After making arrangements with the Five Elders, Carl returned to the Figarland family estate.
Garling had been waiting for Carl's return. As soon as the two met, Carl immediately recounted everything that had happened during his meeting with Imu.
Even someone as composed as Garling couldn't hide his shock upon hearing such explosive news.
"Warcury is really dead?"
"Yes, and in a gruesome way—nothing but bones left. His remains should have already been sent back to the Topman family."
"That old bastard... I never expected him to die so... unceremoniously. Life is full of surprises."
Garling shook his head in astonishment before continuing,
"So Imu wants me to take Warcury's place?"
"Yes. From what I see, there's no one in Mary Geoise more qualified to join the Five Elders than you, Uncle Garling. The title of Warrior God of Justice suits you perfectly. But of course, if you don't want it, no one can force the Figarland family."
"Before we completely eradicate Joy Boy, holding a seat among the Five Elders is undoubtedly beneficial for our family. I see no reason to refuse."
"I thought the same. So, you're agreeing? That means you can officially take your place in Pangaea Castle now."
Garling, however, waved his hand dismissively.
"No rush. Before I assume my position as a Five Elder, I have an announcement to make."
Carl was momentarily taken aback. "An announcement?"
A smirk appeared on Garling's face as he looked at Carl.
Feeling a bit uneasy under Garling's gaze, Carl blinked and asked,
"Uncle Garling, does this have something to do with me?"
"What else? I've decided—I'm handing over both the position of head of the Figarland family and leader of the Holy Knights to you."
"Huh? Isn't this a bit too sudden?"
"Sudden? Didn't I also suddenly become a Five Elder? Besides, I've told you before—these positions were always meant for you. Don't tell me you weren't prepared."
"Well... it's not that I wasn't prepared, but... what about Shanks? He hasn't returned to the family yet. Shouldn't he be informed first?"
"No need. Given the current situation, there's no time to wait. Besides, you just mentioned wanting to purge Mary Geoise. I think that's an excellent idea. This place is overdue for a cleansing. Most of these so-called Celestial Dragons are unworthy of the title. As the new leader of the Holy Knights, you'll have full authority to deal with those whose corruption has rotted their very minds."
Without waiting for Carl's response, Garling reached for the golden emblem pinned to his chest. He unfastened it and personally affixed it onto Carl's coat.
This emblem was the symbol of the Holy Knights' leader.
Carl looked down at the badge and asked, "Uncle Garling, doesn't the transfer of leadership require Imu's approval?"
Garling chuckled. "Not anymore. In Mary Geoise, only the Figarland family has the right to wear this badge. Anyone else would be humiliating themselves by trying."
As he spoke, he straightened Carl's collar and added,
"The Holy Knights have long been ready to welcome you as their leader. As of today, they are under your command."
With this, Carl now held absolute power over Mary Geoise. From the Five Elders down to the lowest-ranking Celestial Dragons, he could imprison or execute anyone at will.
Now that Imu had secluded themselves within the Flower Chamber, Carl truly had free rein over Mary Geoise.
...
As this thought crossed Carl's mind, he suddenly asked,
"By the way, Uncle Garling, has Charlos' sister been around lately?"
Garling glanced at the golden clock on the wall and said,
"She comes by almost every day. Sometimes, she even stays the night. In fact, she sleeps in your chambers. Judging by the time, she should be arriving soon."
Carl's mouth twitched. "So she's treating this place like her own home now?"
Garling crossed his arms and smirked. "What's the matter? I think she's a fine girl. You've interacted with her plenty—what do you think of her?"
"She's... a bit slow, honestly. But I'll admit, I'm surprised that her spoiled princess personality hasn't caused any issues with Monet and the others. She actually gets along with them well."
"Then does that mean you approve of the marriage?"
"...To be honest, Uncle Garling, I don't mind Charlos' sister becoming my wife, but she can't be my primary wife."
Garling had expected this answer. "So, you insist on having Lucia as your primary wife, don't you?"
Carl nodded firmly. "That's right. The primary wife must be her!"
Garling gave a slight nod. "Alright, then it's settled."
His straightforward response left Carl momentarily speechless. "Huh?"
"Nothing to be surprised about. Carl, you've surpassed even me. In Mary Geoise, nothing can restrain you anymore. Do whatever you want."
As Garling spoke, pride shone in his eyes. The nephew he once had to protect had grown into a towering figure, someone even he had to look up to.
For eight hundred years, the Figarland family had remained stagnant in Mary Geoise, but because of Carl, they had ascended to greater heights—perhaps even to the very pinnacle of power.
Having such an extraordinary nephew, Garling felt he had no regrets left in this life.
Now, he had given Carl everything he could offer. As for family traditions? To hell with them.
Garling patted Carl's shoulder heavily and said softly, "Alright, Carl. I need to head to Pangaea Castle to meet my new colleagues. When I return, we'll gather the family and officially pass the headship to you."
Carl placed his hand over Garling's and said, "Uncle Garling, I won't let you down. Joy Boy will die by my hands!"
Garling met Carl's gaze and spoke slowly, "I believe you. But remember, victory means nothing if you don't survive. I'd rather see Joy Boy escape, wounded again, than lose you."
Carl smirked. "Don't worry, Uncle Garling. My Dark-Dark Fruit is nothing like our ancestor's. I won't repeat his mistakes!"
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+180 chapters on p@treon/tambeerg