The inside story

Luther gazed at the noble coat of arms on the carriage.

The coat of arms consisted mainly of a flower and two rings. Its design was nothing particularly special, yet it felt quite familiar to him. It belonged to the Stratford Family, whose head, Viscount Stratford, held the important post of captain of the royal guard.

Earlier, Fors, the Magician, had contacted him to say that this carriage had also appeared at the scene where the conflict between the two churches had escalated.

Then his appearance here today was certainly no coincidence either!

"Your Excellency, is something the matter?"

The butler beside him noticed his lingering gaze and stepped forward to ask.

"Oh, nothing.

Luther turned back and replied calmly, "I was just thinking that the Negan Ducal Family certainly lives up to its distinguished reputation. Even now, with all this public scrutiny, so many people are still willing to visit."

Viscount Stratford's carriage was not the only one parked here. He deliberately kept his remark vague, leading the butler to believe that he was merely noting the number of visitors.

"Heh... we owe it all to the late duke's legacy."

The butler smiled politely and said in a respectful tone, "The late duke's prestige in Backlund was plain for all to see. He commanded everyone's respect. May the Lord bless him and grant him rest in the kingdom of lightning and Storms."

What he meant was that the previous Duke Negan had left behind an extensive network of connections. Even after his death, those with vested interests would rally together to preserve the duke as their standard-bearer.

"May he rest in peace."

Luther offered the polite response while rapidly considering what to do.

As a Senior Deacon of the Church, his duty was to continue following procedure and close