The demented hero of reincarnation -(damn reincarnation)

-In Edward's room -

Currently, Edward laid on his bed thinking about the events that just corresponded in the last several hours. 

"Sorry Ciel, I know what I just did was fucked up …,"

"... However, if you were aware that all I only had was your and Cyan's birthday gift. You would be singing a different tune"

****

Well way, the day of the Bloodline Continuation Ceremony finally came. 

Amidst a gathering of collateral line members, there stood a brazen youth whose charming appearance shone through, despite his 13 years marked by tousled hair and a somewhat bored expression.

Eugene Lionheart stood, not having the slightest inclination to befriend any of the other children of the minor collateral lines. He bumped his head while observing each one's introduction to the rest. 

"There dropouts ."

At first, each one lacked confidence. Lacking any form of superiority all had thin somewhat trained physiques with the exception of a few outliers.

He was especially the spectacle of the guy named Hanson, who was one year older than Eugene. Hanson had chubby cheeks with an equally round body, but Eugene in particular didn't like that he was pretending to be the leader of the current group of Collateral children just because he was eldest. But the bastard only kept this sudo- confidence in front of Eugene and the other collateral children.

Hansen, who several seconds prior was bartering about his significance and kept insisting that we call him elder brother, reverted to his true make attitude when he saw a Lionheart embroidered on Ciel's left chest.

"Who on earth is he?"

That was why these dropouts kept glancing at Eugene with confused eyes that contrasted their inability to find an answer to such questions. 

After brief introductions, Eugene resumed his training.

Eugene believed that all types of knowledge were bound to develop over time. This also included martial arts exceedingly well. So Eugene as one of the hero's companions three hundred years ago, it would be exceedingly arrogant of him to believe that the martial arts of ' Stupid Hamel' were indisputably superior to modern martial arts.

However, no matter how advanced a martial art may be, as long as the foundation built on physical training wasn't formed properly, then it couldn't be put to full use. Without any doubts, Eugene held full faith in this believe. 

While Eugene engaged in his intense physical training, Ciel found herself captivated by a peculiar purple-bound book, its title enigmatic. Every few moments, she would let out a soft giggle, clearly amused by whatever she was reading, she would stand leaving for several minute intervals, her excitement palpable. When she returned, a radiant grin adorned her adorable face. 

After several times of this happening, Eugene asked himself while training simultaneously "Just what the fuck is she reading.., ' Cyan stormed into the gymnasium, his face a mixture of fury and embarrassment as he approached Ciel. Without warning, he snatched the book from Ciel's hands while she was momentarily distracted. This provoked an immediate reaction from Ciel, who threw a punch that Cyan narrowly dodged. The atmosphere quickly escalated into a storm of hand-to-hand combat. "Quit teasing with me, Ciel!" Cyan shouted. Ciel shot back, "CYAN, stop acting like a child, and give my book back!" 

observing the situation from a distance Eugene truly was baffled at the view. The view could only be described as loony, a brother fed up with his sister's taunting, reached and snatched the book in which she was studying intensely eventually leading to a flurry of hand-to-hand combat.

"Kids are kids I guess" Eugene after several seconds of observing, merely shrugged his shoulder nonchalantly returning to his immense training.

Time ticked away for what felt like ages.

Until finally "It looks like someone has arrived," Eugene commented, shaking his sweat-drenched hair and jumping to his feet. 

With Eugene's exceptional eyesight, he was able to make out the estate's main gates opening. Since it had drawn close to the sun's setting, Eugene had assumed that two collateral scions, who had been expected to arrive at dinner time, but had rathered arrived early.

But he immediately questioned this thought "Isn't this too much of a commotion just for that?" Eugene observed 

The servants of the main house were running out and lining up in front of the mansion. Even the knights who were stationed in the mansion rear of the mansion ran up and got into formation. 

Eugene had heard that the two brats, Gargrith and Derza, were so prestigious that you could count the number of collateral lines that held as much influence on one hand. Still, it was puzzling to see all these servants running around hastily as if they were unprepared to meet them.

Ten feet away, the intensity of the combat-filled air froze, and at that moment, a simultaneous gasp of realization escaped—"Ah!"

Both Cyan & CIel also felt a similar sense of puzzlement, both stared at the gates with blinking times. Smiling brightly when they saw people hoisting flags rise on the twin rows of flag poles that lined the path to the entrance.

"It looks like fathers back!" Ciel exclaimed in a voice 

"Dad's back?!" Cyan said attentively 

As they readied themselves to dash towards the entrance, an unexpected force unexpectedly lifted them off the ground by the backs of their garments.

In a soft voice Edward 

"You two never learn" 

Both twins squirmed in the air trying to release their elder brother's highly robust grip. 

