1
Leisurely days always pass by quickly, and along with the harsh winter came the decree from His Majesty the King. Ivan, along with Count Feisun, Count Laiwei. and important officials of Seesburg, stood in the corridor in front of the county government's gate, waiting for the arrival of the envoy.
The cold wind blew fiercely, causing the cedars on both sides of the corridor to shiver in the cold, and a thick red carpet covered the hundred-meter-long granite floor.
Ivan stood at the forefront of the Seesburg officials, with Miss Betty standing behind him. Miss Betty's current position was his personal secretary. Time had passed for quite a while, and the envoy's carriage had yet to arrive. Standing in the open square, some began to feel stiff, and a few started to shiver.
Sensing Miss Betty trembling behind him, Ivan asked, "Miss Betty, are you cold?" "No, not at all," Miss Betty replied, but her voice clearly contradicted her words, showing signs of trembling.
"Everyone, the envoy is still delayed. Let's return to the hall for now," Ivan ordered. The Seesburg officials naturally did not dare to disobey the young lord's command, especially since standing in the square and braving the northwestern wind was not to their liking.
"Should we leave on our own when the envoy is about to arrive? Isn't that a bit unreasonable?" Count Feisun asked. Count Feisun's words were directed at the officer of the guard standing beside him. This officer was responsible for protecting the envoy's arrival to Seesburg and had come to convey the message that the envoy would arrive soon.
Upon hearing Count Feisun's words, most of the Seesburg officials hesitated to retreat. If the envoy arrived at this moment and found no one to receive him, it would undoubtedly be quite impolite. However, Ivan did not agree with Count Feisun's words.
In fact, since the officer had arrived to convey the message, the King's appointed envoy had still not arrived, making Ivan feel that the situation was quite similar to the tactics employed by Mardeil Count during his recognition ceremony.
These two gentlemen were clearly cut from the same cloth, even resorting to such boring tricks. Ivan was well prepared for this. In Seesburg, he could be considered one of the first to know about the King's dispatch of the envoy, as Feis had already returned from afar with detailed information.
For the past two days, Ivan had spent his time with Audrey, Feis, and Mr. Hyde among a pile of documents. From the collected information, it was clear that the envoy's arrival was not a good sign, indicating that the King was not willing to let go of Seesburg's affairs. Although the exact decree the King's envoy would bring was unknown, the envoy's mysterious identity was already a cause for concern.
The envoy's full name was Nieldi Jeridis Robeld, known for his strong temper in the capital. Corresponding to his temperament, his background was also quite strong. This Count Robeld was the cousin of the King's financial deputy, Count Rowanell, and also a member of the King's Knights, holding the title of a royal knight.
From the information available, unlike most royal knights, Count Robeld was indeed quite capable. He was highly skilled in combat, excelling in the use of a two-handed sword, and had achieved notable rankings in swordsmanship tournaments in his youth.
Although the swordsmanship tournaments held in the capital of Frank never allowed military or knight participants, Count Robeld's ability to rank among thousands of noble swordsmen was enough to make him proud.
Due to his prowess, Count Robeld made a strong impression in front of others, and over time, this became his trademark. The King's dispatch of such an envoy to Seesburg to deliver a decree was clearly not a simple matter. In fact, from the nearly two hundred knights he brought to protect his safety, it was evident that this time, trouble was brewing.
For those who came looking for trouble, it was necessary to prepare corresponding countermeasures in advance. However, this time, Audrey seemed to want Ivan to handle the situation himself, hence her simple instruction of "adapt as needed."
Ivan was quite suspicious that this was originally Mr. Hyde's idea. Because when Audrey and he discussed possible unexpected events, Audrey seemed to want to give him certain hints several times, but ultimately refrained from doing so.
Ivan clearly remembered that when he left Mr. Hyde's room, Audrey quietly informed him that Mr. Hyde had already arranged everything properly, and he could boldly proceed. Although few words were spoken, Ivan fully understood Audrey's implied meaning. Mr. Hyde clearly did not believe that compromise and retreat would secure their idyllic sanctuary of Southport.
As Ivan became more deeply embroiled in this massive conspiracy, he increasingly felt that Mr. Hyde had always intended to confront the King head-on. Clearly, the King of this dark realm did not fear the true rulers of Franconia.
Ivan was unsure of the odds in this gamble, but he knew at least one thing: Mr. Hyde did not just hold one ace up his sleeve. It could even be said that this card was originally just a seemingly unimportant one. However, with his growing strength, especially after becoming a disciple of Master Lavash, this seemingly unimportant card had become the trump card that could determine victory or defeat.
