Hi everyone, it is me *again*. Giving more spoilers. Again, English isn’t my first langu...

Hi everyone, it is me *again*. Giving more spoilers. Again, English isn’t my first language and I’m sorry for any grammar mistakes.
This spoiler will probably be very very long. It is going to be about the end of the novel, rebellion, and revenge. This will be very very long! Since it is so long I will have to do a part 4!

Again, my source is novel and novel spoilers thread
—————————-

Grand Duke’s financial problem’s and Veronica’s issues:

Veronica rushed at Her father’s office, pushed the maids, and opened the door
« What’s going on here?! »

Grand Duke Frances sighed low as he looked at Veronica
« I’m sure I told you to be careful »
« It’s my job! The torn-down b!tch dared to do a terrible thing with MY name and identity, but how could you keep quiet?! »
« Veronica. »
« Do you know my reputation in the social world now? L, she is a snob and shameless b!tch, why do I have to be humiliated by her??! » Veronica was so nervous that she couldn’t control herself. She, who had been clinging to pride in her bloodline and sense of authority, was criticized for what L had done (fake agreement with the 3 nobles), which made her feel bitter and angry.

« It’s not just you. Our situation is not good right now. »

With the handwritten certificate as evidence, 3 nobles had protested to not pay the Grand Duke while gathering public opinion of the aristocrats in each region. It even led to complains about the indiscriminate tax raise.

Veronica tried to justify that the certificate was a forgery, and there was no evidence of the astronomical amount of money.
However, it was already useless. Many aristocrates said that they couldn’t believe the words of the Grand Duke.

When the payment was cut of, the finance of the Grand Duke family became worse.

After the opium project collapsed due to the loss of the plantation, the Noblesse Street was considered as the last hope, but even that was not good, due to the blossoming L’s Basilica.

It was the first time that the Grand Duke family was pushed into such a wall.

« How long are you going to wait?!! If you can’t do it, I’ll do it! »
« Wait. »
« Until when?!!! » demanded the impatient Veronica
« Until we get hold of the Bastache family »
Veronica’s eyes grew wide at his father’s words.


What kind of family was the Bastache?
The Bastaches were an emerging aristocratic family led by Spencer Bastache, a former member of the Grand Duke’s.
Although the family’s history might be short, but its political position, finance and even armed forces were solid enough to be called the Head of the emerging aristocraty.

« It’s true that Len is dead? »
« According to the investigation, yes. No one has ever lived after being injured by Lord Stein(the assassin)’s arrow »
Veronica’s face lit up
« What about the Imperial side? »
« I’ve done a lot of thing. I don’t know if the Emperor will break his stubbornness » Attil responded

« I, The Grand Duke of Frances, don’t have to ask for anyone’s permission » the Grand Duke said arrogantly, as if he had the Emperor at his feet.

————————————————————

Attil and Leabrick (Attil is extremely loyal to the Grand Duke):

Attil was dressed neatly, while the woman trapped behind steel bars was smiling like a madman
« Are you alright? » Attil’s attitude towards Leabrick was still polite

« L was the b!tch. Why didn’t I know this before.... You were a moron... you were truck in her trap » Leabrick still talked to herself with a face that remained smiling. It was a habit developed after being alone in the dungeon for too long.

«You sent back the Bastache’s leader? »
« Yes. I’ve brainwashed him, and now Len’s death has become aN accomplished fact, and master thinks he doesn’t need to do anything else anymore »
Attil told Liv everything that had happened in order to ask for advice.

« Then, it’s over. »
« What? It’s over? »
« There’s nothing you can do »

Attil blinked since it was Leabrick who taught him that one should be prepared for 2 or 3 times, and now she was irresponsible enough to counter her own beliefs.
« There’s nothing you can do as long as the Grand Duke has moved »
« What do you mean? »
Leabrick smiled meaningfully at Attil, who couldn’t understand.
« There is not much time left. The day when the Empire’s sun will change. »

————————————————

Preparation for attack:

(Back to Elena’s POV/Side)
She asked Emilio and Hurelbad to hire mercenaries. Both of them were surprised, but soon agreed.
« Please check and select them yourself »
« So, how many would you like to pick? »
« About 50 »
It was twice as much as the regular number of knights

« May I ask what are you going to do with all those mercenaries? »
« I’m going to use them as bait »
Emilio was lost in thought
« What the hell are you trying to bait with? »

A significant smile rose around Elena’s mouth
« The Grand Duke of Franche »

« Huuuuh!!! »
Emilio was burst into consternation, while Hurelbad’s pupils shook

« The Grand Duke is already isolated. Their options are limited now. I’m going to put an end to this with a victory »

The big framework and foundation of the plan was provided by Emperor Richard. It was Elena’s job to respond to the changing situation and adapt it, but without the idea of the Emperor, it would have been a long way to devise such a scheme and act.

What was she going to do?
She was going to dress up those 50 mercenaries into bandits. Like, the most formidable bandits near the capital.
The rumor would be: The top merchants were attacked by bandits near the empire’s capital. The guard resisted fiercely, but eventually lost to the bandits who took away all the items.

With that, the Imperial family would be “forced” to set up a massive punitive force into the capital


Emilio was confused:
« Bandits are allies, and the Guards, headed by the crown Prince, are on our side.... oh my head hurts »

Elena asked Hurelbad to become....the bandits’ leader. She asked him to disguise himself to look like a real one: puffy hair, beard,...
There was a small twitch in Hurelbad’s lips, he who rarely changed facial expression. He was ready to handle anything, but he never thought about dressing up as a bandit boss but he immediately agreed anyway

Everything was to pull the enemy - the Grand Duke, out

———————————-

Len and his apology:

when Elena arrived. Compared to the last time, he had a better complexion, but he had no appetite and no activity, so his skin had dried up.
« Stop sleeping, why do you sleep for so long? Do you want to see me die while feeling guilty? » Her eyes at Len looked sad.

Len was still silent.
Elena even held the thin hand tightly
« Please, open your eyes. If you’re teasing me, you can take a break now »

Len’s hand were suddenly strained. Len was smiling weakly as he turned his head in surprise
« Nagging....can you do more? »
« LEN!! »
Elena, who couldn’t overcome the overwhelming feeling, rushed at Len. She hugged him tightly, as if she was still doubtful that this moment was a dream.


« Why do you only wake up now! Do you know how long I’ve been waiting for you to open your eyes?! » Elena’s eyes moistened
« Did you miss me? » It was a silly joke, but why did she miss that grinning smile so much?
« Who said that? »
« It’s written on your face »
« Don’t say anything weird. It was because of me.. »

« Why it was because of you? It’s because I want to protect you »
« Why would you? You should have just left me. Why did you steeping up? »
« No, that’s not possible. I can’t watch you get hurt. It’s better for me to get hurt even in the same situation »

Elena’s heart dropped with a thump as she looked at the smiling Len. The sincerity caused a stir in her heart.
‘That’s why I can’t hate you anymore even though I hated you so much in my past life’ It was the same for Ciel too.
« Don’t do that. » She cried
.
.
.
« Go to sleep, so you can get better soon. »
It was time for Elena to pull up the blanket and cover him up again.

