Chapter 196: The True "Philanthropist
The towering, majestic castle, the solemn and dignified hall, a young King sits at the throne at the end of the red carpet.
The tall arched windows cast gentle winter sunlight, the stained glass depicts the glorious history of the Campbell family. The red cashmere carpet stretches from the doorway to the Duke's throne, surrounded by attendants and guards, the air is filled with the warmth of the hearth, mingling with the slightly fragrant candles.
This is the Audience Hall of the castle.
Kneeling on one knee at the other end of the red carpet, Yang Andes's expression is devout and solemn, speaking in a respectful tone.
"...Respected Your Majesty, your loyal servant from Thunder City, Yang Andes, offers you his highest regards!"
Looking at the Andes lying prostrate on the ground, Edward sitting on the throne nodded pleasantly, with a radiant smile, he said.
"Please rise, my loyal Mr. Andes; your contributions to the Campbell family and Thunder City are evident to all, even while sitting in the castle I have heard of them. I wonder what good news you bring today?"
This was a rhetorical question.
Of course, he knew the reason for Andes's visit; news had reached his ears earlier today.
Andes was aware of this too, but feigned a surprised demeanor, after respectfully offering thanks, he rose and spoke.
"Your Majesty, your foresight is divine, I dare not claim it as good news, but indeed I have a treasure to offer you."
As he spoke, he gently clapped his hands, an accompanying servant approached holding a square wooden box.
After receiving Duke Edward's nod of indication, Andes took the box from the servant and personally opened it.
The moment the wooden box was opened, a diamond the size of a pigeon egg immediately caught the eyes of everyone in the hall.
Andes's position was very strategic, standing precisely in the sunlight passing through the stained glass, allowing the dusky sunset to fall perfectly on the velvet pad.
Brilliant light dazzling in the hall.
Though Edward was already aware of the diamond's charm, he couldn't help but be captivated by its radiant appearance.
It's so beautiful!
His index finger couldn't help but rub the armrest of the throne, eager to have an artisan set it in his crown right away!
Seeing Duke Edward's reaction, Andes slightly relaxed, so far, Colin Mining had succeeded more than halfway.
Conquering the Campbell Royal Family would mean entering the noble circles of the Ryan Kingdom, and this was the largest piece of cake along the Vortex Sea coastline.
Buying into this market with five hundred thousand gold coins while gaining the Duke's favor, no matter how you calculate, it's a big win.
Clearing his throat, Andes continued speaking.
"...I saw this diamond at the charity gala; it was a gift from Mr. Roxey Colin to your sister Erin Campbell and Thunder City, and its crystal-clear, shining brilliance first reminded me of your radiant self. Hence, I had no hesitation, even if it meant offending your vassals, I had to bid for it and present it to the truly dignified you."
These words resonated with Edward's heart.
Even knowing it was just a polite remark, his spirit was nonetheless slightly moved, like a mild intoxication after tasting fine wine.
"You have a thoughtful heart, Mr. Andes; my vassals only think of sharing the glory of the Campbell family, none of them consider doing something for our honor. You're the only one who thought of this, and not just in words... I'm very satisfied."
Watching Andes nod respectfully, Edward Campbell smiled and kindly continued.
"I like your gift very much; I believe it will become the most dazzling adornment on the Campbell crown, just like you and your family are to me."
Andes displayed a look of being overwhelmed by favor, gratefully kneeling on one knee again, placing his right hand on his chest, sincerely speaking.
"To share your burdens is the honor of the Andes Family."
Edward nodded gently, speaking gracefully but with authority.
"Please rise, your loyalty is seen, no need to prove it repeatedly to me."
He was very pleased with this steward left by his father.
Wealthy, respectable, and understanding discretion... many people can manage one of these things, but few can do them all.
It seems the Andes Family heads of past generations possessed such skills, which might be why they've managed longevity.
The old stubborn members of the Campbell Duchy always opposed integrating the rising citizens into the duchy's ruling class, claiming those high-sounding reasons simply because they couldn't bear to relinquish the power in their hands.
They say gold coins will corrode the foundations of the duchy, yet the wealthiest are these hoarding dragons who never let anything out from their treasuries.
Edward scoffed at those remarks.
Of course, his stance towards Mr. Andes was not the unreserved trust outsiders might perceive.
The Demon Hunters established by the Trident Knights weren't just to internally oversee and weaken Geralt's military power but were also to enhance control over Thunder County while implementing various reforms.
The Isaac Dynasty fell to internal betrayal, and he is one who learns from history; he won't make the same mistake.
Looking at the treasure brought before him by the servant, Edward reached out to pick up the diamond from the velvet pad, holding it up for closer inspection.