After carefully weighing the pros and cons, Mr. Hyde seemed to have reached a decision and determined not to resort to those means with even greater lethality and higher fatality. It was akin to a cautious chess player who, during the course of the game, after profound deliberation, ultimately chose to forgo those risky maneuvers that might potentially decide the outcome in one stroke but also carried substantial risks and could lead to a complete debacle if mishandled.
Another aspect that truly afforded Ivan a sense of reassurance was that Mr. Hyde had already made appropriate arrangements with his personnel in Thorsburg. It should be noted that the king, reigning from on high, nominally held dominion over all within the entire Kingdom of France. His Majesty commanded a vast number of well-equipped troops and the renowned and invincible Paladin Order, possessing formidable power. In comparison, Mr. Hyde was by no means inferior. He also had his own contingent, namely a group of knights who were accustomed to operating under the cover of darkness. These knights were like phantoms in the night, moving with stealth yet exuding an intimidating presence that could not be overlooked. They served as Mr. Hyde's reliable aides in covertly orchestrating and controlling the situation.
The elimination of all of Count Martill's subordinates and the successful suppression of those assassins were, in fact, merely the tip of the iceberg of Mr. Hyde's truly substantial might.
Mr. Hyde had once navigated the tempestuous seas in his early years. During those adventurous and challenging times, he naturally encountered many pirates who sustained their livelihoods by pillaging passing vessels. Subsequently, after Mr. Hyde gradually ascended to become the sovereign of the underworld on land, for a variety of reasons, he also maintained regular interactions with those pirates and sustained a certain degree of connection.
Those pirates who had roamed the seven seas throughout the year were far from a negligible or weak force. Even Italy, renowned for its powerful naval capabilities, dared not casually provoke this band of desperadoes. Indeed, out of necessity, Italy was compelled to acknowledge the existence of these pirates. Moreover, Italy had to disburse a significant sum of money annually merely to ensure the safety and unimpeded passage of the sea routes and avoid being harassed by pirates.
Ivan was well aware that Mr. Hyde had made significant contributions in facilitating this agreement. Consequently, those pirates were indebted to Mr. Hyde and willingly became his steadfast allies. Ivan was also cognizant that in a concealed location near Thorsburg within Bart Forest, there was at least a pirate crew concealed. With such a potent yet relatively unknown force as backing, Ivan suddenly felt as if he were the dark prince from myth and legend, as if there were innumerable mysterious and malevolent forces lurking in the shadows, lending him their clandestine assistance. This sentiment made him somewhat apprehensive yet also bestowed upon him an inexplicable sense of confidence.
Ivan naturally grasped the meaning of Audrey's exhortation to "adapt to changing circumstances." Thus, after feigning a moment of contemplation, Ivan addressed Count Fernan beside him in an authoritative and peremptory tone: "Lord Acting Lord, would you be so kind as to meticulously organize the welcoming team into two groups. Have these two groups alternate shifts every hour. The group not on duty is to be arranged to wait patiently in the auditorium. Additionally, instruct the attendants to prepare some warm and palatable beverages so that those officials responsible for the reception outside can warm themselves and dispel the chill."
After issuing these directives, Ivan promptly pivoted and said gravely to Count Levy: "Military Chief, I hereby order you to expeditiously dispatch a vanguard detachment to be specifically tasked with escorting the envoy safely into Thorsburg. Upon encountering the envoy, you must immediately arrange for knights to gallop back promptly to report the situation to us, enabling all of us to make comprehensive preparations in advance for the reception. There must be no laxity whatsoever."
Upon hearing the orders of the young lord, Count Fernan and Count Levy did not dare to tarry and immediately commenced arranging various matters in an orderly and methodical manner as instructed.
And that sergeant who had been standing silently aside and maintaining a taciturn stance was astounded after hearing this series of lucid and resolute commands. He could scarcely fathom that seasoned and senior officials such as Count Fernan and Count Levy would so docilely execute the orders issued by a minor who had not yet attained adulthood. This spectacle was truly beyond his ken and seemed utterly incredulous.