Len, who gently closed his eyes, called her low.
« Elena »
« Don’t talk to me. Sleep »
« Sorry. »
Elena starred at Len’s sudden Apology.

« What are you sorry about? »
« I bullied you. »
The conversation didn’t last as Len soon went back to his sleep.

Elena starred down at such Len with a complex glance. The current apology came out as a big deal. It erased the remnants of bad memories that remained like crumbs and allowed Elena to see this current Len, just as she did with Ciel.
« Thank you for your for your apology. By the way, Len. »
Elena reached out and touched his bang
« I’ve forgiven you already. »

————————

The Basatche family:

When rumors about Len’s death began to spread, suddenly the head of the family and his father, Spencer, disappeared.
(Turned out he was kept by the Grand Duke). When news about Spencer who came back home spread to Elena’s ears, May asked to visit him secretly in order to see if it was a trap by the Grand Duke and reported later to Elena.
(May was in an intelligence operatives workings’ organization underground but also worked under Spencer too.)

Only after the 4th day that May succeeded in infiltrating Spencer’s bedroom
« Lord, this is May. I have some good news. Len is alive »
May reported in a rousing tone, straining her voice.

« Len..Len...Len »
Contrary to the expectation that he’d be pleased, Spencer murmured Len’s name repeatdly
« Len is dead. Len is not is this world »
« Lord? » Mel’s eyes shook violently. She had a hunch that something was wrong with his behaviour.
She turned his chair around and was stunned when she saw Spencer sitting like a doll in the chair.

He was alive, but was an indescribable skeleton.
« Len is dead...Len is dead.. » Spencer mumbled the same thing like a parrot with a hollow face.
May tried to wake him up, but it was useless.
« Len is dead. There is no successor. May Grand Duke Frances lead the family. The House of Bastache »
« Lord » May bit her lips hard.

Seeing her master brainwashed by the Grand Duke was a pain to him, and his eyes were filled with tears.
But Spencer’s physical condition was the worst. The body was thinly dried, and the red-blooded eyes made us assume that he had been awake for several days. In this conditions, he would die sonner or later.

Mel (May and Mel used interchangeably) reported everything to Len and Elena. Len decided to infiltrated secretly into his father bedroom. He was still weak, but was assisted by May.

Len faced Spencer himself
« Father. »
Despite the call, Spencer was silent as if he was not there. He just stared blankly at his son, who was known as dead.
« Len is dead. Len is dead. Leave the Bastache family to Grand Duke Franches. The House of Bastache... »
Len’s eyes were filled with tears when he saw Spencer as good as a dead man.

« What is this?.. Why did you end up like this? At least slap my cheek. That’s how I know you ».
« ... »
« What is this ? » Len bit his lips hard. He couldn’t bear the fact that his father had become such a weak creature.

« Len...Len »
The murmur of Spencer drew closer to Len. There was an indescribable warmth in his voice repeating Len’s name.
« Father? »
« Len...Len...Len » Hot tears flowed down his eyes
« Yes, it’s me, here it is » Len took his hand.

« Len....the....family..the grand duke... Urhhhhhhh » His loose pupil shook and his body trembled.
« Do you recognize me? »
The more Len spoke, the worse the symptoms became
« Len....the house... »
« Okay, I’ll protect the family. So.... »

Len’s Words didn’t last to the end. Spencer gasped for breath, and his head dropped.

Len denied the reality but May just shook her head
“He’s gone”
“This is cheating. Open your eyes. Open your eyes!”
The dead didn’t talk. There was no movements in Spencer’s hand.

Len swallowed his anger. He was not hasty enough to do something irrevocable under the emotion of the moment. He knew that Elena’s plan was the only way to appease his father’s death.

« Let’s go back ». He turned coldly, after looking at his father’s face for the last time.

————————————

Funeral and rumors:

The funeral of Spencer was held in great measure. His tomb was placed beside Len’s tomb (although no body was found, a tomb was made because everybody already convinced of his death)

The death of Spencer Bastache, head and centerpiece of the emerging aristocracy, was a fatal blow to the emerging aristocrats who had been forming power. With Len’s “death”, the one who supposed to lead the Bastache family’s revival, the family was in the verge of collapsing

Aristocrats were speaking about the inheritance’s matter
« In the near future, the Bastache family will be absorbed into the Grand Duke »
« Spencer himself left a will: to hand it over to the Grand Duke »

« Oh? Look at that carriage »
« I know. That’s L’s wagon. »
« Did L and Spencer know each other? »
« I didn’t hear any of that »

Since Len couldn’t come, it was Elena who went to the funeral in his stead. Soon, Ciel also arrived and stood beside Elena.

After the funeral, rumors began to spread between L and Ciel
« They’re in a relationship, right? »
« I think so. They whispered to each other earlier »
« L and the Crown Prince »
« It’s a great match ».

L and Ciel left the cemetery in their own carriages. While Elena’s one led her directly to the Salon, Ciel changed carriage while dressing up in plain clothes in other to hide his Salon’s visit.

With Len, they had a reunion inside the building.
Elena finally brought up the final plan to destroy the Grand Duke family.
The longer Elena spoke, the more the faces of the 2 changed from moment to moment: surprise, shock, astonishment.
Elena was able to see through the psychology of the Grand Duke but also moved one step ahead him.

Len clapped his hand:
« Wow, genius »
« I didn’t do it alone. It’s all thanks to him. »
« It couldn’t be then... » Ciel reacted reflexively when Elena mentioned Emperor Richard.

« Yes, his majesty didn’t give up. He had been holding it in »
Elena told Ciel and Len the revised plan and not the original one (the one with Richard as a sacrifice)

« The 3 of us have to work together to make the plan work. If not, we’ll be eaten. »

———————-

Ciel VS Len:

May interrupted their conversation as a royal family member in the Kalona Kingdom wanted to meet Elena in person. As the owner, she was obliged to accept this formal visit.
Elena left the drawing room, leaving Ciel and Len.

When the only 2 were left, an awkward silence followed. It had always been the case since the days of the academy, but they were on awkward and sharp terms, as the 2 men hearts were both taken by Elena.

Surprisingly, it was Ciel who broke the silence and opened his mouth first.
"You look fine. Shouldn't you start looking for a place to live?" Ciel gave a hint as if he didn't like Len's stay in the salon. He was childish when he thought about it, but he was true.
"Oh, I was going to, but she’s going to owe me more. Elena said so, too," replied Len with a grin. His mouth was smiling, but his eyes were not laughing.
« You're not very shy. »
« You're asking me to stay longer, aren't you? »

There was a spark between the two. Len collected his laughter and spoke meaningfully.
"You must have forgotten what I said to you. Don't like her. »
"You can't keep her."
"Even though the situation has changed a little, it seems to be still valid, Your Royal Highness."

Len purposely gave the Prince a boost. L en, who noticed Elena's secret when she was a student at the academy, warned Ciel.
The crown prince's position put responsibility before a woman's happiness. Even more so if he became an emperor who ruled vast territories.
The splendor and happiness enjoyed by the emperor is not even a tenth of the rain of life to be young.

