Yes] [No]

I wonder what this card will do… It won't summon an Elite Knight, right?

Alaric laughed, but his smile suddenly stiffened when he realized that it was possible. 

Thinking about this, he hastily stepped out of the bathroom and headed to his bedchamber. 

He didn't dare use the card while he was still in the bathroom. 

After changing into a new set of clothes, he focused his attention on the screen and clicked [Yes]. 

In that instant, a blinding light forced him to close his eyes. 

When he opened them, a middle-aged man fully dressed in leather battle armor was already standing before him. 

He exuded a mighty aura unique only to those who had gone through numerous life-and-death battles. 

He had long wavy black hair and a pair of brown eyes that seemed to have seen through the darkness of the world. 

Seeing this person, Alaric's eyes widened in shock and he couldn't help but take a step back. 

"My name is Galanar. I swear my eternal loyalty to you, my lord!"

The middle-aged man half knelt as he swore the knight's oath. 

I really summoned an Elite Knight! No way!

Alaric couldn't believe that his guess turned out to be right. 

To become an Elite Knight, one had to accumulate enough mana and train their physical body to a certain extent. 

Before his death, Alaric was an Elite Knight and it took him years of arduous training to become one. If his training time from childhood was to be counted, it took him more than twenty years to become an Elite Knight. 

"Rise," Alaric muttered as he observed the middle-aged Elite Knight. 

Hearing his words, Galanar stood up. 

Alaric was a tall guy himself. He was at 196 centimeters, but he was still a head shorter than Galanar. This guy might be as tall as his father, or probably even taller. 

Now, how should I explain this to my parents?

Alaric paced around the room, thinking of a good excuse that wouldn't make his parents suspicious. 

At this moment, he heard a series of knocks on the door, followed by Elena's cute voice. "My lord, it's time for your training. His Lordship wants you to head to the training grounds as soon as possible." 

"Alright. I'll be there!" 

Looking at the still Galanar, Alaric didn't know what to do. 

What should I do with this guy? I can't let him stay here.

Alaric sighed helplessly. 

From the looks of it, his only choice was to bring Galanar with him to the training grounds. Leaving him inside his bedchamber might cause chaos especially if the servants or guards would find him. 

"I'll bring you to the training grounds. It's best if you don't speak when someone asks you things, but in the off-chance that you have no choice, this is what you should tell them…" 

Alaric taught him how to respond in case his parents asked him some questions. 

Galanar was silent the entire time so he couldn't tell if the guy had remembered his words. 

"Follow me." Alaric shook his head. 

He could only make an excuse on the spot. Whether his father would believe it, he couldn't care less anymore. 

As they headed out of the mansion, Galanar's presence quickly attracted attention. 

"Who is that guy? I haven't seen him before."

"He's so tall!" 

"Is he a knight?" 

Alaric ignored the curious servants and brought Galanar directly to the training grounds. 

When they arrived, everyone turned their gazes and looked at them. 

Lucas stopped his training and turned his gaze. His eyes narrowed as he looked at the man walking respectfully one step behind his son. 

"Father." 

Lucas nodded indifferently. "That man is?" 

Here goes nothing…

Alaric put on a calm look as he responded. "This is Galanar. He is an Elite Knight. He is now working for me." 

Hearing this, Lucas was inwardly surprised. It was difficult to hire Elite Knights. Even the allure of money couldn't move them. This is because most knights didn't like to work under someone. 

House Silversword only had three Elite Knights. One was the commander of the guards. The other one was the old butler, and the last one was Alaric's uncle. As for Lucas, he was already a Transcendent Knight, the realm beyond the Elite Knight. 

The fact that Alaric managed to invite an Elite Knight to work for him made Lucas quite pleased. 

"I see. He can stay here and practice with you. I will process his identification later. As long as he doesn't have a complicated background, I will accept him as one of us." 

Alaric was secretly relieved that his father didn't ask more questions. 

"Don't worry, father. Galanar is a wandering Elite Knight. He doesn't have any issues with his background." 

Lucas nodded upon hearing his words. "You are already eighteen. As someone who will inherit my position, it is necessary for you to have your own trusted subordinates. You should start gathering more people on your side. However, their allowances and salaries will be your problem. Do you understand?" 

