am-books Chapter 330 A threat? Perhaps a warning
Chapter 330 A threat? Perhaps a warning
Chapter 330 A threat? Perhaps a warning
He glanced toward his father, Alden, who stood with quiet pride; his mother, Regina, whose eyes held a mixture of emotion; and then to the king, who watched with a careful gaze.
Julian's voice turned deeper as he continued:
"And it is thanks to the blessings of my parents, the loyal support of my family, and the grace of His Majesty, the King, that I stand here today. No longer just a brat from Easvil, I stand before you as your new Duke."
The crowd was captivated by the sincerity and power in Julian's words, and they could feel his resolve.
His voice did not crack, each word further fueled by his conviction. Even those who had doubted him and questioned his rise and his capabilities began to see him in a new light.
The atmosphere in the hall shifted, the tension easing as they began to truly recognize Julian's commitment.
Slowly, though hesitant at first, the applause started and then gradually grew louder.
But Julian wasn't finished. He raised his hands and immediately silenced the crowd.
"I appreciate your support, and I thank you for your applause," Julian said calmly.
"However, let it be known that, with every rank present here today, from the viscount to His Majesty the King himself, I stand for one thing above all else—loyalty. I will never tolerate any form of betrayal or disrespect, not toward me, and certainly not toward my family. No matter who it may be."
The hall remained silent, all holding their breath. The tension grew once again as Julian's words filled the hall.
The effect was even more on the dukes present there. Ethwer and Norish shifted uneasily in their seats, their discomfort visible.
Julian's gaze swept over the gathered nobles, his voice unwavering as he continued,
"And since the Duchy of Ethwer was proud enough to launch a surprise attack on us, gathering 1500 men to strike at my family, I hereby sever all connections between my family, my duchy, and theirs. There will be no trade, no alliances, and no relations among us. Let it be clear—betrayal has consequences."
Everyone were desperate for even the slightest chance to curry favor with him. But it was the women who were the most eager. Dressed in their finest gowns, they glanced at him, whispering among themselves. They knew he was single, and the thought of becoming the Duchess of Easvil made their hearts race.
Some women went even further to adjust their dresses, revealing more of their cleavage while some swayed their hips with every step, hoping to catch his eye.
Julian smirked, watching them try their best. I sometimes wonder how human minds work. Every passing moment, all we think about is how to gain favor, how to climb higher, even if it means selling ourself.
Taking another sip, he leaned back in his chair, enjoying the spectacle. Just then, he immediately felt a faint fluctuation in the surrounding mana caught his attention. It seemed to be directed toward him, but it was not harmful.
He allowed the mana to flow toward him, and as he absorbed it, a message formed in his mind.
Come to the gardens.
A curious smile formed at his lips. Who could this be?
He stood, fixing his attire, and glanced around the room. The eyes of many were still fixed on him and he sighed inwardly, wondering just how many people were hoping for his attention tonight.
He closed his eyes and teleported, vanishing in an instant.
The ladies all gasped in disappointment as he slipped from their grasp. Julian reappeared in the garden, immediately greeted by the soft breeze. His surrounding was bathed in the dim orange glow of dusk.
He walked further into the garden, glancing around with an amused smiled.
There, at the center of the garden, stood a woman. Her figure was partially concealed by the shadows, but she could not conceal her commanding aura.
Julian couldn't help but feel intrigued by her presence.
He took a few more steps toward her, his eyes narrowing slightly, wondering who this figure could be. The woman slowly turned around and Julian's smirk widened as he recognized her instantly.
"Oh, Duchess of Ethwer."