Chapter 199.

Seon-Hyeok quietly looked at the 100 or so foreigners. In contrast to their playful attitudes, their faces were full of trepidation. It was clear they were worried he would refuse their request. He sighed as he noticed their desperation. Even when he first found them, there were many low-tier foreigners mixed in with the survivors. Unfortunately, these individuals had been comparatively weak in combat and all fell in battle, unable to withstand the endless onslaught of demonic beings. The only survivors were the superhuman beings who awakened with mid- or high-tier classes.

The 100 foreigners each possessed strength at least on par with a knight, and having overcome the chaos of a hundred battles, this group should be capable of easily overwhelming a standard knight division, normally consisting of 70 percent apprentices. It was certainly a coveted force. But at the same time, it was also threatening.

The survivors from the west could not escape the stigma of being accomplices to the rebellion. Even if they insisted they were unintentionally caught up in the turmoil, the dishonor of being branded rebels could not be erased.

The rulers of the continents kingdoms would be wary and afraid of these foreigners rather than try to make use of their powers.

This situation could not be helped. In this world, it was typical of even the most merciful of monarchs to punish three generations of a family for treason.

Moreover, the continent had already suffered once before from a mass summoning. The damage incurred at the time was said to have resulted in a steep decline in the superhuman beings of each kingdom, and this loss had not yet been fully recuperated.

In such a situation, who would possibly welcome the foreigners from the west?

That was, aside from Adenburg.

Ophelia will be thrilled.

Admirable. How admirable.

Seon-Hyeok smiled, already able to envision the delighted princess reaction.

Any deadweights going to be fired immediately.

The foreigners anxiously awaiting his answer beamed.

Thank you! We will do our best!

They repeatedly bowed, overcome with emotion upon finding a place to settle down after suffering severe abuse and exploitation in the west.

Hm

The figures of the Astoria Kingdom and Baron Hochnech both had complicated expressions on their faces as they watched the scene unfold.

It was natural.

Their definition of loyalty and that of the foreigners could not possibly be the same.

The people here could not understand the attitudes of the foreigners not once kneeling while voicing their loyalty, or that of Seon-Hyeok playing along without reprimanding them.

No, perhaps they even thought it was an act befitting of unjust people revolting under the previously unheard banner of democracy.

However, this was all fine for Seon-Hyeok.

Hesitating at this moment would be tantamount to having the foreigners long-harbored anxiety surface once again, after they found a final source of hope.

For those who endured years of harsh abuse, what was needed now was a protector they could trust and rely on. He was more than willing to be that figure for them.

Queen Regent Ophelia Laurel Ro Adenstein, appointed by King Theodore Tiberius Ro Adenstein, the rightful ruler of Adenburg and head of the Adenstein royal family, previously granted me the title of duke.

The moment he decided, his tone changed. His casual manner of speaking became serious, and his presence, even greater now after his advancement to dragon knight, began to dominate the area.

Tap.

The knights of the expedition force, after casually watching the situation, were overwhelmed by his dignified aura and found themselves kneeling before they knew it.

And I am here today to exercise my authority as duke, as granted by the Queen Regent, for the first time.

The delighted foreigners were also overcome, as they instinctively straightened themselves.

Kneel.

Without realizing it himself, Seon-Hyeoks words carried his will and became absolute commands.

And swear allegiance.

The foreigners fell to their knees and swore their allegiance.

I, Seon-Hyeok Rheinperle Kim Drachen, the Lord of Rheinperle and Indomitable Duke, bestow upon you the title of knight using the authority granted by the Adenstein royal family.

The foreigners once again bowed their heads wordlessly, and Seon-Hyeok declared as he watched.

So long as you remember the values of your oath, I will always continue to be your protector.

***

So long as you remember the values of your oath, I will always continue to be your protector.

When Soo-Hyuk solemnly tried to mimic what he heard, the two-handed swordsmen and the other foreigners of the expedition force booed.

Hey, our commander didnt say that so frivolously!

Its not the same just because the words are! The dignity behind it is different!

Despite his comrades jeers, Soo-Hyuk remained excited.

In any case, didnt you get goosebumps too? I still have them.

He was not exaggerating. Soo-Hyuks arms were covered in goosebumps.

Well, it was cool.

The foreigners recalled the knighting ceremony they just witnessed and expressed their admiration.

Though it was not nearly as splendid or formal as the ceremonies at the capital prepared over weeks, the solemn and dignified aura Seon-Hyeok emitted was no less than that of the royal family.

I will continue to be your protector. Wow! It sounds so cringeworthy when I say it, but

The scene of knights in heavy armor and 100 foreigners kneeling down and looking towards one person was a truly spectacular sight never to be seen again.

Ah, Im getting goosebumps again just thinking about it.

They truly admired Seon-Hyeoks dignity in carrying out the knighting ceremony, which could only feel like an empty courtesy for those coming from the other world.

Is that why hes a duke?

They did not know whether the position made the individual, or whether Seon-Hyeok was able to reach such heights because of his personal characteristics. In any case, it was unimportant. What really mattered was that Seon-Hyeok did not seem at all lacking to have the lofty title of Indomitable Duke.

Ah, Im jealous. How nice would it be if we were knights at Rheinperle?

Didnt you once say youd be happy just standing tog