"I was once shaken by your words. Because I couldn't refute it."
"How come it sounds like you want to refute it now?" Ren's eyebrows wriggled with the strange margins contained in Ciel's words.
"To me now, the words of that time no longer touch me," Ciel's eyes showed a deep affection for Elena. "To me, she is so precious that she transcends duty and responsibility."

The unthinkable confession of Ciel put strength into Ren's eyes. The Crown Prince is a position of duty and responsibility. There's no way Ciel didn't know that, and yet he valued Elena more than his duties and responsibilities.
The meaning of those words was never light...but Elena was so precious to Ciel that he really could put everything down.

« You've changed, » said Len, in Ciel’s determined gaze.

Len kept smiling. Why not? He didn't hate to hear that remark from Ciel, who was like a rival. Not only Ciek, but also Len.

Elena was a worthy Woman to the point where he could risk his life.
"Oh, my God, we're not good friends."
« It sounds like you're not giving up. »

There was a fiery war of nerves between Ciel and Ren.
"More than you, I'm not less. And wouldn't my life the proof for my determination?" Len grinned.
Protecting Elena at the risk of his life. Len had no more medal than this. If Elena had heard it, she would have gone wild.

What's clear is that he feels more ahead of Ciel.
"I can't believe you're trying to take on that. Me too......"

It was when he was about to hit back in an unsympathetic rage. The closed door opened and Elena, who had been away for a while, returned.

She looked very tired of the reception of unwanted visitors.
« I'm here, »

Ciel and Len, despite her coming, gazed at each other without giving her a glance.

Elena, who felt a different atmosphere than before, asked.
"What happened while I was gone?"

« Nothing happened."Ciel answered calmly.

But looking at the two men growling at each other, it was discredited.

« Did you two fight? »
« No fight, we are not children. » Len shrugged.
« Then what did you do? »

« Dialogue, gentlemanly. »

Elena's eyes narrowed. This was because they had a gentlemanly conversation, that the atmosphere between the two became that harsh?

"What did you say?"
« About you. » Len summoned Elena casually.

Surprised Elena opened her eyes wide and looked at Ciel.
Ciel was silent and not particularly negative.

« What did you say about me? »
« You'll be hurt if you hear me. »
Only then did Len, who turned his head, laugh playfully.

« Was it risky? »
« No. »
« What did you do then? I won't be angry, so tell me. »

Len turned a blind eye to Elena's questioning. When he looked at Ciel with a frown on his forehead, he also avoided looking into her eyes and gave no answer.

"What the hell did you talk about?" Elena asked again, but the two kept their mouths shut as if they had made a promise.

Neither Ciel nor Ren were too childish to bring up the subject.

"Are you really not going to tell me at the end? Neither Ren nor Your Highness?"
Elena shook her head as she saw the two men who had not opened their mouths.

——————————————

Plan in motion:

When Elena woke up, she was surprised to see Hurelbad in the mirror
« Is that really you? »
The cold, smooth skin became rough, and the unshaved rich beard looked wild. He also wore clothing worn mostly by hunters.

« I can’t recognize you at all »
Despite Elena’s admiration, Hurelbad couldn’t laugh, because he felt so awkward and unfamiliar in the mirror
« You look strangely naive »
« ...don’t tease me » Hurelbad blushed

After that, Elena was told that the Grand Duke had put up his properties for sale (2 mansions, 6 estates)
Some aristocrats were interested, but there was no buyers

Elena then asked Emilio to announce their intentions to buy his properties. They could later made a down payment in cash (so that the offer could not be turned down) and ultimately delayed the final payment as much as possible in order to prolong the financial difficulties of the Grand Duchy
.
.
.
Mount Kazbegi, which surrounded the northern part of the capital.
The place was unusually infested with bandits.
Bandits in the capital, which was a symbol of the empire. They raided the capital’s Center, which was well-known, and stole all the items.
Rumor said that the bandits were so strong that the knights were helplessly defeated, even though they fiercely resisted.

A few days later, the bandits confronted the Castol Chamber of Commerce.
People didn't think they would survive against the superior knights corps. The bandit's evil deeds were expected to end.

However, the captain of the Knights Corps, who was known in the northern part of the country, was defeated in vain by the captain of the bandit.
At first, no one believed it, but it turned out to be true when the sightings of the surviving knights were reported.

It has been said that the leader of the bandits was a strong man who exceeds most of the knights, and he had been recognized by the public as someone who couldn’t be reckoned with.

His notoriety vibrated in all the Empire’s the capital.

———————————

Plan in motion no.2:

In the Imperial Palace, Emperor Richard was coerced by the nobles
« Your majesty, how long are you going to leave the Bastache family behind? «
« It’s a great loss for the nation. We must proceed with the inheritance »
« I can’t understand why you keep putting this off »
« Grand Duke Franches is obviously the number 1 heir to the Bastache family »

Despite the aristocrats’ voices, Richard did not readily allow inheritance
« There still has something to investigate. Wait. »

The nobleman raised his voice as if to eat him up
« Didn’t you already set up an investigation team and now you want to check it again? What else do you want to investigate? »
« Spencer Bastache has been fince since he returned to his family. »
« Have you seen the doctor’s autopsy report clear? »
« What do you doubt, Your Majesty? »

The storm of resistance from the aristocrats turned Richard’s face upside down. And the Grand Duke did not show sign of disapproval

« I believe that everything should be done according to the law »

« Huh » Richard laughed as if he was dumb.
« Okay then, let’s follow the order of the Grand Duke »

« Your majesty! »
« Good Judgment! »
The aristocrats’ faces brightened up.

But soon the Emperor added:
« But, fin the body of Len Bastache first. Or bring the proof. Because that’s the law. »

Joy was briefly distorted by the stubbornness of Emperor Richard.

Just a few months ago, he had accepted most of the nobles’ wills unless it was an excessive demand. But after the reform of the Imperial Guards, he changed, and began to antagonize the nobility.
There were still aristocrats who defended the Imperial family. The representative example was Count Lyndon - a neutral aristocrat (the father of Cecilia)


« Are you really going to be stubborn? »
For the first time, Grand Duke Franches expressed his feelings about this. His low but chilly voice caused the nobles to gulp.

Emperor Richard retorted:
« Stubbornness. Don’t you think you’re the one being stubborn? »

« It can’t be delayed until you-know-when »
« It’s not delayed. It’s just a confirmation process. Or just wait half a year until Len’s life or death is confirmed. I wouldn’t be stubborn at that time. »

« Surely... »
Grand Duke Franches stared at the Emperor. Half a year. It was not that long, but it was not good enough to wait half a year.

The Bastache family would be a very profitable business for the Grand Duke.
Although not to be to the point of collapse overnight, the Grand Duke’s financial situation deteriorated rapidly over the course of the day. It could not only lead to fiscal austerity but also to downsizing the Knights.
As soon as he tightened his belt, the Grand Duchy would be over.
The nobles were like hyenas. The moment they smelled that he had weakened, they would turn their backs to him.
The 3 nobles (who lended ‘Veronica’ money) already showed their intention to do so. Soon, other powerful families would also make their moves.
If the collapse occured, it might take decides or even hundreds of years for the Grand Duchy to reach its peak again.

