The Arrival of Duke Rid
Duke Rid approached the fortified city of Johnson with a mix of anticipation and greed. The transformation of the city was staggering. Under Kent's leadership, Johnson had evolved into a stronghold of formidable defences and striking beauty. The Duke's eyes widened at the sight of the towering walls, the reinforced gates, and the strategically positioned watchtowers. This was no longer just a city; it was a fortress, a testament to the Jhonson's strength and resilience.
As Duke Rid passed through the gates, his gaze swept over the bustling streets, now meticulously organized and heavily guarded. The infrastructure had been overhauled, with sturdy buildings and well-planned roads that facilitated both commerce and defence. His greedy eyes glinted with desire as he imagined the wealth and power he could command if he controlled such a place.
Inside the Jhonson Estate
Upon entering the Jhonson estate, Duke Rid was met by Reginald, the imposing and loyal servant of the Jhonson family. The Duke couldn't help but feel a surge of unease as he sensed the strength emanating from Reginald. There was a quiet power about him, a disciplined intensity that made Duke Rid wary.
"Follow me," Reginald said, his tone respectful yet firm.
Duke Rid complied, his mind racing with thoughts of manipulation and control. He was led through the grand halls of the estate, the opulence and order of the surroundings doing little to ease his growing sense of inferiority.
The Confrontation with Drid and White Demon
Duke Rid was ushered into a room where Drid Jhonson and White Demon were engaged in a serious discussion. The air was thick with the weight of their conversation, but Duke Rid was undeterred. He had come with a purpose.
"Drid Jhonson," Duke Rid began, his voice smooth and practiced, "I have come to offer my assistance. Johnson is facing numerous threats, and my influence over 'The Republic' could be invaluable in ensuring your city's safety."
Drid, ever the picture of calm and composure, looked at Duke Rid with a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Your offer is appreciated, Duke Rid, but I wonder at the price of your help."
Duke Rid's smile was as calculated as his words. "I propose a partnership. You become my subordinate, and in return, I will provide the protection and support Johnson needs."
Drid's expression remained unchanged, but his eyes gleamed with a subtle, taunting light. "Your generosity is noted, Duke Rid. However, Johnson has always thrived on its independence. We are quite capable of handling our affairs."
The rejection, though delivered with calm respect, stung Duke Rid deeply. He masked his frustration with a tight smile and nodded curtly. "Very well, Drid. If you ever change your mind, you know where to find me."
Encounter with Kent
As Duke Rid made his way out of the estate, still seething from the rejection, he encountered Kent. The young warrior's presence was commanding, his demeanour resolute. Duke Rid attempted to engage him, but Kent merely glanced at him and walked past without a word.
This blatant disregard infuriated Duke Rid further. His mind churned with schemes and plans to bring the Jhonsons to their knees. He left Johnson with a heart full of vengeance, determined to find a way to crush the family that had so boldly defied him.
The Arrival of Duke Amber
Not long after Duke Rid's departure, another visitor arrived at the Jhonson estate. Duke Amber, known for his cunning and strategic mind, approached with a different proposition. He was received by Drid Jhonson, who listened attentively as the Duke laid out his proposal.
"Drid," Duke Amber began, "I have a proposition that could benefit us both. I propose an alliance between our houses. In return, I ask that Kent takes my son, Remus Schmidt, as his direct disciple."
The offer took aback Drid. He knew Duke Amber was a shrewd man, and this proposal likely had deeper implications. Sensing the need for caution, Drid called for Reginald to bring Kent to the meeting.
Kent's Arrival and Decision
Kent entered the room, his presence commanding immediate respect. Duke Amber stood up, a broad smile on his face, and extended his hand to Kent. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Kent."
Kent shook Duke Amber's hand, a flicker of recognition in his eyes. He remembered this man from his past life. Duke Amber had once asked Rodrick to take his son as a disciple when the boy was just two days old. It had been an unusual request, one that many had declined due to the challenges of training a Duke's son.
Now, faced with the same request, Kent saw an opportunity. He knew aligning with Duke Amber could provide strategic advantages. "Very well," Kent said, his voice steady, "I will take your son in."
Reflections and Schemes
As Duke Amber departed, satisfied with the outcome, Drid turned to Kent, a mix of surprise and curiosity on his face. "Are you sure about this, Kent?"
Kent nodded. "His son has potential, and having them on our side could be beneficial. We need strong allies in the times ahead."
Drid trusted Kent's judgment and nodded in agreement. "Very well. But be cautious, Kent. Duke Amber is a shrewd man. There may be more to his proposal than meets the eye."
Duke Rid's Return
Meanwhile, Duke Rid seethed with rage and humiliation. The rejection by Drid and the cold dismissal by Kent gnawed at him. He returned to his estate, his mind churning with thoughts of revenge.
He began to plot meticulously, considering every angle and every possible move. Duke Rid was not a man to be easily thwarted. He was determined to find a way to bring the Jhonsons to their knees, to take what he believed should be his.
Duke Amber's Plan
Back in his estate, Duke Amber watched his son, Remus Schmidt, with a mixture of pride and ambition. His plan was falling into place. By placing his son under Kent's tutelage, he hoped to strengthen his position while also forging a powerful alliance.
Duke Amber knew that Kent was a formidable warrior, and he believed that under Kent's guidance, Remus would grow into a powerful asset. He trusted that his gamble would pay off, and he was prepared to play the long game.
Kent's Training
In the days that followed, Kent began the arduous task of training Remus Schmidt. The boy was eager to learn, his determination clear in every movement. Kent pushed him hard, knowing that only through rigorous training could Remus unlock his true potential.
Kent's training continued as well, his body and mind focused on mastering the Flareion God Sword Technique. He knew that the battles ahead would require every ounce of his strength and skill. The knowledge of hidden arts and the formidable techniques were all part of his arsenal, ready to be unleashed when the time was right.
The Calm Before the Storm
As the days turned into weeks, the Jhonson estate remained a hub of activity and preparation. Drid, Kent, and their allies worked tirelessly to strengthen their defences and prepare for any threats that might come their way.
Duke Rid, simmering with anger, continued to plot his revenge. His desire to crush the Jhonsons consumed him, driving him to devise increasingly elaborate schemes.
Duke Amber watched his son's progress with satisfaction, confident that his plan was unfolding as intended. He knew that the alliance with the Johnsons would be crucial in the turbulent times ahead.
A New Dawn
As the sun rose over Johnson, casting its golden light over the fortified city, the Johnsons stood ready. They knew that the road ahead would be fraught with challenges, but they were united in their resolve. The legacy of their ancestors, the strength of their training, and the alliances they had forged would see them through.
In the distance, the shadows of the two Dukes loomed, each with their plans and ambitions. The stage was set for a confrontation that would shape the future of 'The Republic'. As the Jhonsons prepared for the challenges ahead, they knew that their legacy of strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to their principles would guide them through the storm.
Standing atop the stronghold's walls, Kent looked out over the city with a sense of purpose. He knew that the battles ahead would test him in ways he could not yet imagine, but he was ready. With the Flareion God Sword Technique in his arsenal and the support of his family and allies, which were the footsteps of him marching on 'DEATH', who dwells in the Ex-Sun Cult.