Daily Mission

"Yes, father! I will find a way to earn money. I won't touch our family's treasury."

As someone from the future, he knew many locations where he could find valuable things that were worth a lot of money. He also knew which businesses they could invest in. 

"You don't need to feel pressured. If you need help. Don't hesitate to ask for my help." Lucas said before he went back to his training. 

Alaric bowed gratefully to his father. 

He then turned his head to Galanar.

"Galanar, you can train on your own here. You can find the equipment there. Just be careful when you are swinging your sword." 

Galanar nodded. 

"Yes, my lord." 

He cupped his fists and went to grab some training equipment, to begin with his training.

Meanwhile, Alaric went to the weapon rack and grabbed a steel sword. 

He now had the SSS-Class Swordsmanship Talent so he wanted to find out if it wasn't a mere fluke that he had comprehended all those sword movements. 

Some of the guards curiously looked over. 

Alaric rarely came here to practice so they wanted to see what he would do. 

Normally, people in the training grounds do simple physical training to work on their muscles and strength. Some also hone their weapon proficiency with repeated exercises. As for the knights, other than physical training and weapon proficiency training, they also do mana training. 

Alaric was only a Knight Apprentice so he still couldn't control the mana in his body. 

Before starting with his sword training, Alaric did some light exercises to warm up his muscles. 

However, before he could start, the translucent cyan screen appeared before him. 

He looked around and checked if the others could see the screen, but no one showed any reaction. 

So I'm the only one who can see this thing?

Alaric was no longer surprised. He already believed that this thing was an immortal relic and he was planning to make full use of it. Why wouldn't he use it when it's already handed to him on a silver platter? Only fools would do that. 

___

Daily Mission:

100 pushups

100 sit-ups

100 pull-ups

10 km run

100 vertical slashes

100 diagonal slashes

100 horizontal slashes

100 stabs

Rewards: 10 Battle Points, 1 EXP, and 1 Stat Point

Penalty for failure: - 1 random stat point

____

This… What is this?

Alaric stared at the tutorial for the weird training exercises on the daily mission. Each exercise had a tutorial so he quickly understood them. 

So if I do these exercises, I will be rewarded.

There is even a penalty…

Alaric still had no clue about the specifics of the translucent cyan screen. However, his instincts told him that something good would happen if he followed the weird exercises. 

So that's how you do a push-up. I just need a hundred, right?

After watching the push-up tutorial, Alaric followed the posture and started doing push-ups. 

The guards stared at him in confusion. The exercises they normally did were lifting heavy objects, wall climbing with weights, or sparring with training weapons. 

"What is Lord Alaric doing?" 

"Is that a secret exercise to train the body?"

Lucas also noticed his peculiar exercises. He rubbed his chin and observed Alaric.

That exercise puts pressure on the arms and the shoulders. Every movement also squeezes the core muscles.

Where did he learn that from?

Alaric ignored them and focused on completing the mission. 

At first, he thought that it would be easy, but he realized that it was actually very tiring. Just doing 100 push-ups alone made his shoulders and arms feel a bit sore. 

100 push-ups ☑️

Alaric rested for half a minute before he proceeded with the next exercise. 

100 sit-ups ☑️

100 pull-ups ☑️

10 km run ☑️

After an hour, he finally completed half of the exercises. 

So it's finally time for the sword exercises.

He muttered after seeing the tutorial for vertical slashes. It was just a simple slash with no flashy movements. 

Alaric grabbed the training sword he had temporarily put aside earlier. 

Swish!

Swish!

He followed the posture of the tutorial. The posture was different compared to what he normally did during combat. The vertical slash on the tutorial looked swift, accurate, and graceful. 

"Wow! Is that a sword technique?!"

"It looks like a normal slash, but the movements are more stylish and sophisticated." 

As a Transcendent Knight sword user, Lucas discovered something more in the vertical slashes that Alaric performed. 

That posture looks more natural than the orthodox stance. It also uses less armstrength since the force is drawn from every part of the body.

The more Lucas observed, the more astonished he became. 

100 vertical slashes ☑️

100 diagonal slashes ☑️

100 horizontal slashes ☑️

Half an hour later, only one exercise was left. 

