Chapter 97. Happenings Elsewhere

LeonCraft Estate, LeonCraft Duchy, Inidal Empire

“You did well in convincing the Northern nobles to join the mutual trade embargo.” Duke Leoncraft leveled a piercing, icy glare at his son, sending immediate chills rushing down Ivan’s spine, just as it always did.

“J-just as you decreed, Father!” Ivan replied, a creeping nervousness taking over his face.

“Yet I distinctly remember cautioning you not to cause any unnecessary trouble with your sister,” the Duke continued, his voice dangerously low. “We strictly need to maintain a stable diplomatic relationship with Ironwood to secure their military aid when the time comes.”

“I-it was nothing, just a simple misstep by Lord Miller’s vassal-”

Before Ivan could spin his web of lies about the murder framing, Duke Leoncraft sharply cut him off. “Stop. I do not want to hear another word. Cedric will be returning soon. He will be taking over all matters pertaining to your sister and the Ironwood Viscounty.”

“What? Father-” Ivan tried to retort.

Slam!

Duke Leoncraft struck the heavy desk. “You wanted to leave for the Gelen Empire to meet with Lady Marlion and involve yourself in her magic artifact research,” he stated coldly, the crack of his hand still resounding in the quiet office. “I have granted the funds for it. Just leave. You are better off away from the Duchy for now.”

“I... I understand, Father.” With that, Ivan bowed his head in defeat and left the room.

He clenched his fists tightly as the heavy oak doors closed behind him. I did want to go to the Gelen Empire to research magic artifacts, but... I also wanted to make a strong enough impression on father to actually contend for the Dukedom against Cedric.

A fierce, ambitious spirit instantly bloomed within his chest as he stormed down the grand corridor. I will be back. And I will take that title from Cedric!

Hollowland Viscounty, Lord’s Castle

“You are formally inviting Lord Miller Ironwood and Her Ladyship to the New Year’s party?” Randell asked, looking at Viscount Hollowland in sheer confusion.

“Of course,” the Viscount smiled, his gleaming golden canine tooth catching the light as he rhythmically tapped the desk. “At first, I thought that with the Winter Freeze and the Duke's trade embargo, simply cutting off their iron supply would be enough. I figured I would easily win my honor back after Lord Ironwood so callously rejected my daughter's hand, while simultaneously forcing him to do my bidding and unify my grandfather’s lost territory.”

He turned around with a wicked smirk, locking eyes with his new butler. “But, combining the inside information you gave me regarding Lord Ivan’s disastrous visit with the reports of those odd looking chains they have been building down the mountainside... I believe I can use Northern high society to my ultimate advantage. I will publicly corner Lord Ironwood into lending me his mercenaries.”

Randell simply nodded, hiding his true intentions behind a polite mask.

Yeah, whatever you say, Randell thought gleefully. I just need you to remain opposed to Ironwood so I can siphon what I need for my Guild’s foundation and get the hell out of here.

With a subservient smile, Randell bowed deeply. “An excellent plan, My Lord! I am more than willing to share everything I know to guarantee your endeavor is a total victory!”

Second Prince Wing, Imperial Palace, Capital City of Inidal Empire

“Serena, are you sure we can just get in like this?” Alan asked, staring up at the imposing entrance as the three of them arrived at the palace gates.

Raymond shook his head, standing nervously next to them. “I don’t know which romantic sponsor of yours works inside the palace, but it is really not a good idea to just waltz in.”

“Ha... what scaredy cats. Just follow me,” Serena sighed, confidently walking ahead of the two boys.

Nearby, a massive procession of carriages was departing from a neighboring palace wing. There were well over a dozen carriages surrounded by heavily armed guards and Imperial Knights, though the distinctive uniforms of the Ironwood Mercenaries were noticeably mixed into the escort. The main carriage was undeniably luxurious, yet subtly understated, not quite the grand spectacle usually expected of a high ranking Imperial family member.

“That is the Third Prince’s entourage, right? It seems he is going on a long trip,” Raymond commented, watching the procession roll past.

“He is going to the New Year’s celebration up in the Ironwood Viscounty, apparently. You might find that newsworthy, Alan,” Serena replied casually.

Alan nodded in surprise just as they stepped right up to the heavily armored guards. Both boys audibly gulped.

“Halt! Who are you? State your names and your reason for entering the Second Prince’s wing!” the guard barked, crossing his spear to block their path.

“I am Serena Graveline, and my reason is to meet His Highness the Second Prince,” Serena declared with unbothered confidence. Both boys stared at her in sheer horror.

The guard scrutinized the girl for a few tense seconds before letting out a soft sigh and lowering his weapon. “Ah... Miss Serena! I was informed of your visit. Are these the friends you said you were going to bring today?”

“Yes, of course! You must be Sebastian, right? I have heard so much about you from Lady Karina!” Serena suddenly started chit-chatting with the intimidating palace guards as if they were long lost friends, completely dumbfounding the two boys.

Creeeak...

As the heavy iron gates slowly swung open, Serena stepped inside and waved at them. “Alan! Raymond! What are you waiting for? Let’s go meet His Highness!”

The two boys walked in completely dazed, their minds racing with conflicting thoughts.

How on earth is this total airhead of a girl so insanely well connected? She just floats around without a single thought in her head, so how?! Raymond was having a very hard time coming to terms with what had just happened.

Serena really has personal connections with the Second Prince?! Are cheap romance engagements really that powerful? Alan was just as baffled, struggling to understand the absurd situation until a sudden realization struck him like lightning.

Wait! What did she just say her last name was?! Graveline? As in Lady Frederica Graveline... the prominent vassal in the Ironwood Viscounty?!