"Your actions were reckless, but they were not without cause. The city needs more loyal young men like you. As a reward, I will give you 100 silver coins."

Ethan sighed inwardly in relief. "Thank you, my Lord." At least the first part went smoothly. Now for the next one.

"What about your future then?" Nessleson asked just as he was preparing to say something. "Have you thought about that? Are you staying back in the city and joining the company or heading out to academy first before joining the company? Level 17 in just a few days of awakening. Your talent is remarkable. You will make a fine General one day." The Lord continued sipping wine and talking.

"Yes, my Lord. I want to join an academy and learn so that I can properly serve you. It would be my great honor if you would help me register officially." Ethan smiled with a polite bow, faking sincerity.

On the way from the adventurer's guild to the lord's manor, he had already formulated a plan. Going to an academy or at least fake going to an academy was the best way to get rid of this connection he had to this small city and his family.

Surely, an accident could happen on the way and his death would free his family from any implications of his actions. A clean severance.

That would also apply to the mysterious party who had sent men to get him killed off. It would be a happy ending for everyone. A truly perfect plan that only required a couple more days for execution.

Ethan waited for the Lord's response and the man did exactly what he expected. A wise decision," he said, swirling the wine in his goblet. "The academy will give you the tools to hone your skills, and in time, you will return stronger—an asset to this city and, perhaps, to the kingdom itself. I will see to it that your registration is handled personally."

Ethan bowed again, the perfect image of gratitude and deference. "Thank you, my Lord. Your support means everything to me." His voice carried just the right amount of reverence, but his mind was already miles ahead, planning his next steps.

The academy was the perfect excuse—a destination far enough away to make his disappearance plausible. The fewer ties he had to this place, the easier it would be to vanish.

Snapping Ethan out of his thoughts, the Lord spoke again. "Good. I think I know the perfect place for you. In fact, your timing couldn't be better. My daughter will be heading to the Imperial Academy in two days and you will be accompanying her." Nessleson continued, setting his goblet aside.

Ethan's stomach dropped at the unexpected twist. The Lord's daughter? This wasn't part of the plan. Traveling in the same caravan as one of the most high-profile figures in the city would only complicate his carefully crafted escape. His thoughts raced, but he kept his expression steady, the polite smile never faltering.

"That is… an unexpected honor, my Lord," Ethan said, bowing slightly. "I will do my utmost to ensure her safety on the journey."

Nessleson nodded, pleased. "Good. I expect nothing less. My daughter, Lyra, is strong-willed and capable, but the academy is a cut-throat competitive place, filled with dangers. Many students have died before. I can send a well-guarded convoy to the academy but I cannot send my men inside the academy."

"So you along with five others," Nessleson continued, his gaze sharp and unwavering, "will serve not only as her companions during the journey but also as her ally within the academy. Lyra has her strengths, but the academy is not a place where one thrives alone. You will watch over her, ensure her safety, and help her navigate its challenges. Is that understood?"

Ethan nodded, bowing low. "Yes, my Lord. I will do everything in my power to protect and assist Lady Lyra, both during the journey and at the academy."

Nessleson seemed satisfied, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Good. I have high expectations for you, Ethan Rutgard. Do not disappoint me. The arrangements will be made, and you'll meet Lyra tomorrow to discuss the details of the journey."

"Thank you, my Lord," Ethan said, his voice steady even as his mind churned with unease. "I am honored by your trust."

Nessleson waved a hand, dismissing him. "Go. Make your preparations. The road ahead will be difficult, but I trust you will rise to the challenge."

Ethan left the chamber, and as soon as he walked out, an eager Marella jumped on him like a husky dog. "What happened inside? Did the lord punish you? What happened?"

Ethan let out a sigh. "Wait. Wait. I will tell you everything." He then filled in Lia and Marella about the meeting.

As they walked out of the manner, he turned to look at the huge building once again. It didn't matter that the Lord's daughter was now added to his list of complications, he was still going to get out of all of this scot-free. There was always a way and he was determined to find it.