The night passed without incident.
Kunsley did not send anyone to kill Russell and Mel. Though Selecting the Young Master existed in name only, he could still inherit the title of Swan Baron.
There was no need to take the risk.
Kunspe, however, wanted Russell dead so Kunsley could continue competing for Grand Duke, allowing him to inherit everything in Swan Castle.
Unfortunately, no one was willing to take his orders. His fate was already sealed—he was merely the second son of a High Noble.
"Lord Kunbif, thank you for your generous hospitality." Cousin Mel bowed.
Russell merely nodded calmly. "Thank you for your hospitality."
Baron Kunbif waved a hand. "Lord Russell, Lord Mel, this old man wishes you a smooth journey."
The party set out, leaving Swan Castle.
"Grandfather, you didn't need to be so polite to them at all!" Kunspe complained under his breath. "They are enemies of our Sunflower Family! They even want to usurp our place and seize the right to claim the Shadowflame Dragon!"
Baron Kunbif glanced at his second grandson, then at his eldest grandson, Kunsley, who seemed entirely unconcerned. "What do you think?"
Kunsley smiled faintly. "Grandfather, the dust has yet to settle. I don't think the family needs to fight to the death."
Kunspe complained, "Big Brother, you're too weak! If you'd been more forceful, you would have won the Shadowflame Dragon's recognition long ago!"
"What do you know, brat? Do you think winning the Shadowflame Dragon's recognition is so easy?" Kunsley shot his brother a glare. "Without the Scorching Torrent Kingdom's support, we have no chance of standing against Mel and Augustus!"
"But we had the best odds to begin with!"
"Unfortunately, Russell came along to ruin everything. And His Majesty Ares of the Scorching Torrent Kingdom keeps changing his mind!"