The false dragon's advancement was cause for celebration across the realm.
The Shadowflame Grand Duchy remained lively for several days. Amid the festivities, the Cabinet's workload was still heavy, and industrialization never slowed for a moment.
It was not that the Cabinet Ministers were especially diligent. Rather, Russell was brimming with energy, urging this project to be finished quickly and that construction to be sped up. He would not allow the Cabinet Ministers even a moment to catch their breath. He rewarded good work generously, but for poor work, he berated them without restraint.
Russell was like a coachman driving a carriage. If the horses ran too slowly, he simply brought down the whip without hesitation.
That was the confidence of a Grand Duke who held real power. No one could bargain with him.
"Your Highness, Baron Kunbif has arrived," the attendant reported.
"Show him in." Russell narrowed his eyes. The Swan Baron had used thunder a couple of days earlier to request an audience with him.
Before long, Baron Kunbif was led into the side hall by an attendant.
The moment he saw Russell, he immediately dropped to one knee and performed a knight's salute. "This old servant, Kunbif, pays respects to His Highness the Grand Duke."
"Rise, Swan Baron." Russell lifted a hand. "You returned home to recover from illness some time ago. Have you regained your health?"
"Thank you for Your Highness's concern. This old servant has fully recovered." Baron Kunbif's attitude had become increasingly devout compared with before. "I have come today in hopes of easing Your Highness's burdens and doing whatever lies within my ability."
Then.
Baron Kunbif straightforwardly revealed his plans. He would hand his title over to his eldest grandson, join the Wyvern Regiment himself, serve under Baron Roman's command, and cooperate with