Chapter 263 - Strengthening Ties

The emperor slightly frowned. He agreed that—given Maximillian's nature—it was likely that he would argue with someone who was a nuisance to his eyes. Still, something felt off. Forcing a smile, the emperor enticed, "Just be honest with me. If you like her, I will set up a meeting for you two." He had expected Max to immediately agree to the offer, but his son showed disgust.

"What do you mean? The duke's daughter is ill-reputed. I would have to have gone mad to be interested in someone like her."

Furrowing his brow at Max's cold voice, the emperor observed his son. He then sighed. "I see. She's definitely not good enough for you. I will exclude her from the possible candidates for your bride." Refilling the golden goblet with amber-colored liquor, he dismissed his son. "It's getting late. You may leave."

Max let out a quiet sigh of relief. "Good night, Father."

His face blank, the emperor sat still after his son left, staring into his goblet full of alcohol. The grand chamberlain soon entered his room, awakening him from his thoughts. "Your Majesty, the spy assigned to the crown princess has sent a report."

"Ah, yes. What is it?" the emperor asked, remembering the man he had asked to keep watch on Beatrice.

"Her Ladyship has kindled a friendship with Lady Floyen. Mind you, it is not simply an acquaintance, but a close relationship."

'Regis' daughter and Beatrice… The two are close?' The emperor stroked his chin at the unexpected news. 'I may be able to use this to my advantage in the future. But for now…' Having achieved his goal, the emperor wore a triumphant smile. When he had first asked his son about the lady, there hadn't been anything out of the ordinary. However, the emperor was quick enough to notice that something was odd—although his son was degrading the girl verbally, his eyes were trembling. It was unlike someone who was called a "monster" on the battlefield.

'I had hoped it would be true… but I cannot believe he is in love!' The emperor burst out into laughter. When the suspicion he had had in mind turned into certainty, he was overcome with a sense of bliss. He could finally execute all the plans he had devised. Turning to the grand chamberlain, he ordered, "Catch a wild beast to be released on the day of the hunting competition."

***

Regis hurried home once he received the message from Derrick's carrier pigeon. However, it took him a while to return to the mansion. The butler greeted him with a smile once he returned. "Welcome back, Master."

"How did the issue with Elios go?"

The butler held out a piece of paper. "Take a look at this, Your Grace."

Taking the document, Regis perused through the writing. A satisfied smile gradually spread across his face. 'She resolved this on her own…' He was reminded of the time he had asked Jubelian about the theory regarding fief management.

"The three most important elements of an estate? It's the people," she had stated adamantly. "The lord may change throughout time, but without the people, the land cannot be established."

"I did not do anything to help Her Ladyship, by the way. She has done this on her own," Derrick added.

His smile was more prominent, and Regis opened his mouth. "Yes. She wouldn't have a problem without me."

Startled, Derrick gazed at his master. However, the duke remained expressionless. 'I must be worrying for no reason,' the butler let out a sigh of relief.

"How are the preparations for Jubelian's coming-of-age ceremony going?"

"Ah, according to Madam Perez, Lady Jubelian has said she would discuss the concept for the banquet tomorrow morning."

"I see," Regis nodded.

****

Hope you enjoyed it,

Love,

Biji ^^,

Feb.24.2024