« Half a year is too long. Let’s make it 3 months » Grand Duke offered a compromise, but the Emperor refused
« Half a year ». He made it clear that compromise was impossible.

Several aristocrats were upset by his declaration, but no one stepped forward. It was because even the Grand Duke bowed his head and acted in accordance with his will.

Emperor Richard Skilfully changed the subject, as the Bastache’s family case was only a preface to him. Now it was time to get to the point:

« Recently, bandits are invading near the capital. »
« Yes, Your Majesty. Even the Castol Society is said to have suffered great damage »
« Huh. Even the top knights? »
« The Bandit boss’ skill is great. Most of the knights were no match for him. »

The nobles pushed back the earlier complaints and discussed about the pending issues. It was because they might be robbed of donations or taxes from local areas. As they were sensitive to losses, they showed solidarity as if they had never done this before.

« I can’t let let it go any further. Is there anyone who would lead the Bandit Conquest for the Empire? »
As the Emperor looked around the noble, the audience became as silent as death.
To them, the Knights were a kind of asset.
If a member was injured or killed while trying to destroy bandits, the damage would be severe. That’s why they didn’t take it easily.

« How come there are no answers? So how about this? Each family has a knighthood to build a punitive force. I think it’s very fair. »

A middle aged aristocrat then stood up and opened his mouth.
« Your Majesty. The capital of the Empire is a symbol of the Imperial family. With such bandit in the capital, it seems that the Imperial Guard should be sent to destroy them in order to build up the dignity of the Imperial family »

« The Imperial Guards? » The voice of the Emperor showed disapproval

« Your Majesty, his words make sense »
« Wasn’t the Imperial Guards in charge of the security of the Capital for generations? »
« Show us the dignity of the Imperial Guard and his Majesty the Crown Prince »
The nobles exchanged glances and agreed, so that they wouldn’t suffer any loss haha

« So I’ll let the Imperial Guards take charge of that matter. »

« You are a wise man » The nobles bowed their heads in unison.

——————————-

Plan in motion no. 3:

Back to the Grand duke mansion. Franches had decided to make a grave decision and called out for Veronica.

Veronica suffered from extreme stress. Her hatred for Elena grew uncontrollably. Her personality became more violent, and her bizarre and sadistic acts had increased.

« I heard about it. The Emperor again blocked the inheritance of the Bastache family? »
« Yes. »
« Ha! I’m telling you! Are you going to stay quiet? Say something. Noblesse Street is going to be ruined! » Veronica’s voice, which failed to overcome the frustration, was quenched.

The Noblesse Street had accumulated enormous damage. If Emperor Richard continued to delay the inheritance of the Bastache family, the finance of the Grand Duchy would be at their worst. »

« Veronica, stay down in the territory for a while. »

Veronica’s eyes shook. That’s because it sounded like the situation was bad.
« What’s the reason? Are we really going to collapse to the point where it’s impossible to revive? »

« No. »
« Then what’s the reason? I have to know why! »

The eyes of the Grand Duke were appalled.
« I must change the Emperor »

For a moment Veronica was surprised, and despite his remark that he was going to turn the sky upside down, an indelible smile spread over her face.

« Did you finally make up your mind? »

« Yes »

« You should have made up your mind sonner. You can’t let a dog bite its owner. Bad manners » Laughed Veronica, while covering her mouth with her hands.

For her, the center of the Empire was the Grand Duke and not the Imperial Family
It was the Grand Duke who appointed Richard as the Emperor. It was ridiculous to have forgotten such a situation and showed his teeth against them.

« I’m not going to the territory. »
« Veronica. » He called her name low. They were not considering failure, but he wanted to send Veronica to the land just in case.

But Veronica refused
« I’m going to the Imperial family, too »
« You... »
« I want to go and see with my own eyes the sight of such an Emperor with his knees boiling ».

Veronica expressed her firm determination. She didn’t want to miss the moment when she put the Emperor under her feet, and wanted to see the power of the Grand Duke, which trampled on the Imperial family and changed even the emperor.

« After the Emperor is the Crown Prince, right? »
« Because there’s no reason to keep him alive. We’ll execute them as soon as we return to the capital ».

Veronica nodded
« He insulted me. If you kill him, kill him in the most vicious way. Oh! It’ll be okay to tear his limbs and pull his neck out. »

« I will » Grand Duke Franches accepted the request without a hitch.

If the treason was successful, It would be enough to put a plausible charge on Ciel. It was not a difficult request.

« You’ll have to kill L too, right? »
« That’s the case. »

« If you’re going to kill her anyway, give her to me. »
« To you? »

There was a deep-seated hatred in Veronica’s eyes.
« It’s just plain to just kill, isn’t it? I’m thinking of destroying her until my anger is released »
«Okay. »

« Oh, and give me the Salon. It seemed useful »

Grand Duke Franches promised to do so. After killing L, he would seized her property with a good cause, and ordered a newly established emperor to offer him a tribute.
He could then form a monastery, starting from Noblesse Street, leading to Salon and Basilica.

« Then I’ll follow my father. »

Franches allowed Veronica to accompany him. Because there were no failure possible in his calculation.

———————————-

The final preparation:

Elena calmly explained the situation.

Rumors had spread widely that the newly reformed Imperial Guard, leaded by the Crown Prince, would launch a massive attack against the bandits, in order the revive the status of the Imperial Guards.

The remaining challenge was whether the Grand Duke Franches would take the bait.

« Will Grand Duke Franches move? I was wondering if he’d try to change the Emperor again this time »

« He’ll be moving. The Grand Duke knows better that if he doesn’t move now, he will dry up ».

Elena showed strong confidence. The financial situation of the Grand Duke was heading for the worst, and the inheritance of the Bastache family was blocked, due to Emperor Richard’s opposition.
Under these circumstances, there were not many options for him to choose from.

« Is there any news about Sir Hurelbad? » Elena asked Emilio
« Yes. Don’t worry. Sir Hurelbad has already been ready to meet the Imperial Guards near the living quarters. »

Elena’s faith in those 2 people was absolute.

She then asked Caliph and Emilio to leave the Salon.
« I want you to stay out of the capital until the work is done. The Salon will also be the target of the Grand Duke. In worst-case scenarios, I will need both of you, the main pillars of the salon, to live. You don’t have to take risks. »

« Wait, then are you coming? »
« I’ll stay in the Salon »
« You stay and we go? »

« I know it may sound sad. But if I stay away, Grand Duke Franches will doubt me ».
Elena must remain in the Salon at any cost. Salon was L, and L was Salon.
Her mere appearance in the Salon would only contribute to the decency of the Grand Duke

But Caliph and Emilio stubbornly refused to go. Elena felt sorry for those 2 people, and she felt so grateful that she thought she could never repay them.
« I know what you mean. I won’t bring this up anymore. Let’s all live together. »

The plan had to be successful.

Elena headed to Len's room.

