The Distinguished Mr. Rose Chapter 69: Chapter 68: Captain Lucius, At the Ready!

Read chapter 69 of The Distinguished Mr. Rose by QuiteTheSlacker on NovelPedia.

Chapter 68: Captain Lucius, At the Ready! Oftentimes, the pursuit of influence led man down a harsh and unpredictable road. It was that ambition for power, the desire to exert control over others, that made them seek after higher, more distinguished, achievements — all whilst marching through a thorny path where success wasn't guaranteed and the starting points for each soul were unjustly different. One could toil all their life and fail to reach that ever-enticing greatness: whether it be out of poor luck or outwitted by one more cunning. That wasn’t the case for Lucius, however. He didn’t really need to do much of anything before the good Sir Renaud appointed him the title of captain. What could the gentleman say? Prestige was ever so keen on chasing after his trail. “Pardon?” Lucius asked with a tilt of his head. “Captain, you say?” Renaud nodded and gestured to the shiny emblem in Lucius’s hands. “Indeed, although your authority is limited only toward the otherworldly heroes—for now at least. You have my full permission to organize them as you see fit, and should someone attempt to rebel, simply display this emblem and invoke my name.” Lucius inspected the emblem, feeling the ridges, the smooth metal shaped into a decorated eagle. It was of decent quality, certainly better than the duller models. But what intrigued him was that Sir Maugris had the exact same type hanging by his waist. Apparently, that made them equals in status, albeit with separate responsibilities. Lucius subtly glanced over to the wizardly priest to gauge his reaction; and though somewhat surprised, Maugris didn’t seem to be against it. “Quite the honor you’ve entrusted to me,” Lucius began. “But is this not, well, a bit sudden? I take it the other paladins will not be too enthusiastic about a foreigner surpassing them in rank.” To that, Renaud merely chuckled and waved out to the stoic procession. “Whether they agree or not, it does not matter. I am the word of law here. Besides, you don’t appear to be the type of lout to allow another to undermine you so easily.” The gentleman shrugged his shoulders and smiled. “Well said. I do not often serve in positions of leadership, but if you prefer to have me, then so be it. I shall utilize this new standing to my continuous benefit.” “As one with competent intelligence would abuse. So long as you fulfill your duties, I care not how you spend your time.” After he finished speaking, another paladin came up to give a report. They had sent an advance party to the city entrance and just received permission to enter. No doubt everyone was fatigued after their long voyage, most of all Sir Renaud who still insisted on maintaining his rigid image despite the dark circles under his eyes, so they were all eager to get a little rest. “Mm, then let us proceed,” Renaud told the messenger. “Relay my order. We will separate into different lodgings: one building for the priests, another for the paladins, and the final for the otherworlders. Maugris and I shall convene with the local bishop to give our blessings. Afterwards, you are all free to do as you wish. My only command is that you are alert and sober by the evening hour for our next departure.” The messenger saluted and then quickly parted. Renaud turned to Lucius again, and pointed toward the back. “You are my voice now, Sir Lucius. Whatever I say, you shall impart upon the otherworlders as well.” “Of course! You need not worry,” Lucius replied. “But what will you do during this time, Sir Renaud? If I am to be your aide, I assume you will want me to accompany you.” “That is true, but not at this time. I have my own business to attend to in the city. Rest, explore, do whatever you wish; come midnight we will march again.” With that, the two exchanged a mutual farewell and then left. Lucius headed back toward his fellows, where they were waiting for him with nervous expressions. The gentleman reassured the party that he was okay with a wave; and they promptly rushed up to