Alaric was covered in sweat. He wasn't used to all those exercises so his muscles were sore. 

After complaining inwardly, he watched the sword stab tutorial. 

His SSS-Class Sword Talent helped him to quickly grasp the movements of the exercise. He didn't even need to rewatch the tutorial. 

Ten minutes later…

100 stabs ☑️

[You received 10 Battle Points.]

[You received 1 EXP.]

[You received 1 Stat Point.]

Alaric Silversword [Knight Apprentice] EXP: 71/100

Potential: B 

Traits: Horseback Riding (D), Swordsmanship (SSS), Close Combat (D), Archery (F), Hunting (E), Tracking (F)

Strength: 17 +

Stamina: 18 +

Agility: 15 +

Vitality: 17 +

Endurance: 17 +

Mana: 3 

Battle Points: 1010

Stat Points: 1

Alaric saw the changes on the screen which displayed the quantification of his physical abilities. 

What is this EXP thing? Will I become a Knight once it reaches a hundred?

A look of anticipation flashed in his eyes as he thought of this. 

In his last life, he only became a Knight when he was in his twenties. 

What do these battle points do?

Unfortunately, there was no tutorial on these things so he could only temporarily put it aside.

Suddenly, he noticed that there were plus (+) symbols on his stats.

These symbols weren't here the last time I checked it.

Out of curiosity, he clicked the '+' symbol on his strength. 

+ 1 Strength

A message appeared on the screen, followed by his Strength going from 17 to 18. The Stat Points also turned to 0.

It finally dawned on him.

So the stat points can increase my physical abilities!

What a pity! I only got one from the daily mission.

He tried testing his strength by lifting some weights. It wasn't much, but he did feel a slight increase in his strength.

Sweet!

"Alaric!" 

Lucas' voice interrupted his thoughts. 

"What can I do for you, father?" 

Lucas approached him and said. "Those exercises you performed… Where did you learn them?"

Alaric scratched his head as he thought of a random excuse. "I learned them myself." 

"By yourself?" Lucas was surprised to hear that.

Alaric nodded. "Yes. I thought that doing those exercises could help me develop my body." 

"Then what about those sword techniques?" Lucas sensed the fluctuations in his eyes, but he didn't expose his son.

"That… I felt that the orthodox sword stances put way more emphasis on strength. This is good, but in the battlefield where stamina is important, you need to preserve as much strength as possible. That's why I made some adjustments with the postures to make them less draining to the muscles." 

This was Alaric's comment on the orthodox sword stance. He felt that the ones shown in the tutorials were better. 

He didn't know why he felt that way. He guessed that it was related to his SSS-Class Swordsmanship Talent. After awakening that talent, it was as if he could see through the mistakes in any sword movements with just one look. 

Lucas became silent. He felt that Alaric wasn't saying the whole truth. 

There must be some kind of secret related to those exercises, but why did he perform them in front of the others?

I should ask him again next time.

"Alright. You may go." Lucas waved his hand.

Alaric bowed lightly. He then left the training ground with Galanar.

After they left, Lucas grabbed his sword. It was a two-handed heavy sword that was similar to the one Galanar had. 

Lucas closed his eyes and recalled Alaric's posture when he performed the sword slashes. 

Seeing this, everyone immediately gave him some space. 

A moment later, Lucas opened his eyes and abruptly swung his heavy sword. 

SWISH!!!

The sword made a sharp humming sound and even caused a violent fluctuation of the wind. 

Lucas was stunned by the unexpected power behind that slash. 

Becoming a Knight

2nd of September, Year 208 on the Astanian Calendar. 

It has been a month since Alaric returned to the past. He spent the whole month of August adjusting to his younger body. He also familiarized himself with the people and the environment. Everything was happening exactly like how it had played out in his past life. 

Other than doing his daily training, Alaric also ventured into business with the help of his mother. Even though he knew about the future, he was still a complete newbie in business. 

He realized how awesome his mother was when he started his own business. 

Today my EXP will reach a hundred after I complete my daily mission.

Alaric headed to the training ground as he inspected his profile.

