A Test?
Qin Ran was not surprised by Earl Will's reaction.
With Mary having already made her move, it would have been strange if Earl Will, known as the "fox," had not responded.
However, his "assassination" did surprise Qin Ran.
Threatening others with his own death was not a good way to respond. Qin Ran did not believe the man would give up his power and status to become a "dead man."
Unless he had another objective.
As for what he wanted?
It was obvious.
"Given his status, he knows that if he is assassinated, Mary, as Warren's heir and the princess, will have to go inspect the body and pay her respects. And with the war having just ended, even for safety's sake, I will have to accompany her."
"So besides Mary, I'm a target too?"
"Or rather..."
"I'm the primary target!"
Qin Ran narrowed his eyes.
Under normal circumstances, considering the old earl's usual slippery manner, it was difficult to imagine him being bold enough to stake everything on something like this.
Simply put, he must have something to rely on.
And that backing had to be powerful enough for him to believe it could stand against Qin Ran.
"Who could it be?"
As Qin Ran guessed at the person hidden in the shadows, he looked toward Mary.
The underage princess was looking at Qin Ran as well.
There was no worry or fear in her eyes, only contemplation.
Clearly, Mary had also realized that the old earl's "assassination" was far from simple.
"I believe we need to discuss this carefully."
Earl Shilin spoke up from the side.
Qin Ran would never object to such a cautious suggestion. If not for the main quest requiring him to "ensure Mary successfully ascends the throne as queen within thirty days,"