Not-So an Extra-Chapter 149 : Hastilude Festival [2]

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The rhythmic sound of horses' hooves filled the air, resonating through the vast meadow as the carriage and its accompanying entourage made their way through the picturesque landscape.

Adrian, feeling a sense of weariness, leaned back against the plush seat, his gaze fixated on the window.

The scenery outside unfolded like a painting, with rolling hills and vibrant greenery stretching as far as the eye could see.

It had been twenty days since the Imperial journey had commenced, and they were currently traversing Duke Lancaster's territory in the Egberg region.

Fortunately, the journey had been relatively uneventful, devoid of any major complications.

Any encounters with monsters along the way were swiftly dealt with by the skilled Knights accompanying them.

Fortunately, the breeding season had recently passed, resulting in less aggressive encounters with these creatures.

However, Adrian couldn't help but feel a dull ache in his back, a consequence of the long hours spent seated in the carriage.

Despite the luxurious plush seat, the constant jostling and bouncing on the uneven roads had taken its toll.

All of these unpleasant experiences made Adrian couldn't wait for the completion of the Steam Train, which would reduce the travel time across a region from days to mere hours.

Now that he talked about inventions, what should he invent next?

'Hmmm, should I invent—'

"Oh, it's the Safonyx Castle."

Aerilyn's voice broke through Adrian's reverie, snapping him back to reality.

Adrian redirected his gaze outside the window and saw the silhouette of a majestic fortified city gradually taking shape against the horizon.

Safonyx was the home of the strongest knight in the Terra continent.

It stood proudly as one of the largest cities in the Aeon Empire.

Similar to the Sun Castle, Safonyx boasted a star fortification design, renowned for its impregnable defensive structures.

The city held great political importance in the Aeon Empire due to its strategic location as the first line of defense against monster invasions from the Forest of Death.

The rough and bumpy trail gradually gave way to a smooth granite pavement as the carriage entered the city.

The Imperial convoy was immediately greeted by a throng of excited and awestruck citizens who had gathered along the streets.

Their faces lit up with joy and admiration as they caught sight of the approaching entourage.

Cheering and applause erupted from the crowd as the Imperial convoy made its way through the city. 𝐛𝗲𝐝𝐧𝗼𝐯𝐞𝐥．𝐜𝐨𝗺

The citizens waved colorful banners and flags, their enthusiasm and pride evident in their beaming smiles and shining eyes.

Children perched on their parents' shoulders, their small hands clapping with delight, eager to catch a glimpse of the imperial entourage.

The streets were adorned with vibrant decorations, flowers, and ribbons, creating a festive atmosphere that mirrored the excitement in the hearts of the citizens.

The air was filled with a sense of anticipation and celebration as the convoy neared the Safonyx Castle courtyard.

As the carriage came to a halt, Adrian could see Graham and his family members waiting near the entrance hall of the castle.

Thanks to the information provided by Fredinand, Adrian was able to recognize them.

Standing next to Graham was a middle-aged woman with light brown hair and eyes.

She was Sarah Lancaster, Graham's wife; his grandmother.

Beside her stood Mathias Lancaster, Adrian's mother's elder brother—his uncle.

He was a man in his early thirties, with light brown hair and piercing blue eyes.

Adrian descended from the carriage, extending his hand to his mother.

A soft chuckle escaped Aerilyn's lips as she witnessed her son's gallant gesture, and she accepted his hand with a warm smile.

"Thank you."

She expressed her gratitude, and Adrian returned the smile.

"You're welcome."

Just as the pleasant moment unfolded, a shadow cast itself upon Adrian's figure.

He turned around to find a man with striking white hair and magenta eyes entering his sight, causing Adrian and Aerilyn to immediately bow respectfully in his presence.

Sensing the need for privacy, Aerilyn discreetly moved away, allowing father and son to converse.

"The railway..."

The man spoke in a low tone, causing Adrian to straighten his back and face Arthur.

However, before Adrian could respond, Arthur continued.

"I just found out that all the land designated for the railway is under your name. Not only that, but 80% of the coal mines across the Aeon Region are also yours."

"Your Majesty, is there a problem with it?"

Adrian's innocent face showed no hint of understanding the implications, prompting Arthur to shut his mouth and massage his temples, struggling to find the right words.

"No. I don't have a problem with it, but..."

Arthur's voice trailed off, his mind filled with a whirlwind of thoughts.

The fact that his 12-year-old son not only invented a groundbreaking invention but also held such control over the Steam Train's resources, leaving no room for competitors, was both awe-inspiring and worrisome.