Alaric Silversword [Knight Apprentice] EXP: 99/100

Potential: B

Traits: Horseback Riding (D), Swordsmanship (SSS), Close Combat (D), Archery (F), Hunting (E), Tracking (F)

Strength: 18 +

Stamina: 18 +

Agility: 15 +

Vitality: 17 + 

Endurance: 17 + 

Mana: 3

Battle Points: 1290

Stat Points: 28

He had already accumulated 28 stat points, but he had no plans to allocate them for the time being. 

"Good morning, my lord!" 

"Sir Galanar is also here!" 

Lucas wasn't there so Alaric immediately started his training. 

100 push-ups ☑️

100 sit-ups ☑️

100 pull-ups ☑️

10 km run ☑️

100 vertical slashes ☑️

100 diagonal slashes ☑️

100 horizontal slashes ☑️

100 stabs ☑️

[You received 10 Battle Points.]

[You received 1 EXP.]

[You received 1 Stat Point.]

[You have accumulated enough EXP to advance. Do you want to use 1000 Battle Points to advance to the next realm?]

[Yes] [No]

I finally succeeded!

Alaric was thrilled when he saw the system prompts. 

So that's what the Battle Points are for.

Alaric thought as he clicked [Yes].

- 1000 Battle Points

[You have been promoted to the Knight realm.]

Alaric Silversword [Knight] EXP: 0/500

Potential: B

Traits: Horseback Riding (D), Swordsmanship (SSS), Close Combat (D), Archery (F), Hunting (E), Tracking (F)

Strength: 18 —> 28 +

Stamina: 18 —> 28 +

Agility: 15 —> 25 +

Vitality: 17 —> 27 +

Endurance: 17 —> 27 +

Mana: 3 —> 13 +

Battle Points: 300

Stat Points: 29

All his stats increased by ten points after his advancement. It was a qualitative leap in strength!

Just then, a burst of mana leaked out of his body. 

The nearby guards who were in the middle of their training were stunned when they sensed the fluctuations of mana. Although mana was invisible, trained fighters like them were sensitive to it. 

"Lord Alaric has become a Knight!" Someone shouted.

Hearing this, everyone immediately turned their gazes to Alaric. The normal guards could hardly detect it, but the few Knights among them sensed the mana coalescing within Alaric's body. 

"An eighteen-year-old Knight! Unbelievable!" One of the older Knights muttered in disbelief. 

Knights were individuals who had adapted to mana after tempering their bodies to withstand this invisible energy. They were fearsome warriors who could take on tens of normal soldiers at once! 

To become a Knight, one had to temper a body capable of withstanding mana. This process would normally take a long time. In the empire, the youngest to ever become a Knight was from over a hundred years ago. He was sixteen at that time. He was also the current emperor of Astania, Emperor John Phillip Astania! He was already more than a hundred years old at this moment, but because of his high level of attainment in martial arts, he managed to live a long life.

I really became a Knight!

Alaric clenched his fists in excitement. In his past life, he only became a Knight when he was 24 years old. 

"What's going on here?" Lucas rushed here when he heard the commotion. 

When he caught sight of his son, he immediately sensed the fluctuation of mana in his body. 

"Alaric, you've become a Knight?" He muttered in disbelief. Even for himself, he only became a Knight when he was 22! 

"Good! I knew you would do better than me!" Lucas couldn't help but feel proud of his son. 

"You deserve a celebration! We will host a party for you next week to celebrate your advancement!" Lucas couldn't conceal the smile on his face. He was happy for his son's advancement. 

"That's too much, father. There's no need to celebrate it." Alaric scratched his head, feeling a bit embarrassed since he didn't advance the normal way. 

"How can you say that? In Astania, only His Highness the crown prince achieved a similar feat! You should be proud of yourself, my son. I have already decided. We will have a party. I will also invite my friends over to join the celebration!" 

It was the first time he had seen this side of Lucas. 

In Alaric's past life, his father was already gone when he became a Knight.

Looking at how happy his father was, Alaric smiled and nodded. "Alright, father. I'll leave the preparations to you. I still have to visit the shop to see how everyone is doing so I'll take my leave first." 

"Hold on. Are you talking about the workshop you recently opened?" 

"That's right. My workers just started with the production two weeks ago. The products should be ready by now. I want to check them myself." Alaric replied.

"I see. In that case, you should invite your workers to join the celebration." 

