Chapter 480: Relative Peace

Chapter 480: Relative Peace

Kingdom of Wugari

Rothley Estate

Rosalind's expression turned puzzled when she heard Denys' reports about the "Military Seals." She glanced up at him, and he nodded in affirmation. "The Emperor asked them to give up their Military Seals?" she questioned with furrowed brows. The request seemed bizarre, leaving her wondering about the King's motives behind such a sudden demand.

"Indeed," Denys replied with a somber nod. "The Emperor gave them a few days to decide, but the motives behind this request remain shrouded in mystery, leaving many in the empire puzzled."

The mention of Ena Thun's involvement added another layer of suspicion. Rosalind had grown cautious of Ena's schemes, and the fact that Sloryn had readily accepted her help only fueled her doubts further.

Something didn't sit right with the situation, and Rosalind couldn't shake off the feeling that Ena's influence might be driving events in a sinister direction.

"The nobles are divided into two factions," Denys continued, breaking Rosalind from her thoughts. "Some are resolutely against giving up their ancestral Military Seals, while others believe that this might somehow resolve the underlying issue."

Rosalind nodded slowly. For centuries, these Military Seals had been symbols of power and prestige for noble families. Surrendering them was not a decision to be made lightly, and the fact that there were differing opinions among the nobles was hardly surprising.

"And what about Korusta? Any word from their side?" Rosalind inquired further. She found it odd that Korusta had been silent after the initial battle, and she couldn't help but wonder about the potential consequences if this situation dragged on.

Denys responded, "Nothing so far. They have assured us that they will send their finest members of the Hunt."

Curiosity still burned within her, yet Denys next report immediately got her full attention. It seems that a dramatic turn of events had unfolded in Aster Empire.

The Duke of Duance had risen to power, and the once-mighty Emperor now awaited trial with his family. The upheaval was nothing short of shocking, and Rosalind found herself admiring the Duke's swift actions, even if she hadn't expected such an outcome. This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com

The intrigue extended to the Lux Family. Martin Lux's withdrawal from the conflict surprised Rosalind, and she wondered about his true intentions. Moreover, when the troops that the Queen of Wugari sent failed to protect the Emperor!

....

Meanwhile, as Wugari enjoyed relative peace, the other Kingdoms of the North faced their own tumultuous challenges. Cirid, still reeling from past conflicts and beast tide, was slowly attempting to rebuild itself.

On the other hand, Lonyth was embroiled in a fierce civil war, triggered by the selection of a new King chosen by the people after the death of the previous monarch. The sudden power shift had brought about significant changes within the kingdom, and although Wugari extended a helping hand, they were cautious not to meddle too deeply in Lonyth's political affairs.

The King of Wugari dispatched advisors and soldiers to assist in managing the crisis in Lonyth, especially when the kingdom was attacked by vicious beasts. Yet, he firmly adhered to his principles, refraining from interfering in the selection process of the new King. Instead, Lonyth's nobles and citizens demanded the right to elect their own ruler, an unprecedented event in the history of the North.

The chosen King was a remarkable figure. He had once been a humble General, hailing from the slums, and had earned his way to the prestigious position by proving his valor and compassion in helping Lonyth's people. Though his stern demeanor was well-known, he possessed a genuinely kind heart, which endeared him to those he served.

This historic choice, however, ignited dissent among some ambitious smaller nobles who had coveted the throne for themselves. Thus, a Civil War erupted in the already chaotic realm of Lonyth, compounding its troubles with the ongoing threat of the beasts and the complexities of politics.

Inside the palace, the atmosphere starkly contrasted with the outside chaos. The new King's study was an oasis of calm and order. The aroma of calming sandalwood wafted through the air as he perused the reports presented by his attentive attendant.

"It appears that the King of Wugari has chosen to support the Duke instead of standing by his wife's side," King Henry Lafayette remarked, glancing at the woman sitting across from him, her presence commanding respect.

The woman's lips curled into a knowing smile as she replied, "Wugari is different from the rest of the continent. The King and the Duke share a deep bond, and their alliance has proven to be unshakable. It would be quite unusual if the King were to suddenly abandon his family's longtime ally."

The King nodded thoughtfully, contemplating the complexities of loyalty and diplomacy. He might be a new King, but he was not new to politics in the North. "True, they have been together for years, and, unfortunately, their love may now be strained due to the Queen's desire for a child." He had met the King and Queen of Wugari countless times and had seen them interact. The news about the King's decree was a surprise to him.

The woman's sneer revealed her disdain. "The King already has two sons, securing the succession. He no longer requires another heir, which is why he cast the Queen aside so readily. Regardless, this situation does not bode well for us; it only underscores the King's unwavering loyalty to the Duchy."

"So what do you think of this invitation?" King Lafayette asked. Earlier, they received an invitation from the Duchy. It was for the Hunt that will happen in a few days.

"You should go," the woman smiled. "Isn't this a great opportunity to get close to the Duke and the new Duchess?"