Although these soldiers dared not express their doubts openly, the rumors spread anyway.
Especially after Count Kaire’s brother, the only remaining heir of the noble family, died of a sudden illness shortly thereafter, rumors filled Count Kaire’s territory. Even the loyal Warrior Legion openly accused Batorri of having killed the two consecutive counts to seize the position.
But after the strange deaths of the warrior leaders who accused Batorri, the rumors within the territory gradually ca under control, limited only to the dark corners even if there were still so secret slanders.
Since then, Batorri inherited the title of Count Kaire, becoming one of the rare countesses.
Sitting opposite this controversial countess was a squinting mage adorned in a luxurious magic robe, Hughes, perhaps it should be Hughes Istvan.
After all, to train a High Tier Mage, an ordinary nobility could not afford the expenses of a mage. Without money, hoping to learn magic is no different from wishing that a giant dragon would give you its treasures.
The three nobles were gracefully having dinner. Although the servants were sent away, thanks to their noble upbringing, the three maintained a silent yet relaxed atmosphere while dining.
After a long ti, after spitting out the last sip of mouthwash, the elderly Duke, with white at his temples, finally spoke, seemingly pondering his words deeply, "Hughes, has your teacher, Grand Mage Lapus, made his final choice."
Though Hughes was accustod to the carefree posture of a High Tier Mage, he maintained respect and deference before his father, who held familial authority.
Hughes nodded slightly, showing respect for his father’s question, then began to reply, "The teacher has not made a final choice. However, he hinted for our mages to gradually focus on the Dragon Group. As soone who can foresee so destinies, what the teacher does surely has its reasons!"
"Hmm," Duke Istvan nodded slightly, pondered for a mont, then said, "Even so, our family’s resources cannot be overly inclined towards those giant dragons,"
"The reason the nobility can endure longer than those imperial dynasties is because we never put fragile eggs in one basket. We learn from those cunning rabbits by digging everywhere to ensure the family’s retreat and stability."
Mage Hughes squinted, nodded in agreent with the duke’s words, but then said, "With due respect, Father, offering warmth in the heavy snow is far more impressive than presenting flowers after success. The things that those giant dragons lack right now aren’t considered important resources by our family."
The duke shook his head, "Managing a large family sotis isn’t at my whim. Even as the family head and lord of the territory, there are many interests to balance. The newly acquired lands also need maintenance and developnt. The resources and support currently given to you are already the maximum I can mobilize within my capacity."
"Alright, Father, in that case, I will head to the Land of Golden, the dragon’s territory, as a mage, not as a representative mber of the Istvan Clan to contact the Dragon Group,"
"Also, with boldness, dear Father and Duke, I think it’s ti to involve my brother in the family affairs. Maybe the young ones could bring so fresh ideas and vitality to this thoroughly aged family."
Mage Hughes maintained a respectful attitude, but his words clearly conveyed his dissatisfaction.
"Hmph, I’m not yet decrepit; possessing sufficient wisdom and vigor, I can still lead the family," Duke Istvan was angered by the mage’s jocular words, threw down the silk handkerchief used to wipe his mouth, stood up, and walked away angrily.
Countess Batorri, who quietly watched the verbal clash between the father and son while slowly sipping sweet cream mushroom soup, calmly picked up a silk handkerchief to wipe her sensual and soft lips after the furious old duke left.
"These old folks are always trapped by their stubbornness and experiences, believing their own experiences to be the most reliable and daring not attempt new ideas and paths. The boldness and courage in youth have long worn down with ti. Hughes, don’t overly concern yourself with that old man’s thoughts."
The young, beautiful, and voluptuous Countess Batorri smiled warmly at her brother.
"Shh, keep your voice down, Father’s strength hasn’t diminished much," Mage Hughes raised his forefinger to his lips, a smile appearing on his usually indifferent face.
"However, you’ve had contact with those giant dragons. Are they truly as worthy of our investnt as you claim," the young countess asked, her eyes bright as clear waters, resembling a lioness on the prairie scrutinizing its prey before a hunt, an air of aggression emanating from Countess Batorri’s gaze.
Even Mage Hughes, who grew up with her, felt the intimidating aura from his eldest sister. The mage unconsciously averted his eyes slightly before nodding, "Success is often fleeting in life, while failure dominates the the. But how one faces failure can differentiate everyone."
"So are crushed by failure, sinking into it, while others continuously get up and move forward, a trait sure to lead to success barring death. In my view, Karon, the Red Dragon with formidable power, belongs to such beings."
Countess Batorri’s bright, aggressive gaze quietly retracted, then she nodded, "I trust your judgnt, Hughes. You were always the smartest child in the family. Maybe I should personally visit the Land of Golden, to et those giant dragons."
Mage Hughes was startled, knowing his sister’s character, "Batorri, do you intend to...",
The young countess interrupted the mage. She stood up, leaving behind her clear, crisp laughter, "Hughes, ruling a tiny, narrow earl’s domain has grown tireso for . I wish to challenge a grander stage; my life is far too calm."
Mage Hughes sighed, shaking his head, "Batorri, you trust my intellect, yet I sowhat fear your madness and courage!"
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