Chapitre 15: Foundations of the Empire
As Robin awoke to the warm morning light streaming through the window, he noticed the small figure beside him—Aria, still peacefully asleep. The golden sunlight had cast a gentle glow across her face, illuminating her soft features. For a brief moment, Robin's heart skipped; he hadn't realized before how beautiful she looked in the morning light. He reached out instinctively, wanting to brush a stray lock of hair from her face, but then he remembered the task at hand and held back.
As he turned his gaze away, he noticed a faint smile appear on Aria's lips, as if she sensed his presence. A soft chuckle escaped him, feeling the warmth of that quiet moment.
"Malsa, open the system panel," Robin murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
—
[ System Panel ]
Level: 3/24
Energy: 6000/36000
Energy Types: Life Energy/ 2 / 2000, Dark Energy / 3 / 4000
Skills: Healing Magic, Gluttony, Spatial Storage, Black Fire Ball, Divine Shield, Divine Body
Body Level: Golden Knight
Mana Level: Mid-Level Mage, Magical Circle 3
Spells: Teleportation, Physical Enhancement
—
As he thought with higher levels the harder it would increase the energy level but one thing had always disturbed him, he didn't know how much energy he needed per level. "Malsa how will i know the energy i need to collect to increase my level", Robin as he said the System panel updated.
—
[ System Panel ]
Level: 3/24
Energy: 6000/36000
Energies:
Life Energy: 2 / 2000 / 12000
Dark Energy: 3 / 4000 / 24000
Skills: Healing Magic, Gluttony, Spatial Storage, Black Fire Ball, Divine Shield, Divine Body
Body Level: Golden Knight
Mana Level: Mid-Level Mage, Magical Circle 3
Spells: Teleportation, Physical Enhancement
—
"Master, I've updated the System panel to make things more convenient," Malsa's voice chimed, carrying a touch of warmth and efficiency. "Here is the new layout: Energy—displayed as Level / Current Energy Level / Total Energy Level. Also, Master, be mindful to balance the life energy with dark energy. This alignment will help prevent the dark mana from going rogue."
Robin nodded, absorbing the reminder as his gaze moved to the new panel display. The interface was more intuitive now, displaying his energy status in a way that allowed him to monitor the delicate balance he needed to maintain.
"Well, looks like it's back to farming," he sighed, a wry smile playing at his lips. Life energy was rare—precious, even. Unlike dark energy, it couldn't be drawn out by force. The only way he knew to gather it was through consistent, mindful interaction with the natural world, letting the energy flow to him over time. For now, this was the only method he'd uncovered, and it was a slow process.
As Robin stood up, clad only in his undergarments, he heard a soft rustle behind him. Aria had stirred awake, blinking sleepily. When she realized they had shared the same bed, a deep blush crept across her cheeks, her gaze dropping to the blankets in an attempt to hide her embarrassment.
"Good morning, Aria," Robin greeted, a playful glint in his eyes. "It seems you're finally awake."
"Yes… master," Aria mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper as she kept her eyes down, clearly overwhelmed with shyness. Her ears were a bright shade of red.
Robin chuckled. "You know, you really should stop calling me 'master.' Just call me Robin, especially since we shared the same…" He didn't even finish the sentence before a pillow smacked him squarely in the face.
"Sorry, _your highness_!" Aria retorted, her tone still laced with shyness but a hint of defiance sparking in her eyes.
Robin could only laugh, the sound filling the room and lifting the morning air. For the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of ease he'd almost forgotten.
_Knock! Knock!_ The door burst open suddenly, revealing the Queen herself standing in the doorway, her presence as regal as ever.
"Mum, you can't just barge in like that!" Robin protested, startled and still holding back laughter from his exchange with Aria.
The Queen raised an eyebrow, unfazed. "I'm your mother, Robin; there's nothing you can hide from me," she said with a sly smile, glancing over at Aria. "Even your… girlfriend over there."
Robin rolled his eyes, while Aria's face went bright red again, her hands fidgeting with the blanket. Beside the Queen stood her personal servant, holding a finely crafted suitcase of clothes.
"Aria, come here, my dear," the Queen beckoned gently. She opened the suitcase to reveal beautiful garments—simple yet elegant, with fine details fit for someone of noble company. "From today on, you won't be just a maid. These will be your clothes from now on," she said with a soft smile. "Thank you for always looking after Robin, and I trust you'll continue to do so in the future."
"Yes, Mother… a-ah, Your Highness," Aria stammered, standing awkwardly as she accepted the clothes, her cheeks still flushed. She glanced shyly at Robin, who was making his way toward the royal bathroom, rolling his eyes playfully at his mother's antics.
The Queen watched them both with a fond smile. It was clear that she saw in Aria someone who brought warmth and loyalty into Robin's life, and that made her heart glad.
