Guangguang River Valley, Fluorite Castle.
"Dragon's Gaze, your devout servant Meryl Rainflower prays to you. May your broad wings, wise gaze, and warmth that shelters all living things protect my husband, Roman Fluorite Mushroom, and my son, Russell Fluorite Mushroom, and bring them safely home."
In the study.
Madam Meryl, who was personally dusting the bookshelves, could not help but turn once more toward the north-facing window and pray to the Shadowflame Dragon, wherever it might be.
A knight's destiny was the battlefield, and noble lords were no exception.
Madam Meryl understood that, and she supported her husband and son going to war, but she could not set her mind at ease. She worried every moment of every day.
Creak.
The door was pushed open, and twelve-year-old Laura quietly entered. "Mother, are you praying to the dragon?"
"It's Laura." Madam Meryl nodded. "Come here too. Pray to the dragon with Mother, pray that your father and brother return safely."
"Yes, Mother." Laura stood by the window and began to pray earnestly.
After they finished praying, mother and daughter went downstairs together and saw Roland, who had gone out to inspect the territory, returning to the hall below.
"Mother, Laura."
"You're back."
"Yes. I went around Wuyou Snake Manor. Russell has managed the territory well, especially the newly planted tobacco. The leaves are ready to harvest already. But the weather has been poor these past few days, so they can't be dried. Once the skies clear, they'll be able to produce Cloud Mist and Frost Series cigars."
Roland went on and on, but Madam Meryl had no mind to listen. Her heart was still with her husband and son.
Then Roland said, "Now that Lord Ross isn't here, Snow Ghost incursions may very well occur around the territory."
"How do you