"Good timing. I was actually going to see you," Len grinned as soon as he saw Elena.

But Elena's expression was somehow dark.
« Are you going? »
« I'm going. There's a lot to sort out. » Len said as if it wasn't a big deal, but it was.
It couldn't be easy to find and deal with traitors who were still in the Bastache family.
The possibility of armed conflict could not be ruled out because the order of the knights had to be done in a short time.

« Don’t get hurt again, take care of yourself. »

« Why, will you take care of me? »
« Are you crazy? »

« I thought I'd get hurt again and you’ll take care of me, but I’ll listen to you »
Elena looked at him hatefully, with her eyes glaring.

« That's exactly how you say you'll be careful. »

« I'm going. »

« Don't overdo it. If you think you can't do it, run away. Do you understand me? »

Len waved his hand instead of looking back and disappeared with Mel. Elena felt an unknown emptiness as she entered the empty room after the sound of his presence disappeared.

This is because the warmth that had been felt in the drawing room for nearly several months had cooled down.

« You must live, Len » said Elena, muttering with the wind. She shut the door.

"Let's Go work."
Everyone had works to do in their respective positions. It was useless to Worry. She was just doing her best for what she could do now.
Elena decided to concentrate on the present matters.

——————————————————

The royal guards ceremony and March to the mountain:

The Royal Guard, which stood in line with the heat and line, held theirs swords high up in the sky.
Emperor Richard stepped in front of the royal guards, checking their condition and equipment to boost morale.

Ciel, the leader of the Imperial Guards, advanced on his white. More than 50 guards also followed suit in line.

The gate was opened to the sound of a flute ringing from the castle wall, and the Imperial Guard left the palace.

The procession of the Imperial Guard across the streets of the capital caught the eyes of the people of the Empire.

"His Majesty has replaced the Guard. I guess it's true."
"I know. The real knights look good."
"The mood is different for those rascals. My teeth are divided when I think about the nearly death of a quarrel."
"Well, the Crown Prince is in charge so they are not going to be sloppy"

The eyes of the people in the country were filled with anticipation when they saw the march of the Royal Guard.

It was the common people who had become tired with the influence of the nobles.
The aristocrats unjustly deprived of their property and exploited them, and they were unable to speak a word properly.

They could only hope that Emperor Richard and Ciel, who had restored the imperial power, would make a world a little better place to live.

There was a carriage watching the procession of the Imperial Guard at the north gate.
"Don't get hurt."
Inside the carriage, Elena looked at the Imperial Guard and took a long view of Ciel leaving the northern gate.

This plan won't allow any mistakes. Only when they moved closely and clicked like cogwheels could they succeed.

Elena was the one who designed the grand plan, but was up to Ren, Xian (Ciel), and Hurelbad.
There was no middle. To die or to live. It was all about eating or being eaten.
"Let's go back to the salon," Elena said to the horseman, and the wheels of the stationary carriage began to roll.
As the three men had things to do, Elena had work to do. To keep a salon as usual.
That was the only thing Elena could do now.


At that time, the Imperial Guard, which left the north gate, set foot at the foot on the Mount Kazbegi, which surrounded the north side of the capital.

Ciel got off the horse. Except for the road, the mountain was so rugged that it was too much to ride on a horse.
"You have to go another half-day. Hurry up,"

Ciel took the lead through the forest path. It was embarrassing to even say it was a road because of the thick forest and the rugged mountain terrain.
Although the path was lost, Ciel stepped forward without hesitation.
« Here to the left. » In Ciel’s head, there was a map Which was acting as a compass.

The road leading to the forest was newly paved by Hurelbad. May drew a map of the mountain path and delivered it to Elena, who then handed the map back to Ciel.

The reason why they had to endure this hassle was to get rid of the watchmen of the Grand Duke.
Quite a hard and long march followed.
Some places were so precarious that they could fall if they tripped due to the rough mountain terrain.
However, no one was left behind, as Ciel was elected as the leader.

Meeting with bandit leader (Hurelbad):

« Here it is, » He saw a living house. Ciel walked alone toward the mountain quarters.

As if there had been a prior statement, the guards did not fret or feel uneasy about Xi'an's dangerous behavior.

It's about time that Ciel arrived alive.
"I see the Crown Prince."

A man with a beard walked out through the wooden fence and was courteous. Having a wild, plain-looking pupil unlike his wild, rugged appearance, he was the notorious bandit boss, or Hurelbad.

Ciel nodded and looked back. Whiggin, the captain of the neighborhood guard, who noticed his intentions just by looking at his eyes, led his subordinates and entered the room alive.

There were mercenaries waiting as if they knew the Guards would arrive.
« From now on, I pair up with bandits. » Then Ciel took off his uniform and changed into his daily clothes.

The Imperial guards exchanged clothes with the mercenaries. They became ordinary enough to believe that they were only passersby if people didn't pay attention.

However, Ciel, who has black eyes and black hair symbolizing the royal family, decided to use a robe because he could not hide his nobility and elegance.

"We're running out of time. Let's move on. » Hurelbad led the Royal Guard.
As they came down the middle of the mountain, they saw horses and carts tied to a tree.

These items were taken from nobles while posing as bandits, including Castol.
It was kept here to infiltrate the capital without being suspected.

Under Whiggin's leadership, the guards moved in perfect order. Someone rode a horse, someone pulled a cart, and other walked down the mountain with a time difference.

Ciel, who got on the horse, looked down at Hurelbad. A strong man recognized a strong man. Although they had never fight, he could see that his swordmanship was not much different from him.
Hurrelbad’s help was absolutely necessary to fight against the Grand Duke, given that the Imperial power was inferior to His.

"There's still work left that my master asked me. I'll join you later."

Ciel answered with a nod and drove down the horse.
There must be a good reason for what Elena ordered. He had no doubt that he would arrive on time.
.
.
.
Without time to waste, Hurrelbad also had a burning desire to go to the capital right away. However, he could not leave because he still had some work to deal with.

"I'm sure there's a watchman of the Grand Duke’s. It's not too late to move after deceiving them First," Elena had said so several times.


They should make the Grand Duke believe that mercenaries disguised as the Imperial Guards were staying in the mountains.

As soon as the Grand Duke Franches heard that the Crown Prince's Guards disappeared, all the plans would be ruined.

« She's perfect in everything. » When he thought of Elena, the corners of Hurelbad's mouth crept up.
Elena, who seemed infinitely soft, was wiser and stronger than anyone else.
« I want to follow you to the end of my life. That's my dream. »
Elena was a great person who would change the world.
If he could devote the rest of his life to such Elena, Hurelbad Couldn’t be more glorious and honorable as a knight.

The plan had to be successful.

———————————-

Leabrick monologue:

"Is it today?"
Inside the steel bar, Leabrick, leaning her back against the cool wall, murmured as she looked up at the ceiling.
When you were here without a speck of sunlight, the concept of day and night disappeared.

Just a few days ago, if Attil hadn't been there, she wouldn't have even been able to tell how much time had passed.

"L, no, Elena. I'll admit you're superior to me. I couldn't get past you. That's why I'm stuck here." She admitted defeat, her pride might be hurt, but she couldn't stop laughing.

