Tars blinked, feeling as though his understanding of the world had expanded yet again.

  In his experience, the soul was inextricably linked to mental energy, though it would be overly simplistic to say mental energy was merely its outward appearance. One thing was certain: the stability of the soul was tied to one's mental space. For Rodrigo's brother to suffer soul damage meant more than just an end to his journey as a wizard—it meant an end to any path as a caster. Of course, in the world of wizards, anything was possible; if the Starry Family produced a true prodigy who could petition a high-ranking, powerful wizard, the problem might be solved.

  However, such a cure would likely only preserve his life. The brother had been injured in his teens, and with so many years having passed, even a full recovery would mean he had missed his prime. On the path of transcendence, if one is not advancing, one is retreating.

  He had been struck down at his most vulnerable. By contrast, casters like Tars who had already embarked on the path were far more resilient—at least, they wouldn't fear an insect that could only harm a boy who hadn't yet practiced meditation.

  "My brother was originally the hope of the family. My two younger brothers are much stronger than I am, but they only possess a modicum of knightly talent," Young Master Rodrigo said. "My father didn't blame me; that was the only time I wasn't punished for sneaking out. But the lack of punishment made it hurt even more. As I grew older and learned more, life in the family fortress became increasingly suffocating. Eventually, I established this manor, and I've lived here on my own for quite some time."

  Rodrigo finally picked up the teacup he had been idling with and took a light sip of fruit tea. This was a routine Tars had established with Daisy—a cup after breakfast and dinner, with three varieties of fruit tea rotating by the day.

  "I thought you were the one who had actually done something, but it turns out you were just the one being rescued," Tars said with a dismissive curl of his lip. "How does that make you the 'culprit'? How boring."

  Tars's remark caught Rodrigo off guard, but the young master's surprise quickly melted back into a smile. Looking at Rodrigo, he likely thought Tars was trying to comfort him. In reality, Tars was genuinely underwhelmed; perhaps his expectations had been too high, imagining some grand drama of complicated love and hate, fratricide, or a struggle for succession.

  Tars shook his head and finished his fruit tea in one gulp. "Then I shall look forward to your good news," he said softly.

  It seemed Rodrigo remained blissfully unaware of his own recent peril, which meant he hadn't yet realized the magnitude of Tars's contribution. He didn't even seem to know what had transpired at the Fendis castle the previous night. Tars simply smiled and didn't bother to explain; he was certain such news would soon sweep through the city's nobility and reach Rodrigo's ears eventually. Every Great House in the cavern city surely kept spies everywhere—much like how the news of the Baron's illness had been leaked under the guise of "verification."

  Tars turned his gaze toward the woman with the beautiful red hair, Myrtle.

  "I want to integrate better into this city. I remember Lady Myrtle mentioning that if I had the need, she could help me secure a house in the Inner District. I would like to take you up on that now, but not in the Inner District—preferably somewhere right at the border between the Inner and Outer Districts." Tars wore a calm smile.

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

  Sometimes, providing direct help is less effective than taking a step back. The magnitude of a favor isn't proven by boasting, and one's importance isn't established by self-proclamation. Moreover, he wanted to see how this young master would react.

  "Excellency, is your stay here uncomfortable?" Rodrigo asked, looking astonished.

  "I simply want to be closer to real life," Tars said. "Much like how you enjoy running out to play. Sitting in this manor and being pampered feels like being isolated from the world; I can't truly grasp the face of this cavern city. No matter how long I stay, the city remains a blur in my mind."

  For a moment, Rodrigo actually fell silent, seemingly contemplating Tars's nonsensical explanation. Tars smiled and looked back at the red-haired woman.

  Myrtle hesitated, instinctively glancing at the silent Rodrigo before turning back to Tars. "Lord Tars, if you have no specific requirements, it should be settled by tomorrow. Living alone still involves many chores; it would be best if Daisy continues to serve you. Perhaps I should also assign a skilled cook from the manor to your new home. Rest assured, Excellency, I will arrange everything properly."

  Both Rodrigo and Myrtle looked at Tars as if refusing a maid and a cook would be a monumental mistake.

  "Of course. I am quite fond of the meticulous Daisy; she is an excellent assistant." Tars accepted the offer.

  The two shared a smile once more. Tars glanced at Daisy outside the door, wondering if this was a blessing or a curse for her. Still, he was beginning to look forward to his new neighbors.

  "Remember, it must be at the junction of the Inner and Outer Districts," he emphasized.

  "Understood," the red-haired woman responded solemnly.

  "I only hope you aren't blaming me for any perceived neglect," Rodrigo added.

  "My friend, I prefer things to be casual between friends—I've always said that. Don't overthink trivial matters. I simply want to add something new to my life; perhaps a different environment will stimulate my inspiration and give me new ideas for my spells," Tars said.

  Seeing Tars's resolve, Rodrigo stopped trying to dissuade him. "In that case, it is a good thing. I'll have one more place to go, and I can visit Lord Tars's home whenever I'm bored." Rodrigo seemed to find the idea entertaining and chuckled.

  Tars watched him, thinking that burying his head in meditation and research was far simpler. This fellow definitely knew something, yet he could still calmly enjoy life's little pleasures with such a placid face.

  Soon, hearing that Tars was about to begin his daily meditation, Young Master Rodrigo and the red-haired Myrtle announced their departure. Once they were gone, Tars summoned Daisy.

  "You've heard?" he asked.

  "Reporting to your Excellency, Lady Myrtle has already told me. I am very willing to go," Daisy hesitated for a moment before continuing, "If you plan to settle in Starry City, I wish to follow you permanently as your personal servant. I would like to resign from the manor entirely and no longer draw a salary from them."

  Daisy spoke with a sincerity that caught Tars by surprise.

  "Being by your side makes me feel safe, and you are a powerful caster..." she whispered.

  Is this the yearning of an ordinary person for a caster? Does she think my staying will make me a new member of the city's elite? Tars thought. It seemed the status of a caster still carried immense weight in their hearts.

  "If I eventually decide to stay here for good, I certainly won't forget you. You shall be my housekeeper," he said with a smile.

  Though the words sounded somewhat non-committal, Daisy looked genuinely happy. In truth, as he spoke, he thought of the old drunkard. If the day ever came where he, too, faced repeated failures and felt his life essence fading, he would likely do exactly what that old man did—stay away from the strife and choose a cavern city to quietly await the end. If so, he would most likely choose Starry City, the place where his journey began.