A Wonderful Dream

Henry won the duel, and the surrounding soldiers erupted in enthusiastic cheers and applause, celebrating Henry's heroic performance and regarding him as a hero.

Seeing a high-ranking noble die before their eyes was far more satisfying than bragging in a tavern.

However, amidst the noise, Henry felt a strange sense of threat. He looked at the unbreathing Nulun, wondering what was threatening him.

Three high-ranking officers came over to congratulate him, saying, "Knight Henry Burley, your bravery will be legendary in the Seventh Legion."

Boman, Glen, and others also came to offer their congratulations, and some noble knights also expressed their admiration.

Henry handled the compliments with ease, but he also noticed the indifference and hostility of many Barons and Viscounts.

Henry gave Boman a look, and Boman frowned and looked around, but said nothing.

Henry raised his hand and said to the surrounding people, "I've been in the wild for a month and a half and need rest. Tomorrow night, I will spend five hundred Denar to treat you all to a feast!"

The crowd cheered, applauding Henry's generosity.

After the crowd dispersed, Boman explained under Henry's gaze, "They think your actions are declaring war on the local nobles."

Henry tilted his head and asked, "Am I not a local noble?"

Glen pursed his lips and said, "Henry, we are Dean's students, aren't we?"

Henry was amused by their words. These nobles were really idle, creating enemies when there were none.

"Anyway, you've now formed a feud with these local nobles," Boman said worriedly.

"What's there to fear?"

Henry snorted dismissively, saying, "If enemies come, we have swords. If they dare to declare war on me, I will definitely retaliate."

"That's true, but you still need to be careful," Glen reminded. "After all, they have deep roots in the border region and might resort to tricks. You're just a newcomer."

The local faction wanted to divide power and weaken the King's authority. The court faction relied on the King's favor to maintain royal power.

And nobles like Henry, who were ennobled in the first generation, were often part of the court faction. Even if you weren't, others would automatically classify you as such.

"I know," Henry said, a hint of ruthlessness flashing in his eyes.

"These nobles are already corrupt. They are not worthy of serving the great King. The sacred Empire does not need these incompetent nobles."

"That's right!" Boman and Glen nodded in agreement.

At this moment, all four people present were from the academy. Now that Henry had spoken his mind, the others naturally wouldn't pretend.

Every student ennobled by the King had extensive knowledge, extraordinary bravery, a substantial wallet, and dazzling glory.

Those nobles who relied on inherited titles passed down through generations were, in their eyes, withered trees, seemingly tall but already hollowed out.

"The Demihuman threat is imminent, and they still have the mood to fight among themselves. Hmph, after this counterattack, I will declare war on them, occupy their land, plunder their population, and seize their titles.

My attendant is already a qualified Knight. I will ennoble him and make him my vassal. I don't like the way those people look at me, but I am interested in their land."

The other three laughed. It was common for nobles to declare war on each other, sometimes even starting wars over a sheep.

"Henry, let's go to the Bathhouse."

"No, Boman, I'm too tired today. I want to be alone for a while. Next time for sure."

Henry returned to his tent and said to Bain, "Bain, my bow and arrows and lance are yours."

"Really, sir? Then what will you use?"

"Glaive, two-handed sword, single-handed double-edged axe, that's enough. Maybe I'll use a giant hammer in the future?"

Ailiya skillfully removed Henry's armor, wiping the blood from his body, and said, "Sir, you should take a bath immediately."

"Okay, Ailiya, if you can get some hot water, I'd be happy to have you soap my back."

Ailiya went out to prepare hot water, while Bain foolishly took the two weapons Henry had given him to show off to Philip. A good weapon and armor could save a person's life.

Soon, Ailiya and Oriana brought in a large basin, and Bain followed behind, carrying two large buckets of hot water.

"Oriana, continue to heat some more water. Bain, please leave."

Henry undressed and lay in the spacious tub, the hot water soothing his tired muscles from over a month, and the steam filled the entire tent.

Ailiya gently approached, her footsteps light, picked up a soft towel, gently dipped it in the water, and then wrung it out.

She carefully draped the towel over Henry's shoulders, gently wiping his skin.

Her movements were delicate and gentle, as she was familiar with this. In the Royal Capital, Ailiya would do this every time Henry was tired. Such extravagant behavior gave the steward Tommy a headache.

With Ailiya's service, Henry gradually relaxed. He closed his eyes, feeling Ailiya's fingers wandering over his body, bringing warmth, comfort, and peace of mind.

She carefully washed every inch of Henry's skin, from his neck to his toes, not missing a single spot.

Henry seemed to have fallen asleep, recalling the details of his slaying of the Centaur and Minotaur. Henry felt... very pleased.

Life, death, the world, the universe...

Henry suddenly woke up, meeting Ailiya's eyes.

"What's wrong, Master?"

Henry shook his head gently and said, "I seemed to have had a dream, seeing some... I don't know what."

"Master, you're tired. After dinner, I'll give you a massage to help you relax and fall asleep."

After the bath, Henry stood up from the tub, feeling full of energy. Ailiya wrapped Henry in a large towel and gently dried his body.

Henry put on his pajamas and walked out of the tent. The air outside was fresh and pleasant, and the autumn wind on the prairie was a bit cold. He took a deep breath, enjoying the rare coolness.

The soldiers in the camp were busy preparing dinner.

Around the campfire, the soldiers were laughing and talking, all discussing Henry's victory today, which made them honored to fight under such a noble.

"Lord!"

"Lord."

Henry's lips curled up slightly as he picked up a horse brush and walked towards his warhorse, gently stroking its mane. This warhorse was bestowed by the King and had accompanied him through battles; it was his most loyal partner.

At this moment, Claude walked over with a letter in his hand.

"Lord, this is a letter that was just delivered. It seems to be from the Royal Capital."

Henry was a little regretful. A letter from the Royal Capital? From the Dean? Henry took the envelope, opened it, and a look of surprise appeared on his face.