The Herb King

Chapter 25: Victorious Return

The Flame Tiger Army and Barden City’s local force marched back to their camp with joyous smiles on their faces. They were already expecting a difficult battle against the force of Solas, but they won so easily! Of course, they knew that their victory was because of the emergence of the Level 4 Alchemist who suddenly arrived in their camp.

The soldiers glanced at the young figure who was riding an Equus with gazes filled with respect.

“What are your plans now, Sir Aethelwolf?” General Gavin asked as he urged his Equus to come closer to Leric.

Since Barden City was now free from the clutches of the Northern Viper Group, Leric no longer needed to worry about the safety of his father and mother. As for his future plans, he hasn’t thought about it yet.

“I promised Miss Samira to check her grandfather’s condition after the war is over. By tomorrow, we would set out to the Reynolds Family’s territory, but before that, I will refine one pill for you, General Gavin.” Leric said with a smile on his face.

The General was pleasantly surprised upon hearing his words, but he hurriedly shook his head despite the temptation of the pill. “I’m very honored that you are planning to refine a pill for me, Sir Aethelwolf, but I must politely decline your offer.”

Leric could not helo but glance at the General in surprise.

.....

The General smiled bitterly when he saw Leric’s expression. He then explained unhurriedly. “Sir Aethelwolf, you’ve already helped us a lot and I’m too ashamed to get more things from you. The complete victory against Solas’ army is already more than enough. I hope you don’t take offense. To tell you the truth, I feel indebted to you because of your help. Is there any way I can repay you, Sir Aethelwolf?”

Leric glanced at the General and pondered deeply. From the looks of it, General Gavin was someone who didn’t want to owe favors. “If you insist, then I won’t be polite. I have one request that I hope General Gavin can help me with.”

General Gavin stared at the young Alchemist and waited for him to continue. He wondered what the man wanted him to do. “Sir Aethelwolf, I’m all ears.”

“I hope General Gavin can take care of Commander Anton. He might be a Level 3 Esper now, but he is still a bit lacking in terms of political power and social connections. He has a small territory at the borders of Barden City, but other than that, he has nothing to his name.” Leric was concerned about the future of his father. He might be a strong military man, but aside from his physical strength, he had no other talents worthy to be mentioned. With the General’s support, his father’s influence would grow.

General Gavin was confused by the young Alchemist’s concern about Commander Anton. In the end, he could not control his curiosity and ask. “Commander Anton, is he somehow related to you, Sir Aethelwolf?”

Leric smiled at him and replied. “His son... I took him as my disciple...”

General Gavin was stunned and felt that Commander Anton was truly lucky. His son was actually taken as a disciple by this accomplished young Alchemist! ‘Wait. Hold on. If I remember correctly, Commander Anton mentioned that his son is still three years old... What the hell? Is his son a genius?’ The General thought to himself with a dumbfounded look.

Leric saw his expression and understood him right away. “That kid, Leric, he might be young, but he has the talent to become an Alchemist.” He added to avoid more confusion.

“I see. You don’t have to worry about this, Sir Aethelwolf. With Commander Anton’s contribution to this war, I’m sure that the imperial family would not be stingy. I also promise that I would the Lassiter Family in their future endeavors.” General Gavin patted his chest confidently. He wouldn’t lose out if he helped Anton and his family. With a Level 4 Alchemist standing behind them, their future was destined to be a bright one.

Leric smiled at his words.

The army soon arrived at the camp and their celebratory mood erupted, filling the entire camp with joyous laughter and shouts.

Leric smiled as he watched the soldiers celebrating their victory.

Suddenly, a figure appeared before him. It was his father, Anton.

“Commander Anton.” Leric called out with a smile.

Anton stared at the young Alchemist and bowed his head respectfully at him. This man has saved his life. “Thank you for saving me, Sir Aethelwolf.” He muttered in gratitude.

Leric anxiously stood up and helped Anton adjust his posture. “You don’t have to be like this, Commander Anton. To tell you the truth, the reason I came to this camp was because of you.” He hurriedly explained, afraid that his father would bow at him again.

Anton Lassiter glanced at the young Alchemist in confusion. “What do you mean, Sir Aethelwolf?”

Leric put on an apologetic look as he said. “You see, I’ve taken your precious son as my disciple and I felt that it was rude of me not to inform his parents about it.”

Anton’s eyes widened in surprise. ‘That brat told us that it was an old man who refined the pill. Leric that little brat lied?’

Seeing the perplexed look of his father, Leric finally recalled the explanation he told his parents before. He scolded himself in his heart when he remembered that lousy excuse. “I disguised myself as an old man when I traveled your territory and I happen to notice Leric’s potential in Alchemy. I observed the kid and discovered that he has a physique unlike any other!” Leric randomly spouted nonsense, but it should be enough to clear up the misunderstanding.

Anton was convinced after hearing the explanation. “No wonder. With Sir Aethelwolf’s guidance, that brat’s future is guaranteed.” He was happy for his son.

The two talked for more the ten minutes before Leric excused himself. He might be discovered if he continues to converse with his father.

“Commander Anton, I shall take my leave. I still have to look for Miss Samira to discuss something...”