Chapter 220 – 220 – Hmm, not bad.

The Count of Molsen had three wives and six mistresses—a detail unremarkable for a noble of his time. He had sired numerous children, far surpassing even the royal family in number. Yet, to his dismay, not a single one fully satisfied his expectations.

Life rarely unfolded as planned.

“Let me handle it,” one of his sons offered.

The Count turned from his seat in the carriage, meeting his son’s eyes. There was jealousy and anger in them, unmistakable even in the dim light. Was it because of a simple reprimand? Or had this son, like others, grown envious of the rising name of Enkrid—a name now whispered as far as the royal capital?

Envy was natural, but to wear it so openly…

“He’s a capable fighter,” the Count mused. “But lacking elsewhere.”

The boy lacked the judgment to discern when to crush his emotions and when to unleash them. At best, he could serve as a loyal guard, nothing more. This disappointment was yet another reminder of why the Count had ceased seeking to expand his line.

Still, when his son spoke of handling Enkrid, the Count reflected, “Were it me, I wouldn’t waste my time hating him. I’d make him an ally.”

There was one thing, however, that gave the Count pause.

“You didn’t meet his eyes, did you?”

The son blinked, bewildered by the question.