Arthur couldn't fathom the amount of money his son could accumulate if the Steam Train became a reality.

Shaking his head to dismiss his swirling thoughts, Arthur let out a sigh and concluded.

"Never mind."

"?"

Realizing that his son was unaware of the weight of his accomplishments, Arthur mustered a smile and placed a reassuring hand on Adrian's shoulder.

"Anyway, you did a good job. You make me proud."

Despite Adrian having no idea what his father trying to convey was, he responded anyway.

"Thank you."

With that, Arthur continued on his way, joining Aerilyn to escort her.

The Imperial family convoy proceeded towards Graham.

"We greet His Majesty the Emperor and Her Majesty the Empress of the Aeon Empire."

As they were exchanging greetings, Adrian's eyes eagerly scanned the surroundings, his mind filled with a sense of déjà vu.

The layout of the castle matched exactly what he had seen in his first dream.

However, the only clue he possessed was that a mysterious black-robed man would come at night and place something on the watchtower floor, which Adrian suspected to be an explosive.

Although he lacked the specifics of when or which watchtower, he knew that he needed to begin his watch when night fell.

After exchanging greetings, the Imperial family was led to their respective chambers to rest after the long journey and would gather once again at the dinner table.

.

.

.

"Your Highness, it's finished."

The maid said, stepping away to give Adrian a clear view of himself in the mirror.

He examined his reflection, taking note of his perfectly styled hair and his attire that showcased his noble status.

However, what caught his attention the most were the dark circles that hung under his eyes.

It had been three days and two nights since he arrived at Safonyx Castle, and he hadn't taken a proper sleep as he continued to keep watch over the castle.

Despite the sleepless nights, Adrian hadn't seen any sign of the arrival of the black-robed individuals he was expecting.

The festival was set to last for two to three weeks, so there was still a long way to go for Adrian.

His task was far from over.

"Thank you."

Adrian said to the maid, acknowledging her efforts.

With that, Ferdinand followed closely behind—they were heading towards the garden to attend the gathering.

All the kings from across the Terra continent had arrived at Safonyx Castle the previous day, and the tea party was being held as a welcome event.

"Ian!"

A familiar voice called out, causing Adrian to instinctively turn around.

It was Nathaniel, however, he abruptly halted in his tracks upon seeing him.

Adrian couldn't help but notice the shock on Nathaniel's face as if he had just seen a ghost.

He knew that his own appearance must be far from pleasant, resembling that of a zombie, but he wished his brother could have been a bit more subtle about it.

"My goodness, you look like shit."

Nathaniel blurted out, voicing his thoughts without any filter.

"Shut up."

Adrian simply rolled his eyes in boredom, not wanting to delve into the depths of his current state.

As they began walking side by side, Nathaniel reached out and gently stroked Adrian's head.

Nevertheless, he couldn't shake off his anxiety, asking.

"Is there something troubling you?"

Adrian appreciated Nathaniel's genuine concern, but…

While it was true that he fully trusted Nathaniel, Adrian still wasn't ready to completely open up to him about his transmigration into this world.

Because it would undoubtedly lead to the revelation that he was not the real Adrian, how he came to possess his brother's body and many other unanswered questions that he himself did not know the answer to.

Furthermore, considering Nathaniel's deep adoration for Adrian, there was no guarantee that Nathaniel wouldn't attempt to kill him once he discovered the truth.

That was why Adrian decided to handle the matter concerning Aerilyn personally.

With that in mind, Adrian shook his head.

"No, it's nothing."

"If you need any help, just ask me. You know you can count on me."

Adrian smiled faintly, appreciating Nathaniel's offer.

"I understand. Thanks."

"You're welcome."

Nathaniel replied warmly.

After a few more minutes of walking, they finally arrived at the designated venue.

The guards who saw them immediately announced their arrival.

"His Highnesses the First and the Second Prince of the Aeon Empire are entering!"

The lush green surroundings greeted them, with vibrant flowers blooming in various hues, their delicate petals swaying in the breeze.

In the center of the garden, numerous round tables were set up, each adorned with a crisp white tablecloth and dainty floral arrangements.

As Nathaniel and Adrian emerged from the entrance, the guests quickly stood and bowed in respect.

Nathaniel quickly addressed them.

"Please continue and don't mind us."

The atmosphere soon returned to normal, and the guests resumed their conversations.

However, Adrian's attention was immediately drawn to a group of youngsters seated at a round table.

Soon, one of them, a young man with wheat-colored hair and honey eyes, waved his hand enthusiastically toward Adrian.

A thin smile formed on his lips as he recognized them.

It was Péréz and the others.