A peaceful night passed without the anticipated night attack.
After walking out of the forest for two hours, the trio finally reached a small town.
Upon arrival, Josh instantly displayed his noble demeanor. He found the town's leader and arranged a carriage for the three of them. There were also a dozen sturdy militiamen, but they were of no use to them and were turned away.
"We're almost at Markfield City. It's the largest city in the Tasone Territory and home to the main members of the Tasone family," Josh said, lifting the curtain to show Helag the scenery outside.
Helag wasn't interested in the details. "I only care about my ten thousand gold coins, Josh."
"Mr. Helag, don't worry. The money is nothing to me; it's easily arranged," Josh said, though he felt a bit nervous hearing himself called "Josh."
"Good, it better be," Helag replied, closing his eyes to rest.
Markfield City was indeed large, with tall city walls visible from afar. The grand city gate, with its massive domed entrance, was bustling with people and carriages.
The guards at the gate wore full armor emblazoned with an eagle, the Tasone family crest.
The guards looked at the approaching carriage with curiosity. As it neared, they recognized Josh and rushed forward. "It's Master Josh! Master Josh has returned!"
***
Upon learning of Josh's return, a squad of guards escorted the trio to the Tasone family's castle.
The Tasone family castle, located at the northernmost part of the city, was a sprawling complex that looked like a royal palace from a distance.
Helag, Josh, and Kieran had already switched to a more luxurious and sturdy carriage, surrounded by layers of guards.
"These are my personally trained guards," Josh said proudly, introducing his escort to Helag.
The group stopped in front of the castle, where someone was already waiting.
A man in his thirties with a small mustache hurried over, looking anxiously at Josh as he got off the carriage. "Oh, Josh! Thank the gods you're safe."
Josh sneered. "Luchi, you seem disappointed that I returned safely."
Luchi, a burly man, responded gently, "My dear brother, what are you talking about?"
"Since hearing of your attack and disappearance, I've been worried sick, mobilizing all resources to find you. I'm relieved you're safe, and Father will be too."
Josh, clearly annoyed by Luchi's demeanor, asked, "How is Father?"
Luchi hesitated before sighing. "Not well. You should see him."
Josh nodded and turned to Kieran. "Uncle Kieran, please take Mr. Helag to rest and give him his ten thousand gold coins. Mr. Helag, I need to see my father first. My apologies."
Helag nodded. "No problem."
Kieran led the way, bowing slightly. "This way, Mr. Helag."
"Who is this?" Luchi asked curiously, his eyes gleaming.
Kieran replied expressionlessly, "Master Luchi, this is Master Josh's esteemed guest. You don't need to know."
"I don't need to know? I'm the eldest son of the Tasone family! Uncle Kieran! If he's Josh's guest, he's my guest too."
Ignoring Kieran, Luchi approached Helag and introduced himself politely. "Hello, I'm Luchi Banks. If you've heard any bad rumors about me, please don't believe them. Get to know me yourself."
"Hello, Helag Merlin," Helag replied casually.
"If you don't mind, Mr. Helag, may I show you around the castle?" Luchi asked eagerly.
Helag smiled. "I won't stay long and have no interest in your family's affairs, so there's no need."
Luchi laughed heartily. "Mr. Helag, you're interesting. All the more reason to be a good host."
Kieran stepped in. "Master Luchi, I'll handle it."
Luchi's smile turned stiff. "Since Uncle Kieran insists, I won't argue."
He apologized to Helag. "Please excuse my brother's possessiveness. He's always worried I'll take something from him."
Kieran ignored the taunt and respectfully addressed Helag. "This way, Mr. Helag."
As Helag followed Kieran past Luchi, Luchi gave him a helpless smile.
"Mr. Helag, would you stay the night? We'd like to show our gratitude," Kieran asked.
"Sure," Helag agreed. He wasn't in a hurry and planned to learn about the local customs as he traveled.
Larry's task for him was to find Moonstone Grass in the Kingdom of Doris, with no set deadline.
Kieran led Helag to a palace, its interior lavishly decorated. A giant oil painting, four to five stories high, dominated the entrance, depicting a portly middle-aged man.
"This is Count Huen, the father of Josh and Luchi," Kieran explained.
"Are they half-brothers?" Helag asked, intrigued.
"Yes," Kieran replied briefly.
Helag nodded and continued following Kieran, noting the palace's opulence. The walls were adorned with gold and gems, each gem worth thousands of gold coins.
"This family is incredibly wealthy. No wonder the brothers fight so fiercely."
The palace showcased the Banks family's wealth, far beyond ordinary imagination.
"Mr. Helag, you'll stay here tonight. The guards and servants are at your service, and no one will disturb you," Kieran said, stopping at a large door.
With a push, the door opened, revealing a spacious room behind it.