The Max Level Hero Has Returned!-Chapter 1248

Josiah Frances arrived at the lord’s manor in Heins Territory, sporting a bright and cheerful smile. “Teacher! I’ve got good news!”

As usual, she had casually slipped into Davey’s office. Yet for some reason, the atmosphere felt heavy.

“Teacher?”

Davey sat behind his desk, head lowered. The gloom and weight hanging over him were obvious at a glance.

Seeing someone like Davey, whose mind was impervious to even the strongest mental magic, completely crushed was shocking to her.

“Teacher, what happened? Who...?” She knew there was no way he had done that to himself. So she assumed someone must’ve attacked him.

‘Who did this to him?!?’

Josiah instantly flared up and gathered her power of blood while she scanned the surroundings. However, she found nothing.

That’s when a voice came from nearby, saying, “Just let him be.”

Startled, Josiah turned her head and saw Perserque approaching, relaxed in casual clothes and hand casually rubbing her belly.

“What happened to him?”

“He acted like a fool. He let pride get the better of him, and embarrassed himself.”

“Huh?” Josiah didn't understand.

“It’s nothing serious. Don’t worry about it.”

To be exact, it had all started when Davey and Al Hajat barged into Evangeline’s lair, demanding she choose between the two of them.

While Evangeline had initially enjoyed being showered with gifts, once the two men insisted on her making such a choice and made their cases, the rebellious spark she’d kept buried came roaring back.

- I hate both of you!!

She had stormed off after shouting, leaving both Al Hajat and Davey devastated.

Though Josiah didn’t know the details, she could tell by Perserque’s tone that whatever had gone down wasn't worth her time to contemplate further.

“Mit Chyde managed to prove his innocence. Honestly, I wasn’t sure he could handle the 3rd Circle, but he pulled it off thanks to the mana stone you gave me. Thank you.” Josiah beamed with pride as she shared the news.

However, Davey barely reacted, looking completely uninterested.

So she pushed harder. “Actually, I didn’t tell you this before, but I got a promise out of both Mit Chyde and his older brother, Taph Chyde.”

Only then did Davey slowly raise his head, and she noticed the dark circles under his eyes.

He asked, “What kind of promise?”

“It was about Sacred Grass. They agreed to supply a set amount of it for us.”

Davey stayed quiet and simply stared at her.

“You’re not surprised?”

“Why did you care about that?”

“Can’t I give my teacher a gift once in a while?”

Davey went silent.

“Hehe. I mean, yeah, Mit’s still just the youngest, and even though he proved his innocence and became a proper 3rd Circle mage, he doesn’t have much influence yet. But Taph Chyde is different! Count Chyde actually trusts him. If both brothers push hard enough, I figured the Count might be persuaded—”

“It won’t work,” Davey answered, voice flat and face still drained.

“Huh...?”

“Count Chyde won’t allow it. Not a chance.” Davey took a second to remember the man. “He’s the kind of guy who wouldn’t budge on his principles even if his own daughter were kidnapped. The families who grow Sacred Grass are all the same. Even if Count Chyde still has leftover stock, don’t expect a miracle.”

Josha wondered, if that were the case, then why had Davey helped her and Mit so much?

Seeing her put on a confused face, Davey sighed deeply. “What happens to Mit Chyde doesn’t matter to me. You do.”

She was his disciple. The same one he had taken the most care to teach.

“All I ever did was teach you. Nothing more.”

“Teacher...”

“So, stop wasting time on that whole affair and come back. Even if you’ve raised him to the 3rd Circle, going too fast will only burn him out. He’ll need time to settle before any further advancements.”

“Okay...” Josiah couldn’t say anything more. Deep down, she knew that he was right.

[Report: Movements of Prince Vasilion le Bosta, youngest prince of the Bosta Kingdom]

Aina suddenly entered the room to deliver news. “Sir, here's the report you wanted. It details the movements of Prince Vasilion le Bosta, the youngest prince of the Bosta Kingdom.”

Josiah observed from afar, then turned back to Davey once Aina left. “Teacher... the Sacred Grass...”

