Extraordinary Rise: Starting Contract with the Silver Dragon Countess

Chapter 332 Returning home to offer condolences to the Queen and the Grand Duke!

After hearing Akdemion's account, Cohen was taken aback; Joren's actions had completely surprised him.

"You mean, Joren is planning to just coast through to the finals this time?"

“Uh… Great master, the lowly Akdemon failed to understand your meaning.”

Cohen snapped out of his daze and rephrased it:
"What I mean is, this kid's backed down and's planning to wait until the situation becomes clearer before making a move, right?"

Akdimon nodded and said:
"That's right, it seems that the master's last blow to him was too great."

Cohen was now in a real predicament. He had never expected that the nephew of the chief of the House of Nobles, the powerful and influential Baron Joren Wertheimer, would actually back down so easily.
He then asked:

"What happened to his men?"

Akdimon replied:

"He broke them all down into smaller parts and scattered them throughout the cities and towns of Ceylon."

Cohen frowned deeply. How could he possibly take over the power that Cohen brought with him now?

Joren also brought a lot of elite soldiers and mages with him this time. The magical equipment and magic crystal reserves on each of them were astronomical.

Not to mention that after capturing these soldiers, the Central Empire can pay to ransom them. Cohen did this once at the last Northwest Regional Exchange Conference, and it was truly a highly profitable business.

Cohen had been eyeing this huge piece of the pie for a long time, planning to take advantage of this opportunity to rip Heisenberg off, but now things have turned out this way.

He really didn't expect that Qiao Lun would be so cowardly.

Cohen frowned:

"Can you find out the exact locations of his subordinates?"

Akdimon shook his head and said:

"Some parts are fine, but if you ask too many questions, Qiao Lun will definitely become suspicious."

After what happened at the last Northwest region exchange meeting, Qiao Lun probably wouldn't trust anyone completely.

The back-and-forth switching of power among the various factions last time also left a huge psychological scar on Young Master Qiao Lun.

Cohen pondered for a moment, then spoke:
“I already know the situation. You should go back and keep Qiao Lun calm for now. I’ll think of something after Xia Zuo from the Eastern Empire arrives.”

Cohen would absolutely not allow Joren to live a peaceful life until the end. Since he wanted to hide in Quesaon and wait until the end to reap the benefits, then he would leave him nowhere to hide and force him out.

……

Southern Border, Southern County, Grand Duke's Residence.

The heavy oak door was pushed open by the royal guards, and the sound of leather boots hitting the ground echoed in the corridor from afar.

As footsteps sounded, the expressions of everyone in the operations room immediately became much more solemn. Officers of all ranks from the Southern Military Region stopped their idle chatter and pleasantries, sitting upright and casting respectful glances toward the door.

"The Grand Duke has arrived!"

With a low shout, Grand Duchess Asuna Iliad entered the war room. Today, the Grand Duchess was dressed differently from her usual attire, wearing a silver-gray military uniform that fit her tall and straight figure, with a golden sash hanging down her waist.

Her face remained as exquisite and indifferent as an ice sculpture, her beautiful eyes sharp as knives, sweeping indifferently over the officers in the operations room.

Led by Beau Angelon, commander of the Southern Command, all officers of regimental rank and above in the Southern Command immediately stood up and performed a standard salute.

Asuna gently waved the scepter in her hand, gesturing for everyone to sit down.

Beo bowed slightly, then raised his hand to signal, and his staff immediately unfolded a detailed military map on the wall of the hall.

After half a year of preparations, today is the day to report to His Highness the Grand Duke.

Commander Beo's voice was steady and powerful:

"Your Highness, the Southern Military District has completed all combat readiness procedures as ordered, and the specific deployment is as follows—"

In terms of infantry, the First, Third, and Seventh Legions of the Southern Territory have completed the replacement of all their magic armor with fire-resistant and impact-resistant enchantments.

Given the unique fortifications of the Ceylon Border Regiment, we equipped each spearman with armor-piercing spikes.

The archer troops were all re-equipped with composite longbows provided by the Winged Elves, with a range of 500 yards.

As for cavalry, all warhorses of the heavy cavalry division are enhanced with runes that resist magical impact and arrow penetration, and are equipped with heavy lances and runic longswords.

The mage and priest corps are also in place and ready to depart with the army at any time.

Asuna parted her red lips slightly:
"The report was well done. I will personally inspect the area this afternoon, and I hope the actual situation will match the commander's report."

“Yes, Your Highness.

The entire Southern Army awaits Your Highness's inspection!

After a pause, Asuna continued, "..."

"Has the battle plan been drawn up?"

Commander Beo replied:

"We have a preliminary plan."

The plan was agreed upon together with Marshal Arnold.

Once they determine the timing for their internal attack on the border corps, we will launch an external attack from here, coordinating from both inside and outside, to try and break through the Ceylon border with minimal losses.

