Chapter 16: Elder Brother's Return Home

(※The latter half shifts to Third-Person Perspective)

The sunlight grew strong, and the shadows cast on the ground became deep. Cicadas began to chirp loudly, signaling the true arrival of summer. With the summer break starting at the Academic City in the Royal Capital, my older brother, Eddie, returned home.

The family gathered at the mansion’s entrance to welcome the carriage carrying my brother. “I have returned.” My brother stepped out of the carriage and first exchanged greetings with our parents. “It’s good that you’re back.” “I’m relieved to see you looking well.”

My brother seemed slightly tanned and more physically refined. After talking with our parents for a while, he came over to my sister and me. “I’m home, Will.” “Welcome back, Eddie nii-sama.”

“By the way, you’ve lost so much weight; I barely recognized you.” “I lost it after I became able to use Body Strengthening Magic.” “Oh, you can use Body Strengthening Magic now. Your Production Skill seems quite versatile.”

“Eddie nii-sama, I missed you!” Perhaps unable to wait any longer, as my brother had been talking with me for a while, Sophie lunged at him.

“Whoa!” he exclaimed, yet he managed to safely catch our sister. “I’m home, Sophie.” My brother was always physically capable, but I felt like he had become even tougher.

That evening, the entire family was gathered for dinner. Father is usually busy working in his office, and Mother is sometimes occupied with receiving guests. “It’s been a while since the whole family was together for dinner.” “Yes, I’m happy to have such a lively meal.”

“I’m happy too,” Sophie said with a smile. “Eddie, you’re keeping up diligently with your sword training, are you?” “Yes, Father. Fortunately, I was able to win the Newcomer’s Tournament.” “My, that’s wonderful news.”

“Brother, how is life at the Academic City?” “There are various troubles, but I’ve made friends, and it’s interesting to hear stories from different domains across the kingdom.” I was glad to see that my brother seemed to be having a successful school life.

The conversation then shifted to the Fairchild domain, and I became the topic of discussion. “I was surprised by how beautiful the Knights’ Barracks became. I heard Will was the one who renovated it.” “Haha, you were surprised, weren’t you, Eddie? Will‘s Production Skill is amazing.” “Yes, you’ve been quite active. I was also surprised to see the impressive Workshop that was built.”

“Ufufu, Will-chan’s talent is starting to blossom. After all, a Dwarf has even become his disciple.” Mother looked happy, too. “Will nii-sama seems to enjoy his crafting, but Sophie is unhappy because he doesn’t play with her much.” Only my sister was wearing a dissatisfied look.

“Sophie, it’s about time for you to start focusing on your studies. You can’t just play all the time.” When Mother scolded her, Sophie made a face that said, “I messed up.” Everyone laughed. It was a fun dinner, with the whole family together again after so long.

Late that night, two men were sharing drinks in the Margrave‘s household staff rest area. “It’s been a while since I’ve had a drink with you.” “Indeed, it is difficult for either of us to make time.”

The men drinking were Smith, the butler, and Liam, the Knights’ Order Captain. “I’m most relieved that Edward-sama is also enjoying a successful school life.” “Yes, winning the swordsmanship Newcomer’s Tournament is a joyous occasion.” “Hahaha, that must be thanks to your training, Captain.”

“No, no, that is the result of Edward-sama’s talent and effort.” “I believe that is false modesty, but be that as it may. Regardless, Edward-sama’s face looked noticeably sharper. It seems he has grown spiritually since leaving home.” The two men rejoiced at the growth of the Fairchild family heir.

After clinking their cups for the umpteenth time, the topic shifted. “Speaking of which, Edward-sama was surprised, but Northernford has changed considerably in a short period of time.”

“Precisely. The Knights’ Barracks instantly looked brand new. We were even given such a splendid Bath, and the morale of the members has increased. And then, there is that Workshop.” “Indeed. The enthusiasm of the young people who gathered to admire William-sama is quite extraordinary. They have already started making high-quality Furniture and Bags.”

“The renovation of old buildings within the domain has also begun.” “Mm, William-sama’s Production Skill appears to be exceptional. Although he is humble and says he is not noble-like, he harbors great potential.” “That is true. And Edward-sama is pleased about this.”

“Yes, that is the important point. A mediocre older brother would worry that his younger brother’s success would destabilize his succession to the title. However, Edward-sama shows no sign of that whatsoever. He possesses a straightforward and excellent disposition.”

“Yes, that must also be the result of his parents’ upbringing. Furthermore, Edward-sama’s swordsmanship is extraordinary, so he must have confidence in himself.” “Mm, it seems he has recently become capable of projecting Sword Slashes. In addition to his swordsmanship, his academic performance is also excellent, apparently. There is even talk of him becoming a student council officer once he reaches the second year.”

“A student council officer? I hear only the highly accomplished children of major nobles can achieve that. The next generation of the Fairchild family seems set for even greater prosperity.” The two senior retainers clinked their cups again, looking satisfied.