The next day.
Russell remained busy. In the morning, he went to inspect the handover of the serfs. This time, Red Castle's reward contained no empty gestures whatsoever.
The serfs granted to Russell were all young men and women, or skilled serf technicians and craftsmen. There were even several apothecaries among them—high-level specialists who could not be bought even with money, talents that high nobles had spent countless resources cultivating.
Russell had previously planned to have Fluorite Castle help train some, but now there was no need. These apothecaries were enough to produce all the potions his territory required.
"This was specifically arranged by the Regent Lady." Lord Kunbei, the Chief Steward, had come to oversee the handover of these serfs.
Russell readily accepted Princess Anxia's kindness. "I will remember the Regent Lady's generosity."
"You are the Grand Duchy's finest young man. Once the new Grand Duke is elected, he will still need your support." Lord Kunbei sighed. "Old fellows like us can only struggle to keep the current difficult situation from collapsing."
Russell smiled. By the time the new Grand Duke ascended the throne, he would probably already have become a Dragon Knight and gone off to establish his own nation.
After that, Lord Kunbei went on and on, spouting a great deal more nonsense.
At last, Lord Kunbei invited Russell. "A simple meal has been prepared at my castle. Why not join this old man for a feast, Lord Russell?"
After a pause, Lord Kunbei added, "This old man has a pair of beautiful twin granddaughters, both sixteen this year. They returned today from the Furious Wind City Girls' Academy. After the meal, we can hold a ball at the castle and let you young people get acquainted."
Russell glanced at Lord Kunbei, who was openly using his