"But the world is wide. You’ll die. This doesn't change," Liabrick quipped.
"Maybe you're expecting it all. You've always been above common sense," Leabrick put back her loose bangs like a madman.
She couldn't even eat properly, so she was all skin and bones, but her eyes didn't die.

"You know what? There's one thing you don't know."

There was meaning in Leabrick's voice as if Elena was next to her.
"You and I can never cross road with the Great Duke of Frances with only our brains. The man..." said Leabrick, whispering to an imagining Elena
« ....is a real monster » laughed Leabrick with a gruesome smile.


———————-

Falling into a trap;

"It's the beginning of a long night. » Grand Duke Franche spoke to himself.

He had nothing to fear, but today, ahead of the event, there was a subtle tension.

"This is a report. Owls have confirmed that they are camping in Mount Kazbegi."
Attil picked up the information coming up from time to time and delivered it to Grand Duke Franches.

"The remaining Imperial Guard in the palace is a total of four people. There are 30 other left around the palace"
"A big ball is organizing in Salon. The majority of the capital's aristocrats are believed to have participated."

Grand Duke Frances listened silently, with his hands on his back, and there was no response.
He stared out of the window with an indifferent glance.

"Oh my, the sky must be helping us. Isn't that right?" laughed Veronica, who was sitting arrogant on the sofa, twisting her lips.

Rather than only her usual mamade dress, even horseback riding car was all set to accompany her to the event.

« Don't let your guard down. »
« Is there anything to be careless about? If they knew about our plan, they wouldn't have moved so restlessly. They left half the guards in the palace, right? »

Grand Duke Franche remained silent and did not answer back. There was nothing wrong with Veronica's words.

If the Emperor had noticed the rebellion, he would not have left the palace empty to be close to being defenseless.

‘Am I overreacting? I feel like someone is encouraging me.' Emperor Richard and Ciel's handling of the situation was strange.
It was a very different move like when the Imperial Guard was reformed.

"Is there any other report related to the Royal Guard?"
Even Grand Duke Frances had to be cautious.
"No, there was no particular suspicion."

Veronica frowned at the Duke of Franches, who remained vigilant despite Attil's report.

« You're overreacting, aren't you? »

« I'm overreacting. Maybe. » Grand Duke Franche laughed off. Even if he thought about it a little rationally, there was no chance that the event would fail.
The Imperial Palace was empty, and the Imperial Guards were stationed on Mount Kazbegi, a half-day from the capital.

Even if they hear the news and rush to the palace, the rebellion would already be over.
‘I'm old, too.’
In his youth, Grand Duke Frances had nothing to go through. Actions preceded words. When he made a decision, he did not hesitate to change the emperor of the empire. As he got older, I saved himself in difficult situations.

Apart from being cautious, the spirit of youth has faded.

"Attil."
"Yes, Grand Duke."
"Gather the Knights."

When the Grand Duke Franches' words fell, the eyes of Attil were awakened.

He finally made a decision. Grand Duke Franches, who sent Attil out, walked to the closet.

"Flanderge."
This was the name of his favorite sword since he was young.

"Every time I took this sword out, the world changed. Today will be the same."
Grand Duke Franches, who had swept the sword with his fingertips, put the sword in the scabbard and put it in the waist.

"Let's go."
"Yes, Father."

He headed to the parade ground With Veronica.
The 1st and 2nd Knights, excluding the members of the Knights who are on overseas missions, were all standing in line. Including unofficial knights, the number was close to a hundred.

In line with the appearance of Grand Duke Franches, the entire Order of the Knights was courteous, drawing swords and putting them on their foreheads.

Grand Duke Franches on the podium spoke solemnly, looking down at them.
"Tonight, I will go with you to the Imperial Palace."

Despite the shocking remarks, no one in the Knighthood was agitated.
It was neither the emperor nor the state they swore allegiance to. It was only Grand Duke Franches.

"Occupy the imperial palace and Dispose of the incompetent emperor. We will retain a competent emperor for the position."

The knights were solemn. Lived under the command of the Lord; died under the command of the Lord. That was the honor, loyalty, and life of the knight.

"Let's go, knights of the Grand Duke. Let us write a new history of the Empire."

"The name of the Empire." The Knights raised their swords diagonally and held a ceremony of victory at the declaration of the Grand Duke of Franches.

Grand Duke Franche, who came down the platform, finished all preparations by inspecting the knights.
Soon after, under the cover of darkness, a group of knights left the palace quickly through the back gate.

The destination was the Imperial Palace, and the goal was Emperor Richard.

———-

Counterattack:

"Your Grace, look over there. The Grand Duke has moved," reported Whiggin, who was hiding at a nearby inn.

The Grand Duke of Frances and the Knights, sneaked out through the back gate, were moving swiftly toward the palace.

« Are you ready? »
« I can move at any time. » The Imperial Guards, disguised as commoners and came down Mount Kazubegi, were hiding themselves in inns and buildings near the mansion of the Grand Duke.

When as many as 50 healthy men gathered, they could be suspected, but they did not get caught.

Elena bought several inns and buildings near the Grand Duke mansion in advance, providing room for the Imperial Guards to hide themselves.

Ciel was amazed at Elena's foresight. He couldn't even follow how many steps ahead she was looking.

"Let's make a raid In the Grand Duke palace and use it as evidence of treason."

In the meantime, Richard, the emperor who was be left alone in the palace, could run away through a secret passage.

"We move, too." As soon as Ciel order fell,
Whiggin beckoned.

Then, the guards, who were waiting, came out of the building in unison.

Ciel, who came down from the rooftop and stood in front of the Imperial Guard, took off his robe.
The pitch-black hair and eyes went well with the night that seemed to devour the world.

"Tonight."

There was no need for a long talk. Ciel pulled a sword from his waist. The sword bore a symbol of the imperial family headed for the Grand Duke Palace.
"Delete the Grand Duke from the Empire."

———

Elena and the salon’s ball:

It was the grandest ball since the opening of the Salon.

« I hope it was not too late », said Elena, muttering to herself.

Hurelbad had to arrive on time to counteract the Knights of the Grand Duke, considered stronger than the Imperial Guard.

Len had to remove the traitors and taking control of his family.

Grand Duke of Franches was moving to the Imperial Palace. Assumed to be a hundred knights.

Prince Ciel was launching an attack on the Grand Duke.

Earl Lyndon, accompanied by a fleet of knights, was on the way to the Bastache family.


Elena, with a calm look, devoured the information collected by the Majesty’s informant. She analyzed every little detail. She watched the changing situation from moment to time and was keen to respond in time.

She was a control tower. It was a trick to stay in the salon and participate in the ball.
Every single one of these urgent events taking place in the capital was reported to her

"You can't miss a single thing. The moment I miss it, it's over."

Just in time a pigeon flew in through the wide open window.

This is Was a bird used by the Emperor. Elena reached out and checked the note that had been tied to both legs of the pigeon.

« Oh, why! » Elena's voice trembled as she read.

The swaying eyes gave her an idea of how agitated she was now.

