The Dreamer's POV

The next day dawned, casting a golden glow across the grand estate of the Lyma family.

The family members gathered in the courtyard, their curiosity piqued by Theo's promise of a tour around the developing Lyma Capital. The tension from the previous night's discussions still lingered, but a sense of anticipation hung in the air.

Theo, flanked by Drius, stood before his family, a hint of excitement in his eyes.

"I think you'll all be pleasantly surprised by what you're about to see."

As the Lyma family members embarked on their tour, they were greeted by a city that was far more advanced and developed than they had expected.

The streets were clean and bustling with activity, the buildings sturdy and impressive, and the infrastructure well-planned. The city was a testament to progress and prosperity, and it left the family members in awe.

Fiona's twins, Eleanor and William, couldn't contain their excitement. "This is amazing, Mother! It's like a whole new world!"

Margarette and her children shared in their wonder, their eyes wide with amazement.

All the things they couldn't see during their arrival into the Lyma Capital was now bare for them to witness. Even the most underdeveloped areas showed so much promise that it was impossible to think that this place was in ruins a month ago.

Perhaps the one who was most surprised was Sarah, however, she ensured none of her shock was evident—at least, not in a suspicious way.

If she acted completely calm, that would be odd, but if she was to show her true state of surprise, it would be too much.

As such, she only showed a moderate amount.

As we all continued the tour, it seemed like Sarah couldn't contain her curiosity any longer.

"Theo, how did you manage to acquire all the resources for this development? It must have been an immense undertaking."

Theo smiled enigmatically, his gaze shifting to me, standing discreetly nearby.

"We have a benefactor who has been instrumental in supporting our endeavors."

I couldn't help but close my eyes and give a slight nod while smiling. As expected, they were finally asking the questions.

Sarah's brow furrowed in suspicion. "A benefactor? Who could possibly have such vested interest in our family?"

Theo's response was measured. "It's a Lyma Family confidential secret, managed by our head butler and manager, Luke."

All eyes turned to me, and I gave a subtle nod of acknowledgment.

"Indeed, Lady Sarah. Our benefactor's identity remains confidential for now, but their support has been invaluable in shaping the future of the Lyma Capital."

"You can't even tell me?"

"Only the head of the family may know of the secret identity of the benefactor." I added in a tone of finality.

That implied one thing.

'If you want to know… become the family head.'

The family members exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued and their skepticism evident.

The tour continued, but the revelation of the mysterious benefactor hung in the air, a riddle waiting to be unraveled.

Theo led them through the city, showing them the various projects and initiatives that were transforming the Lyma Capital into a thriving metropolis. The family members marveled at the progress and the thoughtfully designed cityscape.

As they returned to the estate, the tension that had permeated the previous night's discussions had eased, replaced by a sense of awe and wonder at the developments taking place.

The mysteries surrounding the benefactor and the future of the Lyma family had only deepened, but for now, they were content to bask in the promise of a prosperous future and the vision that Theo had set forth.

'At least they now know that they won't have to do much if they take over the Lyma Family.' I could see the greed in their eyes increasing at a rapid pace.

They now desired the Lyma throne more than ever before.

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The tour of the bustling Lyma Capital had left the family members with a mix of wonder and curiosity. As they returned to the estate, they gathered in the ornate dining room for a brunch that was both sumptuous and tense.

The table was set with fine china and silverware, and the room was bathed in the soft, warm glow of morning sunlight filtering through the curtains. It was a stark contrast to the weighty discussions of the previous night.

As the family settled into their seats, Sarah, couldn't help but let her concern show.

Her gray hair shimmered as she leaned forward, her emerald eyes fixed on Theo, who sat at the head of the table.

"Theo," she began, her voice laced with worry, "I can't help but worry about your safety. The world can be a dangerous place, and I fear for you."

Theo offered a reassuring smile, his eyes meeting Sarah's with a sense of understanding. "Grandmother, rest assured that I am safe. I have competent warriors by my side."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"Your father thought so too, but… I just want to make sure you are safe. Any assault may occur now."

Sarah's concern seem to deepen, and her gaze shifted to Drius, the imposing Imperial Knight who had stood faithfully by Theo's side throughout their recent trials.

"And do you trust these warriors, Theo? Are they truly loyal to you?"

Drius, his presence commanding, spoke up. "Lady Sarah, I am an Imperial Knight, sworn to protect Theo with my life. My loyalty to him is unwavering."

Theo nodded in agreement. "Drius is more than just a knight; he is a trusted friend and ally. I have no doubt about his loyalty."

The tension in the room seemed to ease slightly as Sarah absorbed their assurances. However, her concern remained palpable as she turned her gaze to me, who had been discreetly present during the brunch.

"And what about Luke?" she asked, her voice filled with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. "What role does he play in all of this?"

Theo's expression softened as he spoke of me.

"Luke is a formidable Adventurer, grandmother. He has been instrumental in managing the estate and has proven himself in numerous trials. I trust him implicitly."

I nodded in acknowledgment of Theo's word, smiling softly.

'There's no way she doesn't know of my capabilities. It'll be to her detriment if she decides to push this any further. Or maybe…'

"If you desire it, I am up for a spar with your best guard, Madam. I am willing to show you my skills.: As I spoke, my grin deepened.

I could see a flustered expression from the corner of her face as she swiftly removed her gaze from me.

"There is no need. I trust my grandson's words." She quickly intoned, causing me to smile even more in amusement.

"Very well."

As they continued their brunch, the tension in the room began to ebb, replaced by a sense of cautious optimism.

The brunch continued, the family members engaging in more lighthearted conversations, though the mysteries surrounding the Lyma family's future and the enigmatic benefactor still hung in the air, waiting to be unraveled.

Continue your story on empire

And yes, even though they were all laughing… shadows of discord sprouted from beneath.

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[A/N]

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