Reborn As Noble Chapter 1195: Brothers and Paperwork ( 1195 )

~5 minute read · 1,181 words
Previously on Reborn As Noble...
Javier leads his team through the final sterile preparations for Gracelle’s surgery, meticulously cleaning and disinfecting the area affected by a parasitic dark curse. With special mana-infused cubes positioned as a containment seal, he prepares to extract the living, vein-like entity without endangering the patient. While Liana assists, the entity known as Ari offers insight into the parasite's nature and the grave risks of the procedure. As the team moves toward the operating room, Javier remains confident in his plan to neutralize the infestation.

Armand Estate. Garius’s private study.

Marcellus let out a weary sigh, while Cedric reclined in his seat, rubbing the bridge of his nose with a look of pure exhaustion.

"Ugh! These documents seem infinite; we have been at this for hours," Marcellus grumbled.

Cedric groaned in agreement. "Truly... I would prefer leading our troops into the heat of battle or embarking on a high-stakes mission over this mountain of paperwork."

Marcellus cast a sidelong glance, a mischievous smirk dancing on his lips. "Why don’t we take a brief respite?"

Cedric stared at him. "Are you mad? Suppose Father shows up unexpectedly and discovers we still have this much unfinished work? Hmm?"

"Tch. This is the first time you haven't been on my side regarding a break."

"Yeah, yeah. You know I have no desire to invite Father’s wrath."

"Whatever." Marcellus pinched the bridge of his nose, scanning the room to acknowledge his butler and maids before turning his attention toward those belonging to Cedric.

"Cedric?"

"Yes, Brother Marcellus?"

"You didn't bring Meira and Zania?" Marcellus mused, rubbing his chin.

"Ah, no. I encouraged them to take a rest. They are likely with Harny and Lithia at this moment. Since Athine cannot spend time with our brother until the ceremony, I suspect she summoned everyone to meet with her."

"Ah, right. So Athine is with them? What about our younger sisters?"

"I assume they are currently with their mother."

"And Heres?"

"Him? I imagine he is enjoying time with Kliatana."

Marcellus smirked, shooting a sly look at Cedric.

Cedric eyed him warily. "Do not even think about causing trouble now."

"What?" Marcellus leaned back, throwing a casual glance at Cedric. "I am planning nothing of the sort. It is just... you know." He leaned closer. "Aelius and Heres aren't overly occupied, and Kliatana is supposed to be with our wives and sister."

Cedric narrowed his eyes, returning a knowing smirk. "You don't mean..."

"Four sets of hands are superior to two, wouldn't you agree, Cedric?" Marcellus grinned.

"Ah, now that you mention it, that is quite true. Hehehe."

Marcellus looked toward his maids. "Layra? Renisa?"

"Yes, Your Highness?" Both women bowed with fluid grace.

"Could you please summon Prince Aelius and Prince Heres to Father’s study? Tell them it is a matter of importance."

"As you command, Your Highness." With another elegant bow, the two maids departed from the room.

"Oho, using your seniority as the eldest to your advantage, are you?" Cedric teased.

"I am not that cruel," Marcellus chuckled. "It is simply that Aelius possesses vast experience with these administrative burdens, as he and Athine oversee the Armand estate's economy, banks, and merchant guilds. Besides, Heres is destined to handle Arjam affairs; this will provide him with valuable ’experience,’ don't you think?"

"Ah... yes. That makes perfect sense. I agree." Cedric nodded, reaching for another dossier to begin his review.

After a short interval, a gentle knock resonated at the door, and the maids entered the room.

"Your Highness, Prince Aelius and Prince Heres have arrived."

"Splendid, thank you, Layra, Renisa. You two may take a seat and refresh yourselves."

"As you wish, Your Highness." The two maids retreated to join the others in the refreshment corner.

Aelius and Heres entered, their personal maids trailing closely behind them. Aelius directed his attendants to congregate with the others, while Heres occupied a seat at the long table.

"Did you require us for something, Brother Marcellus? Why involve us?" Aelius inquired, one eyebrow arched.

"Ah, Aelius, do sit down." Marcellus flashed a wide grin.

Aelius shook his head, taking his place as a maid poured wine into his crystal glass.

Cedric smirked. "Come now, as brothers, we ought to bond more often, especially now that Heres has wed, and your turn is fast approaching."

Aelius chuckled, taking a slow sip of wine before setting his glass down. "Right. Or is it because you require assistance with… this mountain of paperwork?"

Marcellus chuckled softly, offering them both a guileless smile. "Since you have already deduced the truth, would you two be willing to assist this beleaguered elder brother of yours?"

Aelius and Heres exchanged amused glances before sighing. "Very well. Just for this once."

"Oh, magnificent! That is the spirit!" Marcellus beamed. "Once we complete this, we shall have lunch and dinner together, perhaps even enjoy some spirits."

Heres smiled, reaching for the stack of documents to begin his work.

"I have no objections. Kliatana mentioned it was a bonding day when Athine summoned her, so when your messenger arrived, I thought it was an opportune time to socialize."

Aelius smiled. "Indeed. Athine has been strangely active in calling everyone together lately."

Marcellus laughed. "Yes, she even summoned Harny and Lithia."

Cedric stamped a document with his approval. "Same here. Meira and Zania are with her as well. Perhaps it relates to their pregnancies."

"Possibly," Aelius said softly, turning his attention to a new set of papers. "Regardless..."

"Hmm?" Marcellus looked up. "What is it?"

"Yes, it is rare for you to hesitate like this," Cedric added.

Aelius offered a faint smile. "I wish to discuss a matter with you all, but I fear your inability to keep a secret. Especially with Father around. That man possesses the Eyes of Truth; one slip of the tongue and he will know all."

Marcellus leaned in, resting his chin on his knuckles. "Just speak your mind. You needn't keep secrets from us."

Cedric smirked. "Precisely. Letting it fester will only weigh heavier upon you."

Heres downed his wine. "Yes, Brother Aelius. Just enlighten us."

Aelius smiled grimly. "I really should wait until our younger brother Javier is present, but I suppose I can tell you."

Marcellus chortled. "If you want to resign your position as the heir to the throne, I am certain he would leap at the opportunity."

Aelius’s eyes went wide. "No! Not that! If none of you desire it, why on earth would I? Look at this ocean of paperwork. Absolutely not. Let Heres deal with it."

"Oi! Keep me out of it! I am already swamped managing Arjam affairs, which is draining enough. I hardly have time to spend with Kliatana."

Cedric shook his head. "Do not look at me. I have already formally stepped aside from the succession line. I am perfectly content with my lot."

Marcellus smiled. "So, Aelius, if it does not involve the succession, what is it? I hope you aren't harboring some petty jealousy toward our younger brother." Marcellus’s expression turned solemn.

Aelius burst into a hearty laugh at Marcellus’s sudden intensity. "Heh. Do you honestly perceive me that way? It is not about Javier. Even though he is my half-brother, I find his presence more comforting than either of yours, if I am being honest."

Marcellus sighed. "Then tell us already. I despise your habit of being so cryptic."

"Tell me, do you desire for your partners to retain their youthful appearance and beauty... throughout their lives? Even knowing that Dark Elves naturally preserve their features so well..."