“Please take care, Sir Eugene!”

“It was such an honor to be with you!”

“Sir! I will see you at the territory in a month!”

The mercenaries of Moffern and the seven free knights came outside to see Eugene off. The time they spent together was rather short, but Eugene had undoubtedly been the best employer and the leader for all of them. Some of them would no longer have to roam the world without a master after being sworn in by the marquis, and they burned even more with loyalty.

“I will return after accomplishing feats that will not taint the names of Lord Essandra and Sir Eugene.”

“I promise you. The names of Archivold and Eugene will resonate loudly over the skies of the peninsula.”

“Yes, yes. Don’t overdo it. I know I’ve already mentioned this, but make sure to absolutely obey Lord Essandra’s orders. If I hear otherwise, there won’t be any land waiting for you once you return,” Eugene responded.

“Please don’t worry!”

It could only contain three or four small households, but the knights were passionate and eager to possess their own land and farmer tenants. Their profits from their land would be sufficient to feed their horses and replace a few of their equipment. Moreover, Eugene would not be satisfied with managing territory only on the peninsula. The knights’ hearts swelled up at the thought of officially becoming lords of small territories one day. All they had to do was to be loyal to Eugene.

“Then I wish you all luck,” Eugene said.

“Yes, sir!” The mercenaries and knights answered in one voice. 

Leaving the large group behind, Eugene passed the gate...