As expected of a man whose age had made him shrewd, the old duke knew when to bend and quickly adopted a more deferential attitude.
Will snapped his fingers. Everyone's vision blurred, and after a brief spell of pain and dizziness, they found themselves back inside Aldren Castle.
"Shall we find somewhere to talk in private?" Will raised his hand, and the snow-dusted wine bottle flew into it. He took a sip and frowned—the dry red tasted awful.
"Of course. Let's go to the study." The old duke smiled, acting as though he had seen nothing, then turned and instructed the others, "Everyone stay here."
"Father—" The spell on Edward had been lifted. He seemed to want to say something more, but a glance from the old duke made the words catch in his throat.
"Please follow me." The old duke rose, and Will stepped down from the high-backed chair...
Aldren Castle had many studies, but only two were generally used for meetings. Within those two rooms, generations of the Howard family had settled countless decisions that ensured the family's survival.
And today, Will and the old duke, Miles, took their seats there as well.
In the lavish yet understated study, Will and the old duke sat facing each other.
The old duke personally poured Will some tea. "Please, go ahead. This room is quite secure. Every electronic device except the lights is blocked, and no one can possibly overhear anything."
Will stopped keeping him in suspense. "I can give the entire Howard family a chance to become wizards."
The Howard family was very useful. The entire family wielded considerable influence in both politics and business, while the second and third daughters held sway in the media industry.
More importantly, nobles of their standing could get things done with ease.