Hearing this, Alaric's eyes lit up. "Alright. I'll make sure that they will come." 

Lucas smiled and waved his hand impatiently. "You may go. I still have to send the invitation letters to my friends." 

"Yes, father." Alaric bowed and watched him leave. 

Looking at his father's excited figure, he couldn't help but shake his head.

So he can also smile like that.

After Lucas left, the guards immediately surrounded Alaric and congratulated him again. 

Alaric spent another ten minutes thanking everyone before he left the training ground with Galanar. 

The workshop he opened was outside their territory. It was located in a nearby city, Vale. It was a place with hundreds of thousands of residents! 

To get there, Alaric took a horse-drawn carriage. They traveled for almost an hour before they arrived. 

Looking at the tall walls that surrounded the city, Alaric's eyes burned with passion. 

I will make our territory bigger than this place.

With the help of the immortal relic and his knowledge of the future, he was confident that he could build an even more prosperous city than Vale!

A moment later, their carriage finally entered the city. 

Alaric's workshop was located at the heart of the city. There was a lot of traffic there so he bought an old workshop and rebuilt it. 

"We're here, my lord!" The coachman's voice drifted into his ears.

Alaric stepped out of the carriage and looked at the newly refurbished two-story building. It was far from the decrepit building that it was before. 

"Stay here, Galanar. I'll go in by myself." 

"Yes, my lord." Galanar bowed his head.

Alaric entered the workshop and the first thing that greeted him was the fragrant scent of lilies and jasmine. 

This is it! This is the smell that I was familiar with!

As soon as he entered the shop, the two female shop attendants were stunned. 

"My lord! You should have told us that you are visiting today! We could have waited for you outside…" One of the ladies, a young woman with average facial features but a bombshell of a body, exclaimed as she bowed her head deeply. 

"Why would I make you wait outside? It's too hot out there." Alaric shook his head. 

"By the way, where is the manager?" He asked.

"The manager is inspecting the products in the production room, my lord. He didn't want us to go in so we can only wait here." The one who answered was the other lady, a woman in her late twenties. She had fair white skin and above-average facial features. 

"I see. Are there any completed products?" 

"Yes, my lord! The manager brought them in this morning. Would you like to see them?" The woman with a bombshell body replied. 

"Yes. Let's have a look." Alaric nodded, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. 

The two ladies walked to the cabinet and took out five rectangular boxes. They then carefully placed them on the table. 

"Please inspect them, my lord. The manager worked really hard to make them." The fair-skinned woman remarked. 

Nodding his head, Alaric opened the boxes one by one. Soon, the fragrant scent of different kinds of flowers assailed his nostrils. 

Inside the boxes was an item called scented soap. This thing was used to cleanse the body and rid it of dirt. In his past life, it was a very popular product among women, especially to the nobility. 

Before it was created, people used the older version of soap wherein they used animal fats and wood ashes mixed with water. It had an unpleasant smell, but it could remove dirt. 

The scented soap was created by a middle-aged commoner. 

When it was released to the market, it quickly became famous. 

The man who created it also became rich overnight, but the value of his product attracted the attention of a corrupt official who later ordered his arrest. His wealth was confiscated and even the recipe of his product was interrogated out of his mouth. He was later executed by the official. 

Alaric heard about it since it became the talk of the town in his past life when the official's corruption was discovered. 

This will become my source of money in the future…

Alaric could already see money rolling in his pockets.

Visiting the Orphanage

Alaric entered the production room after inspecting the completed products. 

"Didn't I tell you that you're not allowed in-"

"Eh? My lord! Why are you here? This place is dirty!" 

A middle-aged man with shaggy hair and a messy beard was startled when he saw Alaric. 

"Vince, you look like you didn't sleep for a few days." Alaric smiled wryly at him. 

This man was the creator of soap, a talented individual with an innovative mind. The only bad thing about him was that he only takes a bath once a week. It was very ironic since he was the man who brought soap into the world. 

"It's fine. I slept two days ago." Vince waved it off as if it was a normal thing. 

Alaric could only shake his head helplessly. 

This guy was so obsessed with his inventions that he would even go as far as skipping rest and meals. He was truly a peculiar man.

"You should stop that unhealthy lifestyle, Vince. It won't be good for your body. You're not young anymore. You shouldn't overdo it."