“Don’t worry about that. I’ll handle it,” he reassured her.

“Okay. Still, Prince Vasilion really is shameless! The guy’s the real culprit, he tried to kill Mit and somehow still slithered out of it.”

“Why do you care?” Davey mumbled in a low voice, eyes weary. “Besides, that’s not what matters right now.”

Darian waddled over, and Davey swept him up into his arms. The boy immediately began squirming uncomfortably.

“Darian, son, don’t say you hate your daddy too.”

“No... No!!”

As Davey froze, Darian reached out toward Perserque with both arms.

“Davey, it’s not that he hates you. It’s just that you haven’t been around much to play with him. That’s all.”

The fact that Darian was closest to Aeria and Aeonitia O’Rowane stung more than he was willing to admit.

* * *

Evangeline stared at the doll she’d been given, her face flushed red. “Ugh. I really hate Dad...”

To her, Davey was a lot of things. He was someone who annoyed her; always treated her like a child; and constantly made her mad. However, he was also the person she trusted most in the entire world.

If anyone dared insult him, she’d snap at them in an instant. That was how much Davey meant to her.

However, when he came to her acting all childish, asking if she liked him and treating her like a little girl, she wasn't a fan.

She turned to a corner of her room. “Super Ribbon, congrats on passing! You're starting soon, right?”

“Thanks, yeah. I probably won’t make the entrance ceremony, though. I’ll just have to make do with going to orientation.”

“I heard from Dad that orientations are pretty much just three days of partying and drinking nonstop.”

“Hmm. I mean, I can drink, but I’m not that into it.”

The department Super Ribbon had gotten into at her university didn’t have an evenly balanced gender ratio. Instead, there were slightly more male students. When he'd first heard, Davey hadn’t been thrilled. He kept muttering about how she was going to be surrounded by guys with bad intentions.

“I heard a little bit about it from Moderation. I dunno if they still do it, but Korea University used to have initiations.”

As Super Ribbon held up a blouse to her body and checked herself in the mirror, she asked curiously, “Initiations? What are those like?”

“I’m not exactly sure. Dad said it’s like... a dominance ritual. Something where they grind down the freshmen.”

“Why?”

“No clue. Dad said it’s just human nature.” Perfectly mimicking Davey’s tone, she continued, “That humans always come up with useless crap like that to establish hierarchies.”

Super Ribbon snorted with laughter.

Evangeline curiously asked, “What about your hair color? Gonna change it?”

“No point. They’ll figure out who I am either way.”

“True. You’re more famous than you think.”

Given that Super Ribbon had even appeared on Evangeline’s streams a few times, blending in as a normal student would be nearly impossible. While she might be able to get by at first, the moment she showed up at orientation, everyone would know. Whether Davey’s name would scare everyone off, or make her a target of attention, no one could say for sure.

Super Ribbon was clearly excited for campus life, trying on different outfits and admiring herself in the mirror.

She would be going to Korea University! Moderation was an alumnus, as was Hyun-Ah, the heir apparent to the Sacred Group.

They’d had different majors than she did, sure, but still.

“You really got a lot of gifts.”

“Apparently, people go all out when you get into college.”

From Hyun-Ah and Yeon-Hee, the two sisters of Davey from his past life who now ran the Sacred Group; to the Oxygen siblings; and Maga and Grape-flavored Cat Tower, who had crafting contracts with Davey, countless people had sent congratulatory gifts.

Super Ribbon kept grinning, loving every second of life at that moment.

“Here. This one’s from me,” Evangeline said, handing something over to her.

“What is it?”

“A doll. It’s from Uncle Al Hajat.”

It was palm-sized, but the craftsmanship was incredibly delicate.

“You can hang it on your bag.”

“H-How much does this cost?”

“Dunno. Uncle didn’t say, he just mentioned that it was made from premium materials.”

What they didn’t realize was that the bag Hyun-Ah had given her cost well over ten million won, and the tiny doll from Al Hajat wasn’t much cheaper.

