After the two senior figures left, the following conversation didn't have any substantive content. Everyone was most concerned about the future direction of the Dark Mantle. When this issue was no longer discussed, the meeting quickly ended.
After the meeting ended, everyone dispersed. Han Shuo came to Candide's secret room. Candide first helped Han Shuo confirm the identity of the Second Dark Sun envoy. Candide then said to Han Shuo, "You've developed Brettel City quite well during this period of time. I've already discussed this matter with His Majesty. You've come at the right time, I believe His Majesty will confer you the title of Marquis."
"It would be great if that's the case. Currently, there are many things waiting to be done in Brettel City. I need to report to His Majesty and see if we can build a large-scale transportation matrix in Brettel City. This way, Brettel City can develop even faster." Han Shuo understood that any large city couldn't do without communication with other cities. Currently, it was very inconvenient for Brettel City to communicate with the outside world. Only with its own transportation matrix would it be able to develop even faster.
Candide felt a bit of a headache when he heard Han Shuo's words. He thought for a moment and said, "I can't guarantee whether His Majesty will agree or not. Although Brettel City has defeated some bandit groups, they are only bandits in the end. Before Brettel City can display the strength to resist the seven grand duchies, I believe His Majesty won't feel at ease building a transportation matrix in Brettel City."
Once the seven grand duchies broke through Brettel City, if there happened to be a transportation matrix in Brettel City, the seven grand duchies could spend magic crystal stones to transport their troops to other cities in the Lancelot Empire. This would be a disaster, and His Majesty would definitely treat it with caution.
Han Shuo also understood Candide's meaning. He nodded and said, "It looks like His Majesty won't feel at ease before Brettel City defeats the seven grand duchies."
"Ai, His Majesty's health is getting worse and worse. I don't think he can hold on for much longer. Did you come back from Brettel City this time for that Lawrence? "Candide sighed, then clearly asked Han Shuo.
Han Shuo didn't hide anything as he nodded, "That's right, Lawrence and I have a good relationship. It is my principle to repay a debt of gratitude. Lord Candide, you don't need to persuade me otherwise."
"I'm not trying to persuade you, I just feel that you should seriously consider this. Your reputation in the Empire isn't small right now. As long as you can stabilize Brettel City, your future will be limitless. But if you fight for power for Lawrence, I'm not only worried about yourself, but also your current foundation. You should consider it carefully. "
Candide didn't know how to persuade Han Shuo. When he'd first brought Han Shuo into the Dark Mantle, he'd never imagined that Han Shuo would have such accomplishments today. Moreover, judging from the current situation, as long as Han Shuo could smoothly develop, it wouldn't be impossible for him to become a hegemon of the Lancelot Empire.
On one hand, Han Shuo had been brought up by him. On the other hand, Han Shuo could be considered his wife Emma's student. No matter which aspect he considered, Candide didn't wish for Han Shuo to walk down the wrong path because of the wrong choice. That was why he'd repeatedly tried to persuade Han Shuo. However, after such a long period of contact, Candide understood that Han Shuo was the kind of person who wouldn't change his mind once he'd made up his mind. This made Candide truly at a loss as to what to do.
"Ai, forget it, I won't bother with you anymore. Before Madam Grace points out the direction, no one knows what the future of the Dark Mantle will be. "Candide sighed and said to Han Shuo.
Hearing Candide's words, Han Shuo couldn't help but feel dumbfounded. After hesitating for a moment, he asked Han Shuo, "My lord, can Madam Grace really see the future clearly?"
Astrologers were the most mysterious profession in this world. This was something Han Shuo had long since understood in his heart. He also knew of the various magical descriptions of astrology. However, Han Shuo wasn't someone who believed in those kinds of illusory prophecies. Therefore, he was still skeptical even now.
Candide's expression turned solemn as he said to Han Shuo, "Lancelot Empire has encountered many major events over the years. Madam Grace's guidance has always been correct. The Dark Mantle being able to become a hand of darkness in the Lancelot Empire is inseparable from Madam Grace's guidance.
In addition, Madam Grace is also the person His Majesty values the most. Her prophecies can even change His Majesty's decision. Up until now, His Majesty still hasn't made a decision on which prince to hand over the throne to. One of the reasons is because Madam Grace hasn't told His Majesty who the true wise ruler is.
Yes, there's also Lawrence's master Karel Ascot. He's actually also waiting for Madam Grace to point him in the right direction. Whether the Dark Mantle will be able to avert disaster this time also depends on Madam Grace's guidance. That's why we haven't made any decisions up until now. "
Han Shuo was truly shocked after hearing Candide's words. He didn't expect that the old woman who looked like she would die at any moment would actually have such an important role in changing the decisions of the king and sacred swordmaster Karel. This caused Han Shuo's heart to be filled with amazement.
