A few days after the grand opening of Aeka Touch, the store became one of the busiest hotspots in Châteauclair. Nobles, merchants, and even adventurers visited the store to experience the magical transformation that had been praised by Lady Evelyn Montclair and Empress Eliza II. It wasn't just a store — it had become a social hub where noblewomen gathered to discuss fashion, politics, and the latest rumors swirling around the empire.
Every morning after breakfast, Aeka would prepare herself for a long day of work. She wore her signature black cloak and armor underneath a more elegant outer layer to present a refined yet commanding appearance. Before leaving, she would exchange words with her brother, Vergil, and Freya, ensuring all matters of the household and Avalorne were in order. Then, she would head to Châteauclair to oversee the store's operations, monitor production at the factory, and attend to noble customers who specifically requested her expertise.
Aeka didn't just manage the business side of things. She also kept her ears sharp, listening carefully to the chatter of noblewomen. Their gossip, offhand comments, and personal concerns often contained valuable information about the movements of nobility, the economy, and potential threats.
Unbeknownst to most, Aeka used the noblewomen's gossip as a subtle intelligence network, reporting everything she learned back to Vergil. Over tea or dinner, she would recount every interesting detail. While it seemed like simple conversation, Vergil knew how to piece together these seemingly unrelated bits of information to form a broader picture of the empire's inner workings.
Back in Avalorne, Vergil remained as busy as ever. His role as both Lord of Avalorne and the town's primary doctor kept him occupied throughout the day. His clinic welcomed patients from both inside and outside Avalorne, regardless of their race or status. Humans, elves, dwarves, beastmen — all received equal treatment under Vergil's unwavering policy of fairness. With Freya as his assistant, they formed a formidable medical team.
Freya managed the clinic's flow, organizing patient files, handling initial consultations, and assisting Vergil with difficult procedures. Her calm demeanor, combined with her Beastman agility and sharp senses, made her an ideal partner in medical practice. Her presence gave patients a sense of safety, especially since she was often seen smiling warmly at children and elderly patients.
Though the clinic had become renowned for its care, Vergil remained his usual composed self. But something had changed. He was seen smiling more often and engaging in conversations with his patients, especially the children. This subtle shift in demeanor didn't go unnoticed, and soon, villagers and travelers alike began to speak of how the "cold doctor" had finally warmed his heart.
When twilight approached, Aeka returned from Châteauclair with the fatigue of a long day's work etched into her face. But no matter how tired she was, she always had time for her nieces — Vergil's five adopted daughters. Freya also set aside her work duties, and together with Vergil, the three of them took on the role of instructors, guiding the girls through their daily training.
The underground training hall beneath the mansion became the heart of their evening routine. The five sisters, still young but driven, lined up before Vergil, Freya, and Aeka, each of them holding their respective practice weapons. Unlike their uncle, who could wield a variety of weapons, the sisters were allowed to choose weapons that felt right for them. It was part of Vergil's belief that "A warrior's heart chooses its weapon, not the other way around."
Each day's training was intense but filled with warmth. Unlike the harsh and unforgiving training Vergil himself had experienced in his youth, he adopted a new approach for his daughters.
"Mistakes are lessons, not punishments," Vergil would say with a calm voice as he corrected their stances.
When one of the sisters made a mistake in their movement, the training didn't halt with shouts of scolding. Instead, Aeka, Freya, or Vergil would gently correct them, guiding their bodies to the proper stance. If the mistake persisted, they would repeat the movement until it became second nature. But there was no shouting, no harsh punishments, and no anger. Instead, they taught with patience, care, and quiet smiles.
This approach was a far cry from how Vergil himself had been trained. His memories of his father's brutal methods were still fresh in his mind — endless repetitions, harsh scoldings, and punishment for every mistake. Back then, every failure was met with the demand to "do it again" until perfection was achieved. Vergil refused to impose that same burden on his daughters.
