The First Madam’s courtyard.
Calmly sat a woman in a golden dress, and tea was poured by servants.
Her name was Isabella Ravenshield Ashbourne.
A daughter of a noble family of Dukes.
Her son, Alexander Ashbourne, was the eldest son of House Ashbourne.
Of course, she thought he ought to take the title.
Finally, the Duke resolved to pick an heir.
A man in his middle years was standing next to her with a smile on his face.
Young Master Alexander is in the best situation.
Isabella’s eyes narrowed.
Just strength will not suffice.
“Influence matters.”
She set the teacup on the ground.
The Imperial Academy will have two recommendations next year.
If Alexander does get one…”
There will be an abundance of young artists who will help him.
The servant bowed.
But there is another, Young Master Leon.
A cold expression appeared on Isabella’s face.
“Leon is dangerous.”
He has a stronger bloodline on the back of his head than the moon veil.
“And Andrew…”
She paused.
In another courtyard, meanwhile…
Lilian Frostvale Ashbourne, the Fourth Madam, listened silently.
She didn’t snub anyone, unlike Isabella.
“Madama la première commence à bouger.”
Her servant nodded.
What shall we do?
Lilian smiled.
“Prepare.”
“My son doesn’t have the top talent.”
But he knows how to wait.”
Her eyes became cold.
In this game, the strongest does not always win!
He or she is “the last man standing.”
At the same time…
Lady Elena Moonveil was sitting in her garden.
She was gazing at the flowers during tea.
Standing behind her was Andrew’s clone.
“Mother.”
She smiled.
Are you thinking about the future, you?
The clone did not say anything.
Elena sighed.
My kids are gifted.
But talent makes enemies.
Her gaze went into the faraway sky.
Leon will join the battle.
“And Andrew…”
Her expression became sad.
“My poor child.”
The clone dropped his head.
Despite the 18 years since then…
She still thought that Andrew couldn’t be made to grow.
However, the reality was otherwise.
But the truth was one that would rock the entire empire.
That night.
Inside Andrew’s room.
He opened his eyes.
A notification appeared.
Ding!
Hidden Mission Activated.
Objective: Save House Ashbourne.
Reward: Unknown.
Andrew smiled.
So, I’ve finally got a mission from the system.
He turned his eyes on the Imperial Palace.
Then towards the battlefield farther on the horizon.
“Things are beginning to change in the world.”
“And I…”
Unable to “now lie quiet no longer.”