"Okay, well done."

After Commander Beo left, Asuna's gaze swept over the group of officers in the operations room.

These regimental and brigade-level officers, who usually mingled in the lower ranks of the army, were seeing the Red Dragon Duchess for the first time.

Many people were stunned by the Grand Duke's unparalleled beauty, but fortunately, they were all battle-hardened soldiers and quickly regained their senses with the reminders of their comrades.

Noticing the Grand Duke's imposing gaze, everyone sat up straight, their eyes fixed straight ahead.

Asuna's voice became much gentler:
"You are all the most loyal and valiant soldiers of Alfein. The future of Alfein rests on the swords in your hands. I believe you can make Alfein great again."

I assure you all that once we capture the border legion, I will personally go to His Majesty to plead your merits!

The atmosphere in the operations room instantly became incredibly heated.

After the military meeting, Asuna stopped Political Officer Furen and Commander Beo and asked:
"How is the Duke of Gavin doing lately?"

Furen replied:

"He was very calm and didn't make any special requests. He just asked a few times about the specific time for the troop deployment."

Especially after the Marshal's great victory at the Twin Towers Fortress, and the Ceylon nobles flocking to the princess's side, the inquiries increased even more, suggesting they were quite anxious.

Commander Beo chuckled:

"I suppose they're worried their sons can't outmaneuver those old foxes. I've heard that all those old nobles have taken their families to Gavin Territory... well, it should be called Guimian City now."

All factions are now actively vying for the princess's favor, so it's understandable that Duke Gavin fears his son won't be able to manage the situation.

Asuna tapped her chin slightly and said:

"If Duke Gavin asks again next time, tell him the approximate time to put his mind at ease."

His Majesty specifically instructed that the Duke of Gavin is a close partner of ours, and that we need not hold anything back from him unless it involves important secrets.

"Yes, Your Highness."

After seeing Furen and Beo off, Asuna was preparing to rest when another maid came to report:
"Your Highness, your clansmen have something to ask of you."

Asuna's brow twitched slightly. The Star Clan had always lived in the Southern Territory as Asuna's people and were about to wage war against Ceylon. According to the previous agreement with them, the Star Clan's recently trained army would also go to war with them.

Like the Duke of Gavin, he must have come to inquire about the specific time of departure for the expedition.

Asuna agreed, and not long after, the first Starbringer representative of the Starbringers who migrated to the Southern Territory, Garin's teacher, Valan Colt, walked in.

After a few pleasantries, Valan cut to the chase and asked:

"Your Highness, should we immediately launch a military campaign against Ceylon?"

The other party was an important ally entrusted by Cohen, and Asuna did not hide this, replying:

“Indeed, His Majesty believes the time is ripe to send troops. Once Marshal Arnold’s battle plan is finalized, we will begin our operation.”

Varan asked:

"Your Highness, as per our previous agreement with His Majesty, we must also participate in this battle."

We've also formed a portion of our troops over the past few months, hoping to take this opportunity to participate in actual combat.

Asuna pondered for a moment, then said:
“Mr. Varan, the Border Legion is one of the most elite forces in Ceylon. His Majesty's intention is that we must win our first battle decisively.”

Valan paused, realizing that although Asuna's words were not explicitly stated, the implied meaning was quite clear.

The Starburst Clan's army is not yet strong enough to participate in a crucial offensive or defensive battle, so it's best not to get involved in this first battle.

After a pause, Asuna's voice softened considerably:
“After breaking through the border of Ceylon, large areas of land and people will need to be liberated, and then Mr. Varan can send his own army to join the war.”

Valan pondered for a moment and then said:

"We'd like to send a military observer group to participate, is that alright?"

The Starburst Clan is indeed lacking in military expertise. The newly trained army cannot participate in the battle, so sending out a few observation groups to learn from their experience in marching and combat is a good idea.

Asuna did not refuse, and nodded:

"Yes, I will tell you once we have confirmed the official departure date."

After Valan left, Asuna gently stroked the amethyst scepter in her hand, her longing overflowing uncontrollably.

It's been almost half a year since Cohen left the Southern Border, and in a daze, I heard a low, teasing voice:
"Thinking about men again?"

Asuna snapped out of her daze and said to Melantha, who had just returned from the Black Tomb branch:
"Is there any unusual activity at the Black Tomb?"

Melanza shook her head and said:

"No, it's rather strange that the Black Tomb headquarters hasn't reacted at all to such a huge upheaval in the Kingdom of Ceylon."

"It can't be that they're really scared after being beaten up last time," Asuna said.
"There is no best. Ceylon is already chaotic enough. I heard from you that three of the five great empires have gone there, and several neighboring kingdoms have also sent people to get involved. It's getting more and more lively."

