Inside the study, Kestia got straight to business after settling in.

Sileus reported the intelligence he’d gathered while searching for a residence in the city.

“The primary heir is Prince Reina Sarn Berklischt, the old king’s direct-line grandson. Dubbed the First Prince, he’s backed by the royal family and Earl Ogros—his prestige is unmatched.”

“The second heir is Miss Yufi Sarn Greenlicht, a royal collateral branch member, endorsed by Earl Astris.”

“The third is Bassas Sarn Taralicht, another collateral branch candidate, supported by Earl Kainkrish.”

“The fourth heir is Princess Naveda Sarn Berklischt—Seventh Princess and Reina’s younger sister. As House Berklischt’s royal backup, she’s effectively her brother’s aide. Reina’s ascension is all but certain.”

“The fifth heir is Andrin Sarn Waterlicht, recommended by Earl Belnos. Rumor says he’s another genius with formidable strength.”

Kestia nodded, scanning paper reports while listening to Sileus’ summary.

Reina’s file was thickest—he had the most achievements and highest renown.

Her goal was diplomatic ties between the Dragon Realm and the Kingdom. The throne’s occupant mattered less than securing royal favor.

“So—who among them can we partner with?” she mused.

“Prince Reina is ideal. Or Seventh Princess. I’ve written House Berklischt… but received no reply.”

Kestia gave a faint nod. “They likely deem us beneath notice.”

House Berklischt’s victory was near-guaranteed—they needed no outsiders.

“Miss Yufi remains our best option,” Sileus pressed.

Kestia fell silent. Their last negotiation left her uneasy after Yufi’s overwhelming presence.

But he was right: as second heir, Yufi needed allies—and they had prior dealings.

“Very well. I’ll write. Let’s see if she’ll receive us.” Kestia finally agreed.

“If we visit her, bring young master Lanche. He seems quite close to Miss Yufi,” Sileus suggested with a smile.

After a moment’s thought, Kestia consented.

Once Yufi’s reply arrived, Kestia set off by carriage with Liya, Lekui, and Lanche.

“What’s wrong, Lekui? That look says, ‘Why is *he* here?’” Lanche grinned.

Lekui snorted through her nose, turning away with a cold stare.

Lanche chuckled, turning to Kestia. “Seriously though—why bring me? What’s my role?”

“You know Miss Yufi, don’t you?” Kestia replied.

“Ah, I see.”

Lanche nodded, still puzzled. Since moving, they’d halted business ventures. Was she pivoting to… politics? He hadn’t guessed she’d meddle in royal succession.

They reached the Royal Capital swiftly, the carriage racing straight to Yufi’s estate.

Yufi had been surprised by Kestia’s letter—why would the Claire Family care about the throne?

Suspicion flickered: *What do they truly want?*

After returning to the capital, she’d dug into their history. Records were scarce—only whispers of their immense, mysterious power.

*Not human. Vanished over four centuries ago… Why reappear now?*

Curiosity about their past had compelled her to agree to this meeting.

*Let’s hope they surprise me.*

But when the carriage door opened, Lanche stepped out first.

Yufi’s expression instantly turned frosty—the same look she gave nobles she despised yet couldn’t avoid.

For Kestia’s sake, she ignored him, silently praying he wouldn’t pester her.

“Miss Kestia—welcome.” She offered a polite smile.

Kestia bowed gracefully in return.

After brief pleasantries, Yufi ushered Kestia inside, pointedly overlooking Lanche.

He followed quietly, no foolish attempts to engage.

Liya and Lekui trailed behind, impeccable as ever—model maids upholding their mistress’s dignity.

In the parlor, they met Yufi’s father, Prince Edwin.

Golden-haired with a neat mustache, his mature, handsome face radiated warm hospitality.

“I’ve heard everything from Yufi. Please, be seated.”

His courteous demeanor held genuine interest—what could the Claires offer?

Kestia sensed their respect, her mood lifting.

*If negotiations reduce me to a mere tool again…* The thought alone filled her with dread.

Lanche sat beside Kestia; the maids stood silently behind their sofa.

Only then did Edwin notice Lanche—mistaking him for a servant, yet sensing his odd significance.

“My apologies—who might this be?”

“My husband,” Kestia stated.

Lanche rose smoothly, bowing with a self-introduction.

“Father forgot?” Yufi added flatly. “He’s the fifteenth son of Earl Belnos. Now wed into House Claire.”

*Ah.* Edwin recalled the boy—once warned to avoid “that waste of space.”

He stared at Kestia, bewildered. *Why marry such a man?*

Worse—parading him before guests? *Doesn’t she care for her reputation?*

“Miss Kestia’s union with House Belnos is… advantageous,” Yufi interjected, smiling.

Edwin’s eyes widened in realization. *Ah—political leverage.*

He understood why *this* son was chosen (easily controlled), but not why he was brought along.

“Miss Yufi. Prince Greenlicht.” Kestia’s voice cut through the room, calm but edged. “Lanche is my husband. He is Claire Family.”

Her gaze locked onto theirs. “Do not insult us.”

Both froze, stunned by her bluntness.

*How could Lanche possibly deserve such protection?*