“What kind of weapon do you like? Ah, how about I recommend you use a combination of a knight’s lance and a longsword? I’m sure it’ll suit you. This will become your favorite.” Without caring about Amy’s attitude, Ethan Brooks began to forcefully recommend what was apparently someone else’s favorite to Amy. “Look, among your peers, you’re quite tall, but not as tall as the Highlanders, so a two-handed greataxe definitely isn’t for you; based on what I know about you, you surely wouldn’t like being an archer, a profession that relies on ambushing people for a living; the single sword and shield combo doesn’t have enough offensive power, it’s for people without much strength. Hardly anyone uses hammers anymore—they’re destined to be phased out. Wow~~ Don’t tell me you want to learn the spear; spears are only used in the army, and only have an advantage against cavalry, otherwise they’re useless.” As Ethan Brooks spoke, he watched Amy’s expression, trying to come up with the most persuasive words.

“I want to be like my father. I want to learn the two-handed greatsword.” Faced with such a nagging uncle, the ten-year-old Amy became even more withdrawn, rarely speaking unless absolutely necessary, but once he made up his mind, it was nearly impossible to change it.

“As expected of your father’s son, you’ve got personality—I like it.” Uncle Chi grinned as he patted Amy’s cheek. Suddenly, he pinched Amy’s face hard, putting on a fierce look and said, “No way, this time I’m calling the shots. You have to learn the knight’s lance with me. I want to train you to become an imperial knight like me. What’s so great about the two-handed greatsword? In the army, that’s the lowest rank. Look at real knights: in normal situations, they use a one-handed rapier, which can be paired with a shield; on the battlefield, it’s always the knight’s lance and shield—that’s the real backbone of war.”

It turns out that in all the armies of the Empire and the Federation, new recruits can only choose from three classes: spearman, two-handed swordsman, or archer. After a year of basic training, those with potential are selected for higher-level units. For example, spearmen can become squire knights or battle-axe warriors. In the archer camp, those with magical potential are chosen to undergo a year of magical training to become magic archers or wolf-rider archers.

Only in the swordsman camp, those with poor physique and little potential for development are sent to the two-handed sword camp. Although outstanding two-handed swordsmen do have a chance to become squire knights—of course, they must switch to other weapons, and such opportunities are quite rare. Moreover, very few two-handed swordsmen actually make it to the battlefield. If it weren’t for the fact that this class requires the least equipment and can serve as a force for maintaining public order, it would have long since disappeared from the armies of every nation.

If a country resorts to deploying the swordsman camp in war, it means the outcome is already close to being decided.

No matter how much Ethan Brooks threatened or tempted, Amy didn’t say a word—this was certainly not a sign of agreement.

“Oh heavens, what did I do to deserve this? To think that I, a dignified imperial knight, would have such a disciple. Big brother, I’ve let you down. Sister-in-law, whom I haven’t even met yet, I’m so useless—I can’t even teach your child properly. He wants to become a low-ranking two-handed swordsman.” Ethan Brooks covered his face in exaggerated grief, wailing dramatically.

“Why are you crying? You’re a grown man, and besides, there aren’t even any tears. Don’t bother peeking at me through your fingers—I’m used to it.” It’s said that black humor is a unique family trait—spending time with demons, even a silent angel will sometimes crack a dark joke.

“Looks like unless I reveal my true identity, you won’t be moved.” The man, still covering his face, sat motionless on the edge of the bed like a stone statue, putting on a cool demeanor.

16

“Amy, actually, I’m not just an ordinary knight. I am the highest rank of imperial knight—a Phantom Beast Knight! I hope you can become a proud Phantom Beast Knight like me! In my name, I summon you—come forth, Phantom Beast Spirit Wolf~~~” Ethan Brooks pressed his ten fingers tightly together.

A huge pentagonal barrier appeared in the middle of the room. After a flash of dazzling white light, a snow wolf twice the size of a normal one appeared in the center. Its fur was as white as snow, flowing smoothly from head to tail, with a huge tail swaying back and forth. Its head rested on its massive paws, z~z~z~, snoring contentedly.

The person who had wanted to shock Amy was now so stunned by the sight of the giant white wolf that his jaw nearly hit the floor.

“Xiao Bai~~” The nobleman squatted down to stroke the wolf’s ears, lamenting, “We haven’t seen each other in three years. I had hoped you’d be resting and recovering in the Phantom Beast Sanctuary, but you’ve given me the biggest surprise—you’ve gotten fat—” Ethan Brooks cried hysterically, tugging hard at the wolf’s ears.

“Waa-wooo—” Awakened by the commotion, the white wolf suddenly broke free from the grip on its ears. It turned its head, baring its huge fangs and blood-red tongue.

But when the white wolf saw it was Ethan Brooks, its fierce face broke into a smile, its tail wagging furiously as it pounced on Ethan Brooks, knocking him to the ground.

In this process, the ugliest side of humanity was displayed to the fullest in Mr. Ethan Brooks.