Morning light streamed through the stained glass windows of Vicente Manor's main hall, casting a gentle glow on the ornate family crest. The members of the Vicente family were gathering, and the atmosphere was unusually solemn. Aaron sat quietly to one side, his gaze steady and calm, as if everything were unfolding precisely as he planned.
It had been several weeks since he'd taken on the task from his father, Count Vicente. Outwardly, Aaron had invested substantial effort in "investigating" the Shadow Alliance hidden behind the black market. But in truth, he'd only divulged trivial details, careful not to reveal too much. For his family, a flawless investigation would likely seem suspect.
As everyone took their seats, Count Vicente's gaze swept across the hall before settling on Aaron. His sharp eyes, radiating noble authority and scrutiny, seemed to pierce through any pretense.
"Aaron," Count Vicente began, his voice low and commanding. "It's been some time since you took the initiative to investigate the black market. I know you're not particularly inclined toward family affairs, but this investigation is critical. I hope you're giving it your utmost."
Aaron gave a slight bow, his expression respectful yet composed. "Father, I have done my best to gather information. However, the organization behind the black market, especially the Shadow Alliance, operates with extreme caution. Extracting deep insights has proven challenging."
Count Vicente's sharp gaze remained fixed on him, as if searching for hidden intent in his expression. The rest of the family looked on, including his older brother Leon, whose face showed faint traces of encouragement and concern.
"Given that," the Count continued with a steady tone, "can you share what reliable information you have uncovered so far?"
Aaron nodded, his expression unruffled. "I've noticed that the black market's supply of forbidden materials has dwindled, possibly in preparation for some larger agenda. Additionally, key members of the Shadow Alliance have discreetly approached merchants to bring the kingdom's rare resources under their control."
"The Shadow Alliance is gradually expanding its influence," he added, a note of gravity in his tone, hinting at a touch of concern. "However, their operations are so discreet that they change locations after each transaction to avoid detection. They have a sophisticated protective network that virtually blocks any deep investigation from outside."
A tense silence fell over the hall, and the family members were visibly struck by the secrecy surrounding the Shadow Alliance. Count Vicente's brow furrowed as he pondered Aaron's words. Though he wasn't entirely convinced of everything Aaron said, his second son's calm demeanor and measured statements lent an air of credibility.
"So, what do you intend to do next?" The Count's tone softened, but there was a trace of probing.
Aaron lowered his head slightly, feigning deep thought before replying slowly, "The Shadow Alliance is deeply embedded in the black market's core, and I have yet to make contact with their highest-ranking members. However, I believe that by focusing on peripheral branches—such as merchants they've traded with and the adventurers and mercenaries active in the black market—I may find a way to penetrate deeper."
He then looked up at his father, his gaze resolute. "If I can be granted more time, I'm confident I'll find a more effective way to infiltrate their network, perhaps even reach their inner circles."
Count Vicente nodded, reflecting on Aaron's words before he replied, "Your plan is worth pursuing. The Vicente family has an undeniable duty to maintain stability within the kingdom. Although the Shadow Alliance poses no immediate threat to us, their covert expansion remains a potential danger."
Aaron nodded in agreement, though inwardly he concealed a smirk. He knew that this conversation was mostly pretense. The family wasn't truly interested in fully understanding the Shadow Alliance; they simply wanted to ensure their own territory remained untouched.
"Rest assured, Father. I'll continue to investigate in the family's best interests," Aaron said, his voice steady and confident, giving an impression of complete loyalty to the family.
Count Vicente appeared satisfied, nodding with a slight smile of approval. "Very well, Aaron. Since you're willing to shoulder this responsibility, the family will support you with resources. Whatever you need, simply ask."
Aaron thanked him with a polite nod, calculating silently. The Count's trust provided him with a valuable opportunity to strengthen his position within the family. He understood that to secure a foothold in future family power struggles, he needed to leverage the Count's trust and support to build his own influence step by step.
After the meeting, Aaron and Leon left the hall together. Leon clapped him on the shoulder, his voice laced with admiration. "Aaron, I'm impressed with how much you've changed. I never expected you to show such dedication to family affairs. Father must be proud of you."
Aaron allowed himself a small smile, his gaze steady. "I'm simply doing what I can. Family matters are hardly a burden."
Leon laughed heartily, shaking his head. "You're always so calm, not even Father's authority seems to ruffle you. Perhaps one day, you really will shoulder more responsibility."
Aaron merely returned a slight smile, offering no further comment. He understood that this was only the beginning. The family's trust and resources would be his first step in rising to power, and Leon's support could one day help him establish his own influence within the family.