Regressor of the Fallen Family Novel - Chapter 329
Chapter 329
Beyond the glass, a gentle sunbeam streamed inside, an uncommon view during the winter season.
However, the countenance of the lovely figure peering out from the palace remained as chilly as the warmth outside.
– Thanks to the Second Prince’s mistake, we now have a favorable opportunity.
– The operation to create confusion in Makryn will be placed on hold.
– Before departing, embed more individuals in the Makryn royal residence.
– If a conflict erupts between the Empire and Makryn, it will only result in more disorder. And…
– I will hasten the era following the deity.
“Is it just a mistake that my life is endangered…?”
Luisa’s expression hardened once more as memories of her conversation with her mentor resurfaced.
She comprehended the purpose of the tower and fully resonated with it.
But how could she come to terms with the notion that her own sacrifice was necessary to fulfill that purpose?
Despite her reservations, she had no alternative but to endure the situation for the time being.
What could she possibly articulate when her partial failure in the mission had turned into nothing?
“Baros. One day, you will face consequences for your actions.”
She could only clench her teeth and make that vow.
Furthermore, the directives that accompanied those words were equally illogical.
The instruction to infiltrate individuals from the Kassel Magic Tower implied creating individuals under mind control.
“Is there even such a person?”
The criteria appeared so impractical that a self-deprecating remark slipped from her lips. Wasn’t there a sovereign in a realm capable of dispelling the tower’s magic merely by proximity?
“It might be simpler to allure a genuine prince.”
Thinking of the rumors circulating in society, she let out a faint chuckle.
The tales about Count Ronian and herself had intertwined, embellished with various embarrassing anecdotes.
Although she had never seriously contemplated marriage, as a woman, it was challenging not to be somewhat apprehensive.
Moreover, when she contemplated these daunting orders, it inevitably led her to daydreams of evasion, causing those awkward narratives to resurface more frequently.
“…Should I genuinely attempt to entice him?”
She would persuade the prince to betray the king.
Wasn’t that a common theme in the novels circulating in the markets?
Lost in pleasant yet futile fantasies, Luisa was interrupted by a voice she didn’t wish to hear emanating from beyond the door.
– Count Ronian has arrived for a visit.
“Ugh, the timing…”
It was a theatrical display to mask the imperial interference in the ambush incident and portray a harmonious relationship.
She found this act tiresome, yet the other protagonist was particularly hesitant.
Creak.
“Are you available?”
As soon as the servant served tea and exited, Luisa delivered a cold remark with an impassive expression.
There was no longer a necessity for pretenses between them.
However, the tall young man with red hair and crimson eyes simply smiled and replied.
“Well, this is part of my duties currently.”
“You don’t appear to be enjoying it, though.”
“Well, at least it’s pleasant to have charming company.”
At around twenty years old, he exuded youthful energy.
Surprisingly, even with an intentional beauty practically unveiling before him, the young man’s eyes displayed no hint of desire.
‘Such self-restraint with his abilities at that age; he must possess significant self-discipline.’
That thought only prompted Luisa to recollect her own enigmatic past, eliciting a wry smile from her.
Ultimately, since that was revealed, Baron Ronian’s disinterest might seem more pronounced.
“How audacious. It appears you and your brother are quite alike.”
“Haha, that’s a novel observation. Do you think I resemble my elder brother?”
Indeed, while the striking features of red-haired Ronian stood out, their facial structures were entirely distinct.
Logan, who resembled their mother, had soft features, while Ronian closely resembled their father, often leading observers to anticipate discord between the siblings.
Apart from the fact that he once relished hearing that he bore a resemblance to his brother.
Ronian, smiling naturally, set down his teacup and playfully remarked.
“Well, who’s more audacious? The princess or the insurgent who claims victimhood? What could be more audacious than that?”
“Victim? Who truly suffered as a victim? It seems I alone bore the consequences.”
“Our knight also sustained severe injuries. Or do ordinary knights no longer hold significance for you?”
“As long as he survives, that’s all that matters.”
The banter exchanged harbored underlying barbs beneath their smiles.
Since that incident, their conversations had persisted to be wearisome, yet the attendants outside would assume everything was amicable.
“I heard you received gifts from the Dong-wang palace. At this rate, we might be setting a wedding date soon.”
“Don’t fret; that won’t come to pass.”
“If you continue to remain here, it may become a reality you should dread.”
“I will be departing soon regardless. So let’s just forget about it.”
Sipping cautiously, as her nerves heightened, she couldn’t even discern the taste of the tea trickling down her throat.
