Shien's Father

When news of the new governor's appointment reached the Greywood lands, the count was in his study, working through the accounts of his domain.

The Lineage's Recorder entered and handed him a document. "My lord, word has just arrived. The Tear Knight Defense Line has completed its succession."

Count Greywood set down his pen. "Who's the new governor?"

"It's—Shien Greywood."

The count's hand trembled, and his quill dragged a long mark across the ledger.

He looked up and stared at the Recorder for several seconds before reaching for the document. "Shien? Say that again."

The Recorder did not understand his reaction, but repeated, "Young Master Shien has completed the Tear Knight Defense Line's succession process and become its governor."

Count Greywood fell silent. He looked down at the document, confirmed that it bore the defense line's seal, then slowly opened it and read.

Shien Greywood had succeeded as Tear Knight Governor—

He rubbed his eyes and read it again in disbelief. There was no mistake.

"When did this news come in? Has the Holy City confirmed it?" Count Greywood's head buzzed as he fired off the two questions.

The Recorder nodded. "It's confirmed. Lord Shien has taken office."

Count Greywood's legs weakened, and he dropped back into his chair.

Of course he knew how quickly Shien had risen through the Tear Knight Defense Line over the years. He checked on Shien's movements almost every few months. Few nobles in the world followed news of Shien more closely.

He had taken notice when Blackpine Fief survived its first Blood Moon Season.

After all, he had expected Shien to die before the Blood Moon Season was over. Shien had merely been a pawn sent there to be spent.

Yet year after year, Shien's influence along the Tear Knight Defense Line grew. The