The sudden death of Baron Ceylon surprised many. At the same time, high society was buzzing with talk about the successor to Baron Ceylon.

Thanks to this, discussions about Belia and Raoul momentarily subsided.

And with today’s announcement of the funeral schedule for Baron Ceylon, it was confirmed, as expected, that Derek Ceylon would be the next baron.

From now on, Derek Ceylon would lead as the next baron and simultaneously take over most of the duties in central politics that the late baron had handled.

People said,

“Now, if only Raoul is officially appointed as the Crown Prince.”

It was a situation where the Second Prince, Khaled, was missing. Although it hadn’t been officially announced by the imperial family, among many people, the death of the Second Prince had become an accepted fact. The momentum had already shifted towards the First Prince, Raoul.

Moreover, recently, the one moving closest to Raoul was ‘Derek Ceylon,’ so everyone thought the late baron’s support would still be directed towards the First Prince.

‘It seems Derek has secured his position well.’

He was already a capable talent, and it seemed like he was becoming much more than just Raoul’s confidant, even more so than in his past life.

Belia recalled the secret note she had received through Luness.

“Raoul is exploiting the weaknesses of the Eastern nobles… No wonder they gathered faster than I thought in this life.”

A bitter smile escaped her.

Raoul had been moving with the memories of his previous life since then.

Based on the information she had secretly received through Luness, which included the weaknesses of the Eastern and Southern nobles that she had requested in her past life, Belia adjusted her plans for the future.

‘Can I use the fact that they share the same weaknesses to my advantage?’

Her slender, long fingers lightly tapped the desk.

The baron’s funeral was scheduled to be held solemnly at the temple in the central square.

The Ceylon family was one of the reputable families in the empire. Until it was revealed that Baron Ceylon had an illegitimate child named Derek, the late baron’s image had been quite clean.

Therefore, many people gathered around the central square to witness his funeral.

‘He was more popular than I thought.’

It didn’t look that way.

Belia pushed through the crowd and entered the temple immediately.

Soon, dark-colored carriages arrived one by one.

Nobles dressed appropriately for the funeral entered the temple. However, amidst them, Elin’s figure was not visible.

“Is Lady Canterip still confined?”

“…It must be true. Even though her wedding is imminent.”

“How shameless. I feel so sorry for Lady Canterip.”

Today, as well, the whispers of disdain towards Belia continued.

Rumors gradually gained momentum, spreading uncontrollably. Despite Rachel and Susan’s efforts to contain the rumors, the already spreading words could not be stopped.

The rumors among the nobles soon reached the middle class and later even the commoners. Thus, the scandal involving Belia and Raoul shook the entire empire.

It felt like the whole world was pointing fingers at Belia.

It felt like becoming the ultimate villain, just as Raoul had told her in her previous life.

“Your Highness, don’t pay too much attention to what people say. There are more people cheering for Your Highness. After all, the voices of those who originally disliked you are much louder.”

“I’m fine, Rachel.”

Until now, Belia and Khaled had used rumors to expand their influence, so it was a bit awkward for all their efforts to become futile now due to the rumors.

But it was okay.

Khaled was alive and would come back.

With a faint smile, Belia reassured Rachel.
Following the funeral procedures, after the time for listing Baron Ceylon’s achievements ended, Derek, who would be his successor, stepped onto the podium. He was the first to place flowers on Baron Ceylon’s coffin.

As Derek revealed himself, people’s attention shifted from Belia to Derek.

Derek consistently stayed by Raoul’s side.

This made many realize that the next Baron Ceylon had also allied himself with the hands of the Crown Prince.

Belia placed white flowers on the Baron’s coffin and walked towards Derek.

“Derek Ceylon. Should I address you as the Baron Ceylon now?”

“Please call me by my name since I haven’t officially inherited the title yet.”

“I see. I hope your father’s death doesn’t bring you great sorrow. May he rest in peace.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

Derek’s demeanor was as composed as if he were meeting Belia for the first time. After exchanging a courteous greeting with Derek, Belia turned away neatly.

There was no reason to talk to him in front of Raoul, and she didn’t want to reveal anything about her relationship with Derek in front of Raoul.

“Belia.”

Raoul’s voice calling Belia was heard.

“People’s gossip will soon die down. So don’t worry too much.”

Belia didn’t respond.