"Brother do you not see Dad has arrived let us go!" Ciel

"Edward let me go, you can keep Ciel, not me !" cyan. 

"Master Edward" Nina called out seeing the commotion. 

Edward ignoring his sibling's constant punching replied

"Ahh, Nina sorry for the commotion, just think of this as sibling activities. Never mind that I think you should probably fix your current master up"'

"Ahh, yes Master Edward I will"

Turning their head Edward spoke. 

"Pray to tell, my friends, did you not foresee that during your dispute, your attire would become soiled?"

"Why are you talking like that?! Just let us go who cares about-" interrupting Cyan Ciel spoke. 

"Elder brother's right, how could I think to let the father see me in such an unsightly way" 

Loosening his grasp, Cyan surged forward into a full sprint towards the main gate, Cial stood momentarily, observing the silhouette of Cyan before quickly setting off herself toward the estate.

Watching this Edward was confused but placed the matter aside as he calmly walked toward the main gates at an alarming speed.

Eugene observed the shenanigans unfolding. a sense of amusement washed over him, though he felt a hint of surprise when he noticed the indifferent Edward adorn A gentle smile, his eyes exuding a sense of clarity rather than his normal regal glint.

"Was it just me, or did that guy have a smile?"

"Master Eugene" Nina called out as she approached Eugene while also in a panic. "It looks like the master of the house has returned. We must go out to greet him — Wait, no! You must get changed first, like Master Edward instructed"

"Would it not be more appealing to arrive in a sweaty state, rather than to be the only one late " Eugene replied patting down his clothing and brushing any lingering dirt off 

Watching Eugene being stubborn, Nina hesitated for several seconds before taking out a handkerchief from her breast pocket and wiping down Eugene's arms and legs. Even with this, the unruly odor of sweat hadn't faded, so she took out some cheap perfume and sprayed it on Eugene. 

"That's enough," Eugene said 

Finishing his training, Eugene patted down his unruly hair, which had become streaked in with a mix of dirt and dust. He hadn't taken too long in getting ready and his appearance was less than satisfactory, but it sufficed.

 Watching as the servants of the annex and the 'dropouts' from the collateral lines had already left for the main gate. In the end, both Eugene and Nina were the very last to leave the annex, as they left to meet the new arrivals. 

The view of the entrance was nothing short of noble. All the flags, embroidered in the Lionheart insignia, were soaring proudly in the sky. There were easily hundreds of knights, all standing at attention brandishing their swords jutting. The knights were all lined beneath the flags of Lionheart. Servants from the main house and annex were also gathered in one location, lining up at the mansion's entrance.

The family members of the direct line were standing in front of the servants. Absent Ciel arrived and stood right of Ancilla, giving her garments a last second adjusting. Corrosive of Ancilla stood Cyan, clad in a tailored uniform which had some residue of dirt was forcibly wiped off by a servant and his untidy hair fixed, he held a pale complexion as his mother scolded him.

Although the real power of the household had been taken from her hands, Tanis stood a few steps ahead like playing 4D chess during a 3D game. Her higher position as the official first wife required her to stand in front of the Ancilla which Edward apologized for. However, even though she was about to meet her husband who had been absent for several years, had a relatively vacant expression.

Eugene recognized the person standing next to Tansis. Although he had an average face borderline handsome. his 'dead eyes' contrasted his broad grin, his posture elevated and noble. This of course was Edward Lionheart, the eldest son of the main family and supposed first in line for succession until he historically denied his own succession right because "he didn't want to".

Tanis's lips moved slightly as if she said something. This immediately caused Edward to roll his eyes before raising his middle finger and sticking out his tongue before tearing his gaze from his mother and staring towards the ground as if there were secret codes within the pavement. 

The place where the children of the collateral lines were supposed to stand was by the side of the direct line's family members. 

Shining!

The lines of knights drew their swords, as in chorus. Even though over two hundred swords were being drawn at once, the sound wasn't scattered but registered in unity. Then, raising the sword to their left chest then to the air raised high, the knights turning towards the gate.

A man riding a huge black horse galloped in, leading two carriages behind him. There was no loud shouting or cheering. Instead, the knights welcomed their lord, who had returned after so many years, with a unified silence.

'So this is Gilead's Lionheart.'

 Eugene stared with excited eyes. Although his face didn't resemble Vermonth's, the brilliant glow in his eyes was fairly striking. 

'The behind him should be his younger brother, Gion.'

The Patriarch of the Lionhear, Gilead, and his two younger brothers. 

"... it would have been better if you had informed us before your arrival," Tansis chided Gilead as he rode through the gates. 

