When the conversation briefly fell silent, the thoughts that had been flowing between their words seemed to be sealed away, creating the illusion that time had stopped.
The silent office held only the faint ticking of the clock and the crisp sound of light rain tapping against the windows, both becoming especially clear in the quiet Principal's Office.
Even the books on the desk seemed immersed in the tranquility. The nearby brass desk lamp trembled slightly, casting a warm yellow glow across the desktop that mingled with the deep wood grain, creating a peaceful hue.
Chloris gazed at Lanchi's desk in thought.
"So, Miss Chloris, is there something troubling you that you need my help with?"
Lanchi picked up the teacup, which still held a little warmth, and took a small sip.
Chloris raised her head slightly.
"I want to form an alliance with Mr. Luo Qi McCarthy and stop this war in the Empire."
She answered very directly.
"As far as I know, although Duke Morodian cannot be considered entirely part of the Pro-War Faction, your family should lean more toward the Pro-War Faction, shouldn't it?"
Lanchi was willing to trust Xi Duo. After all, he had not even harbored any ill will toward Zestira. More importantly, both in his conversations with Xi Duo and between the lines of his works, Lanchi could see his hatred of war.
But when it came to this Duke Miss, Lanchi still could not be certain of her position.
"My father actually disappeared a long time ago. The Duke Morodian currently appearing in public is actually a drug-controlled puppet under my command."
Chloris sighed as she spoke.
"..."
Faced with Chloris laying everything bare,
even Lanchi was stunned for a moment, his teacup suspended in midair.
He was not merely shocked that Duke