Chapter 841: Matters of the Territory (14)
What I said probably sounded strange to someone used to the typical image of the slothful noble, filled with greed and cruelty. In all likelihood, Ansom couldnt even comprehend the difficulties of the common folk, born with a silver spoon in his mouth as he was. But what I was trying to do was remind myself of my roots, that was all.
Ansom, what do you think the prime duty of the nobility is?
To lead their subjects?
Strictly speaking, to protect them.
As the last of the city walls left us, the scenery outside the window abruptly turned from brick and mortar to barren trees.
To protect the commoners? Ansom muttered to himself. From his furrowed brows, I could tell he was trying his best to understand the meaning behind my words.
The masses are like sheep. And like sheep, a shepherd is needed to herd and protect them. Thats why we have kings and kingdoms. Humans are social creatures, incapable of living alone. Even with food and shelter, a man can live without others for long, else that solitude would swiftly turn to poison.
I did not wait for him to comprehend my words; I knew his feudal upbringing wouldnt change overnight just because of a few words from me.
Progress has always been pushed by only the elite few, but without the masses as a support, these talented individuals would never have been born, not many at least
But, Commander, such talent can only come from those of noble bloodline.
Is that so? I calmly asked. Ive heard that a certain famous general -Cleoz, was it?- was born of common stock. A commoner, through and through, even tracing back eight generations, his ancestors are all commoners.
The General is an exception.
You remember that bodyguard of Otto? The eight-star one.
Ansom nodded gravely. Because of certain misunderstandings, whenever he heard the mans name, he always seemed to be on guard. Naturally, his surveillance efforts should avail him knowledge of who I was referring to as well.
No response? I take it you know as well that his bodyguard is of common stock.
The kingdom of Andassis only had five publicly known overlords; eight-stars only numbered in the numbers. The Overlord-tier was also known as the Saint-tier amongst the humans. Once a person entered that realm, they would have transcended mortal limits. Eight-stars were impressive in their own right as well. One in every ten thousand geniuses ever reached this lofty height. Most never saw beyond the threshold of a seven-star.
I wont deny that selectively breeding has its own merits, but I wish for you to know that even commoners can produce talents. Do you remember what I said about the devils and the undead? The Apocalypse will soon arrive I know not when that will happen but I wish to be as prepared as I can be. And if all else fails, I hope to at least preserve a sliver of humanitys future.
I understand now, Commander. By the end of my short little sermon, Ansoms eyes were burning with a fierce determination. I swear on my life to follow you to the ends of the realm!
The nobility exists to protect those beneath them. In exchange for their privileges, they have to bear the corresponding burdens as well. These privileges were earned with the hard work of their forebears, does it not stand that they should pass on this favor to those after as well? I cannot stand those who would squander their gifts, living only to bring misfortune to those around them
Thanks to the snowfall, the carriage driver proceeded at a cautious pace. Even so, we arrived at the village after an hour of travel.
Hearing the ruckus of our carriage, a fifty to sixty year old man opened up his wooden door to have a look. Instantly, the cold winds blew into his house, causing the fire within to flicker precariously. Those around the fireplace were buffeted by a brief spell of coldness.
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