For Kingston’s tenth birthday, a grand party was held and his friends were invited.

Of course, Cameron’s son—Jess—was also invited. Kingston and Jess were great friends. As the two played together, some would look at them with mixed expressions, but Mareena smiled at them.

In addition, Jess—perhaps having inherited the traits of his grandfather, Silas—loved to study plants and often stayed with Silas on Mt. Illica. It went to the extent that he’d often miss school. As a result, he was scolded by his uncle—Baron Zion—and Silas.

“He’s become 10-years-old.”

The second son of Marquis Liddle, Viscount Alfred Ashard, spoke to Mareena as she watched her child play.

“…Al.”

“Time flies.”

“Yes, it was so fast.”

“By the way, did you have a dispute with Count Essen the other day?”

“It wasn’t a dispute, per se…”

“I heard you canceled the agreement.”

“That lady’s mouth is too loose.”

“She said too much, didn’t she?”

“As a result, rumors spread like wildfire, and the children started saying unnecessary things to Kingston.”

“What a bunch of fools.”

“While gossip is good publicity, it can also be harmful—which is a hassle.”

The standing of the Westmont family had changed significantly over the last decade. In the past, those of the count family were humble countrymen whose main source of income was agriculture. However, after successfully cultivating the mythical flower called Sylphy, which led to the development of many new businesses, it had become a vassal to the royal family.

With the help of Silas, they were also able to successfully grow a variety of vegetables through selective breeding, immensely boosting trade with other territories.

Of course, the Baron Zion family also benefited from that and raised in peerage.

“Why don’t you take a break soon?”

“What are you saying, so suddenly?”

“You’re overworked. Kingston is worried about you. Besides, your hair is turning grey.”

“Oh my, that child of mine…”

“You aren’t that old yet, are you?”

“I’m already thirty-five. Gray hair is a given.”

Although, the white hair around her temples was quite conspicuous.

“Don’t you miss spending time with Kingston?”

“…That’s right.”

She knew that—but at the same time, she wanted more power. She wanted to be powerful enough to protect Kingston. Even in the future, people would continue to speculate about his birth. In that case, she had no choice but to attain enough power to protect him.

—Furthermore, she intended for him to succeed the family without any trouble.

“You’re being overprotective.”

“I don’t care, say whatever you want.”

“Well, be careful to not collapse.”

“Thank you for your concern.”

“Speaking of which, isn’t Kingston going to compete in the swordsmanship division at the tournament?”

“That’s right! I’m looking forward to it!”

Mareena’s expression shifted from a countess’ to that of a mother. At last, her expression suited her age.

“You should start looking for an instructor. During this period, many families scout for tutors. Usually, talented people are the first to go.”

“Oh no, we can’t have that. Is there an eligible candidate around?”

“If you like, I can find one for you.”

“Are you sure? If it isn’t any trouble…”

Achieving high rankings in competitions were a great honor. If Kingston won, the glory would be everlasting.

Conversely, if he lost in a devastating manner, he’d have to endure the shame for ages.

While being selected as a competitor was already honorable on its own, if he didn’t have the confidence to win, it’d be better for him to step down.

“Even if he loses, he has to lose in a good way—if you get what I meant.”

“Do you have any experience, Al?”

“What are you talking about? I was on a civil officer course, there was no way I could participate.”

Most of the students who participated in the competition were enrolled in the knight course. Usually, those who aspired to be civil officers would be active in academic and cultural festivals.

“Well, don’t expect too much. Just in case, I’ll ask my father.”

“Thank you.”

—a swordsmanship instructor?

The fact had completely escaped her mind. For Kingston’s sake, she wanted to find a talented instructor, as well.

As of the present, he was trained by the escorts—Eric and Gavin—but only in the basics. If he wanted to win a tournament, the academy’s regular classes wouldn’t be enough. He needed supplementary lessons and self-training.

Usually, children from families of knights would receive special education from an early age. If anything, it was uncommon for children without special education like Kingston to enter the swordsmanship tournament. In other words, children like him being eliminated was normal.

However, as he was selected due to his ability, he might have room for improvement.

…Mareena suddenly thought of a certain guild. Perhaps, she’d be able to find someone there. However, she soon abandoned the idea and decided to have someone introduce her. She’d be able to get referrals using her personal connections.

……

The next day after Kingston’s birthday party…

Kingston and his escort, Eric, eagerly rode the carriage.

Even though it was early in the morning, Kingston was ecstatic about visiting the city’s largest guild. Of course, he kept that a secret from Mareena.

Outside the carriage, Mareena could be seen standing with a worried look on her face.

“Kingston, never leave Eric’s side.”

“I know.”

“Eric, I entrust Kingston to you.”

“Leave him to me.”

That was Kingston’s first time going out on his own. Mareena was stricken with anxiety. Even with Eric as an escort, she couldn’t help but worry about Kingston.

“Let’s go.”

To reassure his mother, Kingston smiled and waved his hand.

“I’ll bring back some delicious sweets as souvenirs.”

“Hehe, I’m looking forward to it.”

Mareena saw off the carriage until it was out of sight.

“Lady Mareena, you don’t have to worry so much.”

“I know, Beth. Still, it’s his first time going out alone.”

“It’ll be alright. He’s with Sir Eric. Knowing Kingston, he woon’t act out of the line.”

“I know…”

Beth prepared a relaxing herbal tea and raspberry cake made by the head chef for Mareena as she was still anxious even after entering the mansion.

“Thank you, Beth.”

“Not at all.”

She couldn’t help but be frustrated.

Why don’t I relax and read a book?

For the first time in a long while, Mareena decided to read one of her favorite novels in her study.

---

***T/N: A break after such a long time

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