The Adventures of an Overpowered Knight in Another World Chapter 616- Strange Dream

A slow nod from Reinhardt confirmed the completion of one of his most significant plans. The World Tree's rebirth had officially commenced.

Its roots were poised to unfurl across the globe, mending corrupted mana veins. Its sacred aura would systematically purge the toxic energy that had afflicted the land for ages, particularly targeting the blighted regions known as the Tainted Lands.

Gradually, the World Tree would purify the heavy corruption blanketing these areas, making them accessible to human exploration once more.

Reinhardt’s gaze intensified, his golden eyes gleaming.

The era of mere defense for the remaining human kingdoms was drawing to a close. The time to reclaim lost territories was approaching.

More critically, the true intentions of the demons lurking deep within the Tainted Lands needed to be uncovered.

Three days later, Reinhardt departed Snowpoint City, arriving at the grand capital of Solaris.

The following day was momentous; he was scheduled to formally accept his peerage, becoming Viscount Reinhardt Arcknight.

Given the significance of the occasion, a period of rest was planned prior to the day's ceremony.

However, his family had alternative arrangements in mind.

.

.

Within the Arcknight manor, utter pandemonium reigned. Servants scurried about, laden with clothing racks.

Tailors frantically took measurements, while silk coats, velvet jackets, ornate capes, and gleaming boots were piled high.

Reinhardt stood amidst the delightful chaos, a weary expression on his face.

"Lord Reinhardt... kindly try this one."

Another tailor approached with a hint of trepidation. Attentive maids assisted him into a resplendent, deep blue coat adorned with silver threads. Reinhardt caught his reflection in the mirror.

But before a single word could be uttered...

"No."

A sharp retort echoed from behind. Every person present froze, turning their attention to the stunningly beautiful blonde woman, whose creamy skin glowed and whose aura exuded nobility.

That voice belonged to Verdia Arcknight, the duchess of the family and Reinhardt's stepmother.

Arms crossed, her face wore a grimace as she surveyed the coat.

"That one makes him resemble a mere traveling merchant."

The tailor instantly bowed low.

"My deepest apologies, Lady Verdia!"

"Proceed to the next."

A different coat was presented, and the maids again helped Reinhardt change. Once more, before he could voice an opinion.

"No."

A second rejection followed.

Then another, and another.

"No."

"No."

"No!!"

Reinhardt helplessly turned his head towards the couch. There sat Raymond, calmly sipping tea as if no unusual events were unfolding.

Observing this, Reinhardt let out a sigh.

"Is it truly necessary to make such a grand fuss over this? I could simply wear one of my usual outfits for tomorrow."

"Don't say that. Your stepmother is simply brimming with excitement," Raymond chuckled. "She desires her son to present a flawless image tomorrow."

"Brother, it's best to concede defeat."

This time, it was his younger brother, Arthur, who spoke. The young boy occupied a chair, munching on pastries as if observing a theatrical performance.

"I empathize with your plight. Truly, I do. But there is nothing that can be done."

He gestured towards Reinhardt's attire and sighed dramatically.

"You experienced this as well?"

"Three hours."

Arthur shivered as he spoke, and Reinhardt felt a burgeoning headache.

At that precise moment, another coat was thrust upon Reinhardt. Verdia examined him scrutinizingly, circling him as if searching for the most minute imperfection.

Just as it seemed this garment too would face rejection, Verdia suddenly nodded, a smile gracing her lips.

"Yes, this complements him splendidly."

Upon hearing this, the servants collectively exhaled in sheer relief, nearly collapsing.

All eyes turned to Reinhardt.

The selected ensemble was remarkably elegant: a white suit with golden trim, meticulously tailored to fit Reinhardt's tall stature. The fabric subtly shimmered, bestowing upon him the distinguished air befitting a future viscount.

"Impressive."

Raymond and Arthur cast approving glances his way.

Reinhardt gazed at his reflection in the mirror.

"They are merely clothes..."

"Clothing holds significance."

Verdia pointed a finger at him, her statement firm.

"There is an old adage: 'The tailor makes the man.'"

With the sartorial dilemma finally resolved, Reinhardt extricated himself from the manor. He stretched his arms wide as he strolled through the capital's bustling thoroughfares.

Even after reaching the capital, relaxation remained elusive. From morning until the afternoon, his schedule had been intensely packed.

Initially, he was ensnared by Verdia's insistence, compelled to participate in her elaborate preparations.

Later in the afternoon, he undertook the training of Arthur. The young boy had specifically requested it upon seeing Reinhardt. Bound by a promise made to Verdia, Reinhardt felt obligated to fulfill it.

