The inside of Ashbourne Manor was much chillier than usual.
In the main hall, there was a Duke of Ashbourne named Arthur, holding a report.
Avoid concern or agitation.
But all who knew him understood.
The more his Duke calmed down,
The worse dangerous he was in.
The report included all of the above.
Assassination attempt on Evelyn.
The Shadow Sect.
The link that the assassins had to the Ravencrest Duke family.
And the participation of his first wife.
The hall was in a hush.
Arthur turned to the First Madam.
“Isabella.”
The First Madam didn’t say anything.
It is the first time in many years that…
She was under strain by her husband.
You let your family use the Shadow Sect.
He turned his face red.
Decades ago the empire destroyed the Shadow Sect.
They were the cause of many innocent lives lost.
“They are our enemies of humanity.”
The face of the first madam changed.
“Arthur, you have to listen to me.”
“Enough.”
Arthur interrupted.
The whole of the hall shook.
The room was filled with sword intent.
I don’t care what your family wants to be.
My son’s competition doesn’t interest me.
But you got my daughter involved.
The punishment was meted out soon after.
All of the family management positions were eliminated for the first madam.
Her authority over Ashbourne’s internal affairs was taken away.
In this context her family members involved in the conspiracy would be investigated.
Arthur glanced at her.
“It’s the final warning.”
When your family moves again against Ashbourne…”
I’ll take care of it myself.
The first madam set her head to the ground.
For the first time ever…
She realized that Arthur wasn’t just a husband.
He was a duke called Ashbourne.
Following the meeting.
A royal messenger came.
“Your Grace.”
He said, “Your Majesty, I am here.
Arthur’s gaze fell upon the Imperial Palace.
He already knew.
This thing was bigger than House Ashbourne.
The interior of the Imperial Palace.
Emperor Alexander Drakon was seated with a frown.
Also attending was the Grand Prince Victor.
Arthur bowed.
“Your Majesty.”
The emperor nodded.
“Arthur.”
“You already know why I’m calling you.”
“The Shadow Sect.”
Arthur nodded.
“They can’t come back to the empire.”
The emperor set down some papers.
It’s been a line that has been crossed by the “Ravencrest Duke Family” and the “Frostvale Duke Family.”
They’ve not only done it to Ashbourne.
“They have jeopardized the stability of the empire.”
Arthur remained silent.
The emperor continued.
There is a need to reduce its power.
“Without creating chaos.”
It was impossible for the empire to wipe out two ancient Duke families.
They had a far reach.
After Arthur left.
The underground room was silent.
The former emperor Roland showed himself.
Alexander stared at him.
“Grandfather.”
May we have Ashbourne as well?
Take advantage of this opportunity to undermine all three Duke families?
Roland remained silent.
He took a second look after a long while and shook his head.
“No.”
Alexander was surprised.
“Why?”
Roland turned his eyes to the place where Arthur was before.
“Ashbourne is different.”
Their founder is credited with being one of the founders of this empire.
“They have never let us down.”
Roland continued.
If you’re interested in learning more…
Relate the topic to the first wife of Arthur.
If her faction falls due to their deeds, let it be.
But don’t attack House Ashbourne.
The eyes of the old emperor grew sharp.
They will not betray the empire.