Witches: Starting as a Lord Marrying a Wife

At Frost Wolf Castle, David returned immediately after settling the Silver Fox Town situation, bringing with him a wealth of gold and alchemical materials.

His primary purpose for developing the territory had always been resource collection. Now that he had what he needed, his first move was to return to the castle and resume training. The Frost Wolf Ridge was rife with threats, and he had to do everything possible to strengthen himself.

The Ice Bear family, Ice Crown Duke, and the Church, which viewed sorcerers as the devil's pawns, all posed significant dangers. Even as a Grand Knight, he was still far from invincible.

"Lord David," greeted Lilia, Amy, Raina, and Cynthia as they welcomed him back.

With the wolf pack having accompanied him to Silver Fox Town, Cynthia had moved into the castle for the past few days.

"I'm back," David replied with a soft smile. The feeling of having people waiting for him was undeniably comforting.

"Lord, now that you're back, I'll return to the hills with the wolves," Cynthia said hesitantly, her eyes avoiding his.

Though she had only stayed at the castle for two days, the maids already treated her as one of the castle's mistresses. This made her feel uneasy, stirring a deep-seated fear that she was being confined again.

"Won't you stay?" David asked after a pause.

Cynthia shook her head firmly.

Recognizing her lingering trauma, David refrained from pressing further. While he wished to draw closer to her, he understood that her emotional wounds wouldn't heal overnight.

Instead, he handed her the Nine-Tailed Fox Breathing Method and Silver Fox Breathing Method manuals.

"These are fox-related bloodline breathing techniques I've collected. You might find them useful."

Cynthia's eyes lit up with excitement. Her current physical strength after transformation rivaled a standard knight's. If she could practice a knight's breathing method, she might surpass ordinary knights.

Moreover, as she had no clear path for further sorcerous training, this offered a viable alternative.

"Thank you, Lord David," Cynthia said, gratitude shining in her eyes.

"I'm glad it helps," David replied with a smile, gently ruffling her soft hair.

Cynthia didn't resist the gesture, showing her growing trust.

Excited to try the techniques, Cynthia left with the wolf pack, heading back to the hills.

David watched her depart, then turned his attention back to Lilia, Amy, and Raina, leading them into the castle.

Back on the third floor, David could no longer suppress the heat rising within him.

Fortunately, with Lilia—a Tier-2 Knight—leading the charge, the battle ended in a stalemate.

"Lord David," Lilia murmured afterward, leaning against him. "What do you think of Fire Dancer, Water Lily, or Cynthia?"

David's mind drifted to Fire Dancer and Water Lily.

Over time, the two maids had blossomed. Their once lifeless expressions were now animated with joy.

He smiled but decided against rushing things. He wanted the sisters to find happiness before taking the next step.

"Patience," he said with a soft chuckle.

Then, with a serious tone, he added, "The materials for the Frost Wolf Elixir are ready, and I've sent for the Snow Spirit Elixir ingredients. You all must continue strengthening yourselves."

Touched by his consideration, both Lilia and Raina resolved to train harder.

Despite their exhaustion, they insisted on practicing once more with David before the night ended.

The following morning, David enjoyed a rare late start.

As he stirred, Fire Dancer and Water Lily entered with fresh linens.

Noticing David's state of undress, Fire Dancer hesitated before sending Water Lily to clean the room. She then approached him with clothes, her ears tinged red.

When she leaned in to fasten his belt, David couldn't resist teasing her, gently grazing her earlobe.

Fire Dancer froze, her breath hitching as her face turned crimson.

To her relief, David did nothing further, simply smiling warmly as she finished dressing him.

At breakfast, David dined with Lilia, Amy, and Raina while casually observing the two maids.

If he claimed them, he mused, he'd need replacements for their duties. Perhaps his wolf knights could help scout for suitable candidates.

After the meal, David took Lilia to the training room. With all the ingredients for the Tier-4 Frost Wolf Elixir finally gathered, it was time to begin crafting.

He intended to teach Lilia the process so she could assist with elixir production in the future.

"Lord David," Lilia said, her voice filled with emotion.

The Frost Wolf Elixir and breathing methods were among the family's most guarded secrets. By entrusting her with this knowledge, David was placing his utmost faith in her, recognizing her as part of the Frost Wolf family.

"You've always been a part of this family," David assured, embracing her from behind as he began teaching.

Fortunately, the process was simpler than creating sorcerous potions. As long as the ingredients were prepared and combined in the correct sequence, success was achievable.

Having learned the craft from his late father, David moved with practiced ease, guiding Lilia step by step.

Lilia, determined to meet his e

xpectations, absorbed every detail, diligently assisting in crafting the Frost Wolf Elixir.