After the meeting at Châteauclair Palace, Vergil, Freya, and Aeka returned to Avalorne with an air of determination. The carriage ride was filled with quiet contemplation, each of them mentally preparing for the tasks ahead. Upon arrival, they wasted no time and immediately convened in Vergil's study to finalize their plans.
"The parties are just the beginning," Vergil began, spreading out detailed notes and maps on the table. "Once we've destabilized their leadership, we'll need to act quickly to consolidate control over the aftermath. Aeka, your products will serve as both a distraction and a tool for gaining influence among the women of these families. Freya, you'll be handling Ravencourt, while I'll deal with Drakemont."
Aeka, seated comfortably with a quill in hand, nodded as she jotted down ideas for her exclusive products. "I've identified key figures in both families. Most of them are just loyal followers or minor players. They can be arrested later under charges of disturbing the peace. The real targets are the ones who hold sway over their factions."
Vergil scanned the names and sketches Aeka had prepared. His sharp eyes caught on one particular figure: "Ulrich Drakemont. He's not just a strategist—he's been secretly working with bandits operating in the forests surrounding their territory."
Freya leaned forward, her wolf-like ears twitching. "That's risky. If we take him out, the bandits could retaliate against Silvermere or Avalorne."
"Not if we use them as scapegoats," Vergil said with a cold smile. "We'll make it look like the bandits betrayed Ulrich and eliminated him to cover their tracks. It'll sow chaos within Drakemont's ranks."
Freya nodded in understanding. "And what about Ravencourt?"
Vergil turned to his sister. "That's your mission. I need you to systematically eliminate their leaders through sniping. Precision and subtlety are key. One by one, their structure will crumble without anyone knowing why until it's too late."
Aeka chimed in, her tone thoughtful. "If Freya focuses on the leaders, the rest of their house will fall apart. Without guidance, the remaining members will either flee or surrender."
Aeka leaned back, a smirk playing on her lips. "Meanwhile, I'll ensure the women of these families are too preoccupied with my new cosmetic prototypes to notice the storm brewing. I'm thinking of creating two distinct products to reflect their territories."
She flipped open her notebook, revealing two sketches. "For Drakemont, a woodsy scent infused with pine and amber—strong, earthy, and commanding. For Ravencourt, a delicate floral blend featuring lavender and rose—sophisticated and alluring. Both will be packaged in luxurious designs that mirror their family crests."
Freya raised an eyebrow. "You think they'll fall for it that easily?"
Aeka's grin widened. "Oh, they will. Vanity is a powerful tool. While they're busy competing over which product is better, I'll gather intelligence directly from their inner circles."
Vergil gave his sister an approving look. "As always, you think ahead. You've turned a simple distraction into an opportunity to tighten our grip on them."
Vergil and Freya reviewed the lists of key figures.
Drakemont Family:
Ulrich Drakemont: Military strategist and bandit collaborator.
Eleanor Drakemont: Matriarch with strong ties to neighboring merchant guilds.
Victor Drakemont: Commander of their knights and enforcer of internal discipline.
Ravencourt Family:
Sebastian Ravencourt: Political manipulator and public face of the family.
Claudia Ravencourt: Known for orchestrating covert alliances with rival houses.
Darius Ravencourt: Oversees their financial dealings, particularly with underground markets.
Vergil traced his finger over Ulrich's name. "I'll handle Drakemont myself. The bandits provide the perfect cover. Once Ulrich and Victor are out of the picture, Eleanor will be isolated, and we can force her hand."
Freya smirked as she tapped on Sebastian's name. "I'll start with this one. Removing him will leave Ravencourt politically crippled. From there, I'll move down the list. Sniping them one by one will send a clear message."
Vergil's gaze turned to Freya, his tone serious. "This will be your first solo mission. Trust your instincts, but remember: precision over speed. You don't need to rush."
Aeka leaned on the table, giving Freya an encouraging smile. "And I'll be there as an observer. If you need advice, I'm just a signal away."
Freya exhaled deeply, a mix of nerves and determination in her expression. "I won't let you down."
After finalizing their plans, the trio returned to the main hall of Avalorne Mansion. The sound of sparring echoed from the training room, where Vergil's five adopted daughters were hard at work. The sight brought a rare warmth to his otherwise cold demeanor.