However, this young lord had indeed considered matters with remarkable thoroughness and meticulousness. Every detail was arranged with precision and left no room for criticism. That sergeant was no simpleton. He was acutely aware that if he were to step forward and compel everyone to wait outside in the biting cold wind, such an approach would not only readily expose certain flaws and create loopholes in the plan but also incite the vehement resentment of all the officials in Thorsburg and needlessly make adversaries for himself. Although their count boasted a powerful background and was an imperial envoy appointed by the king himself to issue the decree here and was unconcerned about the resistance of these local nobles, he himself was merely a lowly sergeant and had no cause to offend these influential and prominent figures over such a matter.
Nevertheless, if he failed to act in accordance with the count's instructions, it would amount to committing the offense of dereliction of duty. After ruminating over the matter and weighing the advantages and disadvantages, that sergeant finally resolved to return promptly and report to the count all that had transpired here.
As for what the sergeant would specifically undertake after his return, Ivan had no inclination whatsoever to concern himself. He and Miss Betty proceeded directly towards the sheriff's office in the sheriff's mansion.
This place had originally been the exclusive domain where Count Fernan, as the acting lord, managed various official affairs. The count did, in fact, possess the entitlement to utilize this office. However, since Ivan's identity as the heir to the lordship had been definitively ascertained, or more precisely, after Count Fernan witnessed the astonishing spectacle of Ivan dispatching the magician with swift and decisive efficiency in the cathedral in full view of the public, Count Fernan had the good sense to voluntarily relinquish this office.
At present, a blazing fire was roaring in the fireplace within the office. The vigorous flames were leaping merrily, continuously emitting heat and warming the entire room, rendering it extremely comfortable and cozy for anyone who entered.
Miss Betty had been staying by Ivan's side in silence. She neither asked Ivan if such an arrangement was appropriate nor inquired about his opinion of Count Robert.
And Ivan also remained silent all along. He wasn't sure if his decision was correct, because this would be the first time he made a decision on his own.
Only now did he truly understand why Audrey was always so worried before arranging and planning an operation. Ivan now deeply grasped the huge difference between making a plan and deciding on a plan.
His face was turned towards the window, and his breathing was extremely heavy and long.
A layer of moisture had formed on the window glass.
"Ivan, you seem very nervous," Miss Betty finally broke the silence.
"Yes," Ivan replied.
Miss Betty walked up to Ivan, placed her hand on his shoulder, and said, "Everyone here stands behind you. They need you to protect them, and at the same time, they are your strong support."
"Thank you, Miss Betty. That's very kind of you. You make me feel at ease because I'm not alone in this," Ivan said.
"No, it wasn't me who said that. It was a phrase that Grandpa often mentioned. He always said it was the duty of a lord," Miss Betty said. "Aunt asked me to pass this on to you."
Ivan turned around in surprise and looked at Miss Betty. He clearly understood the implication of the last sentence.
"I just want to abide by the agreement between Miss Medin and Mr. Hyde. The lord's throne should belong to the Medin family! It should belong to our children," Ivan said softly.
His words made Miss Betty's face flush red, but shyness still couldn't conceal the disappointment in her heart.
This wasn't the answer she wanted.
For a moment, the two of them were silent, and the office became extremely quiet. It wasn't until someone knocked on the door after a long time that the silence was broken.
Miss Betty walked up and opened the door.
"Lord, Miss Betty, the envoy sent by His Majesty the King has arrived," Count Fernan said, panting. Apparently, his age was no longer suitable for strenuous exercise.
Ivan walked up to the window and looked.
A carriage was approaching from the far end of the street. In front of and behind the carriage, there were long lines of cavalry guards riding on fine horses.
The officials of Thorsburg downstairs rushed out of the auditorium one after another. Everyone looked so flustered and nervous.
"Count Fernan, you go downstairs first and arrange the welcoming ceremony. Miss Betty and I will come down right away," Ivan said slowly.
"Yes, yes, yes, yes..." Count Fernan repeatedly agreed and ran downstairs.
Ivan stood by the window, watching the commotion below. For some reason, he felt quite calm in his heart now.
Standing in front of the window of the lord's office, he had an indescribable feeling of looking down on everything, as if everything was under his control.
"Have you figured out a way to deal with the envoy?" Miss Betty asked.
"Well... That's impossible. I still don't know what kind of means His Majesty the King and the envoy want to use against me. However, I have some confidence in how to deal with this envoy," Ivan said, full of confidence.
"Do you mind sharing your secret with me?" Miss Betty asked softly.
