No one could be blamed for feeling jealous, because territory was simply far too difficult to obtain.
Some of their families had held baronial titles for over a century, yet their family territories had never expanded in the slightest.
Nalant was so young, yet he had shot straight into the clouds as if riding a flying steed, directly claiming two baronies. Anyone who saw that would feel envy in their heart.
Fortunately, Nalant's capabilities were there for all to see. Though everyone was jealous, they knew he deserved it, so they bore no resentment—only the faint feeling that Bernard treated Nalant far too well!
Bernard had long known everyone would react this way. That was why he had painstakingly told them in detail about what had happened in the palace earlier: to put their minds at ease.
For people did not fear scarcity, only unfairness. If Bernard showed too much favoritism, some of his vassals would certainly become dissatisfied.
Bernard changed his expression and looked at Nalant with a trace of solemnity, preparing to begin the investiture ceremony.
"Sir Nalant!"
"Count, I am here!" Seeing this, Nalant knew what he needed to do. He immediately stepped forward, then dropped to one knee.
Though he was unaccustomed to such etiquette, it was a ritual that noble knights had to undergo when receiving their titles. Even in some Western countries of the twenty-first century in his previous life, it was still observed.
Thinking of it that way, Nalant felt much better.
Besides, Bernard was Stella's father. He might even become Nalant's father-in-law someday. Kneeling on one knee once would not make him lose face, would it?
"Nalant Berwick, in view of your valiant performance on the Autumn Campaign battlefield, I, Bernard Tulip, hereby formally enfeoff you as a baronial vassal of the