Chapter 946
The visiting patriarchs had already been ushered into the reception hall, their eyes darting around the lavish space while trying and failing to gauge the strength of Cloudshadow Sect guards stationed around them.
No matter how hard they focused, their cultivation levels remained completely hidden. ‘Damn,‘ they thought, ‘just how powerful are these warriors if they can mask their energy like this?‘
Up front, the leading family heads exchanged knowing glances. Coming here had definitely been the right move.
Behind them, young heirs practically vibrated with anticipation, their gazes locked on the grand double doors.
The rumors had spread like wildfire–the mysterious expert who’d conquered multiple factions was supposedly a stunning young woman. More than one hopeful bachelor adjusted his robes, dreaming of catching her eye.
‘Get chosen by her,‘ they thought, ‘and we’re set for life–wealth, power, maybe even influence for our whole family!
The air thickened with unspoken schemes when–click clack–heeled footsteps echoed from the hallway.
Every back straightened instantly. That could only mean one thing–the new ruler of Forlunda was about to grace them with her presence.
Before the footsteps even reached the door, the heads of the families practically shoved his blushing son forward. “Our humblest congratulations, My Lady!” he gushed, pressing a jeweled box into a guard’s hands. “Just a small token from Forlunda City’s merchants!“,
The leading patriarch tugged his fair–skinned son forward with a practiced smile. “Your Excellency,” he began with exaggerated courtesy, “this is my youngest. We’ve all heard how the great Lady Valor breaks conventions–a woman whose martial prowess rivals any man’s.” He gave an obsequious chuckle. “The boy’s been dying to meet you.”
“Since you’re new to Forlunda,” he continued smoothly, nudging his blushing son closer, “why not let him show you around? The city’s got hidden gems only locals know about.” His wink was almost audible.
Just then, leather boots clicked against marble as Cassian emerged from behind the screen. His stormy gaze locked onto the flustered young man now being offered like some sacrificial lamb.
The kid had been studying his shoes when the footsteps startled him.
He was just about to look up when a pair of polished men’s dress shoes came into view. ‘Wait–men’s shoes?‘
Last he heard, Forlunda’s new ruler was supposed to be some woman. His confused gaze traveled up sharply tailored slacks, over what was clearly a gym–honed torso, and locked onto icy eyes watching him like a hawk.
“Holy-!” He stumbled back, finger shaking as he pointed. “You–who the hell are you?”
A smirk played at the stranger’s lips. “Since you’re so eager to play tour guide for my wife,” the man purred, voice dripping with dangerous amusement, “who am I to say no?”
The other patriarchs gasped in unison. When they recognized Cassian, their faces went pale. The guy who’d been pushing his son forward earlier practically tripped over himself backing up.
“Y–you!” One elder found his voice. “Where’s Lady Yalor? We came to see our new lord!”
“Watch your damn mouth!” Timothy barked from behind Cassian, looking ready to throw hands.
“Mr. Lysander is Lady Valor’s husband,” Timothy said, voice sharp as a blade. “You insult him, you insult the whole damn house. So I suggest you check
that tone.”
The gathered family heads exchanged shocked glances. They’d come all this way to meet the new leader, and she couldn’t even bother to show her face.
1/2
Mon, 23
Chapter 946
Morris Shillingford was giving Cassian the stink eye. Like, full–on “I–stepped–in–dog poop” face.
‘This new leader might pack some muscle,‘ he thought, ‘but she’s clearly missing some screws upstairs. Letting her husband call the shots? Didn’t this idiot know ambition was the ultimate guy–turn–on?‘
Sure, he thought Cassian might play nice now. But give him a year? Two? He’d be building his own little army under the lord’s nose. Next thing they knew -boom!-Mr. Backup’s sitting pretty on the throne.
Morris almost laughed. They’d worried for nothing. He believed Raven was just another horny idiot who couldn’t see past her own bedroom. No way this fool could handle Forlunda’s factions.
However, just as he was about to retract his gaze, he suddenly saw a ruby ring on Cassian’s finger.
AD
