Javier's smirk deepened, his voice carrying like silk drawn over steel.
"Let me show you the difference… between your guards, and me~."
With a snap of his fingers, a sudden shimmer filled the air. Twenty mithril puppet knights materialized in perfect formation beside him, polished armor gleaming under the sun, their presence pressing down like a stormfront.
The crowd gasped, whispers breaking out in shock as the metallic soldiers stood silent, unwavering, their swords at the ready.
Javier turned slightly, his gaze sliding back at the fat noble from the corner of his eye, a grin playing at his lips.
"Before dreaming of becoming a ruler, you should first learn the basics. One, know the emblems of the noble houses, their names, and the regions they command. Two, know your limits."
His voice sharpened, every word deliberate. "And three, learn how to speak. If you can't master the simple art of communication, then stop dreaming about becoming an heir, much less a ruler."