Melantha rested her chin on her hand and said softly:
"I wonder if Cohen can handle such a complicated situation."

Asuna let out a barely audible laugh, and said meaningfully:
"Instead of worrying about that, you should worry about whether a few more princesses or young ladies will appear around you in the future."

"You dared to talk bad about me behind my back? I caught you red-handed!"

Cohen's voice rang in their ears, and Asuna's expression suddenly changed. Looking at Cohen who had appeared behind her, she bit her red lips lightly.
"Why didn't you give me a heads-up before you came back?"

"I was thinking of giving you a surprise."

Cohen put his arm around the two girls and whispered:
"Long time no see. Let me get a check-up and see if I've lost weight recently."

Asuna escaped from Cohen's clutches:

"I told the commander that I would be inspecting the combat readiness later."

You should get Melanie checked first.

Unlike the relatively conservative Asuna, Melantha had no such reservations and embraced Cohen with a long, deep kiss.

Asuna felt hot all over, and thought that if she stayed any longer, her legs would give way. She quickly tidied herself up and left in a hurry.

Watching Asuna flee in disarray, Cohen sighed inwardly, realizing that the beautiful dream of sleeping together was still a long way off.

Immediately afterwards, Cohen's thoughts were overwhelmed by the soft and full touch. All the buttons on Melantha gradually fell off, revealing a fair and shiny radiance that made Cohen unable to open his eyes.

"Looks like you haven't lost much weight..."

The dignified head of the Northwest branch of the Black Tomb, a half-step legendary transcendent, was stabbed repeatedly by a mere Silver-ranked individual...

……

When Asuna returned, the palace was unsurprisingly in a mess, with clothes scattered everywhere, enough to show the crazy scene that had just taken place.

Before she could even utter a sound, Cohen had already wrapped his arms around her from behind, burying his face deep in Asuna's neck, gently inhaling her alluring scent, and whispering in her ear:

"You've worked hard, Your Highness."

Asuna's heart was filled with love, and she reached out and touched Cohen's face.

Cohen continued:

"I'll have to trouble you to go through the trouble of serving your king again."

Asuna reached to unbutton her clothes, but Cohen stopped her:

"You don't need to take off your top; I think you look even better in this outfit..."

……

……

……

After releasing her pent-up desires and longing, Asuna gradually regained her composure. Although she was still naked and nestled in Cohen's arms, her thoughts had returned to the important matter at hand.

Asuna asked in a low voice:
"Why did you suddenly decide to return to the Southern Territory? Are you worried about the upcoming great battle?"

Cohen patted Asuna's delicate bottom and said:
"Don't overthink it. I have full confidence in my Red Dragon Duchess."

He paused, then said:
"Prince Airo from the Kingdom of Windbreak came to Effie to discuss sending troops, which is why I made a special trip back to my country and also to visit my Grand Duchess."

Asuna was delighted by Cohen's explanation and suddenly felt that some of the embarrassing things he suggested were not unacceptable.

Melantha woke up at this moment and snuggled up to Cohen like a little fish, hugging him from behind. Her voice was a little hoarse from overuse.
“I’m all set here. When are you going to Ceylon? I’d like to go with you.”

The situation in Ceylon is getting increasingly chaotic. Your strength is too low, little Silver rank. I'd feel more at ease having you protect me personally.

Cohen felt helpless when his own woman told him he wasn't good enough, but he couldn't find any words to refute her.

Given his current Silver-level strength, among all the women in his harem, only Biasna and Nephthys are somewhat stronger.

Cohen thought for a moment, then asked Asuna, who was in his arms:
"Can you manage the Southern Territory alone?"

Asuna rolled her eyes at Cohen:
Am I just a pretty face in your eyes?

Melanie also said:

"Don't worry, your squire has long since grown into a qualified grand duke."

Cohen then said:

"Alright then, when I get back from Florence, you can come back to Ceylon with me. I need some manpower there too."

Asuna, the southern border is yours to handle. I'll be waiting for you in Ceylon to lead your army in!

……

After leaving the Southern Territory, Cohen rushed to Florence to visit his sister, the Queen, who had made great sacrifices and devoted much energy to the development of Effie.

When Cohen arrived, Adel happened to be meeting with Prince Airo of the Windbreak Kingdom.

Her Highness the Queen quickly sensed a familiar presence in her bedchamber and immediately became distracted.

Prince Airo, oblivious to everything, continued to talk incessantly about his plans:
"...This is what we plan to do. Don't you have that friendly and cooperative treaty with the legitimate royal family of Ceylon, which allows you to send troops in a reasonable manner?"
Although we don't have that, we can find a workaround.

His Majesty Corleone's Queen, Windsor Windrunner, is a princess of the Winged Elves, and our Windrunner family's ancestors were also Winged Elves, so we can be considered a branch of the Winged Elf lineage.