"No, of course not," Ivan said. "I just want to let this envoy perform to his heart's content, just like Count Martill did back then. Also, I want to see who in Thorsburg has no confidence in me. The Relta family shouldn't be a fence-sitter. The Tornam family is a bit hard to say, but they probably won't side with the other party either. The Piflay family is similar to the Tornam family, but there are fewer emotional entanglements between the Piflay family and me, so they are more likely to remain neutral. What really worries me is Count Levy. He is only intimidated by the strength of Mr. Hyde and me. However, in terms of origin and emotion, he is the one who is most distant from me in Thorsburg. Moreover, Lady O'Neill has always been hostile to me."
Miss Betty listened silently to everything Ivan said. For some reason, she felt a faint sense of loss in her heart.
"Now it's our turn to show up," Ivan said as he walked out of the office and headed downstairs.
The officials obviously looked very energetic, with flushed faces, because they had stayed in the warm auditorium for a while and the cup of hot drink had also taken effect.
Coming out of the sheriff's mansion, Ivan saw Count Fernan and Count Levy standing in the distance.
Count Fernan looked anxious, while Count Levy was much calmer.
The envoy's carriage was steadily parked at the front of the corridor. On both sides of the corridor, two rows of knights were standing majestically.
They were wearing sky-blue velvet battle robes, with shiny silver armor underneath. The armor was exquisitely carved, and they were also wearing silver helmets, with fluffy and soft camel hair flowing behind their heads.
Ivan was no stranger to such attire. It was the standard attire of the royal knights. However, although the royal knights had noble status, they were known as being more showy than useful.
He slowly walked up to Count Fernan and Count Levy.
"Why haven't you welcomed the envoy out of the carriage yet?" Ivan asked.
Count Fernan looked at the young lord. He really couldn't understand the unfathomable thoughts of this young man.
"We were all waiting for you, sir," Count Levy explained.
Ivan nodded and said, "The envoy represents the prestige of His Majesty the King. Let's welcome this distinguished guest from the capital with the most solemn ceremony."
Although they didn't know what was on the young lord's mind, both Count Fernan and Count Levy were experienced figures who had been in this cutthroat circle for many years. From the fact that the envoy deliberately made all the officials of Thorsburg stand in the open air and endure the cold wind, they had already seen that the envoy was deliberately trying to intimidate everyone.
This young lord was young, but there was no reason for him not to see this. Now that he was holding the envoy in such high regard, it definitely wasn't to show goodwill to His Majesty the King.
Neither this young lord nor Mr. Hyde, who lurked behind him, was a pushover who would easily yield or kowtow to others.
Count Fernan and Count Levy served these two significant figures with even greater caution.
They secretly resolved that between this young lord and His Majesty the King, they must refrain from siding with either faction. Absolute neutrality might cause them to lose the favor of the victor, yet choosing the wrong side could spell doom for their families.
Count Martill's actions were evidently under the directive of His Majesty the King.
And this young lord was likewise a ruthless and formidable character.
Since he had formed a plan in his mind, Count Fernan naturally knew precisely what course of action to take.
After all, the nominal supreme leader of Thorsburg was he, the titular acting lord. Count Fernan led all the prominent officials of Thorsburg to welcome the approaching carriage.
The envoy slowly descended from the carriage.
Despite the presence of a red carpet on the ground and numerous officials greeting him with deference. Despite the officials presenting the most solemn and enthusiastic welcome ceremony, the tardy arrival of the officials' greetings left him rather discontented.
However, to his astonishment, according to his sergeant, the underage young lord was a rather intractable character to handle, and the officials of Thorsburg, regardless of rank, evidently obeyed his commands.
This seemed to deviate from what the extremely inept Count Martill had reported to His Majesty the King.
According to Count Martill's account, this young lord was merely a puppet fabricated by the last remaining member of the Medin family, the elderly Miss Medin, and the acting lord.
Although the king had once harbored doubts. Given the deeply entrenched influence of the Martill family in Thorsburg, how could they have been entirely expelled from the land where their ancestors had taken root, thrived, and prospered by the acting lord, who had originally not been involved in practical affairs?
And Count Martill was evidently apprehensive about something.
His timidity even rendered him somewhat neurotic. Evidently, he had endured a powerful stimulus prior to departing from Thorsburg. Moreover, there was another matter that was highly abnormal.
Regarding the subordinates dispatched by His Majesty the King to assist him in seizing the lordship of Thorsburg, Count Martill had consistently been evasive.
He claimed that those subordinates were still lurking in Thorsburg, lying low and awaiting further instructions from His Majesty the King.
Count Robert was increasingly sensing that something was amiss.