Vince stared at him weirdly. "Sometimes I think that you are not a noble, my lord. Nobles don't care about their servants' lives. You are different. That's why I decided to work for you." 

Hearing this, Alaric smiled and shook his head. "Enough about me. Are the products ready to be put up for sale?"

When he mentioned the products, Vince eagerly showed off his creations. "These are all the soaps I made, my lord. They only need to be packaged in boxes and they will be ready to be put up for sale." 

"How many have you made?" Alaric asked.

Vince rubbed his chin and thought for a moment. "I think I made around six hundred pieces." 

"Six hundred? That's not enough." Alaric shook his head. 

This was far from the ideal amount he was looking for. 

"If you want to increase the production, we will need more people, but there is a high chance that our recipe will be leaked," Vince muttered.

"Don't worry about that. I'll take care of the personnel issue. Just take some rest for now. You can begin with the production after I send the new workers over." Alaric knew where to find trustworthy people. 

"Ugh. Fine. You're the boss. I'll listen to you." Vince clicked his tongue.

Alaric chuckled when he saw his expression. "By the way, there will be a celebration in the mansion next week. You guys better be there. I'll send you the invitation cards later." 

"A celebration? Is it for a birthday?" Vince raised an eyebrow, a curious look hung on his face. 

Alaric smiled mysteriously. "You'll know soon." 

Seeing that he had no intention to tell him, Vince shrugged his shoulders. 

"Close the shop and go home. I'll take my leave first." Alaric patted his shoulder and stepped out of the production room.

Alaric also informed the two ladies about the celebration. 

After some small talk with them, he left the shop. 

"Let's go," Alaric said to Galanar who was waiting outside the shop. 

He entered the carriage while Galanar sat beside the coachman.

"Let's head to the orphanage," Alaric muttered with his arms crossed. 

"Yes, my lord!" The coachman acknowledged. He then whipped the horses and urged them to move.

In Vale, there existed a place for homeless kids. It was a small orphanage founded by an old couple. 

In his past life, he befriended a few soldiers who came from that place.

They called it their home. 

Fifteen minutes later, they arrived in front of a rundown three-story building.

It was surrounded by different kinds of plants and fruit trees. 

Even from inside the carriage, Alaric could already hear the sound of the children laughing. 

Alaric stepped out of the carriage and observed the building. 

It looked like an abandoned house. 

On the surface of the building were traces of repairs that looked completely out of place. With a glance, one could tell that it was done by an amateur who had no knowledge of carpentry. 

Outside the building, Alaric saw a few children dressed in dirty linen clothes running around the vegetable garden. 

"Galanar, you better stay here. You will only scare off the children if you come with me." Alaric stopped Galanar from following him.

The guy was too intimidating for the children. They might cry if they saw him.

"Yes, my lord." Galanar didn't show any reaction and bowed his head. 

At this moment, the children finally noticed their presence. They were scared when they saw Galanar's towering height and ferocious appearance.

They stopped playing and quickly hid behind the trees. 

They stuck their heads out and nervously watched Alaric who was moving towards them. 

"Hey! Who are you!? What's your business here!?"

Alaric turned his head and saw a young man who looked to be in his late teens. Behind him was an old couple walking side by side. 

"You rude, kid! Stop shouting at our guest!" The woman who seemed to be in her fifties scolded the teen and beat him with a broom.

"Grandma, that guy looks suspicious!" The teen pointed at Alaric with a look of defiance.

Seeing this guy, Alaric couldn't help but laugh.

So this is what you are like as a kid, Rasmus.

This rebellious teen was one of the few people he had befriended in his past life after he was conscripted by the crown prince. 

Rasmus was abandoned by his parents at birth and he was raised by the old couple at this orphanage so he was extremely protective of them.

The old man was just calmly observing the situation when he took notice of the insignia on Alaric's clothes. 

His eyes flashed and he immediately pulled Rasmus behind him as he asked cautiously. "My lord, are you perhaps from House Silversword?"

"House Silversword?!" Rasmus was stunned when he heard this. 

Even though he was a commoner, he had received some education from the old couple. He was told that House Silversword was the biggest reason why Vale was able to stand firm despite the continuous attacks from outside forces. Those stories made Rasmus admire them.  