According to the ancient covenant of the Winged Elves, as long as Princess Windsor agrees, our Windrider family can send an army as Her Highness's private guard.

It makes perfect sense for the Princess of Windsor to send this private bodyguard to Ceylon to support her husband's career.

Your Majesty, what do you think of this idea?

Ardel snapped out of her reverie, thinking that if he weren't a foreign guest, she would have already dismissed him with a casual remark and gone back to her palace to find Cohen.

However, the other party is, after all, the heir to a great kingdom, and currently an ally with whom we cooperate and share a common enemy; therefore, the proper etiquette cannot be disregarded.

She parted her red lips slightly and said softly:
"It does sound feasible, but Princess Windsor is not in the capital right now, so we'll have to wait until she returns to decide on this matter."

Prince Airo was alarmed upon hearing this. Ceylon was on the verge of internal strife, with various forces entering the fray. As Ceylon's top sworn enemy, it would be a disservice to the deep "friendship" between their two nations if he didn't stab them in the back at this critical moment.

Airo quickly spoke up:
"This matter doesn't necessarily have to be decided by Her Highness the Princess. Is His Majesty Corleone here? He should be able to make the decision as well."

Adele raised an eyebrow slightly and said slowly:

"Alright, then I'll go ask His Majesty."

Prince Aurora's eyes lit up:
"His Majesty Corleone is back?"

According to Effie's official statement, His Majesty Corleone is currently touring the provinces and is not in the capital.

Of course, anyone with eyes to see knows that Cohen went to Ceylon to cause trouble.

Adele replied calmly:

"It should be within the next two or three days. After His Majesty returns, let him talk to you personally, what do you think?"

Two or three days is a time Airo can afford to wait.

Perhaps it was because the titles of the most beautiful woman on the continent and the youngest legend on the continent were too resounding, that Prince Airo always felt that she lacked a certain aura when he talked to her, and he was not very comfortable speaking to her.

Talking to Cohen might be more effective.

Seeing that Adele clearly intended to see him out, Prince Airo did not linger and left the reception room.

As soon as Prince Airo left, Adele immediately transformed into a wisp of icy mist and vanished as well.

As Cohen gazed at the stunning figure before him, his heart sank, and all his struggles outside seemed to have finally come to fruition.

Ada's red lips curved into an alluring smile:
"You still know to come back. I thought you were going to become a son-in-law in the Eastern Empire."

Cohen stepped forward and put his arm around Adele, whispering:

"With such a wonderful queen, I wouldn't even consider becoming a son-in-law in the Eastern Empire, let alone a royal consort in the Central Empire."

Adele reached out her slender fingers to hook down her collar, and chuckled softly:
"You know what, I really want to see that woman pinned down and humiliated by you. It would be so satisfying!"

Cohen's breathing became much more turbid, and his pupils were quickly engulfed by an extreme white. His eyes immediately burst forth with a chilling dark desire, as if a bolt of lightning pierced his brain from his tailbone down his spine.

Her perfect body was held in Cohen's arms from the front, her long, plump legs wearing a gray stocking, hanging in the air on his shoulders, her shapely feet swaying gently.

As a deep, magnetic female voice rang out, beautiful things filled the pink palace again and again...

Cohen gently massaged Adele's flawless back, saying with a hint of tenderness:
"My queen has clearly lost a lot of weight. Has she been overworking herself again, disobeying the king's orders?"

Adele wiped the traces from her lips, turned her head, and a lingering desire flickered in the corner of her eye:
"My King, please understand one thing: Your Queen is the youngest legendary-level queen on the continent. Even if she doesn't rest for a month, there will be no problem for her."

"Did you go to the Southern Territory before you returned to Florence, and go see that female assassin again?"

Adel quickly grasped the crux of the matter: among Cohen's many women, only Melantha's despicable "truth" had an advantage over her.

Cohen wanted to slap himself for bringing this up when he had nothing better to do.

Seeing that Adele was getting angry, he quickly tried to soften her tone.

Since Cohen rarely came back, Adele didn't want to argue with him, so she kicked him twice as punishment.

Both of them had heavy responsibilities and a lot of work to do, so it was impossible for them to indulge in lust without restraint.

After their tender and intimate moments, Adele took the initiative to get down to business:

"The prince of the Windrise Kingdom has been waiting for you for a long time, and he keeps talking about his country's military expedition."

I just came up with another workaround: to treat the army of their Windrise Kingdom as Windsor's personal guards and send them out in her name to attack the Ceylon royal family.

This matter involves the Winged Elves, so it would be best if you discussed it with Windsor.

Cohen's palm gently massaged along the graceful curves of Yalderman's body, and he replied softly:
"I know what I'm doing. I'll let him cool off for a couple of days first!"

(End of this chapter)