What what? Angelos eyes widened in disbelief.
Just monts ago, Count Kent had returned to the banquet and announced that he would suspend the campaign against the Grayman family, allowing his vassals to return to their own territories.
Kent had just expended great effort to incite hatred against the Graymans among those present. Now, with the Counts sudden change of heart, Angelo felt like a fool.
Why? My Lord, you promised ! You cant go back on your word! Angelo questioned Count Kent, almost in a frenzy.
How dare you! Guards, throw him out! Count Kent glared at Angelo, and imdiately, guards ca to drag him away.
Let go! Let go! My Lord, we had an agreent Angelo continued to shout as he was dragged out, but his voice gradually faded from the ears of those in the hall.
Count Kent addressed his knights and nobles, I know youre all puzzled, but I was just persuaded by an old friend. He said that waging war is not always the best course, and that its better to win people over with reason. So, Ive decided to give Count Grayman another chance.
The hall was filled with silent glances and no one spoke.
Count Kent knew what they were thinking and quickly added, However, I cant let you all co here for nothing. Therefore, I announce a reward of 2000 silver coins to each Viscount and Baron, and 1000 silver coins to each Knight.
A murmur of surprise rippled through the hall.
Count Kent is truly a benevolent man!
Surely, the Grayman family will be eternally grateful to the Count.
Such praises filled the air.
Count Kent laughed heartily. Though fond of amassing wealth, he knew the value of winning hearts. He spared no expense when necessary; otherwise, he wouldnt have beco the second most powerful man in the Northwest Bay, next to Duke Ferdinand.
Moreover, he would soon need these vassals for an important cause; when he and his teacher made their move, their support would be indispensable.
At that mont, Count Kent seed triumphant in front of his vassals, a stark contrast to his subservient deanor earlier in front of Barnett.
In his view, the Dukes position and the power of a wizard were within his grasp.
Only two people remained confused Kents son, Jace, and his distant nephew, Erson. However, at Kents subtle hint, they refrained from asking questions imdiately.
The banquet continued, and the vassals drank to their hearts content before supporting each other as they dispersed.
Once the hall was cleared of guests, Jace and Erson approached Count Kent.
Whats happened, father? Jace asked eagerly.
The Count seed in high spirits, slightly tipsy from the wine, his pale face showing a hint of red.
He glanced at the two young n, pondering.
After a mont, he spoke, Well, there are so things you should know.
Count Kent led them to his study.
In a low voice, he said, I plan to seize the title of Duke of the Northwest.
The two were shocked. What had gotten into Count Kent? Had he lost his mind?
Count Kent responded with a slight smile, Rest assured, I havent lost my mind. Duke Ferdinand will willingly hand over his title to .
Jace and Erson exchanged glances, their doubts evident: Is that even possible?
Count Kent confidently said, As for why, I cant tell you now, but youll understand in ti.
He turned to Erson and asked, Young Erson, as a royal commissioner, are you willing to support the Kent family?
Erson imdiately replied, If Duke Ferdinand truly consents, I would wholeheartedly support it.
The Count, pleased, patted his shoulder and said, Good, I wont forget your Wilder familys support when the ti cos.
Then, as if rembering sothing, he added, Ive received certain news from the old friend I ntioned earlier. The royal family is in a dire situation. You should send word to your father imdiately and advise him to prepare.
Erson, slightly surprised, thanked Count Kent and promised to inform his father.
However, he quickly asked, But why spare Grayman? It doesnt seem to relate to your quest for the dukedom. He openly humiliated you.
Recalling the humiliation he faced in Lakeheart Town, where the entire room had shouted him down, Erson felt a surge of anger.
Count Kent, with a solemn expression, advised him, Young Erson, if one cant endure minor setbacks, it affects the realization of long-term goals. I dont want to stir up more trouble before acquiring the dukedom. Although Im fully confident in my strength, I must eliminate all risks. However, once I have the title, if Grayman continues to be a problem, he wont be as fortunate as this ti.
He chuckled coldly, Theres plenty of ti for that.
Erson, seizing the opportunity, flattered, Uncle Kent is truly far-sighted.
After chatting a bit more in the study, Jace and Erson left.
Once the door closed, a figure erged from behind a bookshelf Barnett.
Count Kent imdiately inquired, Teacher, what do you think of that Erson?
Barnett nodded, No issues. According to my investigation, aside from so skepticism about your words, he harbors no other intentions and is quite hopeful about your accession to the dukedom.
Relieved, Count Kent knew that if Barnett had sensed any malice from Erson, he would have had to arrange an accident for the young man.
He said, Of course, theyre hopeful. The Wilder family has been allies with the Kents for generations. My becoming a Duke would greatly benefit them. The Wilders hold significant influence in the capital; leveraging them would aid our plans.
Barnett cautioned, Still, its best to remain cautious. After all, the human heart is the most unpredictable.
Count Kent nodded, Yes, teacher, I will be cautious.
Barnett added, I need to leave for a while but will remain active in the Northwest. Before I return, think about how to distract Duke Ferdinands guards so I can approach him.
Count Kent placed his hand over his heart, Rest assured, teacher, I will find a way.
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