One evening, after a particularly long training session, the five sisters sat in the center of the training hall, their bodies drenched in sweat and their faces red from exertion. Their breathing was heavy, but their eyes shone with pride. They had improved.
"That's enough for tonight," Vergil declared, his voice filled with both authority and care. "You've all done well. Clean yourselves up, and I'll prepare dinner."
The five girls shared a look of joy, and one of them, Mina, grinned and said, "Does that mean we can have stew tonight?"
Vergil chuckled, his sharp blue eyes softening as he rubbed the back of his head. "If that's what you want, then stew it is."
The five girls quickly got up, their exhaustion temporarily forgotten, and rushed upstairs to clean themselves up. Freya followed them, ensuring they didn't cause too much mischief on the way to the bath.
Aeka remained behind, tidying up the training hall, picking up wooden training weapons and putting them back in their proper racks. As she placed a practice dagger on the rack, she glanced toward Vergil, who was stretching his arms.
"You're different now, Brother," Aeka said quietly, her tone gentle but thoughtful. "Back when we were young, I never thought I'd see you teaching with patience. You were always the one to push forward without rest."
Vergil tilted his head slightly, a small, nostalgic smile forming on his face. "That's because I learned what it means to be a teacher. A teacher's job isn't to push their students to the brink but to guide them to see their own potential."
Aeka laughed softly, her gaze distant but filled with admiration. "You sound like an old man."
"Maybe I am," Vergil replied with a smirk, his sky-blue eyes glimmering with humor. "But I'd rather be an old man with happy students than a strict master with broken ones."
Aeka placed the last weapon on the rack, exhaling deeply. She glanced toward the exit where the five sisters had gone. "They're strong," she muttered. "Stronger than I expected."
Vergil nodded, his gaze filled with the pride of a father. "They're stronger than even they know. That's why I won't treat them the same way our father treated us. They deserve better."
Silence settled over them for a moment. Then Aeka broke it with a small smile.
"You know, Brother... I used to think you were invincible. Like nothing could shake you, you just like walking weapon." She glanced at him from the corner of her eye. "But seeing you teach them like this, seeing you smile more… I think you're stronger now than you ever were back then."
Vergil raised a brow, his gaze locking onto hers. "What's this? Is that supposed to be a compliment, Aeka?"
"Take it however you want," Aeka replied, walking toward the exit. "Just know that the world sees it too."
That night, the family gathered for dinner. Stew was on the table, and the aroma filled the dining room. The five sisters, freshly bathed and energized, eagerly dug into their meals. Aeka sat next to Vergil, quietly savoring her food. Freya served everyone, offering seconds to anyone who asked.
For a brief moment, everything was calm. No training, no work, no noble schemes. Just the warmth of family.
Vergil glanced around the table, his eyes stopping on each of his daughters. Each of them smiled, laughed, and shared stories of their training. He felt at peace.
"This," he thought to himself, "is what I was fighting for."
And for the first time in a long while, Vergil allowed himself to enjoy the moment. No shadows lurking behind him, no whispers of his past haunting him. Just the laughter of family filling the air.
The following morning, as sunlight streamed through the windows of Vergil's study, the soft flutter of wings caught his attention. A messenger pigeon gracefully landed on the windowsill, its small talons tapping lightly against the glass. Its beady eyes darted toward him as if waiting for him to approach.
Vergil set down the book he was reading and made his way to the window. With a gentle motion, he unlatched it, allowing the pigeon to hop inside. A small scroll was attached to the bird's leg, sealed with the unmistakable insignia of the imperial family — the sigil of Empress Eliza II.
His sharp blue eyes narrowed as he broke the seal and unrolled the parchment. The handwriting was familiar, elegant yet firm, befitting the presence of the Empress herself.
To Vergil Ragnaros,
I have a special task for you, but I cannot write the details here.
This matter has been troubling both me and Lady Éloise Valtierre for some time now.
Lady Éloise Valtierre will be arriving at my palace this afternoon, and I hope that you and Freya will also be present.
Inform Commander Carter that, "under my direct order", you and your crew are granted immediate entry to the palace.
— Empress Eliza II
Vergil's eyes lingered on the letter for a moment longer than usual. He re-read the line "this matter has been troubling both me and Lady Éloise Valtierre", tapping his finger thoughtfully on the desk. It was rare for the Empress to send such a letter, let alone invite him to the palace directly. The vague mention of a "crew" also caught his attention.
"Crew, huh…?" he muttered, folding the letter neatly and setting it aside.
Just as he was about to consider the implications, Freya and Aeka entered the study, their presence quiet but noticeable. Freya, with her wolf-like ears perked up, gazed at him curiously. Aeka followed, her eyes sharp as ever, her movements as fluid as a shadow.
"What's that, Brother?" Aeka asked, eyeing the sealed letter.
Without a word, Vergil handed the letter to Freya, who began reading it silently. Her eyes darted left and right, her wolf ears twitching as her brows furrowed in thought. She handed it to Aeka, who read it with a puzzled expression.
"Crew?" Aeka raised an eyebrow. "Since when did we have a 'crew'?"
"It's not like Her Majesty to be this vague," Freya added, her voice tinged with concern. "It's not normal for her to call us to the palace like this, especially not on such short notice."
Vergil leaned back in his chair, folding his arms. "That's what bothers me. If it were something trivial, she wouldn't be this discreet. But since she went as far as to mention Lady Éloise Valtierre, it's clear that this is a serious matter."
"Lady Éloise Valtierre…" Freya's ears flicked slightly. "She's one of the wealthiest and most influential nobles in Châteauclair, isn't she? I think she's also a key figure in the merchant guild."
"That's right," Aeka nodded. "She controls trade routes between Châteauclair and the eastern provinces. If she's involved, then this must be a political or financial matter."
Vergil closed his eyes for a moment, thinking. "Regardless of what it is, the Empress herself has guaranteed our security. If she's confident in our protection, then I have no reason to refuse."
"Then it's settled," Freya said with a grin. "We head to the palace."
Not long after, a sleek black carriage pulled out of Avalorne, drawn by two powerful black stallions. The emblem of the Britalienne Empire crest adorned the side of the carriage, a sign of status and prestige. Inside, Vergil sat with Freya and Aeka, each of them quietly preparing for what lay ahead.
The road to Châteauclair was smooth and well-maintained, allowing the journey to go by quickly. The closer they got to the city, the more they could hear the lively sounds of the bustling streets. Merchants called out prices for exotic goods, and travelers lined the roads leading to the grand city gates.
But this time, they did not enter the city. Their destination lay beyond it — the Imperial Palace, a grand fortress of silver-white stone that towered above Châteauclair. It was surrounded by a massive wall, adorned with banners bearing the crest of the imperial family.
The carriage arrived at the main gates of the Imperial Palace, where two armed guards in polished armor stood watch. Their eyes fell on the approaching carriage, and they immediately raised their hands to halt it.
One of the guards, a stern-looking man with a sharp mustache, stepped forward. "Halt! State your name and purpose."
Before Freya could respond, a familiar figure approached — Commander Carter, a man well-known as the chief of palace security. He was a broad-shouldered knight with sharp eyes and a commanding presence. His eyes shifted to Vergil, and the two men exchanged silent nods of recognition.
"Under Her Majesty's Order," Vergil said calmly, his words precise and deliberate. "We are here to meet with Empress Eliza II and Lady Éloise Valtierre."
Commander Carter's eyes flicked to the guards. "Stand down. They're expected."
The guards lowered their weapons, and Carter waved his hand to one of the palace aides. "Escort them to the reception hall. Her Majesty is expecting them."
The guards stepped aside, and the carriage rolled forward. Inside, Aeka tilted her head. "That was surprisingly easy."
"That's the benefit of coming under the Empress's protection," Vergil replied. "But don't let your guard down."
"I never do," Aeka smirked.
The grandeur of the palace was overwhelming. Marble floors reflected the sunlight pouring in from large stained-glass windows, and the air was filled with the soft aroma of incense. The palace walls were adorned with grand murals depicting the history of the Kainaldia Empire.
As they walked the long corridors, they passed noble servants, knights, and officials who gave them respectful glances. It was unusual for an outsider to be escorted this far into the palace without a formal announcement. Whispers and murmurs followed them, but Vergil ignored them, his eyes fixed ahead.
"Her Majesty and Lady Éloise Valtierre await you in the private reception hall," the palace aide said, bowing respectfully.
The door to the reception hall was opened, revealing a warm, private chamber with luxurious decor. A large round table sat at the center, with finely carved chairs surrounding it. At the far end of the room, seated with dignity and grace, was Empress Eliza II herself. Her royal presence radiated calm authority.
Beside her sat Lady Éloise Valtierre, a woman of striking beauty with flowing silver hair and sharp golden eyes. She wore an elegant blue and white gown lined with silver trim. Her demeanor was regal yet approachable, but her eyes conveyed a sharp intelligence.
As Vergil, Freya, and Aeka entered, both the Empress and Lady Éloise turned their attention toward them.
"Vergil, Freya, Aeka," the Empress greeted with a soft smile. "Thank you for coming."
Lady Éloise tilted her head, her golden eyes studying them. "So this is the infamous Ragnaros family. I've heard much about you."
"Only the good parts, I hope," Vergil replied with a small grin.
"The good parts are often the most dangerous," Lady Éloise replied with a smile just as sharp.
"I believe it's time we discuss why you've been called here," the Empress said, her gaze firm. Her eyes met Vergil's directly, unblinking and resolute. "This task is unlike any you've faced before, Vergil. But I believe you and your crew are the only ones capable of handling it."
Vergil's eyes narrowed, his posture straightening. "I'm listening."
The Empress's gaze flickered toward Lady Éloise. For a brief moment, something unspoken passed between them — something that hinted at the weight of the task.
"A storm is brewing in the empire," Empress Eliza II said with an air of finality. "And I need the Brotherhood of Shadows to stop it before it consumes us all."
Vergil's gaze grew sharp, his blue eyes like daggers cutting through the air. "Then tell me everything, Your Majesty."
The air in the Imperial Palace's reception hall grew heavy with tension as Lady Éloise Valtierre began recounting her tale. Her gaze was sharp, her golden eyes unwavering as she addressed Vergil, Freya, and Aeka. Seated across from her, Empress Eliza II listened in silence, her eyes watchful but calm.
"My lands lie between two warring families — the Drakemont family and the Ravencourt family," Lady Éloise began, her voice steady but laced with subtle frustration. "The feud between them is as old as the empire itself. The cause? A single golden seed."
Vergil's eyes narrowed in confusion. "A... seed?"
"Yes," Lady Éloise nodded. "Decades ago, a golden seed was discovered near the border of their two estates. No one could identify its origin, but its value was undeniable. The Drakemonts claimed it belonged to them, while the Ravencourts insisted it was theirs. What followed was years of accusations, espionage, and sabotage. The Emperor himself appointed the Valtierre family as mediators of peace between the two. It worked — for a time."
"Until now," Empress Eliza added, her voice cool but firm. "Both sides have returned to their old ways, and once again, Lady Éloise finds her house caught in the crossfire."
Lady Éloise sighed, leaning forward as if carrying the weight of her family's burden. "This time, things have escalated. Skirmishes have broken out in the streets of Silvermere, the key trade town in my territory. Merchants complain, guards grow restless, and my knights are being forced to act as peacekeepers. It is only a matter of time before one of the two families crosses the line."
"Then crush them," Aeka said bluntly, leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. "If they're causing that much trouble, you have every right to wipe them out."
"It's not that simple," Lady Éloise replied, giving Aeka a pointed look. "Both houses are part of the noble council. If I act rashly, I risk the council's scrutiny. Worse, they might rally behind the Drakemonts or Ravencourts, turning this feud into a noble war."
The tension lightened slightly as Lady Éloise shifted to a more peculiar detail. "However, there is one silver lining — the marriage of Romero Drakemont and Julietta Ravencourt."
Vergil, who had been carefully absorbing every word, suddenly froze. His eyes blinked rapidly in disbelief. "Wait... did you say a Drakemont married a Ravencourt?"
Freya and Aeka both sighed simultaneously, already seeing where this was going.
"Yes," Lady Éloise confirmed, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Romero Drakemont, the son of Lord Drakemont, and Julietta Ravencourt, the daughter of Lady Ravencourt, fell in love and eloped. They abandoned their families and settled in Silvermere, under my protection. They've even started a business there."
Vergil leaned back in his chair, his eyes wide with disbelief. "So, you're telling me that the heirs of two feuding families abandoned everything, ran off to live together, and started working as merchants?"
"Correct," Lady Éloise said with a satisfied smile. "They cut all ties with their families. While they live quietly, they've become symbols of rebellion against their parents' war."
"Pfft... typical," Aeka snorted, shaking her head. "All this chaos, and it turns out the next generation already solved the problem themselves."
Freya glanced at Aeka, grinning. "Right? It sounds like something out of a bad romance novel."
"Don't dismiss it," Lady Éloise said sharply. "The mere existence of Romero and Julietta's love has stirred unrest among the older generation. Their parents see it as a betrayal. Some even believe that if Romero and Julietta have children, it will 'taint the bloodlines.'"
Aeka rolled her eyes. "Nobles and their bloodline obsessions."
Lady Éloise's tone shifted back to seriousness. "The real issue, however, is that both the Drakemonts and the Ravencourts have begun sending spies and thugs into Silvermere. Their goal? To disrupt the town, intimidate the people, and pressure Romero and Julietta into returning to their respective houses."
"How bad is it?" Vergil asked, his tone sharp and professional.
"Not as bad as it could be," Lady Éloise admitted. "They behave like street thugs, causing disturbances, but they haven't escalated to full-scale attacks. That's because of one reason..." She glanced toward the Empress.
"Because I made it clear," Empress Eliza spoke coldly, her voice cutting through the air, "that if they declare war on Silvermere, I will declare them traitors. And traitors are executed."
The room went still. The Empress's words carried a weight that none dared challenge.
"So they're playing it safe," Freya muttered. "They want to disrupt Silvermere but not enough to provoke the crown."
"Exactly," Lady Éloise nodded. "But if things continue as they are, it will only get worse. The guards are restless, the knights are frustrated, and Silvermere's citizens are beginning to fear for their safety."
Vergil remained silent for a moment, his eyes closed in thought. "Is there anyone within the Drakemont or Ravencourt houses who sees things differently? Potential allies?"
Lady Éloise raised a brow. "There is a couple from each family — both distant relatives. They have similar ideals to Romero and Julietta. I suspect they may be willing to negotiate, but I have no guarantee of their loyalty."
Vergil nodded. "Then we approach them carefully. If they support Romero and Julietta, they could be useful contacts."
"There's something else," Aeka said with a grin. "I've heard whispers in Châteauclair that the Drakemonts and Ravencourts have sent agents to buy skincare products from Aeka Touch."
Lady Éloise smiled knowingly. "I was going to mention that. After our meeting here, I plan to visit Aeka Touch myself. The nobles won't stop talking about it, and I have to see it with my own eyes."
"You won't be disappointed," Aeka replied with pride. "If their agents are regular buyers, it might be an opportunity to insert subtle influence through them. People will do almost anything to maintain their beauty, after all."
Vergil leaned forward, his sky-blue eyes sharp with focus as he laid out the strategy. His gaze moved between Lady Éloise, Freya, Aeka, and the Empress, ensuring each of them understood the significance of their roles.
"Here's the plan," Vergil began, his voice steady but commanding. "We will host two separate parties — one at the Drakemont estate, and the next day at the Ravencourt estate. The key is to make it seem as if they're competing for prestige and attention from the Valtierre family, the Empire, and of course... Aeka Touch."
Lady Éloise raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Two separate parties, back-to-back? Bold. Won't they realize they're being played?"
"That's exactly the point," Vergil said with a sly grin. "Their pride will blind them. Both families will see this as an opportunity to one-up the other. They'll think it's a contest to outshine their rival, so they'll pour every effort into making their party grander, more extravagant. In their desperation to compete, they'll expose themselves."
Freya smirked, arms crossed with her wolf-like ears twitching slightly. "Clever. The moment they get caught up in their petty pride, they'll start showing off their assets, wealth, and secrets."
Aeka's eyes lit up with excitement as she caught on to the idea. "Oh, I see. It's like luring prey with bait. If we make them think their rivals are watching, they'll reveal more than they should."
"Exactly," Vergil nodded, his gaze now locked on Aeka. "Which is why you're going to play a pivotal role in this."
Aeka tilted her head, curious. "What do you mean, Brother?"
Vergil's smile widened. "We're going to give them something they can't resist — prestige, beauty, and status. And you, Aeka, are the one who can provide all three."
Aeka's eyes narrowed with mischievous understanding. "You want me to showcase a new product, don't you?"
"Not just showcase it," Vergil said, tapping the table. "You're going to create a new exclusive prototype product — something that doesn't exist on the market yet. Something so unique that they'll be desperate to get their hands on it. I want the Drakemonts and Ravencourts to believe that if they win you over, they'll have access to this product before anyone else."
Aeka crossed her arms, a small grin curling on her lips. "So, I'll be the bait. They'll come chasing after me, trying to win me over, thinking they can monopolize Aeka Touch."
"Exactly," Vergil confirmed. "Make it look like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Announce that this new product will only be available in one location at first — either in Drakemont's or Ravencourt's territory. Watch them scramble."
Lady Éloise leaned back in her chair, her expression a mix of awe and amusement. "You're using greed and pride as weapons. Turning them against themselves."
"It's their greatest weakness," Vergil replied coldly. "Both houses want control, and both think the other is stealing from them. So, we'll give them something worth fighting over."
Aeka tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Hmm... I already have an idea for the new product. Something that'll get them hooked."
Freya glanced at her. "What is it?"
Aeka's eyes gleamed with excitement. "A 'Youth Revival Essence' — a high-concentration essence serum that tightens the skin and erases fine lines instantly. The effect will be immediate, but only temporary unless used consistently. I'll make the first batch exclusive to this event."
Lady Éloise's eyes widened. "An instant beauty serum? If that works as you say, you'll have nobles on their knees begging for it."
"That's the idea," Aeka said, her grin growing wicked. "I'll make it smell divine, have a luxurious feel, and, of course, the results will be undeniable."
"Day one, we start with the Drakemonts," Vergil continued, his tone sharper now as he moved to the specifics. "Lady Éloise will act as the official guest of honor. Aeka, you'll be the mysterious merchant-entrepreneur whose products are the talk of Châteauclair. You'll bring samples of the 'Youth Revival Essence' as a gift to the Drakemont matriarch. Offer her a demonstration."
Freya's eyes glowed with anticipation. "Once she sees the effect on her face, she'll be addicted."
"Yes, and that's when we give her a choice," Aeka said, catching on. "If she wants early access to the full stock, she'll have to secure exclusive rights to the first shipment."
"Bingo," Vergil nodded. "That will force her to make a public claim — but more importantly, it will force the Ravencourts to react."
"How do you want me to play it, Brother?" Aeka asked.
