The next morning.

I went to the Ravenscoft Manor early. Because today was an important day.

Fiora ascended the platform built on the parade ground. Her expression was more solemn than ever.

Following her, I also ascended the platform. I was to receive the official Hero investiture before the other Hero Candidates.

"Wow, Lucian is really going up there. I’m so jealous, shiiiit!"

Looking at the Hero Candidates who were gazing up at me, my chest swelled with emotion.

’Is this a dream or reality? I’m becoming an official Hero!’

I stood before Fiora with a firm expression. Even amidst this, her mature yet sweet scent wafted towards me.

As I knelt on one knee, Fiora spoke more solemnly than usual.

"Lucian Vane, who inherited the bloodline of the legendary Hero and was chosen by the Holy Sword that knows the future."

"Yes, my liege Fiora Ravenscoft. Speak."

As it was an official occasion, I had to address her by her family name as the Lord. Fiora took a step closer.

"Do you swear to protect our homeland, this territory, and furthermore, as a Hero, to shield the weak from evil, to uphold justice and conviction, and to plunge the Holy Sword into the Demon Lord’s heart?"

"I swear."

Finishing my reply, I raised my head. I saw Fiora smiling contentedly. Along with that, her overwhelmingly large bosom also asserted its presence.

She drew a sword. It was my sword, Dawn Guardian, which I had given her beforehand.

Holding the sword, Fiora lightly tapped my shoulder and head alternately. It was similar to a knight’s investiture.

"Lucian Vane is now an official Hero. I hope for your excellent performance."

"Thank you. I will do my best for my homeland, my convictions, and my liege."

I stood up.

Clap-clap-clap-clap! Clap-clap-clap!

"Woahhh! Lucian is so cool!"

"Milk-skinned Lucian Vane!"

"Pretty boy, Lucian!"

"Now he’ll get a high weekly salary like an official knight! I’m super jealous, for real!"

"Look at his damn face! I even a man wanna fuck him!!!"

"Br..."

Applause poured in from all directions. Most reactions were envious and some rather omnious.

Loud cheers enveloped me.

After I returned the sword, Fiora met my gaze.

"Congratulations. You’ve finally achieved your dream."

"It’s thanks to the Acting Lord."

If it were up to my thoughts, I’d want to say, ’It’s thanks to Fiora,’ but...

Fiora nodded. Her long silver hair swayed like silk.

"Then, as a rite of passage, it’s time for you to show your face in a friendly neighboring territory. Consider it a courtesy visit."

"To Weaverpool?"

"Yes. The Lord there is a person of character, so meet him and share a cup of tea. I’ve already made contact."

"Thank you."

Honestly, I didn’t want to go. I know that bastard’s true nature.

But that guy is the Lord of a territory. He’s a noble, and officially, I knew him as a Viscount.

He was one rank higher than our Lord.

’Who knows? Maybe he’d give me tough requests and offer all sorts of treasures and women.’

Ultimately, humans are animals that only move when there’s a benefit.

And who knows he may even offer me the best milf of his territory?

As I descended from the platform, Zara approached me with a serious expression.

"Just wait a little. I’ll catch up soon."

"Yeah, I’ll wait. Partner!"

At my reply, Zara finally smiled. We exchanged smiles and then passed each other.

I prepared to go to Weaverpool Territory. Though, honestly, there wasn’t much to prepare.

Fiora said as she also walked down the stage.

"I’ll prepare a carriage for you."

"It’s fine."

"You’re now a proper official Hero. You’re just as good as an official knight. There’s no need for you to go through all that trouble yourself."

I understood that she was trying to take care of me. It’s one of the inherent advantages older women have.

But I spoke my conviction.

"Even so, I won’t change as a person. I need to move my body like this, or I’ll get restless."

"Lucian... what kind of man are you, really?"

Fiora, whose earlobes turned red even as she maintained a solemn expression. She’s such an honest woman, really.

"Thank you for your concern. I’ll be back! F.i.o.r.a!"

I left the territory with light steps. Actually, I had something in mind.

At this point in time, ’that’ should be there. ’That’.

’Honestly, becoming a double faced Hero, buying a nice house, and lying to the common people that you’ll serve them. I won’t become that kind of person.’

Even if one’s status rises, the dignity of the person themselves doesn’t necessarily rise.

It was one of the common misconceptions among the people who get some little big achievement in their life.

I gradually warmed up and crossed Uluru Hill. Alright, shall I try it now?

’Shall I go meet the hidden piece? Kuku.’

I headed in the opposite direction from Weaverpool. I went deeper into the hill as if being drawn in.

Swoosh, swish!

Suddenly, something burst out of the bushes. With sparks.

"Heeheeheehing!"

A pure white mane made of lightning. A jet-black, muscular body.

And two eyes imbued with a blue aura.

It was a D-rank monster with rank upgrade potential, a Thunder Steed. I laughed out loud without realizing it.

’Bingo, you were here!!!’

『Side Quest - Exclusive Mount』

◆Big Bro Got a New Ride

-Objective: Defeat the Thunder Steed.

-Reward: Exclusive Mount - Thunder Steed

For reference, it was fine to kill the Thunder Steed here. It would revive as my mount due to the quest anyway, so there was no big problem.

’I was already a point pauper from upgrading titles last time. This is great!’ 𝘧𝓇𝑒𝑒𝑤ℯ𝑏𝓃𝘰𝑣ℯ𝘭.𝘤ℴ𝘮

I licked my lips and drew my sword. The creature neighed and charged wildly towards me.

Crack-crack! Clip-clop-clip-clop, snap!

The Thunder Steed, kicking up pure white sparks, galloped towards me at speed far greater than any normal horse.

Its charging form was no joke. Just getting hit by that would kill me.