Vergil set aside his coat and headed to the kitchen. "I'll prepare lunch," he announced, a small smile tugging at his lips.
Freya glanced at him, surprised. "You're cooking? You don't usually take the time."
"They've been training hard," Vergil replied, his tone softening. "It's the least I can do."
As he worked in the kitchen, Aeka and Freya peeked into the training room. The five girls were sweating and exhausted but showed no signs of giving up.
"They're getting stronger," Aeka observed with pride.
Freya nodded. "Vergil's training is harsh, but he's fair. He pushes them, but he also knows their limits."
When lunch was ready, the daughters gathered at the dining table, their faces lighting up at the sight of Vergil's cooking. For a moment, the weight of their mission was forgotten, replaced by laughter and the warmth of family.
Vergil watched them with a rare, genuine smile. "No matter how far we go, this is what we're fighting for. A future where they can live without fear."
Freya glanced at him, her usual smirk softening. "We'll make it happen."
Aeka raised her glass, her eyes gleaming with determination. "To the Brotherhood of Shadows."
Vergil nodded, his expression resolute. "To the future we'll build together."
For three days, Aeka immersed herself in the alchemy lab, perfecting her latest creation: the Youth Revival Essence. With Elen's meticulous assistance, the two worked tirelessly to craft a serum designed to tighten skin and erase wrinkles, offering a youthful glow that would captivate even the most discerning noblewomen.
Aeka's workspace became a flurry of activity as she refined the formula, adjusting ratios and testing samples to ensure perfection. Her dedication paid off when, by the end of the third day, the serum was flawless. Its light, silky texture and refreshing scent made it an instant masterpiece, ready for its debut at the upcoming parties.
Elen beamed as she held up the final vial. "This will revolutionize the beauty industry, Lady Aeka. Nobles from all corners of Châteauclair will flock to get their hands on this."
Aeka smirked, placing the vial into an intricately designed box. "Let them. This is just the beginning."
While Aeka focused on her prototype, Vergil and Freya alternated in their surveillance of the Drakemont and Ravencourt estates.
Vergil took the lead on the Drakemont mansion, choosing to camp out overnight in the dense forests surrounding the estate. Under the cover of darkness, he meticulously observed guard patrols, hidden entrances, and potential weaknesses in their defenses. He noted several supply wagons entering through a concealed side gate, raising questions about the family's dealings with the bandits in the region.
Freya, meanwhile, focused on the Ravencourt estate. Using her agility and keen senses, she mapped out their routine. Unlike Drakemont, the Ravencourt mansion was more ostentatious, with fewer guards but an intricate network of watchtowers and alarms. Freya noted the key figures' movements, identifying their vulnerabilities.
At the end of each day, Vergil and Freya reconvened at Avalorne to exchange findings and refine their strategy.
On the third day, Vergil called a meeting in the study, inviting his five adopted daughters to join. The young girls were eager to contribute, their eyes alight with curiosity and determination.
Elen and Mina leaned over the maps and sketches of the Drakemont mansion. Elen spoke first, her tone confident. "I've heard rumors about a secret passage within the Drakemont estate. It's said to lead directly to the family's vaults."
Mina nodded in agreement. "If the passage exists, it could be our way in—or their way out. We need to confirm its location."
Sylvy, who had been quietly flipping through a dusty tome, suddenly spoke up. "There's a legend tied to this feud. It's said the conflict between Drakemont and Ravencourt began over a magical golden seed. I've also heard that in Silvermere, there's an enchanted tree that bears golden fruit once every decade. They say the fruit grants immortality to women of House Valtierre."
Vergil and Freya exchanged intrigued glances. The information was unexpected, but it shed light on the depth of the families' animosity and their obsession with power.
"A magical golden seed," Vergil mused, leaning back in his chair. "If that's true, it might be more than just a symbol of their feud. It could explain their desperation and willingness to tear each other apart."
Freya folded her arms, her wolf-like ears twitching thoughtfully. "And if the fruit of this enchanted tree is real, it might be the key to unraveling this entire conflict."