As they finished preparing, Robin wore his usual royal attire as for Aria was given a bright white suit meant for women's body with golden collars showing loyalty. Since the current Ashton was the founding generation they did not have much constraints when it come to both lifestyle or crucial decision as they could live it up to the descendants if gained in future. Robin and Aria followed her towards the throne room as the were ordered by the queen. As they alive the whole duke family was there including Ann the duke's daughter.
A young girl with bright yellow hair—a clear inheritance from her mother—ran towards them, her face lit with excitement. "Robin! Aria!" she called, her voice lively as she joined their side. This was Ann, who had grown into a tall, spirited young lady over the years. Though she was the Duke's daughter, she had formed a close bond with Aria through her frequent visits, as Robin's "farming" pursuits were never too far from the Duke's estate.
Ann had her own ambitions. Whenever possible, she trained under her mother's and father's guidance.
As the three exchanged greetings, Ann and Aria shared a knowing glance and, with a small bow, excused themselves from the royal chamber. They understood that there was something important for the King and Queen to discuss with Robin.
When the doors closed, King Lion took a deep breath and looked at his son, a flicker of guilt in his eyes. "Robin, in one year, you'll be leaving for the Empire's Academy. I'm sorry I couldn't give you more time here," he said, his voice laced with regret. The Queen, Duke, and Mary exchanged somber looks, as if they, too, felt the weight of Robin's impending departure.
Robin, sensing the tension, offered a reassuring smile. "It's all right, Father. I knew this day would come eventually. Sooner or later, it's something we all had to face."
The King's expression softened at his son's words, and he reached out to pat Robin on the shoulder. "Let's sit," he said, motioning toward a more comfortable setting where they could all speak more freely. The group moved to a spacious sitting area nearby, and once everyone was settled, the atmosphere grew warmer, ready for an honest conversation.
They entered the gold-adorned room and took their seats on chairs lined with intricate golden designs. Once they were all settled, King Lion looked to Robin. "Robin, do you have any questions for us?" he asked, his gaze inviting honesty.
Robin paused, considering his words. "I'd like to understand more about the Empire's structure, starting with the General who's recently appeared in these parts."
King Lion nodded and gestured to Mary. "Mary, you know the Empire's hierarchy better than any of us."
Mary leaned forward, her expression serious as she began. "The General you encountered is one of the most powerful individuals in the Empire," she said. "It's rare to see him in these lands—his authority is second only to the Emperor. The Empire has no nobility like our own; it's based purely on strength. The stronger you are, the higher your rank, and only the strongest can rise to the rank of General."
She continued, "There are twelve Generals in total, each commanding a vast territory with armies under their control. The General you saw ranks tenth among them. However, the first three are rarely seen and are said to have been part of the Empire since its very beginning. They wield immense power and carry a legendary status."
Mary took a measured sip of water before going on, her tone turning cautious. "After the Generals come the various institutions that hold influence—the temples, magic towers, guilds, and mercenary groups. These factions are fiercely independent and powerful in their own right. It's hard to say which is the strongest among them, but none should be underestimated. Their influence stretches across the Empire."
Finally, her voice softened as she spoke of the Emperor. "As for the Human Emperor who rules the Empire… he's an enigma. No one knows his true age, and he's never been seen in public. Despite ruling with absolute authority, he has no known children or heirs. The mystery surrounding him only adds to his power—people fear what they don't understand."
Robin fell in to a trance thinking about the emperor structure which very different from anything he seen in the Ashton kingdom or earth.
King Lion turned to Robin, his expression serious and thoughtful. "Robin, if you choose not to enlist under one of the Generals, I strongly recommend you consider joining a mercenary group—or, even better, the guild. While it can be difficult to gain entry, the guild has a significant influence in the Empire, and aligning yourself with them could greatly enhance your chances of survival."
He paused, a shadow of nostalgia crossing his face. "I once stood where you are now. The only reason this kingdom exists is because of an old friend," he said with a heavy sigh. The Queen, noticing his wistfulness, gently placed her hand on his shoulder. "Thank you, Delia," he murmured, appreciating her support.
The Duke leaned forward, his demeanor shifting to one of grave concern. "Robin, having attended the Empire's Academy myself, I feel it's crucial to share this with you. You will inevitably encounter something known as 'dungeons.' These mysterious realms have emerged throughout the world, existing long before our time, yet the Empire keeps their secrets well-guarded."
He took a breath, ensuring Robin understood the weight of his words. "Dungeons are like miniature worlds teeming with both treasures and peril. They are one of the primary reasons the Empire is so wealthy. However, be warned: only those of significant power—at least a Silver Knight or Arch Mage—can venture inside and hope to survive. I was neither when I first attempted to enter one, and it nearly cost me everything."
The gravity of the Duke's account lingered in the air, and Robin realized just how daunting and complex the Empire's landscape would be.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone