Eto accepted the documents, casting a swift but penetrating glance over them. Almost immediately, she recognized that these documents contained extensive information about various high-ranking figures within this world.
"These individuals consist of warlords and government officials within the Rose Wall, each holding substantial power. However, their willingness to cooperate with me is rather limited."
With Lin Yi's influence now shifted within the Rose Wall, he had initiated actions against these figures. Undoubtedly, financial resources had eased the process, with most military officers and officials proving accommodating.
For business expansion, convenience was at the forefront.
Of course, exceptions existed, along with those driven by insatiable greed.
Dealing with financial matters was straightforward, yet this particular group demanded shares in the business—effectively, a portion of the company's rights.
This primarily stemmed from the irresistible allure of Lin Yi's provisions and resources.
"Understood. Leave this to me. But you'll need to assist me in establishing a connection," Eto nodded, her attention now focused on the documents before her.
The documents not only detailed the identities of these high-ranking officials but also contained comprehensive information regarding the distribution of power within the world enclosed by the wall. All of this was the result of Lin Yi's years of investigation.
"Everything is set. Tomorrow night, a banquet will take place, and you will attend as a member of the Takagi family," Lin Yi smiled.
This was a considerable investment he had made to craft Eto's new identity.
Her public persona must remain entirely separate from the Lin family business to ensure her ability to discreetly handle affairs best left unseen.
Engaging in these types of situations was Eto's expertise, and there was no need for Lin Yi to provide extensive explanation.
The following night arrived.
Despite the recent calamity that struck the Shiganshina District and the Maria Wall, the Duke's mansion within the Rose Wall upheld its opulent banquet as scheduled.
While outside the mansion lay starving refugees, within its walls, music and dancing were in full swing.
As a recently established business owner, Lin Yi had also received an invitation, but he declined, citing his busy work schedule.
Outside the mansion, the Duke's son was extending a warm welcome to the arriving guests.
These were individuals familiar with his father, and their interactions were marked by warmth and familiarity.
Gradually, night descended.
Most of the guests had arrived, and as the Duke's son, he rarely had to experience such situations. He quickly urged his subordinates to prepare and shut the doors, positioning himself to join the banquet.
At that very moment, a luxurious carriage sped toward them, capturing everyone's attention.
The carriage came to a halt at the entrance of the Duke's mansion.
Eto raised the carriage curtain, assisted by her attendants, as she emerged donning a sleek black evening gown. A crystal necklace adorned her slender neck, enhancing her image as a delicate beauty.
While the Duke's son had encountered many beautiful women, her allure was exceptional.
His gaze lingered in a dazed and almost foolish smile.
"The young lady hails from the Takagi family and arrived late due to some discomfort. Please pardon her, Duke," Eto spoke softly.
The Duke's son remained lost in thought until a discreet prod from his steward snapped him back to reality.
Swiftly adjusting his demeanor, he aimed for a more dignified bearing.
"No problem, no problem. The winds outside are strong. Let's hasten indoors."
With the guidance of Eto's tact, handling the young noble was child's play. They engaged in casual conversation during their journey, and romantic notions were already beginning to blossom in the young noble's heart.
"Judging by your appearance, it seems you might be facing some challenges," the Duke's son astutely picked up on Eto's implied hints, prompting him to inquire.
Understanding the opportunity to influence matters before a beauty, he couldn't let it slip through his fingers.
"Well, it's like this. The Takagi family's management has been less than optimal over these past years. Our territories have consistently incurred deficits. This visit is intended to discuss with the Duke whether we can exchange our lands for certain policy concessions."
Upon hearing this, the Duke's son visibly relaxed, patting his chest and pledging his assistance.
"So, that's the matter at hand. Allow me to introduce you to my father."
Before the banquet's main course commenced, the Duke's son led Eto into the inner chambers of the mansion.
What transpired during the conversation between the young noble and his father remained a mystery.
Nevertheless, the Duke agreed to a private meeting with Eto.
"Neither the father nor the son is virtuous," Eto muttered quietly. The idea of a secluded meeting served as a pretense, offering her the opportunity to present her crafty conditions.
Her expectations materialized.
The Duke wasn't a paragon of virtue either. Upon glimpsing Eto's appearance, he was immediately captivated.
Yet, his bloated belly and fleshy visage were utterly repugnant.
"I've heard you require my assistance?"
"Thank you for the introduction, noble son. I beseech you, Duke, to rescue my Takagi family," Eto's voice trembled, her head bowed in sorrow.
The Duke's heart softened, nearly melting at her pitiful display.
"No issue, no issue. I recall Mr. Takagi being a pillar of our nation..." The Duke babbled on.
The "Takagi" surname was purely fictitious. Lin Yi had bestowed it upon a fallen minor noble, altering his identity. While he spoke, he wasted no time, moving closer to Eto, his hands inching toward her slender waist.
...
So delicate and supple.
Taken aback by her exquisite beauty, the Duke found his own rotund appearance even more loathsome.
"Your Excellency, concerning my request..."
"Fear not. These are trivial matters. However, tonight is a festive occasion. Engaging in business discussions would dampen the mood. Miss Takagi, would you be willing to grace me with a dance?"
To express his requests so candidly showcased his audacity.
Eto's coy smile unveiled her understanding that this corpulent pig was attempting to overstep his boundaries.
"Very well then, but Duke, can you truly fulfill my heart's desire?"
Eto delicately traced her fingertip along the Duke's chest, her voice a soft whisper.
"Naturally, whatever you desire, I shall make it a reality."
With a captivating woman nearly within his embrace, the Duke was blinded by lust. He eagerly agreed, his mouth wide open as he leaned in to kiss Eto's cheek.
"Thank you, Your Excellency."
As her words concluded, crimson blood splattered across Eto's face.
She delicately licked the bloodstains from her lips, then furrowed her brow and spat it out.
"Even your blood is unsightly."
Those entrancing crimson eyes shone vividly in the darkness.
And at this very moment, the Duke stared at his chest in disbelief, his eyes wide open. The delicate arms had managed to pierce through his chest.
~~~
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