* * *

Following Davey’s advice, Josiah Frances had been quietly touring the Bosta Kingdom, trying her hand at some cultural immersion to learn more about the area.

Of course, he had made it clear that unless an external threat like a demon appeared, she was not to intervene under any circumstances. This time, she fully intended to simply observe.

Helping Mit Chyde was one thing, but what she really lacked was life experience. After all, she had become an assistant professor immediately after leaving Shakuntala Academy.

Even after her awakening, the traits of a Vampire Lord stayed with her. No one noticed her existence, as she kept her presence so perfectly veiled.

While drifting through the city like mist, she caught sight of a few robed figures bearing the Chyde family crest on their brooches. “Huh?”

Judging by their build, they were clearly delicate-looking girls. Curious, Josiah immediately began tailing them. Something about them felt interesting. Suppressing her presence completely, she followed until the group arrived at a small private estate. After a quick scan of the area, the robed figures slipped inside.

Her curiosity only deepened. Eyes gleaming, she made her way in as well. What she found was an unexpected scene.

“Welcome, Lady Berah Chyde.”

“I greet the Little Sun of the Bosta Kingdom.”

The one bowing politely was none other than Berah Chyde, Mit’s half-sister. The man seated before her, wine glass in hand, was Prince Vasilion himself.

“I summoned you because I had something important to discuss, Lady Berah.”

“At this hour? Summoning a noble lady to such a place will do your future no favors...” Berah Chyde, with her refined appearance, kept her tone neutral, though it clearly held displeasure.

“Now, now, don’t be like that. I have a proposal I believe will interest you.” He reached and slid a single document across the table toward her.

“This is...?”

“A marriage proposal.”

Berah immediately stood. “I’m sorry, but I must decline.”

“Why? Does my status as the youngest prince make me unworthy? From what I’ve heard, you're not the ambitious type that would crave power. ”

Looking him square in the eye, Berah responded calmly, “As I’ve said before, Your Highness... I have no intentions of marrying at this time.”

“A shame. I thought a union between the royal family and House Chyde would bring our factions closer together.” Vasilion clicked his tongue with disappointment and nodded. He then spoke coldly, “Shame indeed. I heard that despite your cold demeanor, you care deeply for your younger brother.”

“What did you just say...!?”

“I happen to hold something of value. A certain... weakness of Mit Chyde’s.”

The color drained from her face.

“How about it? While I don’t care what choice you make, if you marry me peacefully, I'll withdraw all the pressure currently being placed on your brother.”

“Your Highness, what are you talking about?!” she shouted with eyes wide open.

Josiah, having become fully invested in the drama, reached into her space expanding pouch and pulled out a bucket of buttery popcorn. Her eyes sparkled as she continued to spy on the interesting scene.

“There’s someone on your brother’s mind. I believe her name was Isera. A commoner maid, once thrown out by House Chyde long ago.”

She didn't know how to respond.

“She’s the one who saved your brother Mit. Did you know?”

Berah looked rattled. She had no clue how he’d discovered that name, or how he was audacious enough to use it to manipulate her brother.

The two continued to talk, blissfully unaware of Josiah’s observation and voyeuristic joy.

“It’s simple, really—I used royal authority to imprison Isera. I can come up with any charges I want, then ruin that commoner’s life as I please.”

Mit Chyde’s change had been unexpected, but fascinating for Vasilion.

“He’s truly changed. In fact, he changed so much that I almost thought he was a completely different person. Still, I know he feels guilt toward that commoner girl Isera after she helped him.”

“Your Highness, please stop. Why are you doing this to my brother?” She didn't know what to do when faced with such a situation.

“We’re not done talking yet. As long as her life is in my hands, he won’t be able to go against me. Sure, it’s hard to believe such a sudden change of heart, but as someone who was once his friend, you can trust me.” His voice grew colder, and Berah couldn’t help but tremble.

Munch. Munch.

“I don’t plan to use him for anything complicated. He’s foolish enough that if I just push him into making a big enough mess, his reputation will crumble all over again.”

“Please... stop.”

Slurp.