"Why didn't you listen to me? You even made an appointment with me. Why?"

Her eyes moistened. She told him how to live and even got his promise to do so, but he didn't keep his promise.

Once, he was her father-in-law, who was more than sweet to her.

« Why did you do that? Your Majesty » Elena, who could not overcome the overflowing grief, grew up headlong.

As if she had lost her strength, the note Elena had let go of her hand said:
‘Emperor Richard, waiting for the Great Battle inside the Imperial Palace Refuses to flee.’

Facing the Emperor (this Part made me ball my eyes out):

Emperor Richard was sitting on the throne.
Knowing what was about to happen, he looked as if he had lost his life.

The door of the palace opened roughly.
Knights of the armed Grand Duke poured in.

Veronica, dressed in tight-fitting clothes, followed with a mocking smile.

"I see you," said Grand Duke Frances.
"Have you come?" The voice of Emperor Richard was serene despite the threatening situation.

"I think you've been waiting for me."
"Why not?" Emperor Richard smiled. "Thirty and three years. It's been a long time. Knowing you,"

The eyebrows of Grand Duke Frances wriggled.
"I know. If your Majesty had respected me, our company could have been longer."

"Isn't this because you don't like it?"

"You've gained your tongue, Your Majesty."

"How long do I have left to live? You have to say what you have to say. The times have changed, Grand Duke. Old people like you and I have to step down.m Is it the basis of what you said when you dragged the knights into the palace and persecuted the emperor?"


"To subjugate a new emperor who will take the throne of an old emperor and lead the holy life of the empire. That's my role as the loyalist of the Empire and the head of the nobility."

"Ha-ha. That's the best sophistry I've ever heard of this year. I didn't know you had a knack for making people laugh."

What could it be? Franches had a strong feeling that there was something hiding something from the words and deeds of Emperor Richard.

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince and the Royal Guard are not coming."

"No."

"Even if the sun rises, the nobles will not stand by your side."

"I know that. Don't you see that I rose to the emperor for your treason?"

On that day 33 years ago, the great Duke of Frances, who caused the rebellion, forced the current emperor to overthrow the ex- emperor who was trying to regulate the nobles.
After that, the emperor, who was the only member of the royal family, took the throne.
He didn't want to be an emperor, but he had no veto.


"You must be quick to know. I had hoped you became a faithful dog until you are deposed." Grand Duke Franches openly expressed his ambition.

"We're going to take care of what we've put off here today."

"It must be the inheritance of the Bastasch family." Emperor Richard glared at him with a cold look. "That not the end. Wouldn't you force the Royal Guard to disband and bring the crown prince into custody, saying it was my Imperial Edict too? And before long, you will put him on death row."


Then Veronica, standing next to Grand Duke Frances, came in.

"You should kill L too. Why did you keep the b!tch who insulted the foundation of the Empire with her impure ideas alive? Also, Give me the salon and the basilica in appreciation of my father and my services."


If Veronica had been elected Crown Princess and had become the companion of Ciel, it would have led to an irreversible situation. Maybe that's why Elena kept on looking at Veronica, who was so low in class that the Emperor felt sorry for even comparing her.
'It would be a relief if she stayed by Ciel's side......'

He even gave her a brooch to make a connection with Elena. But that's all he could do.

" Veronica, is that you?"

"You remember me, Your Majesty." Veronica made a mockery of the Emperor, looking straight at him.
It was funny to see him still pretending to be the emperor when he was about to be deposed.

"You must want a salon. By the way, what can I do? You're not up to L, so even if you get a salon, it won't last long."

"What, what?" :blobdevil: Veronica's face blushed with shame at the unannounced comment of the emperor Richard.
The emperor's words were felt as unbearable humiliation for Veronica, who was already feeling a sense of inferiority toward L.

"What do you know about that?!"

"I just say what I feel. If L is a peacock, Veronica, you're nothing but a wild duck who doesn't know its subject."

"Da, you!" Veronica, whose eyes were turned upside down, breathed out as if she were going to commit a mutiny at once in a while.

"Calm down, Veronica." Grand Duke Franche stretched out his arm and controlled Veronica, unable to hold his powder.
Then he looked up at the emperor sitting on the throne.

"The nights aren't so long, Your Majesty. This is the size of a small talk."

"Can I warn you, Grand Duke?"

"Only the powerful can warn. Unfortunately, you are not."

"No matter what you want, nothing will go your way."

"You don't really touch me, Your Majesty."

"Oh, you're the emperor," said sarcastically Veronica, as soon as Grand Duke Franche's words came to an end. For Veronica, the sole heir to the Grand Duke who even replaced the emperor, Richard's warning sounded ridiculous.

"Take the emperor and bring him to a boil," said Grand Duke Franche


The plan was to capture Emperor Richard and force him to stamp his seal on the documents to seize both the cause and the practical benefits.
It was time for the knights to walk to the podium where the throne was placed.

Emperor Richard pulled up the sword had left next to him.

"Throw away the sword, Your Majesty. Now you know that resistance is meaningless, don't you? I'd like to be considerate of you so that your Majesty's prison system doesn't go bad."
The voice of Grand Duke Frances, who pretended to be polite, contained irresistible coercion.

"I saw it. What happened to the emperor who was deposed. It was a humiliating day when I couldn't die and had no choice but to live." Emperor Richard clasped the sword and brought it to his throat.

The knights, who were approaching his unexpected behavior, hesitated.

The eyes of Grand Duke Frances also shook. Although he showed his teeth recently, he did not expect Richard to do such a thing after decades of bated breath.

"Your Majesty, don't do anything useless."

"Do you really think so, Grand Duke? The stigma of entering the Imperial Palace at night and killing the Emperor won't be easy for you either. Because it would be treason, not a revolt."

"You should stop..." The Great Duke Frances tried to stop the seriousness of the situation, but the Emperor Richard's movements were faster.

"No!" a blood fountain spewed from the throat of Emperor Richard at the same time as the cry of Grand Duke Frances.

The emperor staggered and smiled at the victory with his collapsing body. "Gee, in hell…"
There was not a trace of regret or regret left in his slowly closing eyes. If it could help Ciel like this, that would be enough.
He was a ashamed and incompetent father and emperor, but at the end, he made a choice not to shame the lines and emperors painted on ceiling murals.

Grand Duke Franches gritted his teeth while watching the scene.
"Why do you care so much about? It was the one who had to be killed anyway."

Veronica acted as if it was nothing, but the expression of Grand Duke Frances was hardly unfolded.
The situation is more serious than expected.

"The emperor might be a scarecrow, but his symbolism isn't small."

"So? Now the dead emperor doesn't even come to life, does he?"

Veronica climbed the red-tinted podium of Richard's blood casually. Even the stinging blood scent seemed to be a nostalgia for her.
Veronica, standing on the podium and in front of the body of Emperor Richard, grumbled.

"Why are you making fun of my mouth?" Veronica raised her foot and beat the face of the dead Richard. It's payback for insulting her by comparing her with L earlier.
Veronica kicked the body so hard that it wouldn't release the lugo.

