The Future of This World

Now that the plan had been decided, everyone simply waited to put it into action. Although they did not know what Fang Zheng intended to do, since he was so confident, there was no need for them to say anything more.

But...

"Miss Fiore, I need to speak with you about something. It concerns the Thousand Tree Clan."

"..."

At Fang Zheng's words, Fiore's breathing paused slightly. Then she glanced at Caules and Gord beside her before nodding.

"I understand, Mr. Fang Zheng. Please come with me. Let us speak privately."

Fang Zheng nodded. Then he and Fiore left the room together. Watching their departing figures, Gord let out a long sigh and slumped into his chair. Caules hesitated for a moment, but in the end, he did not follow them. He merely closed the door in silence.

Although they had been attacked earlier, the courtyard had fortunately escaped the damage. Fang Zheng and Fiore walked through it, taking in the scenery before them. Fang Zheng fell silent for a moment, considering what he wanted to say before finally speaking.

"What will happen to the Thousand Tree Clan after this war ends?"

"...I don't know."

Although she had prepared herself for it, Fiore still lowered her head at Fang Zheng's question.

"Uncle Darnic devoted everything to this rebellion. His bloodline, his magical power, his assets—he wagered it all. But if we lose, it will all have been for nothing... The Mage's Association probably will not spare us. Our assets will be seized, and the research achievements and patents we painstakingly accumulated over the years will likely all be transferred away. The already weak Thousand Tree Clan may even be forcibly disbanded..."

As she said this, Fiore's voice grew increasingly subdued. No matter what, it was still her family. Just thinking