Josiah sipped her cola and grabbed another handful of popcorn. She was completely locked in.

“Still, I don’t want to hurt the citizens of this kingdom. My goal is simple—I want to become the crown prince. I will need House Chyde’s support for that.”

She was shocked to find out his ultimate objective lay on the throne.

“So I’ll give you a choice.”

Crunch, crunch.

“Accept this proposal, and I’ll back off Mit Chyde. I will release Isera, and leave her unharmed. I promise.”

He was using Isera as a tool, exploiting Mit’s guilt to control him. Should Berah accept the marriage, Vasilion promised to leave them both alone.

She looked at him with a pale face.

“So, how about it? You pretend to be cold, but you care deeply for your brother, don’t you? Weren’t you happy when he finally started trying to live like a proper human being?”

She couldn’t believe how accurate a grasp of her he had. Cold sweat trickled down her face. In fact, she had been the happiest and most supportive of her brother’s change.

“Will you just stand by and watch his future crumble? Or will you sacrifice yourself, since you’re bound to a political marriage anyway, and protect your family?”

She clenched her fists so hard that her knuckles turned white.

“Don’t worry, I wouldn’t mistreat you. I daresay I’m rather handsome, don’t you think?”

“You are... truly despicable,” she said through clenched teeth.

“Noble marriages are always like this, aren’t they?” He smiled smugly. “I don’t want to force you. I won’t demand your answer now, but think it over. If House Chyde lends me its strength through this marriage, I vow to love you for the rest of my life.”

She was still in disbelief.

“Three days. Will that be enough time? I’ll look forward to your reply.”

Berah trembled, unable to hold back her shame. Tears rolled down her cheeks.

Vasilion stood and patted her shoulder. “Oh, I forgot to mention something else. It’s probably best not to tell anyone about this, since nothing good will come of it. Mit Chyde would never accept this proposal if he found out. It would be messy for both sides, but I do have some nobles backing me up just in case.”

Of course, he had left himself a way out.

“Don’t tell me, you didn’t already know? Did you really think I came after House Chyde with no preparation?”

Having said his piece, Prince Vasilion turned and left.

Berah was left in silence, quietly crying. Josiah watched her for a bit, then vanished like mist.

Three days later, Josiah returned to the Chyde estate to check on Mit’s progress. When she arrived, she saw Mit storming into Berah’s room. She knew instantly that something more was going down.

Slam!!

“Sister! What the hell is going on?! A political marriage to Prince Vasilion?!”

“Quiet down. It was my decision,” she coldly replied.

“Does Father know?!”

“Yes, he’s aware.” Her calm voice clashed with his rising fury.

‘Hmmm. Berah probably hasn’t noticed his changes like Taph already did.’

Josiah observed the scene from the shadows, eyes gleaming with interest.

“When did you start caring about my future?”

“Sister!!” Mit couldn't believe what he was hearing.

“Be quiet and leave! I’ll be busy with salons and tea parties soon, because of the marriage. I won’t have time to see you.”

Her words were cold, ever distant. Almost like a dismissal.

“You’re lying.” He gave a low growl. “I know how you act when you lie, Berah.”

She flinched, but quickly masked her expression. “Then maybe you should’ve behaved better from the start. I’m surprised you’re not insulting me, but then we were never too close, were we?”

“Just tell me why! Give me something!”

“Shut up, just leave. I have nothing more to say. My life is mine.”

“Berah!!”

“I said leave!!” she screamed, so violently that Mit froze in shock.

Realizing she’d raised her voice at him, she trembled. Nonetheless, she quickly forced herself to wear a cold expression once more.

Josiah admired her determination to clear the path ahead for her brother, who was now beginning to bloom as a mage.

However, she didn’t step in for her. She was an outsider, and had no place interfering in the affairs of House Chyde.

After Mit stormed out, Berah stood in silence. Tears fell down ceaselessly as she lamented how pitiful her situation had become.

A maid came to her side, trying to comfort her while already crying herself.

“Please don’t cry, my lady... I may not understand it, but... I believe in you.”

Berah didn't reply.