As they pieced together the rumors, Aeka crossed her arms, her expression contemplative. "If this golden fruit and seed exist, it explains why the Ravencourt and Drakemont families are so relentless. They're not just fighting over wealth—they're fighting for immortality."
Vergil tapped his fingers against the table, his mind racing. "We'll use this information to our advantage. During the parties, we'll subtly probe for confirmation about the secret passage, the golden seed, and the tree in Silvermere."
Sylvy's excitement bubbled over. "If you need help, I can..."
Vergil cut her off with a gentle smile. "Not yet. For now, focus on your training. One day, you'll be ready to take on missions like this."
The girls nodded in understanding, eager to prove themselves but respecting Vergil's wisdom.
The day had finally arrived. Vergil and Aeka traveled to the Drakemont estate in a sleek carriage bearing the Avalorne crest. Upon their arrival, they were greeted with open arms by Lord Ulrich Drakemont and his wife, Lady Eleanor Drakemont. The Drakemonts, known for their pride and love of luxury, welcomed their esteemed guests with an air of grandeur.
"Welcome to our humble home," Ulrich declared with a smile, his sharp features softening at the sight of his distinguished visitors. "It is an honor to host the Lord of Avalorne and the famed Aeka Ragnaros."
Aeka smiled gracefully, exuding the poise of a noblewoman. "I've been seeking the perfect location to expand Aeka Touch, and I've heard that your family has a particular appreciation for our products. It would be a privilege to collaborate with you."
Ulrich's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "The rumors are true, then! The sister of Lord Avalorne herself is behind the famed Aeka Touch? Truly remarkable."
Lady Eleanor, intrigued by Aeka's reputation, stepped forward, her elegant gown trailing behind her. "I've heard much about your products, Lady Aeka. What brings you to Drakemont?"
Aeka smiled knowingly and produced a small, intricately designed vial from her satchel. "I came to present my latest creation: the Youth Revival Essence. It's a revolutionary serum that tightens skin and erases wrinkles, restoring a youthful glow."
Eleanor's eyes sparkled with interest. "A product like that would be invaluable to many noblewomen, myself included. Tell me, do you plan to open a store in our region?"
"If the opportunity arises, I would be honored to establish a boutique here," Aeka replied. "I believe Drakemont has the potential to become a hub for beauty and elegance."
Eleanor, already captivated, turned to her husband. "Ulrich, we must ensure Lady Aeka feels welcome here. This could be a remarkable opportunity for our family."
Vergil, standing beside his sister, seized the moment. "If I may, Lord Ulrich, a grand introduction for such a product would be fitting. What better way than to unveil it at a lavish gathering? A gala showcasing the Youth Revival Essence would not only attract attention to Drakemont but also solidify your family's position as patrons of innovation."
Ulrich stroked his beard thoughtfully. "A fascinating idea, Lord Avalorne. Aeka Touch has already garnered favor from Her Majesty, the Empress. Such an event could set Drakemont apart."
Eleanor nodded enthusiastically. "Coincidentally, our annual family gala is fast approaching. It's the perfect occasion to introduce Lady Aeka's product to our guests."
Vergil inclined his head respectfully. "A splendid opportunity indeed. I'm certain many nobles, including Lady Éloise Valtierre, would be eager to attend."
Aeka added, "I'll ensure the Youth Revival Essence is ready for the event. It would be an honor to debut it at your esteemed gala."
With the arrangement finalized, Aeka and Vergil prepared to depart. "We'll ensure our preparations are complete and return on the appointed day," Aeka assured Lady Eleanor.
Ulrich, ever the gracious host, offered lodging at the estate, but Aeka politely declined. "We'll stay in Silvermere," she explained. "Its proximity to both Drakemont and Ravencourt makes it convenient for us."
As they left the estate, Vergil and Aeka exchanged a glance. "Everything is falling into place," Vergil remarked, his tone low and calculating.
"It's a perfect stage," Aeka replied. "Now we ensure the product shines—and gather what we need for the mission."
The carriage rolled toward Silvermere, leaving the Drakemont estate buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming gala and the transformative Youth Revival Essence.
Vergil and Aeka arrived at a modest yet secure inn in the heart of Silvermere, where Freya had already secured their accommodations. The three gathered in the private quarters, shutting the door behind them to ensure absolute secrecy.
