Chapter 56

Through the dense forest, a group of knights journeyed alongside a carriage, their armor glinting in the dappled sunlight. Inside the carriage, the Baron's heart raced with fear and uncertainty. The rapid changes unfolding in the south had thrust him into a precarious position. Lucas de Clare, now in power, had coerced him into signing an agreement to establish the council. Refusal meant the inevitable ruination of his territory.

Outside the carriage, a knight named Jason approached the driver, his steps purposeful and his gaze focused. Leaning closer, he whispered, "Stop the carriage." The driver, sensing the gravity of the situation, obeyed without hesitation, and the other knights swiftly formed a protective perimeter around the carriage.

Within the confines of the carriage, the noble's panic was palpable as he shouted, "Why have we stopped?!" But before he could utter another word, the door swung open, and Jason entered with a disarming smile adorning his face. Activating his magical abilities, he created a barrier of soundproofing, ensuring their conversation would remain concealed from prying ears.

"What is the meaning of this?" the Baron asked his face full of sweat, he was scared it didn't take a genius to figure that out. Jason just looked at him with a smile and slowly began pulling his sword from his sheath.

As the Baron's pleas filled the confined space of the carriage, his face glistening with sweat and desperation, Jason maintained his composed smile, his eyes portraying a mix of determination and resolve. The tension in the air was palpable, the noble's fear intertwining with the uncertainty of the situation.

"Lucas wants to set an example," Jason calmly replied, his voice tinged with a hint of happiness. He slowly drew his sword from its sheath, causing the Baron's heart to skip a beat. In a desperate attempt to save himself, the noble's words spilled out in a flurry. "I promised Lord Lucas that I would change! I have been true to my word—I have abstained from indulgences, invested in my people, and turned over a new leaf!"

Jason's smile persisted, but his grip on the hilt of his sword tightened. "Lucas understands the power of perception," he stated matter-of-factly. "Your recent good deeds, while commendable, cannot undo years of neglect and exploitation. Real change takes time, but the people need to see immediate results, and Lucas will provide that."

The Baron's voice cracked with desperation as he pleaded for a chance at redemption. "I promise I will do anything he wants! Please, give me a chance!" Tears streamed down his face, mingling with the sweat that beaded his brow. For a brief moment, he dared to believe that his words had resonated with the knight.

However, hope quickly evaporated as the sound of metal clashing against metal rang out from outside the carriage. Swords pierced through the fragile structure, impaling both the Baron and his hopes simultaneously. Agonized cries mixed with the scent of blood as the death unfolded, not just for the noble in this carriage, but for numerous other nobles across the South.

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From the confines of my room, I gazed out of the window, greeted by the sight of a breathtakingly beautiful day. The sun bathed the city of Silverglade in a warm, golden glow, illuminating the vibrant streets below. The air buzzed with an infectious energy, as the people spilled out into the thoroughfares, their laughter and cheers echoing.

It was evident that the announcement of the council had sparked an extraordinary outpouring of joy and celebration. The city seemed to have been engulfed by a wave of collective happiness as if the newfound hope and promise had breathed new life into every corner. The streets were adorned with colorful decorations and banners, a visual testament to the fervor that swept through the hearts of the people.

Having meticulously planned the occasion, I had ordered the military to stage triumphant marches throughout the South, proudly brandishing the emblem of the council. The banner, a masterpiece of artistry, commanded attention with its dominant, deep blue hue, symbolizing unwavering loyalty and the unity of our diverse regions.

Emblazoned at the heart of the banner stood a majestic lion, a symbol of strength and leadership. Its regal countenance, framed by a mane of flowing golden threads, exuded an aura of power and authority. The lion's eyes, a mesmerizing shade of azure, mirrored the clarity of purpose that guided the council's actions and decisions.

Delicate yet intricate gold scrollwork and filigree adorned the edges of the banner, adding an extra touch of opulence and sophistication. These embellishments, crafted with meticulous detail, accentuated the banner's overall grandeur, symbolizing the richness of our shared heritage and aspirations.

As I turned away from the window, I noticed Andrew, my trusted knight, standing at my door. "Good morning, Master Lucas," he greeted, holding an air of happiness. "I have news."

Curiosity piqued, I motioned for him to continue. "Hit me," I urged, settling into a chair.

"Lady Elena has successfully carried out the assassination of Vince Moonlight, and the targeted nobles have been eliminated," Andrew reported, handing me a list of names. "In their stead, we have installed their sons or lesser-known family members. To keep them in line, each new noble will be assigned an advisor."

A smile played across my lips as I absorbed the information. "Very well. Send a carriage to retrieve Lady Elena. Now, let's discuss the progress of our drug trade."

Andrew's expression shifted to a hint of concern. "The product has been a tremendous success, but we've attracted some unwanted attention, particularly from the Duke himself. We had to halt certain operations to avoid detection."

Leaning back in my chair, I pondered the situation. "Reduce the quantity of product distributed and create decoy trap houses. We need to throw them off our trail. The effects of our drugs have already taken hold in the western region, effectively occupying the Duke's attention and limiting his involvement with the rest of the kingdom. That leaves the East, which alone won't pose a significant threat to the South."

Shifting my focus to the southern border, I inquired, "How are the skirmishes along the southern border? Today marks the first council meeting in Silverglade, and I want to be well-informed about any border issues."

Andrew responded, "The skirmishes have escalated significantly in the past year. It seems the South's resurgence has put the demon territory on edge, fearing a potential attack."

"You know, Andrew, I have never seen a demon up close. I wonder if succubus truly exists. Are their horns or tails perhaps their sensitive spots?" A smirk tugged at the corner of my lips as I entertained the idea.

Rolling his eyes at my diversion, Andrew steered the conversation back on track. "But what about the Chancellor? We cannot underestimate him. He probably won't remain idle for long."

Raising an eyebrow, I considered the question before responding confidently, "What shall we do? For now, nothing. He is likely to employ more passive measures, sending his spies to gather intelligence. And we, my dear Andrew, shall eliminate them one by one. Until we have a viable means to dispose of him permanently, patience is our greatest ally."

Andrew studied me for a moment, contemplating my words, before deciding to depart and carry out the orders I had given. Left alone in my room, I glanced around, considering the atmosphere. Extending my hand, I conjured an ice ball, twirling it effortlessly between my palms. As I contemplated, an idea sparked within me, and I decided to create an intricate ice sculpture that would serve as both a decorative piece and a means of surveillance.

Placing the sculpture strategically in the top left corner of the room, I crafted an intricate ice eye, imbuing it with the ability to hear and sense its surroundings. This addition would allow me to keep a vigilant watch over any maids or knights who may be susceptible to the chancellor's influence, ensuring that I remained aware of any potential visitors to my room.

Satisfied with my latest creation, I settled into my chair, patiently awaiting the unfolding of events, knowing that the power game had only just begun.