Chapter 39: Count Haringoth, A Formidable Figure

During the dinner, Draxel lavished praise on the delectable steak, skillfully prepared and indeed a culinary delight. The young dragon Lein, now sporting grown teeth, was finally ready to enjoy meat.

“Roar. Mmm, Count, the steak today was exceptionally delicious. Thank you for feeding me so well.”

“Sure, enjoy it. Here, you can have my portion too.”

Draxel beamed with affection, watching the young dragon, still adorably juvenile, and mused on its potential to one day dominate the skies in all its glory.

Safiya, too, discerned from Lein’s demeanor its immense enjoyment of the meal.

The dinner was a joyful affair for everyone. As it drew to a close, Draxel finally broached the subject on his mind. 

“Old Aubrey, it’s time for us to leave, many tasks await me. However, I have a request and wonder if you’d be willing to assist?”

“My esteemed lord, I’ll never forget the profound kindness you’ve shown my family. I’m ready to help in any way I can.”

“Excellent. I have some high-quality materials and need you to forge an exceptional sword for me.” 

With that, Draxel presented the Wolf King’s bones and teeth.

Blacksmith Old Aubrey instantly recognized the materials and exclaimed, “These are bones and teeth from a prairie Wolf King, ideal for swordsmithing.”

“Yes, you’re truly knowledgeable, a master blacksmith. I require a sword that’s exceptionally durable and resistant to high heat and flames.”

“No problem, my lord. Give me one week, and I will dedicate all my craft and experience to forging it.”

Pleased with Old Aubrey’s commitment, Draxel expressed his thanks and left with Safiya and the young dragon Lein.

On their way back to the lord’s hall, the system chimed in. 

[Assessment: Seems like you’re finally exploiting the system’s benefits, huh?]

Draxel thought in response, ‘Yeah… You should definitely do more of this kind of thing, you know?’

[If you pay off your debt to Ronnie, I might consider offering you more perks.]

‘Typical, I knew you had a thing for her. If you were an actual man and not just a virtual system, you’d probably be chasing after her already,’ Draxel mused, unable to do anything but offer a wry smile in response to the system’s sycophantic remarks.

Nonetheless, the mission had been a resounding success, providing a solid groundwork for future endeavors.

Just as everyone was back in the lord’s hall, preparing to rest for the night, a report came from a veteran guard stationed at the door.

“My esteemed lord, the reinforcements from the Kingdom of Swadian are nearly here. You are requested to quickly head to the city gates for the reception!”

‘Receive them? Why can’t we just open the gates and let them in? I’m not going.’

[System Prompt: The incoming reinforcements have significantly higher prestige and honor than you. Neglecting to welcome them could be detrimental to your future progress.]

Upon receiving the system’s advice, Draxel, albeit reluctantly, redressed and swiftly mounted his horse to greet the newcomers at the gate.

Outside the city gates, the reinforcements slowly arrived, led by Count Haringoth, the lord of Haringoth Castle from the Swadian Kingdom.

His name, synonymous with his castle, was easy to remember. A formidable warrior known for his victories and celebrated as one of the Kingdom of Swadian’s few valiant heroes.

This time, he arrived leading a contingent of approximately 100 men, which notably included 15 exceedingly rare 5th-tier Swadian Iron Knights!

Had these knights encountered Noyan Tulu’s forces earlier, these 15 Swadian Iron Knights could have effortlessly overwhelmed the 30 or so enemy soldiers in mere moments, emerging virtually unscathed with perhaps just a few minor injuries.

In addition to these knights, the rest of the force comprised over 80 soldiers, including a significant number of 4th-tier Swadian Heavy Cavalry and Swadian Sergeants.

This remarkably formidable troop instantly sobered Draxel, filling him with awe and ensuring he did not underestimate them.

As Count Haringoth approached on horseback, Draxel advanced to meet him, dismounting and bowing respectfully:

“Esteemed Count Haringoth, welcome, and thank you for coming to our support.”

“There’s no need for thanks. We all serve the Kingdom of Swadia. I’ve heard about your victorious battle and hope you relish the triumph.”

“Count Haringoth, as it’s quite late, perhaps you could station your troops in my town? Join me at the Lord’s Hall, where we’ve prepared accommodations for you.”

“Your arrangements are very considerate. Thank you, Count Draxel.” Count Haringoth felt acknowledged and sincerely treated, leaving him quite satisfied.

Draxel thought to himself, ‘How could I not accommodate you well? The system showed me your attributes, and frankly, they are downright terrifying.’

[Count Haringoth]

[Level 40, Strength 38, Agility 37, Wisdom 36, Charm 39.]

[Proficiency in one-handed, two-handed, and polearm weapons: 350.]

[Skills: Tactics 3, Hostage 3, Coaching 3, Riding 6]

[System Notification: Count Haringoth is renowned for his loyalty and bravery. Cultivating a close relationship with him would be highly beneficial, as he could become a valuable ally.]

[Evaluation: As a Count in the Kingdom of Swadia, his attributes are well-balanced with exceptionally high overall strength. Your attributes, while also balanced, are considerably lower in comparison.]

‘Well, I might be low now, but I have room to grow and improve. They, on the other hand, are stuck with fixed data!’

Upon hearing this evaluation, Draxel felt a bit indignant and retorted internally. Nevertheless, he noted the system’s insights.

Count Haringoth indeed possessed formidable strength, and his skills granted him numerous advantages. His “Coach 3” skill continuously provided him with high-tier troops, “Hostage 3” enabled effective wartime sustenance through capturing and selling prisoners, and “Tactics 3” reflected his superior battlefield command, maximizing enemy casualties while minimizing his own losses.

After settling his troops in Uxkhal’s barracks, Count Haringoth accompanied Draxel to the lord’s hall. The two engaged in amiable conversation along the way. Upon arrival, Draxel graciously offered his main bedroom, the most luxurious room, for Count Haringoth’s comfort.

Count Haringoth expressed his appreciation for Draxel’s gesture of offering the most opulent room.

[Friendliness with Count Haringoth +1, current level: 1.]

[Evaluation: Building a rapport with such a distinguished figure requires starting from ground zero.]

Draxel internally groaned but reassured himself, ‘No worries, a consistent approach and well-placed flattery will get me there. I’m not in a rush.’

And so, the evening passed smoothly and without incident.