Another half-year had swiftly slipped away, and once again, Klaus found himself cradled lovingly within Elisabeth's protective arms. Together, they embarked on their second journey, leaving the annex building behind. Klaus couldn't help but fix his gaze upon the colossal structure that lay nestled within the sprawling expanse of the Lionhart estate.
"That must be the main Palace," he mused, his youthful wonderment evident in the gleam of his eyes.
As they drew nearer, the mammoth edifice appeared to reach skyward, dominating his field of vision even from this considerable distance. Its towering presence was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
"It's more reminiscent of a castle than a mere palace," Klaus observed, his voice tinged with admiration.
Indeed, the grandeur of the structure was in perfect harmony with the Lionhart family's status and influence. Their power, territory, and military might were formidable, rivaling even that of an entire kingdom itself. Their position as one of the Seven Monarchs was not a mere honorific; it was a testament to their formidable stature.
"So, does everyone within that edifice?" Klaus wondered aloud, his curiosity piqued by the vastness of the estate and its intricate layout.
Elisabeth had earlier explained that, aside from herself, who was from a different family originally, and those who had fallen out of favor with the direct lineage, like Ludovic, the rest of the direct lineage resided in close proximity to the main Palace, under the watchful gaze of the head of the house.
"They certainly seem to have their own unique arrangements," Klaus remarked, discerning the complex hierarchy and social structure within the Lionhart family.
Klaus was well aware that a child's mana perception typically opens around the age of five, effectively opening their aptitude for both mana and sword affinity. The event that had gathered them all here was the Sword-selection Ceremony scheduled for that very day, where the abilities and affinities of the children with open mana perception would be evaluated.
However, Klaus remained unperturbed, as such labels held little sway over his determination. With the Ten Eyes Mantra enhancing his body and mana affinity, any perceived inadequacies were rendered irrelevant.
"Klaus," Elisabeth's voice gently interrupted his thoughts as she held him up. They had finally arrived at the entrance of the main building.
"Whatever path you choose, Klaus, Mommy will always be immensely proud. Your health and happiness are what truly matter," Elisabeth assured him, her words filled with the warmth of a mother's love.
"Okay, Mommy. I understand," Klaus replied with the pure innocence of a child, his bright smile reflecting his inner tranquility.
Elisabeth's affectionate words enveloped him like a soothing embrace, and he couldn't help but return her affection, his heart brimming with love.
"My son is truly the cutest!" she exclaimed, nuzzling her cheek against his. If she continued in this affectionate manner, Klaus thought he might find himself immobilized by her maternal adoration for the next five minutes.
"Ahem," Ludovic cleared his throat, offering a subtle reminder of their purpose for being here, ensuring they remained focused amidst the warmth of their family bond.
"Sorry, Husband!" Elisabeth snapped back to the present, regaining her composure as they continued their journey, finally reaching the entrance of the main palace.
Klaus took in his surroundings, noting the dignified demeanor and sharp expressions of the guards, attendants, and maids. The standards here were evidently set exceedingly high, reflecting the grandeur of the establishment.
"We'll be there shortly," Ludovic reassured Klaus, leading the way with a confidence that stemmed from his familiarity with the surroundings.
"Okay," Klaus responded, following Ludovic's lead as they crossed the threshold into the magnificent Lionhart family manor.
The opulence of the interior left Klaus in awe. It was unmistakably clear that this place was reserved for individuals who were anything but ordinary. The attendants, maids, and even the soldiers exuded an air of refinement that set them apart.
"We've arrived. Just stay close to me," Elisabeth whispered to Klaus as they strolled through the central corridor on the first floor.
At the corridor's end stood a massive iron gate, its grandeur such that it could accommodate even a giant. This imposing gate led to the audience chamber where the Sword-selection Ceremony was set to take place.
"Ludovic Lionhart, Klaus Lionhart, Elisabeth Zeres-Lionhart. Verified," the soldier guarding the entrance announced with a respectful nod, turning on his heel to open the door.
With a slow creak, the door swung open, revealing a world bathed in brilliant light. The room was adorned with unimaginable riches, its golden walls lined with priceless ornaments that spoke of opulence beyond measure.
As they entered, all eyes in the room seemed to converge upon Klaus, their collective gaze piercing him like a hundred arrows.
"Ludovic? Is that his child?" murmured one of the assembled strangers.
"Which child possesses such a good look?" questioned another.
"Silver hair and blue eyes," remarked yet another attendee.
"He's rather small, isn't he? I heard he was sickly. Is that true?" came another speculative comment.
"It seems he's inherited the blood of a failed lineage," observed someone else.
"I believe the correct term is 'Broken lineage,' not 'failed,'" corrected another voice.
The hushed whispers of strangers critiqued both Ludovic and Klaus, the weight of their judgment palpable. Although still a child, Klaus keenly felt the gravity of their disapproving scrutiny.
"To allow someone like him inside..."
"Why proceed with the Sword-selection Ceremony for a child of a failed lineage?"
"It's only lowering our standards."
Klaus was acutely aware of the identity of the "failed lineage" they were referencing, and it was evident they were casting judgment not only on Ludovic but also on him.
Despite the disparaging comments, Ludovic stood tall and unwavering, embodying dignity and composure even when referred to as "failed" and "Broken."
The divide within the family appeared deeply entrenched, Klaus mused, contemplating the complex dynamics that governed the Lionhart lineage.
However, as the soldiers raised their spears, interrupting his thoughts, Klaus's attention was once again drawn to the entrance.
"The head of House Lionhart, monarch of the North. Lord Roman Lionhart has arrived!"
With those solemn words, the massive iron doors swung open, and Roman Lionhart made his grand entrance, his presence so overpowering that it seemed to send ripples through the very atmosphere itself.
The room grew heavier, and the act of breathing became a challenge in the wake of his imposing aura. A palpable tension coursed through Klaus's spine.
"Lord Lionhart!" the assembled voices chorused, both dragons from the upper platform and wolves from below alike, all kneeling in unison.
With each deliberate step he took, Roman Lionhart exuded an overwhelming presence that weighed upon the entire audience chamber. Finally, he settled onto the golden lion throne at the center of the platform.
"Let us begin," he declared, his words laden with a gravity that left no doubt— the Sword-selection Ceremony was about to commence.