Sothos Castle was far from peaceful tonight.
Aaron sat in his study. After waiting a while, he heard a knock at the door.
"Come in!"
The door creaked open, and a flash of skirt appeared as Ginny stepped inside. "Brother Aaron... I..."
"I told you long ago that I had little interest in power. Later, I became even more determined to pursue the occult..."
Aaron sighed.
Ginny nodded.
She knew her brother better than anyone, and she knew even more how terrifying his talent for the occult was.
In fact, ever since six years ago, faith in Grandmother had grown more than ten times as fervent across the Green Forest. Many lords had even secretly tried things like blood sacrifices, including some foreigners.
Yet not one of them had gained even the slightest trace of occult power!
It was as if Grandmother had given all her favor to Aaron alone.
"Raising children would only distract me, so I've chosen you as my heir..."
Aaron rose and patted Ginny on the head. "Do your best. Of course... if you fail, it doesn't matter. This is just an irresponsible older brother dumping a heavy burden on you..."
He showed her the Ring of Green Forest on his hand. "Go make preparations. In a few days at the earliest, a month at the latest, I'll pass on the ring that represents the Count of Green Forest and officially abdicate."
Ginny froze.
Being named his heir had already shaken her to the core.
But she was about to take charge of the vast Green Forest and the Northland. She was starting to panic...
"Did Father's death hit you too hard?"
Ginny suspected Aaron had already lost some of his reason.
"No, I'm perfectly clearheaded—clearer than ever! Now... you should go."
Aaron waved her away,