In the meantime, Grand Duke Franches had a serious look on his face and struggled to clean up the mess.

————

Unexpected situation:

As Veronica said, they couldn't revive the dead Richard. It would be better to move as planned.
"Bring the Emperor's seal,"

The knights who were ordered, moved in perfect order, searching through the Palace. But nowhere could a seal be found.
There was anger on the face of Grand Duke Frances. The fact that there is no seal where it is supposed to be meant that it was taken away in advance.

Grand Duke Franche hurriedly handled the document with a stamp on the death of Emperor Richard.

"There's no time to delay. We go straight to the Bastache family."

Now the most important task is to make a profit. If they could absorb the Bastasch family and show the health of the Great Dukedom, then people wouldn't be able to criticize him for the death of Emperor Richard.

When he was about to go out to war, a knight came running.
"Your Highness, we are in trouble!"

"Why are you here when you're supposed to be in the Grand Duke mansion?"

"Well, the Imperial Guard led by the Crown Prince has raided the Grand Duchy."

"What nonsense is that?! I heard that the Imperial Guard is now in Mount Kazbegi. What do you mean they're raiding the Grand Duchy? Do you think that makes sense!"

He was reported that the Royal Guard was camping at Mount Kazbegi until sunset.
It takes half a day to ride a horse from Mount Kazubegi to the Grand Duchy.

It was nonsense in common sense.

"I don't know what's going on. It was obvious that they were Crown Prince and the Royal Guard Commander, Sir Whiggin. I saw it with my own eyes."

"Haha." The low laughter of Grand Duke Franches spread through the palace.

"Father?"

"You're a good man, Your Majesty?" Grand Duke Franches looked up on the podium at the cold body of Emperor Richard. "I never dreamed you'd attack the Grand Duchy with the Crown Prince. I've had a proper blow to the king. By the way, Your Majesty. I guess heaven is not on your side."


Veronica's patience has reached its limit because of the incomprehensible story.
"Not on your side? I don't understand a word of what you're saying."

"The noble blood of the Grand Duchy is only you and me in the world."

"Ah!" Veronica, who had noticed the words of the Grand Duke of Franches, quipped.

If Veronica had remained in the Great Duchy without taking part in the treason, she would have been held hostage by Ciel and the Imperial Guard.
Because there's no worse situation than Veronica, the heir to the Great Duchy, being taken hostage. It was safe to say that luck followed.

"Maybe heaven is helping us."
The anxiety on Veronica's face melted away, and a smile spread around her mouth.

"The Emperor was the one who wanted to kill us first."

In the end, history is used in the hands of the victors. The Emperor and the Crown Prince drew their swords first, and Grand Duke Francves was forced to kill Richard in order to live.

"There's no further delay. Absorb the Bastache family as planned.Now that we have lost the great duchy, we need to take control of the Bastache family and make it a temporary home. Only the Crown Prince needs to be dealt with."

This revolution would be a success if the Crown Prince Ciel and the Royal Guard lost control of the Bastache family and the Palace.

——-

Plan in danger:

We have to make sure we don't miss anything."
Elena, who couldn't overcome her anxiety, sat down at her desk again. She constantly devoured the notes she received through the informants.

She reached out and checked the note that had been tied to the pigeon’s leg.

‘Ciel occupied the Grand Duchy.
Veronica absent. Went to the palace with Grand Duke Franches.’

A groan flowed through Elena's lips.
The plan to take Veronica hostage while overpowering the Great Depression went awry.

"Let's not be disappointed. You predicted this kind of variable, didn't you?"
Elena calmly checked the other note.

"There's nothing to think complicated. All we have to do is catch the Grand Duke as planned. Then it's over."
Although it was regrettable that Veronica could not be secured, Grand Duke Frances was also at risk as Emperor Richard died.
Win or lose.
It was safe to say that depends on whether or not to overpower the Great Frances.


A series of new infos arrived

'Grand Duke Frances, leading the Knights to the House of Bastache. '

'Len, completed the control of the House of Bastache. '

'Count Lyndon, moving with a fleet of knights to the Bastache family. '

'Hurrelbad, arriving near the capital's north gate. '


There were variables, but from the big picture, the plan was going smoothly.
"Fortunately, I won't be late to join you."


Elena was a little relieved. Elena wanted to concentrate her energies in one place, as the Bastache family was expected to have a final showdown.
Given the size of the Knights Corps, she judged that it was important to gather manpowers as she was inferior to the Grand Duke of Frances.

Another note flew in.
Elena's face turned white after checking the note. The pupil shook as if it had been an earthquake.

It was shocking enough to turn all the plans into nothing in a moment, to the point where they could not be compared to the previous news:
'Count Lyndon, in battle with the Knights led by Duke of Wheat. The overwhelming power gap. A potential annihilation.'


"No, the Duke of Wheat was in league with the Grand Duke?"
Elena put half of her head in an unexpected situation far beyond her expectations.


Not another family, but a Duke of the four major families of the Empire.
"Powerful to annihilate," quivered Elena's voice muttering the last sentence on the note.


The Knights, led by Count Lyndon, are Hidden Cards to Catch Duke Franches.

Len took control of his family.

The Imperial Guards and the Bastache's knight joined forces to subdue the Knights of the Grand Duchy.


However, the Duke of Wheat's involvement turned things upside down.
Count Lyndon has a strong knighthood. The opponent is the Knights of Wheat, one of the four largest families.

Even if the duke's skills were inferior, the Count would be inferior in numbers.

"It's my mistake. I haven't figured it out at all."
Elena bit her lips. On the desk, a rolled fist shook.

It was the first time she felt so lethargic while preparing for revenge step by step.

"If...... really if Count Lyndon gets hit..."
Elena closed her eyes to the worst situation she didn't want to imagine.


Len, Hurelbad and Ciel are known as the Three Swords of the Empire, but there was no way to avoid numerical inferiority.

As soon as the Knights led by Grand Duke Franches and the Knights of the Duke of Wheat join, the power would double or even triple.

"We need to save Count Lyndon and stop the power loss. But to do that, first of all... "


Elena, who regained her composure, hurriedly came up with a solution.
Because that was what Elena, who is in charge of the control tower, would do.

At this point, she might want to move Hurelbad to get Count Lyndon.
However, Len and Cied had to hold out


At this rate, the joining of Count Lyndon's Knights and Hurelbad would inevitably be delayed.
The slower the attack, the more likely Ciel and Len would be in danger.


Despite the conflict, Elena did not think long. For now, she had no choice but to believe in Len and Ciel.


Elena chose to move on her own. No matter how skilled an informant was, he would not be more accurate than Elena, who was drawing every picture in her head.
Every minute and second was urgent.

In the midst of this, the life and death of Count Lyndon and other knights are probably going back and forth.
After using an emergency exit to escape the spotlight, she drove her horse out of the salon and reached to Hurelbad

.
.
.

"Sir Hurelebard! It's me, sir!" exclaimed Elena, showing her face.

Hurrelbad, who was speeding, pulled the reins of the horse, slowed down, approached Elena and bowed his head.

"Why is Miss here?" Hurelbad sensed