Vergil began by relaying his observations during their visit to the Drakemont estate. He spoke in his usual calm, analytical tone. "I noticed something odd about few servants. Their movements and demeanor seemed rehearsed, too polished for typical staff. At least one of them is likely a spy for the Ravencourts."
Freya tilted her head in confusion. "How can you be so sure? They looked like ordinary staff to me."
Before Vergil could respond, Aeka smirked and quipped, "Game recognizes game."
Freya's brow furrowed. "What does that even mean?"
Vergil chuckled softly and clarified. "What Aeka means is that the methods of spies and assassins overlap significantly. Both require discretion, observation, and the ability to blend in. The key difference lies in their objectives. Assassins focus on eliminating targets, while spies prioritize gathering information."
Aeka added, "And the politics behind their actions differ. Assassins often operate on personal convictions or for a cause. Spies, however, serve the interests of their employer, acting as tools for intelligence."
Freya nodded slowly, absorbing their insights. "I think I understand now. So the spy in Drakemont's household is likely reporting on us to the Ravencourts?"
Vergil nodded. "Precisely. Their presence confirms that the families are not only hostile toward each other but also actively monitoring any potential threats or alliances."
Aeka leaned back in her chair, her fingers tracing the rim of her teacup. "If there's one spy, there are likely more. They'll be watching us here in Silvermere too. We must tread carefully."
She paused before adding, "I have a strong feeling that the Ravencourts won't remain idle for long. By tomorrow, they'll likely send a messenger, inviting us to their estate. We need to be prepared."
Vergil's expression turned serious. "Your instincts are rarely wrong, Aeka. Freya, ensure our gear is ready by dawn. If the Ravencourts make their move, we'll head to their estate immediately."
Freya saluted playfully but earnestly. "Understood. I'll handle it."
As the night deepened, Vergil continued sharing his observations about the Drakemonts, including the possible political angles and how the spy's presence could impact their plans. Freya diligently reviewed her weapons, while Aeka jotted down notes about her prototype products and the key individuals in both families.
Before retiring for the night, Vergil reminded them, "This mission isn't just about eliminating targets. It's about strategy, observation, and precision. Each move must bring us closer to destabilizing their influence without exposing ourselves."
Aeka smirked. "We'll handle it. After all, it's not the first time we've played a game like this."
Freya, now more confident, added, "And it won't be the last."
The three exchanged determined glances, ready to face whatever the Ravencourts had in store.
The following afternoon, as Aeka returned from a leisurely stroll with Vergil and Freya through the bustling streets of Silvermere, the innkeeper approached her with a message. "Lady Seraphine Ravencourt is waiting for you in the tavern," he informed, bowing slightly. Without hesitation, Aeka, accompanied by Vergil, made their way to the indicated table.
Lady Seraphine Ravencourt, clad in a simple yet elegant blue gown, greeted them warmly. Her red-gold hair caught the sunlight streaming through the tavern windows, giving her an aura of composed dignity.
"Lady Aeka Ragnaros," she began with a smile, "I've heard of your plans to expand Aeka Touch into the Drakemont region. I must say, the Ravencourts can offer you far more lucrative opportunities—three times what they've promised, at least."
Aeka met her gaze with a polite yet neutral smile. "I appreciate the offer, Lady Seraphine. However, I'm still in the process of evaluating my options. The Drakemonts have invited me to their annual celebration, and I'll decide after considering all aspects."
Lady Seraphine chuckled softly. "How convenient. Three days after the Drakemont affair, the Ravencourts will host our own grand event. I assure you, it will be far more dazzling, and your new product will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of attention among our noble guests."
Lady Seraphine leaned closer, lowering her voice. "The Drakemonts may flaunt their wealth and power, but their crimes are written all over their faces. Despite their pretenses, they cannot hide the ugliness of their deeds. Did you know that bandits have been attacking villages on their borders, abducting young women and children to be sold as commodities? And who profits from this heinous trade? None other than Lord Ulrich Drakemont himself."
Vergil and Freya exchanged a tense glance but maintained their professional demeanor. Aeka, feigning curiosity, pressed further. "How could something so vile go unchecked? Surely someone has confronted them about it."
