บท 39: Laughter and Confusion
The next day, Leonel returned to the Warwickdom estate with renewed energy. Although he had expressed his desire to pursue a different path in life, the atmosphere at his family's home remained filled with strong hopes and traditions. Duke Warwickdom, his stern and disciplined father, sat at the end of the dining table, his face as serious as ever. Duchess Warwickdom, his graceful stepmother, looked at Leonel with a thoughtful gaze.
"What's making you so cheerful this morning, Leonel?" asked the Duchess, her tone gentle but meaningful. "It seems like something has happened."
Leonel paused for a moment, trying to find the right words. While he wanted to share his experience in theater, he knew that the world of acting wasn't always valued in the Warwickdom family, which prioritized training as warriors and leaders.
"Oh, nothing, Mother," Leonel replied, trying to avoid the topic. "Just met an old friend."
However, his younger sister, Lady Sophia, who was 14 and always cheerful, immediately interrupted. "I heard from the maid! She said you went to the theater at the town hall. Are you going to act in a play, Brother?"
The atmosphere at the dining table instantly became tense. Leonel felt his cheeks redden as Duke Warwickdom raised an eyebrow at him. "Theater? Really, Leonel?"
"I... just tried something new," Leonel quickly replied, trying to defend himself. "Arthur invited me to watch his rehearsal."
"And you read some lines, didn't you?" Sophia added with a mischievous smile.
Leonel sighed, realizing he couldn't hide the truth anymore. "Yes, I tried reading a few lines. It was just for fun."
Duke Warwickdom tapped the table with his fingers, drawing everyone's attention. "Leonel, as the heir to Warwickdom, your time is valuable. Our family has always taught that training to be a warrior and leader comes first. Acting might be fun, but is it worthy of someone in your position?"
Leonel looked at his father, struggling to answer. However, memories of their previous conversation came to his mind—Duke Warwickdom had given him permission to pursue a different path, as long as he strived to be the best.
Before Leonel could respond, Duchess Warwickdom interjected with a gentle yet firm tone. "Wait, dear. Isn't art also a part of our civilization? If Leonel wants to try something new, let him. After all, experiences like this can help him understand others better."
Sophia added, "And honestly, I want to see Brother Leonel on stage. Maybe he'll get more attention than when he's dancing at parties!"
The comment made Leonel glare at his sister, while the Duchess let out a small laugh. Even Duke Warwickdom, who was usually strict, couldn't hold back a slight smile. "Alright," he said finally. "But don't let this interfere with your real responsibilities."
Leonel nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Father. I promise, it won't be a problem."
As lunch ended, Sophia approached Leonel with a wide smile. "Brother, if you really become an actor, I'll sit in the front row to watch you!"
Leonel ruffled his sister's hair playfully. "You just want more material to tease me with, don't you?"
Sophia giggled. "Maybe. But I'm sure you'll be amazing."
That evening, Leonel sat in his room, staring at the script Arthur had given him. Although there was still a long way to go, he felt that this experience would lead him to something greater. The world of acting might not be his final destination, but he was sure that this journey would bring new color to his life—and perhaps, inspire those around him as well.
สถานะพลังงานรายสัปดาห์
-- การจัดอันดับด้วยพลัง 
-- หินพลัง