"Be playful but firm," Vergil advised. "Don't make it seem like you're desperate to sell. You control the supply, and they want it. If they think you're hard to win over, they'll work even harder to please you."
"Day two is the Ravencourt estate," Vergil continued, his eyes narrowing as if he were already visualizing the operation. "The moment they hear whispers about the Drakemont party, the Ravencourts will be on edge. By the time we arrive at their estate, they'll be ready to prove themselves."
"What should I do differently this time?" Aeka asked.
"Double the exclusivity," Vergil said, his voice filled with certainty. "Imply that the Drakemonts already made a strong offer, but you're considering your options. Let them think they're on the verge of missing out. They'll offer you more in return."
Lady Éloise chuckled. "And when they do, they'll be so preoccupied with Aeka that they'll lower their guard. I'll have my knights and spies in place to listen in on their conversations."
"Freya," Vergil continued, turning to her. "You'll handle the crowd. Eavesdrop on the guests, keep an eye on anyone who looks suspicious. The Ravencourts have been sending thugs into Silvermere, so there's a chance they'll slip up during the party."
Freya's grin widened, her fangs peeking out. "Got it. I'll sniff out the rats."
"As for me," Vergil added, his voice as sharp as a blade, "I'll focus on the Ravencourt and Drakemont 'distant relatives' Lady Éloise mentioned. If I can turn them into allies, we can gain access to insider information. If they show signs of doubt or hesitation, I'll be ready to exploit it."
Empress Eliza, dressed in her elegant white gown trimmed with gold, leaned forward, her regal composure unwavering. "We cannot allow the petty squabbles of these two families to threaten Silvermere's stability. It is too important for the trade routes and for Lady Éloise's control over the region." Her gaze turned sharp. "If either side escalates this further, I will be forced to enact Imperial Law, and they both know the consequences."
Lady Éloise Valtierre, wearing her deep blue velvet dress, nodded in agreement, her expression one of exhaustion. "The Drakemonts and Ravencourts are both stubborn, but this time they've crossed the line. Their fighting has started to affect Silvermere's economy and my ability to maintain order. I tried to negotiate, but they refuse to listen."
Vergil, seated at the edge of the table, listened carefully, his sky-blue eyes narrowing. "Negotiation is pointless when pride outweighs reason. If they won't listen, we'll force them to. Piece by piece." He pulled out several sheets of parchment, each containing names, portraits, and descriptions of key figures from both families. His voice grew colder. "If we remove the right individuals, their command structure will collapse. By the time they realize what's happening, it will already be too late."
He laid the first parchment on the table — "Ulrich Drakemont" — a stout, bearded man with cold eyes and a reputation for ruthlessness.
"He's their military strategist and controls Drakemont's patrol routes, informants, and garrison movements," Vergil explained, tapping his finger on Ulrich's portrait. "If we remove him, their ability to track and anticipate movements will be crippled."
"How do you plan to do it?" asked Lady Éloise, leaning forward.
Vergil gave a thin smile. "Freya will handle it. She's ready for her first solo mission."
Freya straightened up, her wolf-like ears twitching. Her eyes gleamed with excitement, though she tried to keep her composure. "I won't disappoint," she said with quiet resolve.
Aeka raised an eyebrow. "I don't doubt her skills, but she's still green. If something goes wrong, she won't have backup."
"She won't be alone," Vergil replied firmly, glancing at Aeka. "You'll be there, but only as an observer. You are not to interfere unless absolutely necessary."
Aeka crossed her arms, her eyes narrowed with suspicion, but she didn't argue. "Fine. I'll watch, but if she's in danger, I'm stepping in."
Empress Eliza, dressed in her elegant white gown trimmed with gold, leaned forward, her regal composure unwavering. "We cannot allow the petty squabbles of these two families to threaten Silvermere's stability. It is too important for the trade routes and for Lady Éloise's control over the region." Her gaze turned sharp. "If either side escalates this further, I will be forced to enact Imperial Law, and they both know the consequences."
