Extraordinary Rise: Starting Contract with the Silver Dragon Countess

The attendant beside him was a secret intelligence agent planted by the Southern Empire in the Central Empire. Hearing Greg's question...

So he sent people to eavesdrop on Isabella and the others' conversation near their location.

The news quickly reached Greg, and the attendant said:

"It's like they're discussing sea creature trade with the Golden Winged Daughter."

Upon hearing this, Greg no longer suspected anything and, after a moment's thought, replied:

"Keep a close eye on them, see what they're going to talk about..."

Before Greg could finish speaking, the group saw a staff member dressed as a mall manager walk towards their tea room.

The staff knocked on the door, and Greg gestured to his attendants to remain silent.

But the staff member seemed to know someone was inside. After waiting a while and seeing no one open the door, a gentle voice came:

“Your Highness Gregor, our young lady said that she has great confidence in the security of the Kingdom of Constantine and does not need the people of the Southern Empire to protect them.”

If you insist on following, she will have to notify the Imperial Enforcement Team to speak with you.

Greg's face immediately darkened.

Needless to say, the "young lady" the staff were referring to was the daughter of the Golden Wing.

It was no secret that Pale Wings had a stake in this mall, but Greg was furious that his men were so incompetent as to have their presence discovered so quickly.

They even came to my door and found out my identity.

Greg gave his attendant a disapproving look, and the attendant's voice became somewhat flustered as he explained:

"Your Highness, this teahouse was purchased in the name of a viscount of the Empire. Apart from me, no one knows about its relationship with our Southern Empire."

The observation mission we just conducted was carried out covertly; the other side would never have noticed.

Greg's expression was ashen, and he said in a deep voice:

"The reach of the Military Intelligence Bureau is truly extensive."

Effie's intelligence capabilities are far more formidable than their king's.

I saw it last time in the Kingdom of Ceylon; there's no way Efein alone could have woven such a vast intelligence network. He must have other partners.”

The attendant now looked noticeably more nervous.

Since the other party knew that this teahouse belonged to their Southern Region Empire, he, as the actual owner of the teahouse, naturally exposed his identity as a spy of the Southern Region Empire.

For a spy, the exposure of their identity means the complete failure of their mission.

It will also lose its meaning of existence.

Moreover, this teahouse is the largest secret outpost of the Southern Empire's spies in Constantine.

More than half of the intelligence personnel had to use this base to transmit intelligence, receive operating funds, and accept missions.

Isabella's direct mention of the teahouse today means that the teahouse has been exposed, which will deal a huge blow to the Southern Empire's intelligence network in Kuntandin.

The attendant asked in a flustered voice:
"Your Highness, the teahouse has likely been exposed. What do we do now?"

Greg suppressed his emotions and did not answer his attendant's question.

Instead, he looked at the staff member waiting for a reply at the door, his voice softening considerably, and said:

"Please tell Miss Wenze that we have no ill intentions towards them, we just happened to be there."

Furthermore, would you have the honor of inviting Miss Wen Ze upstairs to sit and sample the special tea and snacks of our Southern Empire?

The staff member, who had clearly been instructed beforehand, smiled faintly and said:
"Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness, but our young lady has other matters to attend to, so we won't trouble you any further."

After saying that, he left the tea room.

Greg continued to observe Isabella and her group's movements through the observation window of the tea room.

The staff member who had come up to warn them jogged over to Isabella and whispered something to her. Isabella waved him off.

Without even glancing in the direction of the tea room, they continued shopping in the mall on their own.

This feeling of being ignored only fueled Greg's anger.

He glanced at the attendant beside him, who was somewhat flustered by his exposed identity, composed himself, and calmly said:

"Come back to the country with me after the Noble Martial Arts Festival."

Notify all intelligence personnel who have worked at this teahouse to evacuate immediately.

The attendant secretly breathed a sigh of relief, his face showing gratitude, and said:
"Your Highness, I am incompetent and have troubled you."

……

Isabella held up a fishtail skirt against Claire, a hint of a smile flashing in her eyes:
"It feels weird for a mermaid to wear a fishtail skirt."

Claire wasn't in the mood to try on clothes; the previous incident had left her feeling rather gloomy. She asked in a low voice:

"Were those people from the Southern Empire just now?"

Isabella said slowly:

"Yes, that teahouse is a secret intelligence point planted by the Southern Empire in Kuntanding."

The Military Intelligence Bureau has been watching them for a long time.

Nephthys should know better.

Nephthys was trying on clothes when she continued Isabella's words:

“There are our people among the waiters in the teahouse, and sitting inside is the eldest prince of the Southern Empire, Gregor Yarvis.”

A hint of surprise flashed in Claire's eyes, and she tried her best to keep her voice down:

How did you do that?
Not only can they find intelligence organizations from other countries in foreign lands, but they can also infiltrate their own people. This is just too much…

Claire knew that Cohen had an intelligence organization called the Military Intelligence Bureau, but she didn't expect that the organization was so powerful.

Nephthys smiled mysteriously and said:
“Chief, this is the core secret of our Effie. If the master did not tell you, I have no authority to disclose it.”

Claire slightly pursed her lips and said:

"When your king first discussed cooperation with me, he asked me to help him establish an intelligence station in the Endless Sea."

Several military intelligence stations in the Southern Empire were established with the help of my clansmen.

Nephthys's smile remained unchanged as she softly replied:
"So the sir asked me to tell you about the Southern Empire's spy in Kuntandin today."

This secret outpost is the largest operational location of the Southern Empire in King's End. After our actions just now, Greg will definitely abandon this outpost immediately.

