Volgograd (20)

"Margherita, does your family need mithril too?" Ang asked, reclining in a high-backed chair in the reception hall, his eyes slightly narrowed.

"Of course we do." Margherita gently swirled the cold drink in her hand, her tone relaxed. "We even want to trade mithril to the Mage Association for magical materials and supplies. That stuff has become outrageously expensive during the war."

"Then why hasn't your family sent anyone to the Archipelago Plane to compete for Mithril Ore?" Ang continued, a hint of probing in his voice.

Margherita shrugged, looking unconcerned. "I wouldn't know. The family never tells me certain things. I may have the Hall name, but I can't interfere in many decisions."

She said it lightly, without the slightest resentment at being excluded by her family, as though she had long since grown used to it.

Ang studied her calm expression, then abruptly changed the subject. "Tell me, did you sneak out again to rejoin the women's battle group this time?"

"What? Am I not allowed?" Margherita shot him a sidelong glance, mischief flashing in her eyes.

"Does His Highness know?" Ang pressed, his tone carrying a trace of scrutiny.

"Of course Preston knows," she huffed. "But since I'm under your command, he didn't interfere much. Besides, he's been obsessed with magical cultivation lately. When would he have time to bother with me?"

Seeing that she held no grievance, Ang did not ask further.

He relaxed inwardly, quietly relieved that this "elopement-style" enlistment had not caused any trouble.

After completing the Black Scale Horse deal, Ang felt much more at ease.

To him, this was not merely an addition to their military supplies. It also meant the Enchanted Armament Knights could expand by another seven hundred men.

After instructing a maid to look after Margherita,

he immediately went