In A Fantasy World I Can Absorbs Abilities

Chapter 127 Preparing For War

"What's the status of the investigation?" he asked curtly. His steward replied with caution.

"As expected, my lord, there is no evidence linking the Crassus family to the destruction of the estate. It appears to be the work of Count Charles's faction."

Philip scowled, frustration tightening his features. "Even so, we can't move against Count Charles. The man is always surrounded by guards…"

He trailed off, deep in thought. "I've heard that Sir Michael often travels alone. Is that true?"

The steward nodded. "It's true that he ventures out alone at times, but don't take that too literally. He's always accompanied by the sphinx, and he frequently rides the dragon Marcus."

Philip narrowed his eyes, jealousy threading through his tone. Though aware that others were responsible for the ruin of his estate, he fixated on Michael, channeling his resentment toward him. Michael's reputation and abilities were a constant source of irritation for Philip.

"Is the sphinx really so formidable? Surely Michael himself is nothing special?" he pressed, a competitive edge in his voice.

Sensing Philip's hubris, the steward bowed slightly and spoke carefully. "My lord, it would be unwise to underestimate Sir Michael's prowess. Though he received no formal training, his innate talent allowed him to awaken his aura. He is also renowned as a master archer. To ambush him successfully, you'd need at least five knights and two hundred soldiers. Even then, the risk of retaliation would be high. It might be better to wait for another opportunity."

Despite the steward's words of caution, Philip's expression darkened further. His emotions churned—a volatile mix of rage and frustration. "Are you saying I'm not capable of handling him?" he growled.

The steward softened his tone, hoping to soothe his lord's bruised ego. "My lord, even a tiger uses its full strength to hunt a rabbit. This isn't about your lack of ability, but rather…"

"Enough!" Philip interrupted angrily. "You're telling me I can't compete with him in wealth, can't ambush him, and should just live quietly in disgrace? Is that it?" Find exclusive stories on My Virtual Library Empire

The steward bowed his head, choosing his words carefully. Why does he think he's so wronged? he mused silently. For a duke's illegitimate son, being raised to the rank of baron with significant support isn't bad at all. Does he expect the world to praise him like they do Sir Michael?

Philip's simmering insecurities made him unwilling to listen. Yet deep down, he knew he lacked the power to act. For now, he resolved to bide his time, endure the humiliation, and strike later—perhaps during the war, when circumstances might work in his favor.

As Philip stewed in his thoughts, the steward hesitantly spoke again. "My lord, Sir Michael's personal abilities may be impressive, but his family's strength is not as remarkable. Look at the land they've chosen to exploit—a mere iron mine beneath a lake. Their weapons are of such poor quality that while they may sell for now, it won't last in the long run."

The steward's analysis provided Philip with some comfort. Seeing his lord take an interest in his words, the steward felt relieved. "Once their short-term mining ventures dry up, they'll be forced to rely on farming. In the grand scheme of things, what significance does that hold? Meanwhile, your lordship will achieve great military feats in the upcoming war and rise far above Sir Michael. His power likely depends on the dragon and sphinx anyway."

Though the steward's words were largely speculative, Philip found solace in the flattery. Ignorant of the wealth Michael had accumulated through the iron mine and other ventures, Philip took satisfaction in the reassurance, his mood improving at last.

While Philip and his steward debated Michael's future, Michael himself was preoccupied with his next endeavor. With the rush of low-grade weapons behind him, he shifted his focus to training heavy cavalry.

"Master Michael! These armors you've provided are magnificent. With these, we can achieve great victories in the war!" exclaimed Sir Ronald as he approached Michael with enthusiasm.

The armors Michael had delivered were light enough for ordinary soldiers to wear while offering excellent protection. Traditionally, heavy cavalry required seasoned warriors nurtured by noble families over many years, but these armors allowed even regular soldiers to perform as heavy cavalry.

The sight of 120 soldiers clad in crimson armor wielding lances was a spectacle to behold. Their precise, unified movements were awe-inspiring. Michael commended Sir Ronald, along with Alex and Anthony, for their efforts.

"Well done. Keep up the good work," Michael said with approval.

Wearing the gleaming red armor Michael had retrieved from the underground temple, the soldiers responded with fervent shouts of loyalty. By now, they were ready to follow Michael into even the fiercest inferno.

In the office of the Papacy within the Radiant Holy Kingdom, news reached Pope Allegro III that ignited uncontrollable fury. His face reddened as he leapt to his feet.

"What? That damned emperor expelled our archbishop?" he bellowed.

Allegro III was momentarily at a loss for words. It was bad enough that the second prince he had supported failed to ascend to the throne of the Celeste Empire. Now, the archbishop, accused of interfering in the succession, had been unceremoniously dismissed. Following the failure of his plans in the Alpha Kingdom, this latest setback felt like the world mocking him.

"Draft a statement immediately," Allegro III ordered firmly. "We cannot acknowledge this insult under any circumstances."

Though resolute in his outward response, the pope inwardly seethed with frustration. The Papacy could present a bold front to the outside world, but internally, someone would have to take the fall.

His gaze settled on Vito, the captain of the First Paladin Order, who had already failed him once before.

"Your Holiness," Vito said, stepping forward with dignity, "this failure stems from my inability to properly control public opinion. I take full responsibility."

Though he had prepared his allies behind the scenes, Vito knew it was necessary to appear accountable in public. Before the pope could respond, Cardinal Soleno intervened.