The Way of Knight
Chapter 26 – The Hidden Fangs
---
Footsteps echoed through the stone corridor. Fenrir walked behind his father, Baron Celdric, and his mother, Elena. The air in Marquis Helbrecht's estate felt different from Eisenwald's swamp—heavier, suffocating, as if every shadow behind the pillars hid unseen ears.
Celdric glanced back, his face stern but eyes gleaming. "Fenrir… you answered well. The Marquis is not easily impressed, yet you made him take notice."
Fenrir only nodded. In his heart, he knew this was only the beginning. Gaining recognition was one thing—surviving in the nest of nobles was another.
"Be careful," Celdric added. "In this house, a single misplaced word can mean disaster."
Fenrir smiled faintly. "I know, Father. That's exactly why I want to test myself here."
Elena, walking beside them, looked at her son with worry. The crimson aura that had flared earlier still lingered faintly around his body. "Control your aura, Fenrir. Too many eyes are watching."
Fenrir drew a deep breath, forcing his aura down until it vanished completely. Already, he was learning that in this place, standing out too much could be just as dangerous as being weak.
---
As they crossed into the training courtyard, a group of Marquis' knights awaited. They wore light plate armor with the crest of a winged lion emblazoned on their chests. One of them stepped forward. His hair was golden-blond, his face young, barely into his twenties.
"You're Fenrir Eisenwald?" he asked, his tone dismissive.
Fenrir met his gaze. "I am."
"That name's too big for a boy like you," the knight sneered. "They say you killed Klaus the Iron Fang. I thought it was just a rumor."
Fenrir suppressed a smile. "If that rumor frightens you, then perhaps it's best it remains one."
A few knights burst into laughter, but others studied Fenrir more closely. A thirteen-year-old daring to retort against one of Helbrecht's knights? That was far from ordinary.
The blond knight scoffed. "I am Reinhard, one of Helbrecht's Fangs. Don't think your swamp luck will serve you here. Under the Marquis, only strength is honored."
Fenrir inclined his head slightly. "Then perhaps one day I'll show you what strength truly is."
The tension sharpened, but another knight—older, bearded, his aura deeper—raised his hand. "Enough, Reinhard. Do not waste time on a child. The Marquis himself has tested him—that is enough."
Reinhard backed away reluctantly, but Fenrir knew this was not over.
Enemies don't only come from the outside. Even within these walls, I'll have to keep my blade sharp.
---
That night, the Eisenwald family was invited to dine in Helbrecht's great hall. Lavish dishes filled the table—roasted meat glazed with red sauce, fresh bread, and thick wine.
Marquis Helbrecht sat at the head of the long table, flanked by advisors and knights. Yet his eyes often wandered toward Fenrir.
"Fenrir," he said after some time. "What is most important for a leader?"
Silence. Every noble waited for the boy's reply.
Fenrir set down his knife and fork. "Trust."
Snickers came from some nobles. Helbrecht tilted his head. "Not strength?"
"Strength can destroy," Fenrir answered. "But without trust, no one will willingly raise their sword for you. Even the mightiest knight falls if he stands alone."
The hall fell silent. Helbrecht studied him, then chuckled softly. "Heavy words… for a boy."
Fenrir lowered his head slightly. "I only speak what I believe, Marquis."
Helbrecht drank deeply from his goblet, a thin smile curling his lips. "Then let us see if your belief endures the field of war."
---
The System Speaks
Later that night, Fenrir retired to the chamber prepared for him. The moment the door closed, the mechanical voice chimed once more in his mind.
Ding!
Quest Progress Updated!
[Secure the Marquis' Favor] – Marquis Helbrecht's interest has been piqued. (Progress: 30%)
[Navigate Noble Intrigue] – First step into noble society completed. (Progress: Ongoing)
Reward Gained!
EXP +800
Skill Proficiency [Leadership] +5%
New Passive Trait: [Presence of the Wolf] – Your aura leaves a lasting impression. Increases intimidation and respect in formal gatherings.
Fenrir closed his eyes, feeling new energy coursing through him. His body was still young, but the strength awakening inside grew clearer with every trial.
Step by step. Even Helbrecht's lions will learn to respect the wolf.
---
Status Panel
In his mind, a translucent panel opened, displaying his updated self.
🔻 [Fenrir's Status – End of Chapter 26] 🔻
Name: Fenrir Eisenwald
Title: Wolf Cub of Eisenwald
Age: 13
Level: 4
EXP: 2000 / 4000
Aura: 45
Stamina: 52
Strength: 33
Cunning: 58
Charisma: 47
Mental Fortitude: 50
Skills:
[Aura Control Lv.2] – Aura output more stable and sharper.
[Swordsmanship Lv.2] – Capable of chaining techniques with aura infusion.
[Leadership Lv.2] – Grants +10% morale to small units.
[Tactical Instinct Lv.1] – Quick, adaptive strategy sense.
Traits:
[Wounds That Shape] – Transforms war trauma into mental growth.
[Presence of the Wolf] – Aura imprints respect and intimidation in social or military settings.
Active Quests:
1. Establish Eisenwald Militia (20/50).
2. Secure the Marquis' Favor (30%).
3. Navigate Noble Intrigue (Ongoing).
---
#wanD48