Chapter 322: Lavender Barony
In the eastern part of the Aiwood Kingdom lies the Lavender Barony. This territory serves as the border with the neighboring Geisel Empire and was once a major battlefield. During the war with the Empire, numerous conflicts erupted here, claiming the lives of many heroes on this land that has been tested by strife.
The lord of this land, Baron Lavender, is known among the many nobles of the Aiwood Kingdom as a fierce warrior. Even now, after the war with the Geisel Empire has concluded, he stands as a potential opposing force, voicing dissent against the Royal Family’s cooperative diplomatic approach.
(Baron Lavender is known as a loyal subject to the Royal Family. Celestine mentioned that he wouldn’t rebel like Marquis Aiger… but it’s wise to remain cautious.)
Whether he is a good or bad person is uncertain. Depending on one’s perspective, he could even be seen as a patriot. However, it is a fact that he differs in opinion from Marquis Rosemary, Marquis Cattleya, and Duke Crocus, making him an elder statesman with hidden agendas. He likely harbors some resentment towards Rest as well, so this journey will not be a leisurely one.
(If it were just about procuring ingredients, I could have given up… but since I received an invitation letter, I can’t just refuse without causing offense.)
After receiving the invitation from Baron Lavender, Rest consulted with his stepfather, Marquis Rosemary. It seemed that the Marquis had no prior knowledge of the summons and asked Rest to probe into the matter since he was going anyway. Otherwise, he would never venture alone into a place where trouble could be lurking.
“What can I say… I feel a bit like a spy. Of course, this isn’t a game.”
Rest gazed out the carriage window with a wry smile.
The Lavender Barony, specifically the capital of Lavenderburg, is at its heart. It is the largest city in the eastern part of the Aiwood Kingdom. While it may not rival the Royal Capital in grandeur, it is bustling with activity, and the main street is filled with merchants. Among them, there are clearly foreigners, their skin tones indicating they hail from neighboring lands, likely drawn here for trade.
(Baron Lavender seems to be a staunch opponent of the Geisel Empire, yet trade is thriving. Is this what they call ‘politics cold, economics hot’?)
He recalled a term from his social studies class in his previous life. It describes a situation where political relations are strained, yet economic ties remain strong. In this city, many peddlers are entering from the Empire, and merchants from the kingdom are visiting to export goods to the Empire.
(Trade revenue with the Empire is an essential source of income for the Aiwood Kingdom. Even if there are political issues with the Empire, disrupting that balance is something I cannot condone…)
Understanding Baron Lavender’s true intentions is one of the goals of this visit. After a while traversing the city, the carriage arrived at the estate of the Lavender Barony.
“Welcome! We are honored by your presence, Count Clover.”
As Rest stepped out of the carriage, a man in a butler’s uniform, presumably one of the estate’s servants, greeted him.
“Thank you for coming today. Allow me to guide you inside… The young lady is waiting for you.”
“Ah… I wonder if Ula is doing well?”
“Yes, indeed. She has been eagerly awaiting your arrival.”
“…I see.”
This place feels like half an enemy territory. The only reliable ally here is Ula Lavender, with whom he has deepened his friendship. Perhaps Ula also harbors her own secrets, but they had shared experiences in the centipede’s nest, so he had no choice but to trust her.
“Please, this way.”
“Ah… thank you.”
Led by the butler, Rest passed through the estate’s gates. Upon entering the entrance hall, he was welcomed by a multitude of servants lined up on either side.
“Welcome, Count Clover!”
“……”
The sudden loud greeting from the servants startled Rest, but he reminded himself that he was a count, a noble in his own right. He couldn’t afford to be shaken by such things. He steeled himself, forcing his feet to remain planted.
(Calm down… This isn’t a big deal. Compared to the time I was knighted by the king, this shouldn’t be nerve-wracking at all.)
“I appreciate the warm welcome. And where are Baron Lavender and the young lady…?”
“Welcome…”
“……!”
Rest had intended to remain composed, but he couldn’t help but be taken aback by her appearance. Descending the staircase nearby, a girl made her way down slowly, one step at a time.
“It’s Ula… right?”
“……”
Rest instinctively asked, his surprise evident. The girl, seemingly unbothered by his casual tone, nodded gently.
“I have been waiting… It is a pleasure to see you…”
With hesitant words of welcome, Ula Lavender stood before him, adorned in a delicate lavender dress and enhanced with makeup and accessories, transformed into a radiant beauty.