News about the victory of the unified force of General Gavin and Commander Anton spread in Barden City. Even the neighboring cities have heard of their epic battle. There were also rumors that a wandering Level 4 Alchemist played a major role in defeating the Northern Viper Group that was led by one of their infamous commanders, Solas.
At first, everyone was skeptical about this story, but when many soldiers came and eagerly told them about what had happened at that time, everyone's doubts disappeared.
"General, I will leave with Miss Samira and visit the Reynolds Household. I hope you will do what you have promised."
"Don't worry, Sir Aethelwolf. I won't disappoint you." General Gavin smiled at the young man.
Leric left the General's tent and looked for his father. He would be gone for a long time so he wanted to see him first.
He found Anton preparing for his return to his territory.
Looking at the figure of his father, Leric let out a smile. "Commander Anton." He called out softly.
Anton jolted in surprise when he heard the familiar voice. He turned his head and stared at the young Alchemist. "Is there anything I can help you with, Sir Aethelwolf?"
"I'll be gone for a long time. Possibly a few months or even longer. Your child will be staying with me as I will train him to become an Alchemist." Leric glanced at his father and observed his reaction. He saw that the man has become a bit emotional when he told him that his child will be gone for a long time, but he soon stared at Leric with a smile.
"Sir Aethelwolf, I hope you will take care of Leric."
"Of course!" Leric assured him with a confident tone.
"Commander Anton, you've consumed the pill I concocted, so there should still be three left. You can use it however you like, but one must be given to General Gavin." Leric wanted to hug his father, but he knew that it would be awkward since he was using a different body, so he could only pat his father's shoulder firmly, his eyes filled with emotions.
Commander Anton felt a bit embarrassed upon hearing his words. He had indeed taken four pills from his son at that time and he had already consumed one pill, so there were only three left. "Rest assured, Sir Aethelwolf." He promised.
"It's time I leave. Goodbye, Commander Anton." Leric smiled and left without looking back.
It was time to begin his journey toward the Reynolds Household. It was quite far since their territory was within the capital city, but the thought of adventure made him a bit excited.
Leric returned to Samira's tent and saw that the three girls had already prepared everything. He even saw a horse-drawn carriage that was made from expensive materials. A team of armored soldiers in their horses surrounded the carriage like faithful knights. These men were the personal guards of the Reynolds Household. All of them were Level 1 Espers!
"Sir Aethelwolf, we have already prepared the carriage. We will depart as soon as you give the command." Samira gracefully bowed at Leric when he spotted him.
Leric shook his head and replied. "You can lead the entourage, Miss Samira."
"As you wish." Samira muttered softly. She then opened the door of the carriage and motioned Leric to enter.
Leric calmly walked inside the carriage and sat on the comfortable cushion. He belatedly realized that there were already two people inside the carriage.
"Greetings, Sir Aethelwolf! We will tend to your needs for the rest of the journey." Skylar and Kathlyn bowed their heads at Leric.
'Is this how Alchemists are treated in this empire?' Leric felt a bit overwhelmed by their reverent attitude, but he didn't show it on his face.
"Thank you, Miss Kathlyn and Miss Skylar." Leric smiled at them.
***
The capital city of Leone Empire was hundreds of kilometers away from Barden City. It would take them a few days to arrive even if they took the shortest route. Luckily, Leric was in the company of three beautiful young ladies, so he didn't mind the long journey.
Inside the carriage, Leric glanced at Samira who was seated in front of him. He saw the girl stretching her neck and arms. Her joints must be aching after sitting for several hours.
"Miss Samira, if you don't mind, I can help you alleviate your aching joints. I know a set of massaging techniques that can help in relieving stressed muscles and bones." Leric offered in a gentle voice.
"A massage?" Samira and the two maids stared at Leric's gentle smile.
Samira wanted to turn down his offer, but when she saw his handsome visage, she couldn't bring herself to do it. She was embarrassed at the thought of him massaging her body.
"Oh. I apologize for my impertinence. I only suggested it after seeing your uncomfortable look." Leric let out an apologetic smile.
"No. No. No. I don't mind at all! Sir Aethelwolf, please." Samira moved closer to Leric and stared at him with blushing cheeks.
'This [Charm] skill is truly effective! Hehe.' Leric chuckled evilly in his heart.