"That's right. My name is Alaric Silversword. I hope you are not offended by my unannounced visit." Alaric cupped his fists- a standard salute of the knights. 

Seeing this, the old man returned the salute. 

From his snappy posture and resolute eyes, Alaric sensed the valor of a veteran knight. 

"You honor us with your presence, my lord! I am William Dominic, a former knight of Astania." 

After exchanging some greetings with the old couple, Alaric extended his hand to Rasmus and smiled. "Hello! I'm sorry if I had offended you. Can you tell me your name?"

It's good to see you again, my friend…

Alaric's eyes flashed with emotion. Memories of Rasmus appeared in his mind and played like a movie. 

After knowing that he was from House Silversword, Rasmus was no longer hostile.

"I should be the one apologizing. You can just call me Rasmus, my lord." He scratched his head, feeling embarrassed by his earlier behavior. 

"Rasmus is it? We should be of the same age. There's no need to be formal." 

"Let's head in, my lord. We can continue our conversation inside." The retired knight, William, invited him to their humble home.

Alaric’s Generous Offer

"My lord, can you tell us why you have decided to visit our humble home?" William asked with a serious look as soon as they took their seats.

"There's no need to be nervous. I came here because I was made aware of your tough financial situation. Your orphanage takes in children who have no home. You give them food, and clothes, and even provide them with basic education."

"You have my respect." 

"However, it must have been tough raising the children without sufficient funding. I believe you guys have already tried asking the officials for some donation, but you were rejected." 

William sighed and shook his head. 

"It is as you have said, my lord. We tried asking the officials for financial support, but they didn't even bother to speak with us. We also tried reaching out to some merchants, but they actually wanted to get the young girls in exchange for funding. How could we agree to their ridiculous demands?" 

He looked agitated when he mentioned that.

"Since then, we started growing our own food. We also raised some livestock. We then sell the extra vegetables and fruits at the market for money. That's how we managed to survive until now." 

The old woman, Josephine, cried, probably saddened by their difficult situation.

Rasmus held the old woman's hand as he held back his tears from falling. 

Alaric felt sorry for what they had experienced.

"How about this?" 

"I will give financial support to the orphanage. I will also send some teachers to give the children a proper education."

The faces of Josephine and Rasmus brightened when they heard his words. 

Only William remained calm in the face of his tempting offer. "What's the catch, my lord?"

There was no free lunch in this world. 

"In exchange, the orphanage will send some children to work for my shop." 

William's expression changed so Alaric quickly explained.

"It's not a difficult job."

"They just need to make something for me. They will also get paid daily for the job." 

Alaric took out a small box from his pocket and showed it to William. "This is the product of my shop." 

William and the other two curiously looked at the item inside the box. When William opened it, the fragrant scent of lilies slapped their faces. 

"This is!" 

"How fragrant!" 

"It smells like lilies." 

Alaric smiled when he saw their reaction. "That thing is called scented soap. We haven't released it in the market yet since we don't have a lot in stock. Once we get enough manpower, we will begin with the production and sell it as soon we have enough supply for the market." 

William closed the box and put it on the table. "What does this thing do, my lord?" He asked. 

"It's similar to the soap we use to clean the body. The only difference is that we don't use animal fats, but flower oils and some other ingredients. Using it will make your body smell nice." Alaric had already memorized his spiel. 

"That good?" Josephine looked interested in this improved product.

"Yes."

"To tell you the truth, this is my first business so I want it to succeed."

"What do you think?"

William frowned, seemingly in deep thought. 

"How long do the children need to work? And how much are you paying them?" 

Alaric was thrilled. It looked like he had already agreed. 

He only needed to give the old man a satisfactory response to get his approval. "Hm… we can't let the children below twelve years old work since they are still too young and clumsy for the job. They will have to work for six hours a day and they will get two rest days every week. As for their salary, I will give them 20 copper coins per day and four copper coins for every extra hour of work they do."

"That much? I'm in! I'll do it!" Rasmus eagerly said, but he immediately shut his mouth when he saw William giving him a stern glance. 

Two copper coins are already enough for a decent meal. The average salary in the city is only ten copper coins per day. He is actually willing to give the children 20 copper coins for six hours of work. It's a generous offer, but I'm still worried about the children's safety.

