The Revenge of House Benevolencia

The New Baronet of Maya: A Chapter in Empire's Legacy

"Your idea holds significant value for the empire, 2nd prince. Hence, Isidoro Rosas, I confer upon you the title of Baronet and present you with the new territory of Maya, symbolizing freedom akin to a bird in flight. Henceforth, you shall be recognized as Baron Isidoro Maya."

Isidoro stood on the platform stage, his mind swirling with disbelief, wondering if he truly deserved such recognition. His movements were hesitant, as if he were lost in a foggy dream. Despite his family's bad reputation, he had never been involved in their wrongdoings. Even the other families allied with House Rosas, known for their greed, had ignored him. Yet, why had he always been so sickly? The novel hinted that his parents and Isabella, groomed as the crown princess, had left him in the capital. While a medical explanation might suffice, a nagging feeling of something strange lingered.I needed to talk to him to uncover the truth.

The emperor's voice continued to echo throughout the hall.

"After much deliberation on the direction of our kingdom's future, we have decided to establish a new class of nobility, to be overseen by my sons. Crown Prince Gavino shall lead a new nobility tasked with governing and overseeing the new government and the new special Imperial army, though details are still forthcoming. The second group of nobility, overseen by 2nd Prince Gonzalo, will focus on business, technology, innovation, and healthcare. House Maya, as members of this new nobility under 2nd Prince Gonzalo, I implore you to dedicate yourselves to the betterment of the Empire."

Overwhelmed with emotion, Isidoro knelt before the Emperor, tears streaming down his face at the newfound opportunity bestowed upon him. He then approached me, dropping to his knees once more, this time with his head bowed to the ground. His servants followed suit, their heads touching the floor in a display of reverence.

"2nd Prince Gonzalo, I cannot express the depth of my gratitude for granting me this second chance to serve the empire, especially to these loyal individuals who stand beside me now, risking their lives to care for me. Without your benevolence, they might have been condemned to return to the slums, uncertain of their fate in the wake of the Rosas family's downfall."

His sincerity was unmistakable, and I couldn't shake the feeling that he deserved a better ending, much like the characters in the book who find happiness. Although he appeared briefly in the story, his tragic death from illness was briefly mentioned by Alfonso when talking about Isabella's rise to power after the revolution that wiped out the imperial family.Fear not, Isidoro,( I silently vowed) I will uncover the nature of your illness and ensure you have the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of many.

"Please, rise, Baron Maya," I spoke, my voice steady yet filled with kindness. "In a recent investigation with our special forces (though it was a lie), I discovered your efforts to better the lives of those in the slums. While this duty should have belonged to the Count, his greed, along with that of your entire family, led to wastefulness and neglect. The territory bestowed upon you by the emperor already includes housing for those who choose to join you. You may also employ your former servants in your new estate. A road connecting your territory to the capital is currently being built, and the most skilled physicians in the empire will be sent to assist you in your time of need. Your abilities are crucial to the empire."

"Your Highness, we pledge our unwavering loyalty to the Empire, and more specifically, to you, 2nd Prince," Isidoro declared, his voice resolute. "We do not deserve such generosity after the transgressions of House Rosas. Yet, you have bestowed upon us a new name, a new territory, and a new purpose. We vow that House Maya will stand by your side, never wavering in our allegiance."

Pope Alon approached, using magic to bind Isidoro's commitment with a contract. Breaking it meant death, a punishment too harsh for someone as kind as Isidoro. Yet, I resolved to review the contract later and soften its consequences.

Glancing at the assembled nobles in the imperial court, I noted the mixed expressions upon their faces as they heard of the new nobility and unfamiliar projects. Duke Adinerado and Duke Sabiduria's hostility was thinly veiled, contrasting with my father's composed demeanor and faint smirk as he observed the scene. Well done, father.

Imperial knights swiftly apprehended the culprits, escorting them to the dungeons where they would await transport to their designated destinations.

"Now, Baron Maya, shall we head to the Imperial palace for a private chat?" I suggested, eager to uncover the mystery behind Isidoro's illness.