Rainian’s participation in the envoy meeting was the first time. He had deliberately shown a passive stance in political involvement, having no interest in the imperial competition.

His attendance at this envoy meeting was due to an inexplicable change in his feelings. Of course, he was aware that his actions would be highly displeasing to the first prince and the Empress’s faction, who had already been glaring at him with hostility.

Moreover, if it became known that he actively expressed opinions during the negotiations, the cautious gaze of the first prince, who was already glaring at him with hostility, would become even more intense.

‘First, cooperation with Yufitero is crucial for Lisandro.’

From a broad perspective, the tariff alliance proposed by the Duke would undoubtedly have a positive impact on Lisandro’s economy as well.

“The Duke is correct. A tariff alliance becomes even more powerful when the trade structures of both countries are mutually complementary.”

“Then, let’s consider this as Lisandro expressing a positive intent, and prepare for the signing of a tariff alliance between the two countries.”

“Wait a moment… Lisandro’s representative is here! Rainian, why are you acting on your own…!”

The first prince, observing Rainian and Caelon facing each other without any error, became agitated, his buttocks twitching as if in distress. In the eyes of the first prince, their relationship seemed extraordinarily close. Seeing their relationship, excluding him, his mouth felt dry.

“This is not only Prince Rainian’s intention. It seems like others are in agreement as well.”

As Caelon pointed out with a cold voice, the first prince turned his head to look at Lisandro’s aides.

Although they avoided the first prince’s gaze, it was clear that none of them opposed the alliance. Those who knew how to think properly understood that a tariff alliance between the two countries was desirable.

“This, this…!”

The first prince, like a child who had lost his toy, erupted in frustration, glaring at Caelon and Rainian.

On the other hand, Repenser Viscount, sitting in the envoy delegation of Yufitero, carefully observed their actions.

‘Hmm… Lisandro’s first prince, third prince, and the Duke…’

Drawing the relationship between the three people in his mind, Viscount Repenser slyly gleamed his eyes.

Countless carriages lined up as they entered the Lisandro palace. In the grand hall, crafted with golden stone, a magnificent ball welcoming the visit of Yufitero’s envoy was in full swing.

“Duke Elios, it is a great honor to meet you again.”

“We are delighted to have you here in Lisandro.”

Even in the crowded banquet hall, Caelon stood out, drawing the attention of women like an impenetrable night sea, despite the solemn air. While the Duke’s stern temperament was well known, and his unmarried status was also common knowledge, the charming figure of him standing alone in the banquet hall still captivated the ladies of Lisandro.

‘The noble ladies here are still as noisy as ever…’
Despite his indifferent attitude, the presence of various young ladies who approached him, offering greetings and engaging in small talk, was gradually getting on Caelon’s nerves.

As someone approached him, the young ladies, holding their breath, stepped aside on both sides.

“Duke Elios, are you here?”

In response to a familiar voice calling him, Caelon turned his head.

“…Prince Rainian.”

Through the path cleared by the ladies, Rainian walked closer. As Duke Elios and Prince Rainian faced each other, the young ladies from Lisandro began to whisper with excited expressions.

‘Prince Rainian went to study in Yufitero, but it seems he has built a friendship with Duke Elios!’

‘Seeing the two of them standing together is enchanting…!’

The eyes of the young ladies, secretly observing Caelon and Rainian, glittered with excitement.

When the ladies who were trying to strike up a conversation became quiet, Caelon felt a sense of relief. For the first time, Rainian’s presence felt welcoming.

“The Duke has not arrived yet.”

“That’s right. Thanks to Princess Ophelia.”

As Rainian inquired while looking around, the space between Caelon’s eyebrows, which had momentarily relaxed, twitched again. He recalled the events during breakfast today.

Princess Ophelia, who seemed to have recently become close to the Duke’s wife, had declared to him, as she pleased, just like when she proposed a trip to the capital.

I will escort the Duchess to the ball tonight.

What is this talk? Is the princess escorting the Duchess?

Oh my! Surely you don’t think that escorting is something only a man can do for a woman, right? I believe the Duke doesn’t have such old-fashioned thoughts.

Caelon was momentarily speechless at the impudent remarks of the princess. Along with a strange sense of discomfort, a certain memory passed through his mind.

Due to conservative culture, there has never been a formal visit by Yufitero noblewomen to our Lisandro… But I believe the Duke must want the Duchess to broaden her horizons.

Recalling Rainian’s actions during breakfast, pressuring him to allow the Duchess to go to Lisandro, and Ophelia’s actions, Caelon realized he had fallen for the twins’ scheme again.

‘Could they be the twins…?’

Thinking their personalities were different despite their similar faces, he was mistaken. Even knowing, he couldn’t help but yield to the twins’ schemes once again.

“Ophelia is coming to escort… It seems preparations are a bit delayed.”

Seeing Caelon’s uncomfortable expression, Rainian awkwardly smiled and praised Ophelia.

“Please generously understand this action of Princess Ophelia, who is trying to make Lisandro’s social scene less unfamiliar to the Duchess.”

“…Of course.”

Caelon also knew that Ophelia genuinely respected Idel. Idel also seemed to trust Ophelia deeply.

It’s something that happened with Princess Ophelia…

Idel, who had never engaged in social activities before, seemed to find the existence of the first same-sex friend special, mentioning Ophelia occasionally during their conversations.

While the lively and spirited appearance of Idel cheerfully conversing with Ophelia seemed cute… At the same time, he felt a strangely bitter feeling.

‘Probably because of that princess…’

As the face of Ophelia, who was leaning close to Idel during breakfast today, jokingly talking to him, came to mind, Caelon raised his wine glass, feeling uneasy.

“Princess Ophelia and Duchess Elios are entering.”

Finally, the news of the two entering spread through the grand hall.