"I, the Patriarch, am returning home, so what reason is there for me to inform you?" Gilead replied as he got off his horse " Edward, It's nice to see you. You've truly become an impressive force, just as I anticipated. I notice you're nearing the 4th star of the white flame formula, indeed impressive. Your skills have certainly progressed." Gilead spoke jubilant and excluding a regal surrounding

"Father, you flatter me. But I had only trained and spared nothing less than what's expected in order to achieve my own aspirations" Eaward spoke while locking eyes with Father showing an unwavering indifference. 

"No need the humble yourself Edward, but it seems that apathetic look you always gave is beginning to dissipate did you find yourself a lady friend" Edward's father spoke jokingly. 

"Sadly I have not, but rather instead, I've unearthed something I've been hiding for quite some time," Edward spoke after several seconds of confusion, showing deep emotion for the first time in the conversation. 

"Well progress is still progress, just remember you can talk to us," Gilead said pitying his son's uninterest in romantic affairs but chuckled as he saw his expression. 

Staring at his son for several more seconds he gave a soft smile nodding before turning toward the twins. 

"And is this really Cyan and Ciel? I almost didn't recognize you. Children really do grow up quickly. It's so amazing. 

"I missed you Father" Ciel replied with a wide smile. 

At that moment, Gilead's already soft smile broadened as he nodded his head in approval. He could smell the scent of dirt and sweat coming from the twins. It was not a scent that couldn't be sensed by Eugene who was gassed with the smell of cheap perfume.

"Gilford, I heard that you now have a child. I'm sorry that I couldn't be there to share that moment of celebration with you."

"Big brother, please don't say something like that," Gilford responded with his head bowed. 

Next to him was his wife who was cradling a soundly sleeping baby. Gilead stared at the baby for a few seconds before looking away.

His brilliant gaze wandered over the children of the collateral lines. The children immediately straightened up except Eugene who questioned what the hell they were doing. Eugene didn't care to follow their example. Gilead was just looking at them, so why act as if their souls were about to leave their bodies?

"There's no need to prepare anything special, let's just enjoy a meal together," Gilead said, raising his voice so everyone could hear. "Then we can discuss how the Bloodline Continuation Ceremony is being held this year"

****

Everyone gathered around a long rectangular dining table. The children of the collateral lines began sitting down at one end of the table.

Taking my place at the table I sat next to Ciel and Cyan after I asked my father for permission which he gladly obliged.

"Brother, do you really need to sit next to us while we eat?"

"Yea Edward just goes sho sho" Cyan spoke grinning while waving his hand.

"You two need not fret, I will only be enjoying your presence as I consume the food served"

"That's a bit odd, elder brother! You wouldn't happen to have a sister-brother complex, would you?" Ciel said with a smirk.

Listening to this Edward was drinking water started choking, and had a dazed expression. 

Cough! Cough!

Coughing profusely, Edward looked at Ciel and Cyan who both started giggling while pointing toward him. 

With clenched teeth, Edward was ready to seize his sibling's ears when he suddenly heard his father's voice.

"Calm down you three, were at the table show some face" Gilead spoke as he amusingly watched 

With narrowed eyes and halting his coughing fit Edward looked towards his sibling whispering "You lucky lucky children" under his breath 

-Eugene-

Taking his seat Eugene sat next to a person named Gargrith. 

"...?" with a puzzled expression, Gargrith scanned Eugene's face.

Watching the children of the collateral line give introductions to one another the Patriark Gilead spoke.

"I've seen Gargrith and Derza before, and we even traced together on the way here, but as for the rest of you… " sitting across from the collateral descendants, at the head of the table, was the Lionheart Patriarch, Gilead. As he cleaned his hands with a wet towel, he looked closely at each of the children from the collateral lines before continuing, "I don't know who you four are"

"I hail from Gidolprovince. Please call me Eugene. My father's name is Gerhard Lionheart," Eugene bowed his head slightly as he introduced himself. 

Eugene taking the lead with his introduction, caused the other children of the collateral branches to also introduce themselves. The other children gave their introduction but their voices trembled as they stammered out their words. The fact that the Lionheart Patriarch was sitting right across from them had made these children nervous. 

"...Hm."

After hearing all their introductions, Gilead nodded deeply. Then, without saying another word, Gilead just rested his chin in his hands. 

The silence was ensured but was basically interrupted immediately when they heard … 

 "Are you going to eat bread, Ciel?" coming from Edward Lionheart innocently 

Not getting a response Edward shrugged and leaned back in his chair staring at the tea and bread present in front of them with a scowl, before turning and grabbing Cyan's bread without any hesitation.