Afterwards, Han Shuo suddenly recalled that old astrologer Madam Grace had gazed deeply at him after the crystal ball in her hand had shattered. Originally, Han Shuo had only thought that it might have been a casual glance from her. Now that he heard Candide's words, Han Shuo couldn't help but let his imagination run wild. He wondered if that gaze of hers had any special meaning.
"So you're saying that as long as Madam Grace approves of a prince, he will definitely receive additional benefits?" Han Shuo thought for a moment before asking Candide.
Candide nodded his head in affirmation. In order to highlight the importance of old astrologer Grace, he made an example, "Even if it's that Lawrence, as long as Madam Grace says that he can bring prosperity and strength to the Lancelot Empire, he also has a great chance of inheriting the new throne."
"I hope the old astrologer can really support Lawrence. Hehe, who knows, I can see that Lawrence has the aura of an emperor." Han Shuo mocked himself before asking, "What's going on with that Statholme?"
Candide's already gloomy expression became even more gloomy when he heard these words. He hesitated for a moment before saying to Han Shuo, "When the Empire entered the seven grand duchies last time, apart from sacred swordmaster Karel Ascot, there was also earth sacred magus Dempus Gale.
Originally, everyone believed that they would definitely be able to take down the seven grand duchies that were in a state of disunity. The situation on the surface was similar to the rumors. Due to the sudden alliance of the seven grand duchies, the Empire's army was obstructed everywhere. However, because the Empire secretly believed that the seven grand duchies didn't have any sacred magus, they once wanted to violate the continent's convention and use forbidden magic to reverse the situation. Afterwards, before earth sacred magus Dempus Gale could make a move, that old monster Statholme came looking for him.
That old monster Statholme openly challenged sacred swordmaster Karel Ascot that we are so proud of. Apart from earth sacred magus Dempus Gale, no one else witnessed that battle. No one knows the specifics of the situation. However, sacred swordmaster Karel and earth sacred magus Dempus Gale did not take action in that battle. "
The Verdun Imperial Court had existed for many years. As the State Preceptor, Statholme had long since possessed the strength of a sacred swordmaster. He hadn't died for so many years and was able to make sacred swordmaster Karel and earth sacred magus Dempus Gale of the Lancelot Empire feel apprehensive the moment he made a move. This was already sufficient to prove his strength.
"That's right, there was a soldier who saw that old monster and said that his appearance wasn't as old as people imagined. On the contrary, he had the appearance of a handsome youth. It was precisely because of this that we called the State Preceptor of the Verdun Imperial Court, Statholme, an old monster from then on. "Candide continued to explain.
Han Shuo was silent. He furrowed his brows and thought for a while before saying, "I understand. Alright, I'll leave this place first. If there's anything you need, just look for me. I'll be staying in Ossen City for a period of time."
"Alright, be careful. Ossen City isn't very peaceful right now." Candide nodded. Seeing that Han Shuo was about to leave, Candide hesitated for a moment before suddenly saying, "Wait!"
Han Shuo stared blankly for a moment before turning his head to look at Candide and said, "Is there anything else?"
"That, you better be careful between you and Emily. Amyes isn't an easy person to get along with. In addition, the Hahn family is also one of the largest families in the Empire. For the sake of you and Emily, you better be careful." Candide sighed softly and said, "Sigh, everything about you is good, except that you're a bit too romantic. There's also that Fanny, you have to be even more careful when dealing with her. I heard from your dean a while ago that her father is actually the commander of the Howling Legion, Firenze. That fellow is famous for being a ruthless butcher. He's even more difficult to provoke than Amyes. There's also that Phoebe, she's sacred swordmaster Karel's most beloved disciple. What kind of women have you found? I don't even know how to help you anymore. "
After hearing Candide's words, Han Shuo's expression changed. He was clear about the identities of Emily and Phoebe. The only one he didn't know was Fanny. He never would have thought that Fanny's background would be even greater. Her father was actually the commander of the Howling Legion, Firenze.
As the Second Dark Sun Envoy of the Dark Mantle, Han Shuo had naturally heard of this thunderous name in the Lancelot Empire. Firenze's Howling Legion was without a doubt the strongest legion in the Empire. As the commander, Firenze was ruthless, cruel, and sinister. He was famous in the Lancelot Empire for being a ruthless madman.
For so many years, Firenze's Howling Legion had always been stationed at the southern border to resist the barbaric orcs. The number of orcs that died at the hands of his Howling Legion numbered in the tens of thousands. Within the Orc Empire, Firenze's name was synonymous with demons and nightmares. It could be said that he was feared by everyone and cursed by everyone.
Even within the Empire, Firenze's reputation was similarly outstanding. This person didn't have the etiquette and elegance that a noble should have. At the noble His Majesty the King's private banquets, Firenze even dared to rudely beat up any noble he disliked.
