Earl Holber's Shock

Edwin's acquaintance with Count Hall had begun with a business collaboration.

As a hereditary noble with deep roots in the Kingdom of Loen, Count Austen Hall of East Chester not only held considerable influence in the House of Lords, but his family was also a major force in Backlund's financial world.

The "Chanel" brand founded by Edwin had been able to quickly gain entry into that closed and demanding aristocratic circle largely thanks to the Countess's casual recommendations at salons and banquets.

However, in this era, paying a visit to a noble with real power was quite a cumbersome affair.

Edwin stood before a full-length mirror, examining his reflection wrapped in an elaborate formal outfit.

A crisp black tailcoat, a stiffly starched white collar, and a flawlessly tied bow tie—

He could not help shaking his head.

He had submitted a letter requesting an audience a week ago.

Yet it was not until yesterday that he received a reply from the Count's servant, confirming the time of their meeting.

The carriage moved steadily through the streets of Backlund.

Its wheels rolled over the cobblestones, producing a steady clatter.

Thanks to his improvements to its suspension, the carriage rode quite smoothly.

Edwin lifted a corner of the curtain, his gaze sweeping across the scene outside.

Starting from the West Borough, the cityscape gradually changed along the way.

The scent of coal ash in the air slowly faded, replaced by neatly trimmed roadside trees and the fresh fragrance of damp earth.

The carriage eventually stopped before a magnificent villa.

The black wrought-iron gates were tightly shut, while two stone lions stood silently guard at the entrance, their surfaces covered in mottled marks left by time.

This was Queens, where Backlund's true elite and powerful gathered.

Edwin stepped down from the carriage, carrying