"!!!" Cyan watched as his brother took his bread but paid it no heed, and just ignored it as he was contemplating doing the same to Ciel 

Looking at Edward, the Collateral descendants questioned his sanity and eye color but none spoke as they were intimidated by the deathly science still incriminating the hall. 

Watching this Eugene couldn't care less, as he stared at the food being prepared he salivated.

'So hungry', Eugene grumbled to himself. 

Couldn't they be called after they finished dinner preparations? Eugene looked at the sparse dinner table. Although a few pieces of bread and some tea were laid out, how was he supposed to make a meal out of that?

'anywho, who's that bastard?'

A young, blond man cladded with red robes was sitting next to Cyan. The man had arrived in a carriage separate from the ones carrying Derza & Gargrith. At first glance, he didn't appear to share any Lionheart ancestry. Eugene noticed that the one sitting next to the man, Cyan, didn't seem to recognize either.

Finally breaking the silence Ciel spoke "Father,"

Smiling bashfully, they stared at Gilead to ask, "It's been 3 years since you left, don't you have a present for me?"

"It seems like I forgot," Gilead said with a smile. 

Edward watching from the sidelines held a pitiful look as he heard his father's response and demeanor 'he should run while he can" Edward thought as he fiddled with his fork before getting bored and stabbing his thigh because he wanted to see his own blood. 

Cyan observing this almost fainted because of the blood streaming down his brother's thigh. 

Cyan, observing the situation, almost fainted at the alarming sight of blood gushing down his brother's thigh. And his look of ecstasy as he stared at the crimson giggling 

No one else except the man and Eugene noticed this event, both equally alarmed & confused by the acting of self-harm but after witnessing his face they both acted like they never witnessed the event and rather focused on Ciel and Gilead like the rest. 

Like most fathers, Gilead favored his daughter. Moreover, Ciel was much better at playing cute than his other two children. One was a child a demented bastard, and the other was a little arrogant brat. 

"Eh… but I missed my father every single day. Didn't you miss me…"

"Of course, I did" Gilead spoke.

 "Liar, you didn't even get me a present."

"Haha, I'll give you a special gift once the Bloodline Continuation Ceremony is over, so don't hold too much of a grudge against your poor father."

"Dad, will you also give me a gift?" Cyan spoke hopefully after hearing the positive confirmation received 

"I don't see why not" Gilead spoke still having a smile.

"Father, you mustn't have forgotten the gift you promised me three years prior, have you? That moment I won the Bloodline Continuation Ceremony" Edward exclaimed, breaking his crazed look and transforming it into one filled with hopeful anticipation.

"Yes Edward, I haven't forgotten I'll bring you when the Ceremony ends. 

"But Father, who is your guest"

After having met Eugene's gaze just once, Ciel had turned to look at the man sitting next to Cyan. She could tell that Eugene was constantly eyeing the man, but her question wasn't just because of that after all, Ciel was also curious about the identity of this unknown individual.

Currently, neither Ancilla nor Tanis, let alone Gilead's two brothers, were allowed to join them at this table.

Only the Lionheart Patriarch, who would be administering the bloodline continuation ceremony, and the children, who would be attending the ceremony, were supposed to be sitting here however, now an unknown stranger with seemingly no affiliation was seated along with them. 

Gilead, hearing his daughter's inquiry, hesitated to speak "... Hm. I was going to introduce him a bit later, but …" 

"I don't mind introducing myself now, but Edward right?" the man asked.

"That's me, Edward Lionheart"

"If you don't mind Gilead, may I give him a healing potion?"

"If you must" the patriarch spoke confused 

Handing Edward the potion he continued with his introduction "hmm hmm… I don't mind introducing myself now," the man spoke with a smile. "After all, the food hasn't come out yet. These children should be finding this eerie silence awkward, so it would be nice to liven it up with come conversation."

Gilead firmly agreed, "Definitely, I was just regretting calling this gathering early because I was in a hurry."

"Haha, it's not Master Gilead's fault. Anyone would feel nervous meeting distant relatives for the first time," Lovellian comforted Gilead. 

Looking at the children with a friendly smile. Edward following after Eugene's lead picked up his teacup so he could drink while listening to the man's story. Mostly because he wanted to full his mouth with something to hide his hunger. 

Clearing his throat the mysterious man spoke "Hello children, it's nice to meet you all. My name is Lovellian, and I am from Aroth's Red Tower of Magic."

Lovellian. Several of the children tilted their heads as they seemed to recall having heard his name from somewhere. 

Edward noticing the lack of response chimed in "Archwizard of the 8th circle and current head of Red Tower of magic, yes—sir Lovellian I remember your name, I remember hearing it when I studied at Aroth for several months "

"Gurk," Eugene gasped, accidentally inhaling some of the steaming hot tea hearing this.