Consequently, for two hours, he tutored the boy, honing his fundamental skills and rectifying his errors and poor habits.

Reinhardt's reputation as a devilish trainer was well-earned.

Arthur now lay recumbent somewhere within the manor gardens, utterly spent.

By the time he managed to break free, dusk had already settled. Nevertheless, there was still one engagement he needed to attend.

A celebration.

His colleagues had extended an invitation for a farewell drink. It seemed they wished to mark the occasion with him one final time before his impending elevation to viscount.

.

Reinhardt paused before the most renowned tavern in the capital. He pushed open the doors and stepped inside.

The ground floor teemed with ordinary patrons engaged in lively conversation and revelry. However, upon glimpsing Reinhardt's arrival, they all stood with palpable excitement and offered their greetings.

"Please, settle down, everyone. I am merely here to meet with my friends."

Wishing to avoid dampening the celebratory mood, he quickly followed the waiter who guided him towards a different floor.

Just as Reinhardt was about to open the door to the second floor, it swung open unexpectedly, revealing a colossal, bear-like figure looming over him.

"Oh? So you've finally arrived, eh? Quickly, come inside. Everyone has been eagerly awaiting you."

The immense, or rather, the exceedingly large man was none other than Brutus. Clad in a tank top that showcased his massive, stone-like muscles, shorts, and sandals, his appearance evoked a strong sense of summer enjoyment.

The others present were also dressed in casual attire.

Leona lounged casually in her chair, her legs crossed. She wore an elegant crimson outfit, a blend that appeared to be halfway between a knight's regalia and a noble's gown.

Beside her sat Vanessa. Her attire consisted of a soft white shirt, with the top few buttons undone, and a skirt. The garment's relaxed fit accentuated her waist and shoulders just enough to highlight her graceful physique without being overly revealing.

Both women maintained an air of complete composure amidst the boisterous atmosphere of the tavern.

Reinhardt surveyed them before slowly scanning the rest of the room.

Every seat around the table was occupied.

This was quite unanticipated.

When Brutus had initially suggested they meet for a drink, Reinhardt had envisioned a small, intimate gathering. Perhaps just Conrad would be present.

What had not crossed his mind was the presence of all the commanders of the Seven Great Knight Orders.

Occasions like this were exceptionally rare. Typically, each of them was dispersed throughout the kingdom, diligently managing their respective orders and territories.

"This is quite a surprise."

Reinhardt proceeded slowly towards the table.

HAHAHA...

Brutus let out a hearty laugh, proudly thumping his chest with a thumb.

"I personally invited all of them. I assure you, it was no simple feat to gather everyone here."

"Gather? I'd call it more of an abduction."

Marquis Herman was the one who interjected, his tone accusatory as he pointed at Brutus and Zargues.

"You two practically kidnapped me. If my unexplained absence causes any discord with my wife, you both had better be prepared for the consequences."

"Hahaha, that's precisely why you should remain single, like me."

Zargues offered a triumphant grin.

Then, before the situation could escalate further, Brutus raised his mug, capturing everyone's undivided attention.

"Enough about these trivial matters. I convened everyone here because I have something significant to discuss."

He glanced around the room, then broke into a wide grin.

"However, important discussions can commence shortly. First, let us toast Reinhardt's recent accomplishments."

All eyes turned towards Reinhardt, and every hand was raised with a mug.

"To Reinhardt!"

Clang!

Mugs met with a resounding crash, and ale sloshed over the sides. The atmosphere immediately felt considerably lighter.

For the ensuing hour, the room buzzed with casual conversation and peels of laughter.

They shared stories, reminiscing about battles, cherished friendships, trivial disputes, and even domestic dramas.

At one point, Zargues tumbled from his chair, overcome with laughter, or perhaps it was the subtle, unseen influence of Marquis Herman.

Conrad and Brutus engaged in a vigorous arm-wrestling match.

Perhaps influenced by the convivial atmosphere or the steady flow of alcohol, Leona boldly challenged Reinhardt to a drinking contest.

Vanessa quietly observed the unfolding scene, a subtle, amused smile gracing her lips.

For the first time in quite a while, Reinhardt experienced a profound sense of relaxation.

Sensing the opportune moment, Brutus rose to his feet, approached Reinhardt, and slung an arm around his shoulders.

This unexpected gesture surprised Reinhardt, prompting him to look towards Brutus, whose eyes twinkled with the mischievous glint of a man about to instigate something.

Brutus surveyed his companions, then addressed them in a serious tone.

"What are your thoughts... regarding an expedition into the Tainted Lands?"

As if a taboo subject had been broached, an immediate and heavy silence fell over the room.