In about an hour, she would have to withstand further tiresome opposition, but there was no avoiding it.
As Luisa gathered her thoughts, an intriguing piece of information slipped from Ronian unexpectedly.
“Oh, it seems my brother is planning something significant once again.”
“Something significant? Hm.”
Pretending nonchalance, her focus now solely fixated on him.
Whether he grasped her heightened interest, Ronian sported a slightly amused smile, gazing steadily at her.
“However, there was a hint that the Empire might be intrigued, so I hope it’s resolved amicably with the Dong-wang palace.”
“Uh? Why are you informing me of this?”
“We aren’t on hostile terms, are we? At least not outwardly.”
“That’s merely on the surface.”
“It’s for the sake of countering the Empire. I believe ‘they’ might find it appealing.”
Oddly emphasized words grated on her ears, but curiosity swiftly overtook them.
“Continue. What does it entail?”
“There are intentions to construct fortifications at several strategic points along the border.”
“Pfft.”
Her tea spurted out, her jaw almost dropping in astonishment.
She blamed Ronian’s evasive smile for sidestepping the topic suddenly.
“What did you just say?”
“Judging by your reaction, it seems your ears are functioning well.”
“Are you genuinely planning to erect fortifications on the border? Are you openly declaring war against the Empire? And then requesting us to smooth things over?”
“Officially, we won’t announce it as solely the ‘West’ but rather the entire frontier. Of course, we plan on erecting it exclusively in the West.”
“Do you think the Empire is oblivious!?”
“What do you propose? They won’t meddle in internal affairs anyway. At most, they might issue a warning. Or they might even advance sooner.”
– The mere act of the Empire preparing for war will resonate throughout the world. With decades devoted to peace policies, they won’t be able to conceal alterations indefinitely.
– If war is inevitable, why not dictate the timing ourselves?
Recalling her brother’s words, Ronian chuckled, “Heh… Ultimately, you are all doomed.”
Luisa sighed, uncertain if it was amusement or scorn.
Shortly after, their gazes sharpened, a resolute determination gleaming.
‘Makryn acknowledges a forthcoming war against the Empire as a certainty.’
‘They don’t refute it. They are cognizant of the Empire’s war preparations.’
With just one query, both factions found confirmation; one side comprehended the kingdom’s situation, while the other validated their suspicion.
After a moment of quiet, Luisa broke the silence first.
“Officially, we won’t publicize it, but a subtle pressure will emerge. What are the repercussions?”
“Perhaps the princess’s safe return?”
“Hmph. Even if my life is threatened, it won’t sway my choices.”
“It’s not a threat; it’s merely a suggestion. ‘They’ will likely desire it.”
Following a brief pause from Luisa, Ronian reclined against the sofa, scrutinizing her attentively.
Yet, despite his relaxed posture, a palpable tension lingered.
“Then my father may respond without formal declarations, but subtle pressures are unavoidable.”
The thought induced further unease in her mind.
“You may encounter some unconventional demands.”
“That seems plausible. But we may implement appropriate precautions.”
“Yes, we comprehend. As long as information is relayed, any minor shifts should be communicated promptly from now on.”
“Yes, acknowledged.”
Peering deeply into Luisa’s sapphire eyes, Ronian suddenly leaned forward.
“In truth, I have no intention of severing all ties. Additional connections can indeed be established.”
Upon hearing this, Luisa couldn’t help but reveal her surprise.
“But if you see value in maintaining contact, I’d rather report to the Empire than to my brother.”
“What will you decide?”
Biting her lip slightly, the intensity of Ronian’s indigo gaze demanded careful consideration.
“How can I consider relinquishing my connections deliberately?”
With firm resolve, Luisa declared, refusing to be subject to sudden commercial laws.
Forcing a smile at Ronian’s ensuing laughter, she managed to regain her composure.
“Hmph. What’s more restrictive than being bound?”
“Good luck with that. I’ll convey your sentiments alongside our own requests, regardless of the circumstances.”
“Very well. It won’t be an instant change, but there’s no need to panic just yet.”
“Let’s address matters transparently.”
As they finally rose and exchanged a hug, she departed with her own resolute demeanor.
Watching her retreating figure, Ronian chuckled.
Once the door closed behind her, he sighed deeply.
“Haah… The princess remains indifferent.”
Gazing blankly out the window, Ronian mused aloud, though receiving no response from anyone.
And thus, the chapter drew to a close, leaving lingering unanswered queries like shadows from the past.
English