Eugene is a lower class noble coming from a count household. At his father's territory, they farm wheat and it was the main source of income in their lands. It was a comfortable and stable life compared to commoners but it wasn't all that pleasant as well. He didn't want to live a mediocre life so he set a journey to the capital to become a knight. His parents were against sending him to academy at first since they cannot afford the tuition fee. Academies are a prestige and luxury afterall. But their son is a smart and tough cookie. He was able to get a full scholarship so they didn't have a choice but to let him go to pursue what he wants. As the eldest son, he was supposed to eventually succeed the title but since it is evident he doesn't want to do that, good thing, they had a second child who was enthusiastic with farming and was willing to take on the responsibility. Eugene felt bad for entrusting such a heavy responsibility to his dear younger brother Augustus "August" Howard who was five years younger than him but this little boy looks up to him and supports him. He was mature for a 10-year old but it's not like he will become a Count right away just because Eugene rejected being the heir. Aus gave him the final push he needed as he strenthen his resolve, determination, and courage to move forward. During his days at the academy, he did his best to keep his standing. His efforts bore fruit as he was able to receive recogniton and was admired and respected by his peers. His life was so serious, almost perfect but dull until this girl enrolled in the academy to challenge him. Jenny Russell, this sly girl. At first, he was drawn to her since he saw himself in her. Like his girl counterpart or girl version. She shattered this image he had of her when she started treating him as a rival on her own. This sparked his interest which made him go along with her whims. She was a first year, age 12, and he was in his fourth and last year, age 15. Although the year they encountered was cut short, it left an impression to the both of them and they were able to build camaraderie between the two of them. After two years, they met again in The Ivory Aspirants (white knight order). Now age 15 and 18 their fate crossed paths once again. In two years, Eugene was able to establish his reputation as the youngest swordmaster under the supervision of the captain of The Obsidian Vanguard (black night order). He was often called to join expeditions because his swordsmanship skills were advance for a mere newbie so he was able to keep up with the knights within the knightage. Their missions were to execute and eradicate a large number of monsters and subdue demonic creatures. And due to his many great contributions especially in strategies and tactics, he was granted a title of Marquess. At age 18, he was now Marquess Eugene Dalton. Jenny, who threatened by this, asked him to duel for the captain position as soon as she joined the The Ivory Aspirants. Every year, during the recruitment, knights compete for this position. They didn't have a set captain since people usually come and go. Eventually, they will leave to spread their wings and pursue their own paths once they are of age. This system was also implemented to teach them how to lead and follow once they join a designated knightage. They wanted to prepare the young ones in their future endevours. Eugene was not able to join this competition during his first two years since he was being dispatched here and there. Many people envy him since he was being requested by the three night orders alternatively already even though he was still a white knight. There were even rumors circulating the he was being exploited or that he kisses and mooches up to the supervisors to surpass them and be promoted quickly, climbing up the ladder alone. However, when they finally saw his actual skills as he showcased it in the competition, the rumors were then proven false as they were baffled in awe with his swordsmanship. This competion is only a sparring contest to determine who is the year's strongest to lead The Ivory Aspirants. Their doubts were dispelled and they were shut speechless. However, what's more surprising is that this 15 year old girl, Jenny, was able to keep up with him for a few minutes. Even though she lost, she was still very good and even better among the other knights who cannot even lift a finger after losing to Eugene. She still stood straight and proud displaying proper sportsmanship and bowed down her head to show respect to her new superior. Everyone followed after her. After that, gossip spread around the capital regarding this hot young Marquess in the knightage. Many young ladies and mommas are now eyeing Eugene as a potential marriage partner. He suddenly became the most eligible bachelor even though he's not yet out in the marriage market. Most people assume that he will join and lead The Obsidian Vanguard after the coming of age ceremony, but they didn't expect him to suddenly join The Royal Sapphire Guard (blue knight order) when the time comes.