The fusion of these two forces resulted in a terrifying surge in Erwin's magical power.
About half an hour passed. The energy within him gradually subsided. Erwin let out a soft hum, and a moment later, a shockwave of magic erupted from his body, blasting apart the rubble of the collapsed manor.
Erwin found himself standing atop the ruins. He sensed his reserves; he was just one step away from level seven. He hadn't rushed the breakthrough, though it was a slight pity. Still, facing countless enemies in the future meant his power would rise quickly enough.
He glanced behind him at the wreckage. It was a shame to lose such a large estate, but from this day forward, the Solent family would cease to exist.
Erwin didn't leave immediately. Instead, he turned into a wisp of purple smoke and shot toward the back of the manor. He flew until he approached the edge of the forest, where he landed.
He looked at a small, dilapidated house in the distance. This wasn't his first time here, though previously he had only visited in spirit form—during his dreams. This was where Stewart and his men were imprisoned.
Erwin headed straight for the house. Following his memory, he descended underground. The passage was gloomy, torches flaring to life as he entered. He followed the corridor deeper until he reached the cells.
Inside, Stewart and his men were still chained.
The moment they saw Erwin, they froze.
"Master… Master Erwin? Is that truly you?"
Erwin looked at the emaciated, starving men. He felt nothing. He hadn't intended to save them, but considering Tom and Rivers' feelings, he had made the trip.
In his mind, if they were weak enough to be captured alive, they weren't worth saving. Yet, their silence proved their loyalty. Allen had only captured them to extract secrets about the Cavendish family or to use them as leverage. The fact that they hadn't spoken a word despite months of imprisonment was commendable.
If they had talked, Allen would have killed them long ago. Silence had saved their lives.
Whether they fought for their lives or out of genuine devotion, Erwin felt they were still useful. He knew Allen must have offered them countless temptations, yet they had resisted. As for why Allen hadn't used them to threaten Erwin—Allen knew his enemy. Erwin couldn't be threatened. He refused to have any weaknesses.
Of course, he cared for people. But if one died, he wouldn't weep. He would simply remember and wait for the right moment to exact revenge.
Erwin waved his hand. The chains on the cells shattered and fell to the floor.
"Leave," Erwin said. "Recover your strength, then go to Old Tom's home in Diagon Alley, England. He will arrange things for you."
The men bowed immediately. "Yes, Master Erwin!"
Erwin frowned. "Go back and have Old Tom teach you some manners."
With that, he turned and left.
After Erwin vanished, Stewart and the others exchanged bewildered glances.
"What did he mean by that?"
"Are you stupid? The Cavendish family has only one master now. He isn't just a 'young master' anymore."
"Oh, I see. What do we do now?"
"Didn't you hear? We recover on our own, then find Tom in Diagon Alley. We need to learn what's happened. And mind your tongue—our master has a temper."
Stewart nodded. They asked no foolish questions. They didn't ask why Erwin was there. The meeting was brief; they understood without explanation.
Leaving the dungeon, Erwin Apparated directly to the forest entrance. The blood mist had dissipated, and the protective wards were gone.
Seeing Erwin return, Vinda and Charlotte rushed to greet him.
"Erwin, are you alright?" Vinda asked with genuine concern.
"I'm fine, Aunt Vinda. Thank you for your hard work. You were injured, yet you ran about helping me. Let's go back."
Vinda nodded. She didn't ask silly questions about how things went. Erwin's return meant the Solent family was finished.
At that moment, Thorfinn jogged over.
"Mr. Cavendish! It's been a long time."
Erwin looked him over. "Since becoming Minister, you've grown quite imposing. You look every bit the government official."
Thorfinn's heart skipped a beat. "Sir, it's all thanks to you. I am a grateful man. I know my place."
"Good," Erwin nodded. "That is good."
Thorfinn pressed, "If you have time, I'd like to host a banquet in your honor?"
Erwin shook his head. "Not this time, Thorfinn. Stop thinking about useless things. Just do your job. The Cavendish family will not treat you unfairly."
Thorfinn lowered his head. "Yes, sir. I understand."
"Then I'll leave the cleanup to you," Erwin said. "We are leaving."
Thorfinn bowed low. "It is an honor to serve you."
Erwin raised his hand gently. The Cavendish wizards and the Acolytes vanished, Disapparating away in unison.