They all call me Great Master

Amid the conversation, a look of sudden realization appeared on Arthur's face.

This realization was not feigned.

It was genuinely sparked by something.

For instance...

His "mother," a descendant of Islan.

For family members stranded outside, the Golden Lion Family clearly cared a great deal.

Especially when a family member as outstanding as Arthur was born, the Golden Lion Family did not mind showing their "sincerity" — he was well aware, able to feel this "sincerity."

'Alvis, pretending to be Dorn, did not make such a decision!

However, Alvis's elders held a higher status within the Golden Lion Family than imagined, being able to react so swiftly.

It's just unknown how the Old Lion reacted?

Most likely, he was not pleased?'

Arthur thought to himself.

After all, "Glast" disguising as "Gillgick" was protecting a descendant of the Golden Lion Family not from the Old Lion's branch.

Thus, Arthur could completely guess the unpleasant expression on the Old Lion's face when he heard the news.

At the same time, it was also confirmed that the protected branch of descendants held significant weight within the Golden Lion Family.

Therefore, the Old Lion compromised.

By increasing the rewards for the champion of the "South County Swordsmanship Competition," he "invited" him to Inner Bay, then identified his identity.

If he was genuine, then he would be the champion, earning titles and lands.

If not, he would end up with nowhere to bury his body.

Of course, the Old Lion's offering of titles and lands was also contemplative.

Clearly, the Old Lion did not intend to truly let him rejoin the Golden Lion Family but provided the reward as a means of pacification.

Why?

The Old Lion was old, but he had sons.

More than one.

Though occasional conflicts arose, it was all "family matters."

But once outsiders got involved, the situation changed.

The Old Lion absolutely did not want his sons to face another competitor with extraordinary Talent.

Meanwhile, the other branch hoped to control the great powers of the Golden Lion Family through Arthur's competition, and therefore, they ardently supported him.

'Tch, lions are feline animals, right?

As the Leader of the Cat Sect, taking charge of the Golden Lion Family is perfectly reasonable!

And doesn't the 'Golden Lion Cat' contain the words 'Golden Lion'?

Plus two more words!'

Arthur thought to himself.

Regarding taking charge of the Golden Lion Family, with the unexpected appearance of this branch of 'clansmen,' Arthur originally only had a ten percent confidence in deceiving the Golden Lion Family.

And now?

He suddenly gained an additional twenty percent!

This branch of 'clansmen' naturally fell short against the Old Lion; otherwise, they wouldn't have agreed to the Old Lion's decision of granting 'titles and lands.'

But what does that matter?

As long as he demonstrates real 'Talent,' the Golden Lion Family will definitely be his.

At worst...

He would just have to get rid of all the Old Lion's sons.

Of course, this was the worst-case scenario.

Arthur hoped to take over his family in an upright and rightful manner!

Just like a lion!

But before that, he must complete his exploration of 'Glast's' foothold.

'Hope it gives me an additional ten percent chance of winning!'

Arthur thought to himself while he spoke aloud.

"The Old Lion really is generous."

Hearing Arthur's remark, Madam Susan simply shook her head.

"The Old Lion didn't just willingly do this, but he had to,"

After Lord Count offered the title of 'Knight' as a reward for the champion, that Old Lion, even just to maintain his reputation as 'the foremost in South County,' had to devise a corresponding strategy.

He certainly wouldn't tolerate losing to Lord Count and letting him steal all the limelight.

Moreover, this was an excellent opportunity to plant his own people—

Joel Colman!

Recognized in Inner Bay as the strongest among the younger generation, his Talent and strength were said to be once in a century. Although of common origin, he had been by the Old Lion's side since he was young.

The Old Lion more than once said that Joel Colman would become the Guard Commander for his eldest son, Gleisa.

Not long ago, someone had already started comparing you to this Joel Colman,"

Madam Susan said as she looked towards Arthur, a smile appearing at the corner of her mouth.

It was a smile that seemed to enjoy watching the drama unfold.

Clearly, in her heart, this so-called Joel Colman was far inferior to Arthur.

Arthur had heard of this Joel Colman.

At Yumir Manor, two true Noble boys, Jimte and Kalal, had mentioned him and candidly stated that he was definitely a hot favorite for the South County Swordsmanship Competition.

But that was about it, Arthur still wasn't familiar with Joel Colman.

Despite his famous reputation, the man himself remained quite a Mystery.

Even Jimte and Kalal didn't know much, only that he had escaped from the hands of an 'Entrant' when he was just fifteen, two years ago.

Because of this, Joel Colman was reputed as the foremost among the younger generation in Inner Bay.

"I look forward to crossing swords with Sir Joel Colman."

Arthur said.

He maintained a kind of humility and also directly accepted Madam Susan's proposal.

In response, Madam Susan smiled and nodded lightly.

"Joel Colman is very likely a hitman cautiously nurtured by the Old Lion Family—the Golden Lion Family loves doing this.

They very much enjoy cultivating talented individuals, then, at the moment these talents shine brightly, they pledge loyalty to the Old Lion Family to enhance the family's honor.

It's despicable!"

Madam Susan expressed her disdain.

Then, when she looked back at Arthur, a smile naturally formed in her eyes again.

"Arthur, you accepted Lord Count's request.

In the matter of the pirate suppression that follows, I will help you obtain the reward you deserve from Lord Count—definitely the kind that will satisfy you.

Also, once you leave South Los, I will take care of the properties belonging to you and Marinda."

Having said that, the lady rose and walked out.

Arthur followed her, watching as she boarded her carriage, and only after the carriage had disappeared without a trace did he turn and head back to No. 2 Cork Street.

'Cultivating talented individuals to pledge loyalty and enhance honor?

Hasn't the South Los Family always been doing the same?

It was Marinda before, and now it's me.'

Arthur ridiculed himself while shrugging his shoulders.

Upon confirming that Madam Susan was the chief steward of the South Los Family, Arthur could never regard her simply as 'family.'

Perhaps the 'relationship' with his grandfather still existed.

But her identity as the chief steward of the South Los Family also remained.

Therefore, she would certainly 'balance' the two.

Just like the Old Lion balancing his own interests with the family's other factions through 'titles and territories.'

And him?

He was also seeking a balance that allowed for steady development without taking too many risks.

Everyone was playing by the rules of the game.

Thus, Arthur was a fish in water.

Arthur was well aware of this and naturally wouldn't disrupt it,

Especially when there were significant benefits to be had!

Arthur looked at the box on the desk, which contained the 'Cat Sect. Great Orange' Entry-level Atlas and the component 'Phantom Stomach,' carefully checking it before opening the box.

And as he opened the box and picked up the scroll that recorded the Entry-level Chart, a look of surprise flashed through Arthur's eyes—

'Can this even work?!'