Lady Éloise Valtierre, wearing her deep blue velvet dress, nodded in agreement, her expression one of exhaustion. "The Drakemonts and Ravencourts are both stubborn, but this time they've crossed the line. Their fighting has started to affect Silvermere's economy and my ability to maintain order. I tried to negotiate, but they refuse to listen."
Vergil, seated at the edge of the table, listened carefully, his sky-blue eyes narrowing. "Negotiation is pointless when pride outweighs reason. If they won't listen, we'll force them to. Piece by piece." He pulled out several sheets of parchment, each containing names, portraits, and descriptions of key figures from both families. His voice grew colder. "If we remove the right individuals, their command structure will collapse. By the time they realize what's happening, it will already be too late."
He laid the first parchment on the table — "Ulrich Drakemont" — a stout, bearded man with cold eyes and a reputation for ruthlessness.
"He's their military strategist and controls Drakemont's patrol routes, informants, and garrison movements," Vergil explained, tapping his finger on Ulrich's portrait. "If we remove him, their ability to track and anticipate movements will be crippled."
"How do you plan to do it?" asked Lady Éloise, leaning forward.
Vergil gave a thin smile. "Freya will handle it. She's ready for her first solo mission."
Freya straightened up, her wolf-like ears twitching. Her eyes gleamed with excitement, though she tried to keep her composure. "I won't disappoint," she said with quiet resolve.
Aeka raised an eyebrow. "I don't doubt her skills, but she's still green. If something goes wrong, she won't have backup."
"She won't be alone," Vergil replied firmly, glancing at Aeka. "You'll be there, but only as an observer. You are not to interfere unless absolutely necessary."
Aeka crossed her arms, her eyes narrowed with suspicion, but she didn't argue. "Fine. I'll watch, but if she's in danger, I'm stepping in."
Vergil laid down the next target — "Sebastian Ravencourt" — a tall, thin man with sharp eyes and a devious smile. "This one's a problem. He's the main negotiator for Ravencourt and influences most of their political decisions. Remove him, and the family will be forced to act out of desperation."
Freya's eyes sharpened. "What's the plan for him?"
Vergil turned his attention to Lady Éloise. "Lady Valtierre, you mentioned that Ravencourt frequently holds banquets at their estate. Is there one coming up soon?"
Lady Éloise's eyes lit up with understanding. "Yes. There's a gathering scheduled in four days at Ravencourt Manor. They're hosting visiting merchants and minor nobles from the surrounding regions. Sebastian will be present."
"Perfect," Vergil said, his eyes cold and calculating. "Freya will infiltrate as a servant. During the feast, she'll add a slow-acting poison to Sebastian's wine. The effect will be subtle and will only take full effect later that night."
Aeka added with a grin, "If we use Nightshade Dew, it'll look like a natural heart failure. No traces left behind, no evidence of foul play."
Freya nodded, her expression serious. "I can do it."
After all the details were laid out, Empress Eliza rose from her chair, placing a hand on Vergil's shoulder. Her eyes met his with unwavering confidence. "You've never failed me, Vergil. I trust you to handle this with precision. If you succeed, Drakemont and Ravencourt will be nothing more than pawns in our hands."
Lady Éloise smiled warmly at Vergil. "If you pull this off, I'll owe you a debt I can never repay."
Vergil's eyes were cold but resolute. "I don't need repayment. I need peace. No more distractions. No more threats to Silvermere." He glanced at Freya and Aeka. "And I need to see if my students are ready."
Freya tightened her gloves, her wolf-like grin filled with determination. "They won't see me coming."
Aeka tilted her head, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "I'll make sure they don't even notice their world crumbling."
As they walked out of the grand hall, Empress Eliza watched them with a calculating gaze. "Such dangerous children I've gathered around me," she muttered to herself with a smirk. "But perhaps that's exactly what this empire needs."