Episode 151 side story: My brother's attendants - The Saga of Lioncourt

This is a story about Enzo, formerly part of Robert's faction, ranked twelfth in importance. New characters have entered the scene—many who didn't intertwine with Varian's story, naturally. A man named Charles de Morier exists, the third son of a knightly family within the Lioncourt territory, known for his remarkable strength. Though part of a knightly family, inheritance rarely trickled down to the second and third sons—it was a burden to bear. Fortunately, Charles was robust and sturdy from a young age. He was recognized for this and, thanks to his prestigious lineage, was chosen as a study companion to Robert, the heir of the Lioncourt family, paving his path to success—or so it was expected. That was until Robert was assassinated. "The culprit is undoubtedly Albert de Groot!" "It was Varian who killed him." "It was Urban Decos who determined the route of the advance. Could it be he was swayed by Varian?" The former vassals collectively voiced the belief that it was the ambitious Varian who, after achieving deeds of valor in the Berger subjugation, had Robert assassinated. Charles concurred with this sentiment. For Charles and the other third sons of knights or common vassals, following Robert and earning achievements to secure land was their dream, a dream mercilessly shattered by Varian, who they detested beyond reason. "So, what will everyone do from here on?" Someone posed this question. "I will protect Lord Tristan for Lord Robert's sake." Enzo Pesard, Robert's former vassal leader, was the first to respond. Some agreed with Enzo, while others decided to return home to work the fields under their family heads. "What about you?" Someone inquired of Charles. "I will become a vassal of Varian." Though his declaration stirred the group, he quickly restrained their reactions and continued. "Don't get the wrong idea, my intent is to monitor Varian's movements. As soon as I gather evidence of assassination, I will exact revenge." As Charles elaborated, everyone swallowed hard. "Magnificent! I'll join you!" "You... forgive my doubt." One by one, comrades raised their voices, resulting in Robert's vassals dividing into three groups. Those who would protect Tristan, Robert's heir. Those who would become vassals of Varian to await an opportunity. And those who chose retirement. Though their paths diverged, their loyalty to Robert remained unwavering. ...Watch closely, Varian! I'll scrutinize you to the core! Charles's eyes gleamed sharply. --- "Oh, you made it. You're one of my brother's vassals, right?" At the Lioncourt estate, Charles and his group met with Varian. Varian was an imposing figure—a good head taller than the already tall Charles. Upon meeting, they were overwhelmed by the aura of his martial prowess. "We're busy here. We've begun some development. Can you manage carpentry or farm work?" Varian's words rubbed him the wrong way. A vassal was a warrior, not a servant, made to do farm labor. "If you're eager, I'll give you some advance money. Have a meal, too. I'm heading to the settlement... Hey, Daumier! Emone!" Varian called out to several senior vassals, instructing them, "Show him the ropes until he gets used to it," and then left. It was a rather brusque reception. ...Well, gaining trust so quickly was never feasible. The fellowship, Varian's vassal corps, was large. Cold treatment towards newcomers was to be expected. Slightly disheartened, Charles comforted himself with the thought that this was just how things were. "Don't worry too much. Our lord is obsessed with development right now; he's blind to anything else." Perhaps his emotions showed on his face, as Emone, one of the senior vassals, offered words of consolation. "I don't know about others, but the fellowship isn’t kind. It’s no place for a fool who can only swing a sword around." Daumier, another senior vassal, spoke mockingly, instructing him to follow. This irked him, but he was astonished to be provided with a triangular helmet and leather armor in the armory they led him to, not to mention the advance money was substantial. Varian's wealth was extraordinary, as was his generosity. Among those who had also served as Robert's vassals, there were likely some who were already entranced by Varian just because of his generous nature. A generous lord was undoubtedly a good one. ...I have to stay sharp. Charles reminded himself to stay vigilant and focused. --- The fellowship was, to put it simply, busy. Building residences in the settlement, farming fields, watching for escaped slaves—and naturally guarding Varian and engaging in training. Eventually, they also took on security duties in the territorial capital. The whirlwind of activity was dizzying. The leader of the fellowship was Poncello, a commoner, but his skill in managing soldiers was outstanding. He treated all members fairly and was strict with himself. While the duties were demanding, there were no complaints from the members due to Poncello's charisma and the unparalleled rewards. They would receive monetary bonuses for almost any reason. As someone from a knightly family, Charles was skilled at managing people. He was eventually entrusted with assisting Poncello, outfitted in chain mail and an iron helmet, escalating his status. And as for Varian himself, unbelievably, he would plough the fields himself at the settlement, tilling the soil and making tiles. He trained, ate, and even slept alongside the fellowship members, earning their devotion. Varian was surprisingly devout, never missing morning or evening prayers. Although he had a notorious penchant for women, his character was otherwise commendable. The settlement expanded rapidly, with the population increasing. Even Charles, who knew nothing about politics, could understand this as a testament to Varian and his steward Tanqueray's prowess. The unfamiliar farming tools and water-lifting devices were their inventions. They generously extended help and meticulous care to new settlers, an approach bound for greatness. Before long, comrades who were once Robert's vassals forgot their quest for vengeance and settled back into farming at the settlement, leaving Charles as the sole outlier. This outcome was understandable; the land they cultivated could become theirs if they desired. Securing land and hiring sharecroppers with the money earned from the fellowship was the realization of the dreams of second and third sons. "Hey, Charles! It's war!" "Next, we're off to Elwayne!" With each battle, the fellowship joyously followed Varian. Renowned for his bravery and cunning, Varian was a warrior who knew no defeat. The members could not imagine the possibility of losing in battle. By the time Charles became acclimated and known as an experienced senior, an unexpected reunion occurred. "Oh, Charles. We've ended up in unusual circumstances, haven't we?" It was Enzo Pesard, who had been Robert's vassal leader. Along with Tristan, he was supposed to have gone to the Drerm family but, unsurprisingly, had returned to Lioncourt due to lack of means. He had then been appointed as the tutor to Varian's children. "To think I'd become a tutor... Charles, aren't you also a sub-leader in the fellowship now? Time flows in mysterious ways, doesn't it?" Enzo's expression was complex. Though time had dulled the edges, the wound from their former lord's unjust assassination still lingered. "Don't misunderstand. I'm serving Varian to uncover the truth behind the assassination." As Charles put on a brave front, Enzo nodded and offered a faint smile. This man had always been clever; surely, he had seen through to the heart that had almost forgotten its quest for vengeance upon seeing Enzo's face. "Master Simon is a remarkable talent. Why don't you show him your axe skills?" Enzo beamed with pleasure, clearly satisfied with his current role. "Hmph, my skills are honed from Lord Robert's vassal corps. They're not to be underestimated." Feigning arrogance, Charles began walking shoulder to shoulder with Enzo. It had already been seven years since Robert's passing. Later, Charles de Morier would succeed César de Poncello as the leader of the fellowship and would accompany Simon on expeditions until Simon's death following Varian's demise. He would become one of the Eight Generals of Lioncourt.