Lady Seraphine shrugged delicately. "The Drakemonts deny everything, of course. But we both know the truth. Those bandits don't act without their blessing. Their victims are proof enough."
Freya clenched her fists under the table, her fury barely contained, while Vergil remained composed, though his cold eyes hinted at his simmering anger.
Shifting the conversation, Aeka tilted her head and asked, "What about the rumors of a union between a member of your family and a Drakemont? Is there any truth to that?"
Lady Seraphine sighed, her expression softening. "Ah, Romero Drakemont and Julietta Ravencourt. Yes, they married, but Romero is a rare exception among his kin. He refused to partake in his family's misdeeds and sought to build a better life in Silvermere. As for Julietta, leaving the Ravencourt name was a necessary sacrifice. If she hadn't, the Drakemonts would've targeted her as well."
Vergil nodded thoughtfully. "I see. It takes courage to act against one's family, especially for love and principle. And sometimes, the cost of honesty is too great."
Aeka added with a knowing smile, "It's a delicate balance, isn't it? Choosing the right mask to wear for the sake of survival."
Lady Seraphine smiled in return. "Indeed. I look forward to seeing you at our event, Lady Aeka. Perhaps then we can discuss opportunities for Aeka Touch to flourish under Ravencourt patronage."
As they exchanged parting pleasantries, Vergil and Aeka left the tavern with Freya close behind. Once they were out of earshot, Vergil muttered, "The Ravencourts aren't innocent either, but we'll use this information to our advantage."
Freya nodded, her expression resolute. "Agreed. Let's see how far this web of lies goes."
Under the cover of darkness, Vergil silently infiltrated the Drakemont mansion. Having spent the previous days meticulously observing the guards' patrol routes and routines, he navigated through the shadows with practiced ease. His target was clear: uncover the truth behind the whispered atrocities of the Drakemonts.
Descending into the mansion's dimly lit basement, Vergil's sharp eyes fell on a horrifying sight. Row upon row of prison cells lined the walls, each containing girls and young women between the ages of 14 and 18. Their frightened expressions and hollow gazes spoke of untold suffering.
At the far end of the corridor, he discovered an opulent dressing room filled with luxurious gowns and accessories. The room connected to a stage-like platform surrounded by numerous seats, including an elevated VIP section. "A private auction…" Vergil muttered under his breath, his jaw tightening. The sheer depravity of the operation sickened him.
Steeling himself, Vergil concealed recording devices and other tools at key locations within the auction hall, ensuring they were well-hidden and strategically placed to gather irrefutable evidence. With his work done, he slipped out of the basement, his expression grim but determined.
Vergil made his way toward Lord Ulrich Drakemont's study, hoping to uncover written proof of the Drakemonts' involvement in the human trafficking ring. As he approached, he heard voices from inside the room.
"The auction will proceed as planned in a month's time," Ulrich said, his voice dripping with arrogance. "This event will bring in the funds we need to solidify our partnership with Aeka Touch. Once the profits start rolling in, no one will dare challenge our dominance."
Vergil clenched his fists at the mention of Aeka, his mind racing. He couldn't risk confronting Ulrich now; it was more critical to gather concrete evidence. Silently retreating, Vergil left the mansion undetected, his mind already formulating the next steps.
Vergil's next destination was the Ravencourt estate. The security here was more sophisticated, but no match for Vergil's expertise. Slipping through the shadows, he searched for any sign of the rumored secret passageways within the mansion.
As he prowled the halls, his sharp ears picked up a conversation. Following the voices, he found himself outside a parlor where Lady Seraphine Ravencourt and her husband were deep in discussion.
"The accusations from the Drakemonts have plagued our family for generations," Lady Seraphine said, her tone weary but resolute. "They've always claimed we stole the Goldenseed, but everyone knows the truth. It was a joint discovery between the Ravencourts and the Valtierres, and it was Lady Éloise's ancestors who successfully cultivated it."
Her husband responded, "Do you think Lady Éloise will intervene this time? This feud must end. Romero and Julietta are our best hope for a peaceful resolution."
"She's already taking steps," Lady Seraphine replied. "I suspect she wants to install Romero and Julietta as the new heads of both houses. It's a bold move, but perhaps it's the only way."