His product seems like it will become a hot commodity once it is release in the market so there is a high chance that it will attract unwanted attention from shady characters.

William was in a dilemma. Alaric's offer was very generous and he was even willing to offer financial support to the orphanage. The only thing that he was worried about was the safety of the children. 

"Can you guarantee their safety?" William stared deeply at Alaric. 

"I know what you are worried about, but you can rest assured. I will station one Elite Knight and four Knights at the store. If there's a troublemaker, they will be taken care of right away." Alaric knew the value of the scented soap so it was necessary to place some countermeasures. 

"An Elite Knight?! You're willing to station someone that powerful in your shop?" William widened his eyes in disbelief. 

"That's right." Alaric nodded. He didn't want to repeat the tragedy that happened in his past life. 

To ensure the safety of Vince and the rest of the workers, a deterrent force had to be deployed. 

William was silent for a moment. 

After what seemed like an eternity, he looked deeply at Alaric. 

"We accept your offer, my lord, but if the children are harmed, we will take them back right away."

Hearing this, Alaric joyfully agreed. "Great! I look forward to working with everyone!" 

With that, Alaric finally secured the workforce he needed. All that was left was to teach the children how to make scented soap. 

"When will they start working?" William asked.

"They still need to learn how to make the product."

"I will send someone to pick up the children tomorrow. You can also go with them if you want to know where they will be working." 

Suddenly, Rasmus asked with a cheeky smile. "My lord, are we also paid during the training?"

Josephine immediately pulled him and forced a smile. "Please don't mind him, my lord. We didn't properly teach him manners so he developed this kind of behavior." 

Alaric chuckled. "It's fine. Just let him be. I like his attitude. Anyway, to answer your question…Yes, the children will receive payment during the training. It's part of the job so they will be properly compensated."

"However…"

"I don't plan on letting you work at the shop, Rasmus."

"Huh? Why? Is it because of my attitude?" Rasmus's face fell when he heard this. He was only a year away from becoming an adult so he wanted to start earning some money.

Josephine and William also stared at him curiously, wondering what this was all about.

Alaric shook his head. "It's not about that. I have a better proposition for you, but you will need to get your guardian's approval." 

Rasmus looked confused. 

"I plan to bring some talented children to the estate and train them to become Knights." 

There were plenty of talented individuals among the commoners, but because of the lack of opportunity, their potential was buried. 

In his past life, there were some people who had revealed their enormous potential after they were forced to join the civil war. Unlike most people who struggled to control mana, they were able to control this energy with ease. They progressed faster than the others and quickly rose to power. 

If he could gather those people, Alaric would have enough manpower to stop the civil war. 

That was his ultimate goal. 

He didn't want to go through that hell again. 

That war caused devastating damage to the empire and it brought misery to a lot of people. 

Rasmus felt his blood pumping when he heard this. 

It was his dream to become a soldier. As for becoming a Knight, that was his lifelong goal. How could he not be excited when a chance to become one was presented to him?

"That…" Rasmus stared at William with a pleading look. "Grandpa, please I want to become a Knight!"

Seeing him like this, William sighed helplessly. "Alright. Alright." 

"Are you sure about this, Rasmus?" Alaric spoke with all seriousness.

"Once you begin with the training, there is no turning back anymore. You will have less freedom and you will have to serve House Silversword." 

Josephine and William didn't say anything. They were Rasmus's guardians, but the final decision was still in his hands.

"You should think it over before you make a decision. Your choice will affect your future so you should discuss it with your guardians." Alaric didn't want to force him. 

William and Josephine stared gratefully at him upon hearing his words.

"I will take my leave first. You can give me your response tomorrow." Alaric stood up and bid them farewell. 

Watching the departing carriage, William patted Rasmus's shoulder. 

"You should follow your heart, Rasmus. This might be the opportunity that you have been waiting for. I know that you want to become a Knight. House Silversword is a good choice and Lord Alaric seems like a good leader as well." 

"I made a promise that I would protect everyone, but I barely know how to wield a sword. I hate how powerless I am! If I had the power, my brothers and sisters wouldn't have to suffer anymore!"

"Grandpa, I have already made my decision!"