No one knew of the farce that had unfolded at Gravel Castle, but perhaps one day, it would be exposed to the public alongside a diary.
Meanwhile.
A farce was also taking place at Swan Castle in Fire Ant Swamp.
After the imperial decree was delivered to Swan Castle by a Shadow Guard knight from Red Castle, Kunspe Sunflower's hopes were completely shattered. As the family's second son—no, second grandson—he no longer had any possibility of inheriting the title of Swan Baron.
"Kunspe, be sensible. Make your preparations and go congratulate Russell on ascending as the new Grand Duke," his older brother Kunsley said softly, striking another blow.
Kunspe gritted his teeth. "Have you no shame? You were only one step away from becoming Grand Duke!"
Kunsley did not mind. "So what? The position of Grand Duke is no longer mine. That outcome cannot be changed. As a nobleman's son, do not cling to fantasies all day. Learn to accept reality and keep your feet on the ground."
After saying that.
He even patted Kunspe's cheek. "My dear brother, if you can learn to accept reality and kill more Snow Ghosts on the battlefield in the future, I may still grant you a knighthood."
"Heh, you think I care about your threats?" Kunspe sneered. "Grandfather will grant me a title. And if Grandfather does not, Father will!"
"Stop being foolish!" Kunsley sneered as well. "Father has already decided to withdraw from the line of succession. That means I am Grandfather's first heir! Kunspe, I advise you to abandon those unrealistic fantasies."
"You!"
Kunspe was furious, but Kunsley no longer paid him any attention and headed straight for the hall of Swan Castle.
Inside the hall, Baron Kunbif had already gathered the territory's many knights for a discussion. "Earl Thunderflame's inheritance