Reborn As Noble

”A Royal Advisor, of course. They hold influence over matters of state and counsel the Sovereign directly.”

Javier’s smirk widened. ”No. Perhaps that’s true for other human nations, maybe even for your own continent. But here in Armand, Alf is the Head Butler of the Armand Estate. He has followed our father since Father was a child. He is not just a trusted aide; he is Father’s right hand, his confidant, and his oldest friend. In Armand, Alf holds the highest rank among all the Armand staff. His wife, Erinette, is the Head of all Maids, ranking second. Her brother, Hesbeirn, known to all as General Hesbeirn, commands the entire Armand military forces. The Royal Advisor ranks after them.”

Marcellus grinned, picking up where Javier left off. ”It’s not that we’re scared of him. It’s more that we don’t want to sit through another one of his lectures on etiquette, protocol, and proper noble conduct. He can go on for hours, and he never forgets a single detail.”

Cedric nodded, adding with a wry smile. ”Despite being the Head Butler, Alf is incredibly resourceful. He can handle any matter and get things done with quiet efficiency. He’s the kind of man who makes things happen without anyone realizing he’s the one pulling the strings. That’s why we’d rather not give him a reason to lecture us.”

Javier continued, his tone carrying a note of genuine respect.

”It’s true that Father is the master strategist, the one who sees the bigger picture. But Alf’s ability and capability are never to be questioned. He’s the one who turns plans into reality, who ensures everything runs smoothly. I still remember when I was a child. I may have been the one to start the farms, the irrigation systems, and the waterway projects, but without Alf handling the logistics, negotiations, and management after I built the first one, none of it would have grown into what Armand is today. He’s the one who turned my ideas into a lasting foundation.”

Aelius smiled warmly, turning to Celine.

”There is much more to learn about everyone here, Princess. But we cannot tell you everything just yet. However, since you are to become Javier’s wife, sooner or later, you will learn about everyone here, their roles, their strengths, and their stories. For now, just know that in Armand, everyone has a part to play, and every part is vital to the whole. So, there is no need to rush. Take your time, observe, and when the moment is right, everything will reveal itself naturally.”

Javier smiled, but just as they were about to reach the area near the meeting room, everyone suddenly paused. Celine, Ashara, and Jiowana were breathing heavily, their knees buckling as they knelt on the floor, struggling to stay conscious.

Javier’s eyes widened. ”Crap.”

He quickly raised his palm toward them, channeling his mana. A soft, glowing white light emanated from his hand, wrapping around the three women like a warm, protective veil. The light pulsed gently, easing their strained breathing and relaxing their trembling limbs. Within moments, their panicked gasps softened into steady, calm breaths.

Javier hissed under his breath, shooting a sharp glance at Marcellus. ”Brother, tell Father to ease his aura.”

Marcellus blinked. ”Eh? Why me? Ask Cedric.”

Cedric shook his head quickly, his voice dropping into a nervous whisper. ”What? No! I don’t want any trouble with Father. If I say it wrong, I’ll be the next one marked for his ’training session.’ Ask Aelius.”

Aelius swallowed hard, then pointed at Heres. ”Heres said he’s willing to go.”

Heres’s eyes widened. ”O-oi! Why me?!”

They all turned their gazes toward Javier, who hissed back at them, his eyes narrowing. ”I’m busy here making sure they don’t faint from Father’s aura!”

Marcellus’s hand began to glow with a soft white light, his voice dropping into a low hiss. ”I can take over and use the same skill. You go.”

Javier narrowed his eyes, hissing back. ”No. I’ve already channeled it. You go.”

Marcellus hissed again, his frustration barely contained. ”You know one wrong word and I’ll end up in trouble. You go. Father rarely targets you for his practice duels. The worst you get is being sent on a mission.”

Javier shot him a flat glare. ”No. Father has targeted me before, and I don’t want that kind of trouble. It’s not even fun to duel with him.”

Before the argument could escalate, a sweet, beautiful voice called out from behind them.

”Ara~ Honey bun? Pumpkin? Apple pie?”

Everyone turned to see Fransesca gliding gracefully down the hallway, followed by Erisa and several other maids. Her presence was calm, elegant, and carried an air of effortless authority.

Marcellus, Cedric, and Javier straightened immediately, bowing in unison. ”Mother.”

Aelius and Heres bowed respectfully. ”Lady Mother.”

Fransesca’s gaze swept over the scene, landing on Celine and her two bodyguards, who were still kneeling but breathing steadily now. A gentle smile spread across her lips.

”My, my~ What do we have here?”

She lifted her gaze, her smile turning knowing. ”I’ll go speak with your father and tell him to ease his presence.”

A wave of relief washed over the brothers. Javier let out a quiet breath. ”Thank you, Mother.”

They all watched as Fransesca walked away, her movements refined, elegant, and graceful, moving toward the meeting room at the far end of the hall.

Cedric nudged Javier lightly, a teasing smirk on his face. ”Honey bun~”

Javier shot him a flat look. ”What do you want, Apple pie?”

Marcellus chuckled softly, unable to hold back his amusement.

Javier and Cedric both turned, narrowing their eyes at him in unison. ”Shut up, Pumpkin.”

Just as they were about to continue teasing each other, all three of them suddenly shuddered. They straightened up instantly, saluting sharply as they felt a familiar, piercing gaze on their backs.

Fransesca had paused at the doorway, glancing over her shoulder with a sweet, terrifying glare. Her voice echoed in their ears, soft yet crystal clear, as if she were whispering directly beside each of them.

”Is there any problem with Mother calling all her sons by their special nicknames?”

Javier, Marcellus, and Cedric shook their heads frantically, their eyes wide with panic. They held their breath until Fransesca’s gaze softened, and she turned, disappearing into the meeting room.

A collective sigh of relief escaped them.

Javier exhaled, his shoulders relaxing. ”You heard that?”

”Yeah...” Marcellus muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. ”Mother’s special skill.”

( End Of Chapter )