Rio regained consciousness and found himself back in his own room, the excitement of the duel still fresh in his mind. Not long after, a servant arrived at his door, summoning him to the main building. The entire family was gathered for a meeting, including his younger siblings and high-ranking staff members.

As Rio entered the room, he noticed the uneasy atmosphere. The Count began to speak, addressing the outcome of the duel between Rio and Nathaniel.

"While Rio has displayed impressive abilities and managed to best Nathaniel in the duel, his physical exhaustion afterward is a clear sign that he is not yet ready to take on the responsibilities of the heir. However, I will reward him for his efforts." The Count handed Rio a pouch of gold coins.

Rio clenched the pouch in his hand, feeling the weight of the coins. He had anticipated the Count's refusal to acknowledge him as the heir. Believing that he was hated by his family, he decided to make a scene.

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"You never intended to make me the heir!" Rio shouted, his voice echoing in the room. Everyone looked on, shocked by his outburst. Rio stormed out of the room, his anger palpable.

The Countess, watching the scene unfold, sensed Rio's misunderstanding. She pulled Nathaniel aside, whispering urgently, "Go check on Rio."

Nathaniel, filled with resentment, found Rio hurriedly packing his belongings in his room. "What a joke," Nathaniel sneered, looking down at him. "You really thought you could become the heir? Pathetic."

Furious, Rio swung his fist, connecting with Nathaniel's face. Caught off guard, Nathaniel stumbled backward, giving Rio the opportunity to make his escape.

Rio dashed out of the residence, spotting Nathaniel's horse nearby. He quickly mounted the horse and charged out of the Count's estate before anyone could stop him. The sound of hooves pounding on the ground filled the air as Rio disappeared into the distance.

As the family gathered in the courtyard, the Countess turned to the Count. "You know he didn't understand your intentions, don't you?"

The Count looked away, his expression cold. "The end result is what's important. He will eventually understand."

And so, Rio's journey away from his family began, filled with uncertainty and determination to forge a new path for himself.