"I didn't an it that way, I..."
Luo Yan gazed into her eyes.
"Aren't we friends?"
Friends...
The heart that had just leapt to her throat now fell back to her chest.
Realizing that it was all her own misunderstanding, and such a far-off one at that, she was so embarrassed she wished she could find a hole in the ground to hide in. But then she t the sly look in those eyes again.
This guy did it on purpose!
Wait—
So he actually knew?
The restless heartbeat rose and fell, sending a flush creeping past her white neck.
However, she was still the respected Princess Campbell, educated in court etiquette, and even a Demon King who graduated from the Demon King Academy couldn't always have her emotions at his fingertips.
Erin coughed lightly, restoring the graceful and dignified smile on her face.
"Mr. Colin, do you find it amusing to tease a lady?"
That was a precursor to anger.
"I apologize, it's just that Your Highness looked too adorable for a mont, and I couldn't help myself... Please forgive my rudeness," Luo Yan apologized sincerely, knowing when to stop. He had no ill intent, only wished to stir a tiny ripple on the calm sea and bring them closer.
Seeing Mr. Colin, who seed to be reflecting, Erin relaxed her tense eyebrows and softened her facial expression.
Of course, she wasn't truly angry.
Rather, she used anger to disguise her inner turmoil.
"I accept your apology. To be honest, when I shared those things with you, it wasn't just for your praise; I also hoped for your advice and assistance."
"At your service, Your Highness," Luo Yan said respectfully, "I have no objections to your plan. Work-for-relief is always a good idea, especially since Thunder City has such a foundation. If the Royal Family is willing to mobilize the industrial and comrcial owners of Thunder City, I believe it will be greatly beneficial for both the economy and prestige of the Campbell Duchy. I am willing to do my utmost to assist you, even if it requires everything I have. However, I must remind you, it's best to consult Duke Edward on such an important matter, otherwise, good intentions might lead to unfavorable outcos."
Perhaps because he had a sister himself, he couldn't help but feel a pang of conscience.
Erin hesitated slightly but then smiled gently and said softly.
"I'll discuss with my brother. In fact, I've always been doing so. Additionally, thank you for helping in my ti of greatest need. I believe it's not just I who feel grateful, but also the people here. Once everything is over, I plan to build a park for the residents here to commorate the events that occurred, and there will be a statue in your honor."
Luo Yan looked at Erin in surprise, then nodded with a pleased smile.
"Thank you."
He certainly couldn't refuse such a thing, as a statue would make it easier to gather faith without having to be present in person.
Besides, it is a statue built by a Chosen One of Saint Sis for himself.
If the true Saint Sis knew, who knows if he would go insane.
Of course.
Luo Yan didn't think this alone could shake the foundations of Saint Sis.
That fellow should be steadier than Youyou, and causing a bigger stir than Linte Isaac might be necessary to gain its attention...
...
Shortly after Erin Campbell's carriage left Thunder City, a procession arrived at the outskirts of Thunder City under the escort of the court guards.
The shining gold emblem and the orderly honor guard attracted countless gazes, and the refugees working on the site all paused their actions, gathering by the sides of the road.
Their faces were filled with awe and heartfelt gratitude, for it was the Campbell family's radiant warmth that dispelled the frost in their lives.
"May the Holy Light protect the Campbell family!"
"Long live the Duke!"
"Praise our King!"
Sitting inside the carriage, Edward serenely accepted the people's acclaim, with an unintentional smile at the corner of his mouth.
Although he didn't think the adoration of a flock of sheep mattered much, it didn't stop him from enjoying the applause and attention of the people.
This was one of their few values beyond keeping their heads down and working.
His crown needed these embellishnts.
In the distance, the city gate opened, and Governor Wilson and Lucius, the mayor of Thunder City, approached quickly, along with Yang Andes and others.
Although Andes had long known that Edward intended to et that mysterious Imperial noble, he didn't expect the esteed majesty to co to Thunder City in person.
This was probably his first ti leaving Campbell Castle since ascending to the throne.
Hastily eting the carriage, Governor Wilson bowed deeply like a servant and said respectfully.
"Your Majesty? Why have you co?"
"Of course, I ca to see my beloved subjects. This winter, you have suffered," Edward said with a humble smile, showing everyone his approachable side, as winter was soon passing.
Governor Wilson and others' faces showed moved expressions, and they thanked Duke Edward for his empathy. Those passersby who mistakenly thought of themselves as subjects also showed moved expressions, responding to the benevolent duke with cheers and applause of gratitude.
"Everyone is excited, surprised that you would co here." Looking at the welcoming crowd, Governor Wilson smiled and said to Edward, sitting in the carriage, inviting praise.
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