However, this person was highly regarded by His Majesty the King, Uhtred. It was precisely because of his existence that the barbaric orcs were forever isolated. Although Firenze had offended many nobles and even publicly cursed Grand Duke Ashburn for being hypocritical, despicable, and obscene, he was still living well for so many years.
Once, because he wanted to beat up Grand Duke Ashburn during a banquet, His Majesty the King couldn't bear to watch any longer and imprisoned him. However, when this news spread from the Lancelot Empire, the barbaric orcs immediately cheered and celebrated. Afterwards, their army pressured the borders and invaded the various cities of the southern border.
His Majesty the King dispatched several generals to defend, but in the end, no one was able to maintain the situation. Seeing that the cities were about to fall, even His Majesty the King had no choice but to implore Firenze to come out and face the enemy. However, Firenze refused. In the end, when two cities of the Empire's southern border were breached, Grand Duke Ashburn personally went to the prison and lowered his head to Firenze. Only then did Firenze come out and drive the orc army out of the southern border.
In the southern border region, this Firenze was a god-like existence. In the entire Lancelot Empire, apart from His Majesty the King, the person Ashburn was most apprehensive of and most afraid of was Firenze.
Han Shuo had long since seen this information from the Dark Mantle's intelligence. Now that he heard that Fanny's old man was actually Firenze, he was immediately dumbfounded. His mouth became somewhat dry and he couldn't help but nervously ask Candide, "Are you sure that he's Fanny's father?"
"It's him. This information came from your Dean Emma. I only found out about it recently. Sigh, good luck to you. I've long since told you not to be too fickle. Let's see how you end up in the future. "Candide also had a bitter smile on his face as he helplessly said to Han Shuo.
"Eh, it looks like it's indeed somewhat difficult to handle. Sigh, Master Fanny is such a gentle and virtuous person. How could she have such a crazy father? This world is truly mystical! "Han Shuo sighed with a headache.
"Fanny's mother passed away early. Firenze dotes on her exceedingly. I think you should start with Fanny. If you can make Fanny obedient, you might be able to escape this calamity." Candide unexpectedly said.
Han Shuo frowned and sighed. Then, an idea flashed through his mind as he suddenly asked Candide, "If I can deal with Emily, Phoebe, and Fanny, Emily has old Hahn's family and Amyes behind her. In addition, there's sacred swordmaster Karel and that lunatic Firenze. If there's also our entire Dark Mantle, do you think Lawrence has any hope of inheriting the throne if I help him?"
Candide's body trembled when he heard these words. His gaze towards Han Shuo grew brighter and brighter. After a long while, he finally opened his mouth and said, "If you really think so, then Lawrence has great hope. If Madam Grace also helps him, this is practically in the bag. Oh, right, do you think Lawrence knows about the matters between you and the three women? "
Han Shuo stared blankly for a moment. He carefully thought for a while and nodded, saying, "I think Lawrence should know about the relationship between me and the three women. However, he has never said much about it."
Candide was frightened. After a while, he suddenly sighed, "It looks like Lawrence is the most powerful among the princes. I can clearly tell you that Lawrence also knows about Fanny's identity. No wonder Lawrence spared no effort to help and rope you in these past few years. If Lawrence had long since calculated this day, then that brat Lawrence is really too terrifying."
After hearing Candide's words, Han Shuo was secretly a bit apprehensive. After carefully recalling the process of meeting Lawrence, Han Shuo couldn't help but be surprised to discover that what Candide said was very likely the truth.
However, no matter what, Lawrence had always been helping him. It was also because of Lawrence's existence that Han Shuo was able to climb to his current position so quickly. After a moment of silence, Han Shuo smiled and said, "It looks like Lawrence is the most capable person. I think my choice might be correct. Only such a far-sighted person would be able to distinguish himself in the struggle for power."
"Perhaps your choice might really be correct. Forget it, I'll wait for Madam Grace's decision." Candide sighed and said to Han Shuo with a bit of a headache.
To Candide, Grace's judgment, who could clearly see the future, was the most correct. Other than that, no other decision was safe. If Han Shuo could grasp all three forces, there might really be hope to help Lawrence seize power. However, this was only hope.
"Oh, right, His Majesty's body is becoming weaker and weaker. He shouldn't be able to hold on for much longer. The last time I went to see His Majesty, His Majesty still couldn't forget about your miraculous martial technique and was trying to understand it in hopes of using it in the military. What do you think about this matter? "Candide thought for a moment and asked Han Shuo.
"I will carefully consider this matter and give you an answer after a period of time." Han Shuo already knew that King Uhtred would definitely mention this matter. To Han Shuo, demonic arts was his greatest secret. However, if he wanted to establish a demonic sect in this world, Han Shuo becoming its master wasn't necessarily something that couldn't be considered.
"Yes, think about it carefully. His Majesty seems to attach great importance to this matter." Candide said.
Nodding his head, Han Shuo finally opened his mouth and said, "Alright, I'll leave now. I need to carefully think about what you've said to me!"
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