Vergil absorbed their words carefully. The pieces were falling into place, and he now understood the deeper intricacies of the conflict. Satisfied, he slipped away from the Ravencourt estate, retracing his steps to the inn where Aeka and Freya awaited his return.
Back at the inn in Silvermere, Vergil sat with Aeka and Freya in a dimly lit room, their discussion turning serious. The weight of the revelations about the Drakemont auction and the potential role of the Ravencourts in perpetuating the feud needed a higher authority.
"We need to inform Empress Eliza," Vergil said firmly. "She must know about the auction and the potential unrest it could cause. If we handle this correctly, we can dismantle the Drakemonts' operation and force a resolution for the feud without open conflict."
Aeka nodded in agreement. "What about Lady Seraphine Ravencourt and her husband? Their willingness to continue perpetuating the feud is troubling. If they remain, peace will be temporary at best."
Freya raised an eyebrow. "You're suggesting we take them out?"
Vergil shook his head. "No bloodshed. We need them to disappear, quietly and permanently. If they vanish, it paves the way for Romero and Julietta to lead both families without interference."
Aeka smirked. "I might have an idea. Leave it to me. First, let's deal with the Empress."
The next morning, the trio departed Silvermere and traveled to the imperial capital to meet with Empress Eliza II. Their audience was granted swiftly, as Lady Éloise Valtierre had already informed the Empress about the escalating situation.
Standing before the regal figure of Empress Eliza in the grand audience chamber, Vergil presented the evidence he had gathered, including detailed descriptions of the Drakemonts' auction plans and the Ravencourts' tenuous involvement.
"Your Majesty, the Drakemonts are deeply entrenched in human trafficking," Vergil began, his tone grave. "Their upcoming auction is not only a moral atrocity but also a destabilizing factor in the region. Funds from this operation are intended to solidify their power."
Empress Eliza's eyes darkened as she examined the documents Vergil had brought. "Unforgivable. And the Ravencourts?"
Vergil chose his words carefully. "While they're not involved in such heinous acts, their leadership, particularly Lady Seraphine Ravencourt and her husband, continues to perpetuate the feud. Their absence would allow Romero and Julietta to rise as more moderate leaders, possibly bringing lasting peace to both families."
Lady Éloise, present during the meeting, added her thoughts. "Your Majesty, Romero and Julietta have already proven their capability in Silvermere. They've built a life without the taint of their families' rivalry. Supporting them as leaders could be the solution we've sought for decades."
Empress Eliza leaned back in her throne, her expression contemplative. "The auction must be stopped, and the Drakemonts dismantled. As for the Ravencourts, I trust your expertise in making Lady Seraphine and her husband... irrelevant. No bloodshed, Lord Vergil. Handle this delicately."
Vergil inclined his head. "As you command, Your Majesty."
Vergil, Aeka, and Freya rode in their carriage back to Silvermere, the rhythmic clatter of hooves on cobblestone masking the intensity of their discussion. The trio was meticulously planning the downfall of the Drakemont family and the seamless "disappearance" of Lady Seraphine Ravencourt and her husband after the upcoming feasts.
Vergil leaned back, his sharp blue eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "If we're to make Lady Seraphine and her husband disappear without suspicion, we'll need to make it look like they've perished. A convincing body double will be key."
Aeka nodded, already envisioning the steps. "Finding servants within the Drakemont household with similar height and build shouldn't be too difficult. With a bit of magic, we can modify their appearances to resemble Lady Seraphine and her husband perfectly. I can handle the alchemical disguise—hair, skin, and even minor facial features."
Freya, sitting cross-legged, tilted her head. "And their real selves? Where do we send them?"
Vergil tapped the edge of his sword hilt. "To the capital. We'll create new identities for them and arrange a position within the imperial court, maintaining their noble status but ensuring they're far removed from the feud."
Aeka smirked. "The irony—becoming pawns in the very system they sought to manipulate. I like it."
Freya frowned slightly. "But won't they resist? Seraphine strikes me as someone who won't just vanish quietly."
Vergil shook his head. "She's practical. If we present this as her only path to survival—and offer assurances her husband will remain with her—she'll accept. Especially if we make it clear the alternative is much worse."