Tatsuo continued reading through the stack of letters, his attention drawn to one bearing the Imperial seal. He opened it, recognizing his father's handwriting. The contents, however, sent a jolt of surprise through him.
The letter informed him that he was now engaged to Princess Ahtris, the daughter of King Aros Sunfire of the Tigerheart Kingdom. The letter explained that the Empire and the Tigerheart Kingdom were long-standing allies, a bond forged through the close friendship
between Emperor Hiro, King Aros, and Grand Duke Shun since their youth. It also stated that Tatsuo and Ahtris had known each other since childhood, being of the same age.
Tatsuo was stunned. He searched his memory, trying to recall any encounters with the princess. After a moment, a memory surfaced. "Oh, that girl," he muttered, a flicker of recognition in his eyes. He remembered a girl who always acted like a boy, who yearned to be a knight. "She was more of a man than me!" he exclaimed, shaking his head in disbelief.
He continued reading the letter, which concluded with a direct command: he was to return to the capital immediately.
Tatsuo sighed, a mix of surprise and resignation washing over him. An arranged engagement and an immediate summons to the capital were not what he had expected. He knew he had no choice but to obey his father's command.
Tatsuo placed the letter on his desk, a thoughtful expression on his face. He knew he had to inform his trusted advisors of his impending departure. He called for Lord's Adviser Hui Cheng and Baron Rota Uno.
When they arrived, he explained the contents of the letter, revealing his arranged engagement and the Emperor's command to return to the capital immediately. "I must depart at once," he told them, "but I will leave Dragonsden County in your capable hands."
He then proceeded to give them detailed instructions. "Hui Cheng," he began, "continue to oversee the administration of the county. Ensure the economy remains strong, and maintain the progress we have made. Rota, continue the training of our soldiers and keep them vigilant. Maintain a strong defense, especially against any potential threats from the Blackhorn Duchy. Also, continue to try and make contact with the Elves, and try to make a trade agreement with them. I want to see a trade route established by the time I return."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over them. "I trust you both to manage Dragonsden County in my absence. Keep me informed of any significant developments."
Hui Cheng and Rota Uno saluted, their expressions resolute. "We understand, Your Highness," Hui Cheng said. "We will ensure that Dragonsden County remains prosperous and secure."
"We will not disappoint you, Your Highness," Rota Uno added. "We will await your return." They both bowed, accepting their responsibilities.
"I will depart today," Tatsuo announced, his voice firm. "However, I will not use any conventional transportation, nor will I bring any men with me. I have my own methods."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over Hui Cheng and Rota Uno. "And I must emphasize this: do not attempt to follow me. Do not look for me. Do not enter my room until I return. Do you understand?"
Hui Cheng and Rota Uno exchanged confused and hesitant glances. Tatsuo's instructions were highly unusual, even for him. They were concerned for his safety, but they knew better than to question his decisions.
"Yes, Your Highness," Hui Cheng replied, his voice slightly strained.
"We understand," Rota Uno added, though his expression betrayed his unease.
Tatsuo nodded, satisfied with their acknowledgment. "Good," he said. "Then I will take my leave."
With that, he turned and walked towards his chambers, leaving Hui Cheng and Rota Uno to ponder his cryptic instructions and his unconventional departure. They knew Tatsuo was capable of extraordinary things, but this level of secrecy and independence was unprecedented. They could only hope that he would return safely and soon.
Tatsuo returned to his chambers and donned his finest noble attire for travel: a silken tunic embroidered with gold thread, elegant trousers, and polished leather boots. He then activated his unique skill, vanishing from his room in a swirl of spatial energy.
He arrived in the bustling harbor town under the cover of night, his presence undetected. His destination was the Dragon Cry Mercenary Guild, specifically the office of Lady Anne, its esteemed Guild Master.
Tatsuo moved with the grace of a shadow, his movements silent and unseen. He slipped into Lady Anne's office, finding himself in a spacious room divided into three distinct sections.
The first section, where he now sat, was a lavishly decorated living and meeting space. Rich tapestries adorned the walls, a large oak table dominated the center, and comfortable chairs were scattered around the perimeter.
To his left, separated by a silken curtain, was Lady Anne's bedchamber, a haven of privacy and luxury.
To his right, another curtain concealed the bathroom, its sounds currently muffled by the gentle flow of water. Tatsuo sat patiently in the stillness of the night, waiting for Lady Anne to emerge.
While waiting for Lady Anne to finish her bath, Tatsuo's attention was drawn to the reports scattered across her desk. He decided to peruse them, curious about the state of the Dragon Cry Mercenary Guild.
The reports revealed a thriving organization. The guild's membership had swelled to 1,000 mercenaries, a testament to its growing reputation and appeal. The guild was generating a substantial income of 1,000 gold coins per month, earned through various tasks, missions, and mercenary rentals.
Tatsuo noted the guild's extensive network of connections, spanning various counties, baronies, and cities. This widespread reach was a valuable asset, allowing the guild to take on diverse assignments and establish itself as a reliable force.
The reports also highlighted the guild's excellent reputation, a crucial factor in attracting clients and maintaining its standing. Finally, Tatsuo observed that the average cultivation level of the guild's members was the Sky Gate Realm (SGR), indicating a respectable level of combat prowess. He was impressed by the growth and stability of the guild.