The Family Gathering

That evening, the Cromwell family gathered in the grand dining hall of the baron's mansion.

The long wooden table, carved with intricate designs, was filled with dishes of roasted meat, fresh vegetables, and fragrant bread.

Baron Graham Cromwell sat at the head of the table, his expression firm yet warm.

His wife, Baroness Eleanor Cromwell, sat beside him, her sharp eyes watching her children closely.

Across from them, Strider Cromwell and his younger sister, Silvia, sat next to each other.

The conversation began with lighthearted topics, with Baron Cromwell asking about Strider's well-being.

"You've been gone for five months," the Baron said, cutting into his meal. "Where exactly have you been?"

Strider paused for a moment, then replied with a carefully crafted lie.

"Great Great Grandfather Alex had a letter he wanted me to deliver to an old friend from his past adventures," he said with a calm tone.

Baron Cromwell's expression remained unreadable.

However, Baroness Eleanor's expression darkened. She slammed her fork down and frowned.

"That old man sent you on such a dangerous errand?! You have no martial talent! Do you know how reckless that was?"

Her voice was filled with worry and frustration.

Silvia, who had been listening quietly, suddenly chimed in.

"Mother's right! You could have been robbed, attacked by bandits, or worse! Why didn't you tell us before leaving?"

Strider chuckled, trying to ease the tension. "It wasn't that dangerous. I handled everything just fine."

His three older brothers, who had returned from their training in the sect, also voiced their concerns.

"You could have just sent someone else," said Elric, the eldest among them.

"Yeah, even a servant would have been a safer option," added Darian, the second brother.

The youngest of the three, Victor, simply nodded in agreement.

Seeing his family's reaction, Strider knew that his excuse wasn't entirely believable. But he remained composed.

Baron Cromwell finally raised a hand, signaling everyone to calm down.

"I understand your concerns," he said in a steady voice. "However, what's done is done. Strider is back safely, and that is all that matters."

The tension in the room lessened slightly, and the conversation shifted.

The Baron's expression softened as he smiled at Silvia.

"I have good news," he said proudly. "Silvia has reached the 5th layer of the Mortal Transformation Realm."

Strider turned to Silvia, showing a surprised expression like his brothers and his mother.

"That's impressive," he said with a nod of approval. "You've worked hard."

Silvia grinned, pleased with the recognition.

"I've been training diligently every day," she said, her voice filled with determination. "I want to be strong enough to protect our family."

Baroness Eleanor smiled with pride, while Strider's three brothers nodded in approval.

"It seems like our little sister is becoming a true warrior," Darian said with a teasing smirk.

The conversation at the table was harmonious, with everyone enjoying the family gathering.

However, after some time, Baron Cromwell cleared his throat, signaling that he had something important to discuss.

"The main reason for today's meeting is to discuss the Maxwell Duchy's Heir Selection Ceremony."

The room fell silent as everyone focused on the Baron's words.

"As you all know, every noble family in the Stoneheart Empire is required to send a representative to this event," Baron Cromwell continued. "Our barony is no exception."

Silvia's eyes lit up.

"I will represent the Cromwell family," she declared confidently.

The Baron nodded. "That was the plan. However, since you are still a minor, one of your brothers must accompany you as well."

This statement caused everyone to glance at each other.

Elric, the eldest, leaned back in his chair. "I suppose that responsibility falls on one of us, then."

"I would go," Darian said, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "But my training in the sect is at a crucial point."

Victor sighed. "Same here. The sect elders won't be pleased if we leave at such a time."

Silvia frowned. "I don't want to be accompanied by someone unwilling. This is an important event for our family."

At that moment, everyone's gaze fell on Strider.

Baron Cromwell spoke first.

"Strider, since you are already back, why don't you go with Silvia?"

Strider raised an eyebrow. "Me?"

"Why not?" Silvia smirked. "You're always sneaking off somewhere, but now you have the chance to travel with your family for an official event."

Strider thought for a moment.

He had originally planned to attend the Duchy's Heir Selection Ceremony anyway, as it was a good opportunity to observe the political and martial strength of the region.

Not to mention, it was a chance to check on Silvia's progress firsthand.

Finally, he nodded.

"Alright. I'll go with Silvia," he said.

Baron Cromwell smiled approvingly. "Good. It is decided then."

Baroness Eleanor still looked concerned. "Are you sure, Strider? This isn't some simple journey. It's a gathering of powerful nobles and warriors. Conflicts might arise."

Strider smiled reassuringly. "I can handle myself."

Silvia grinned excitedly. "Then it's settled! We'll leave in a few days."

With the decision made, the dinner continued, though now everyone's thoughts were occupied with the upcoming journey.

Later That Night

After dinner, Strider walked out onto the balcony, gazing at the moonlit sky.

Silvia soon joined him, standing beside him in silence for a moment before speaking.

"You don't seem worried at all," she said.

Strider smirked. "Should I be?"

Silvia sighed, resting her arms on the balcony railing.

"The Maxwell Duchy is a dangerous place, even for nobles. There will be powerful figures there, and some might not have good intentions."

Strider looked at her with amusement.

"Worried about me?"

Silvia rolled her eyes.

"Just don't embarrass the Cromwell family."

Strider chuckled.

"I'll do my best."

Silvia gave him a side glance, then smiled.

"Still… it will be good to travel together again."

Strider nodded. "Yeah. It will."

With that, the two siblings stood together, watching the night sky, their bond as family stronger than ever.

Strider glanced at Silvia and smirked. "You should get some rest. We leave early tomorrow, and I'd hate to see you half-asleep on our journey."

Silvia sighed but nodded.

"Fine, fine. But don't oversleep yourself."

With a small chuckle, Strider watched as she turned and walked back inside.

He remained on the balcony a moment longer, gazing at the stars before heading to his own room, ready for the journey ahead.