Rose Valen's visit to Arthur's ward, though he was in a coma, did not go unnoticed. He heard every word she spoke. Her unwavering resolve to befriend him, despite the disapproval of others, touched him deeply. His heart, which had known little kindness since his parents' passing, beat faster. Rose Valen was the first person to show him such genuine warmth. With Rose Valen's determination so clear, how could Arthur refuse her friendship? He began to consider the future. He understood that acquiring "witness points" required witnessing significant people and events within the Knight world. Rose Valen was undoubtedly a crucial figure. The future of the Knight world, as he knew it, revolved around Valen George. Therefore, aligning himself with Rose Valen early on seemed like a strategic way to accumulate witness points. However, a nagging thought troubled him. If his understanding was correct, Rose Valen had been entangled in a scheme orchestrated by the Capital of the Kingdom of Dawn since her arrival. Befriending her meant altering her fate. While this would save her life, it also meant Valen George would never be born, potentially depriving Arthur of a significant source of witness points. These points were crucial for his future in the Knight world. Arthur had initially planned to remain in the Capital, waiting for the Primordial Fire Spirit Break Out and Valen George's rise to Baron rank, then leveraging their connection for witness points. But this was no longer feasible. He would have to change his plans, leave the Capital sooner, witness other events, and gather witness points wherever he could. Another concern was the Primordial Fire Spirit Vessel. If Rose Valen willingly accepted this role, he wouldn't need to worry. But if she refused, he needed to prepare. Finally, he was about to gain a friend, one willing to face scorn for his sake. He needed to be worthy of such loyalty. Just then, the system's voice echoed in his mind. "[Please note that the host does not obtain witness points by having the host witness something that happens next.]" Arthur was confused. "What do you mean?" "[Witness points are earned from witnessing events that impact the Novel world. It's not limited to events in the host's memory. For example, if the host were todeclare war on the Kingdom of Dawn now, it would be pointless. The host lacks
the power, and the Kingdom wouldn't take you seriously. Therefore, no witness
points. However, if the host possessed significant power and the Kingdom
perceived them as a threat, it would be considered an event, and witness points
would be awarded. Furthermore, the host would receive additional points for
participating in said event.]"
Arthur's eyes widened. "So, I can earn witness points on my own?"
"[Yes, but be warned, major events are inevitable.]"
Arthur's excitement waned. "You mean...Valen George's birth is certain?"
"[Yes, but it might not be the Valen George you remember.]"
Arthur considered this. "You're saying Valen George will be born, but perhaps not
as Rose's child? Maybe someone else's, but this child will still fulfill the same
role?"
"[Correct.]"
This was actually good news. It meant Arthur didn't have to manipulate events.
Major events, and thus witness points, were guaranteed. He could focus on
accumulating power and helping Rose Valen change her fate. A sense of relief
washed over him, replaced by anticipation for the future.
Rose Valen continued to chat, sharing stories of her recent experiences. As she
spoke, Arthur felt a growing connection. He felt anger when she described being
harassed by other children, and then joy as she recounted how she had defeated
them.
"Okay, Arthur," Rose Valen said finally, "it's getting late. I should head back.
Grandma Elesa will worry. I hope we can meet at the Academy tomorrow, not the
hospital. See you tomorrow!"
"See you tomorrow, Rose," Arthur echoed silently. He desperately wanted to
wake up, to meet her at the Academy. Perhaps his desire was strong enough, for
his fingers twitched. He felt a surge of hope and focused all his will on regaining
control of his body. His toes moved next, then his arms, legs, and neck. Finally,
he opened his eyes.
The bright light stung his eyes, and he blinked. His body ached, clearly not fully
recovered. As he opened his eyes again, he noticed movement outside the
window. The branches of a tree were swaying.
"Dark Knights?" he murmured, his eyes shadowed. He knew the destruction he
had caused with the Thunder Knight Sword Art would attract attention. He wasn't
surprised to be monitored. He assumed Clerk Maxwell would summon him after
his discharge to explain what had happened. What he didn't expect was for Clerk
Maxwell to visit him personally, just half an hour later. He was stunned. Surely,even such a dramatic display of power from a young student didn't warrant a personal visit from the King, especially for someone he so clearly disliked?