"For the time being, the clan leader will no longer be bothered by the people of the Southern Empire."

Claire's eyes flickered; this wasn't what she wanted.

After a brief silence, she looked at Nephthys and said softly:
"I heard that Miss Nephthys is now in charge of the Military Intelligence Bureau?"

Nephthys seemed to read Claire's mind and replied with a smile:

“Miss Clan Chief, if you also want to participate in the construction of the Military Intelligence Bureau, you should communicate more with your husband.”

I believe he won't let you down.

Claire pursed her lips slightly. She knew all too well that this matter required Cohen's approval, but if she were to actually talk to Cohen, she feared she would be taken advantage of by this notorious "playboy."

My mind was in turmoil, and I let out a soft sigh.

"Hmm, this dress is nice. Try it on and trust my taste."

Chieftain, since you've come all the way to the most magnificent city of mankind, don't think about those troublesome official matters anymore.

We're out having fun today!

Claire suppressed the inexplicable emotions in her heart, and a captivating smile appeared on her lips:

"Alright, then we'll do as Miss Wenze says!"

……

As the start of the Noble Martial Arts Festival drew closer, King's Court welcomed an increasing number of dignitaries and nobles.

Nobles and royalty from various countries across the continent gathered in this magnificent city, the first of its kind in human history, awaiting the opening of this once-a-decade grand event.

The thirteen sections of the state guesthouse were almost fully booked. During his free time, Cohen, led by Isabella and Windsordler, also had friendly exchanges with delegations from several major countries.

Perhaps it's because Effie's reputation has grown recently, and Cohen has been rumored to be leading a team to Constantine to participate in the Noble Martial Arts Festival.

Therefore, apart from the five great empires, most other countries sent delegations led by their kings or heads of government, hoping to establish friendly cooperative relations with the king of the emerging nation.

Of course, more importantly, Cohen's identity as the "son of prophecy" is of paramount importance to the heads of state of most countries.

Not to mention that with the mainland about to fall into unknown turmoil, Cohen, the "son of prophecy" who has proven the reliability of his predictions several times, becomes even more important.

Especially after learning that Effiin was on par with the five great empires and occupied a state guesthouse reception area, these countries' attention to Effiin increased dramatically.

The fact that the Central Empire, the most powerful nation in humankind, attaches such importance to Effie demonstrates Effie's status.

Just as Cohen saw off the prime minister of the Kingdom of Solandis in the Land of Dragons, he saw a female official dressed in the uniform of the Imperial Palace with a golden rose embroidered on her chest waiting outside the door.

Windsordler, who had served as the Master of the Household for a long time, had given Cohen some basic information about the Empress's court beforehand.

For example, the "Rose Guards" who are usually in charge of Her Majesty the Empress's daily life.

Before Windsordler married Cohen, she was the head of the "Rose Guard".

The Rose Guard first greeted her former superior and then explained her purpose for coming.

She came to deliver a message.

The lady-in-waiting conveyed Her Majesty the Empress's latest decree, requesting King Effie and the Golden Wing's daughter to enter the banquet hall of the state guesthouse one hour in advance.

Her Majesty the Empress wants to discuss some things with them beforehand.

Cohen then realized that today was the third day since he arrived, and that it was Her Majesty the Empress's turn to entertain the participating delegations from various countries that evening.

It was also the time when Her Majesty the Empress announced the identity of her fiancé.

Let's talk about some things in advance...

Cohen asked:
"Is there anyone else besides me and Miss Wenze?"

The lady-in-waiting nodded slightly and replied:
"There are also the leaders of the other four great empires and some kingdom leaders."

A look of understanding appeared in Cohen's eyes.

It is speculated that Her Majesty the Empress is about to discuss the potential unrest on the continent.

The reason they invited me was probably because of my identity as the child of prophecy.

As for Isa, needless to say, she is the heiress of the First Business Alliance of the wealthiest family on the continent, and is even more qualified than Cohen to sit in Her Majesty the Empress's reception room.

By now, most countries with even a modicum of power have foreseen the major turmoil that will occur in two years. It is in Effie's interest to cultivate relationships with powerful nations capable of influencing regional affairs and to discuss countermeasures in advance.

Cohen agreed without much hesitation.

Time flies, and soon it was afternoon.

The welcome banquet was scheduled for 7 p.m., and Cohen, as agreed, took Isabella to the banquet hall of the state guesthouse at 6 p.m.

As soon as he stepped outside, a line of luxurious carriages was waiting at the door.

Outside the carriage stood the Rose Guard, who had come that morning to deliver the message. After performing impeccable court etiquette, she smiled and said:

"His Majesty Corleone and Miss Wenze are very punctual."

Her Majesty the Empress is already waiting.

Cohen smiled gently and led Isabella into the carriage to the banquet hall.

When Cohen entered the banquet hall, the waiters were preparing for the dinner that would begin an hour later.

Although there were many people, perhaps because the highest ruler was in the banquet hall, everyone moved very quietly and tried to keep their voices down.

The lady-in-waiting led Cohen and his companion through the main hall of the banquet hall, along a corridor of about three hundred meters, to an elegant and quiet reception room.

As soon as Cohen stepped into the reception room, he noticed several pairs of eyes looking at him.

He glanced at them briefly, and a slight smile crept onto his lips. They were all old acquaintances!
The person in charge of the Eastern Empire this time was still Prince Quentin, who had met Cohen at the Northwest Regional Exchange Meeting last time.

Next to Prince Quentin were Princess Grace Tang of the Empire and Prince Xia Zuo Tang, the first prince of the continent.

Prince Quentin and Prince Shazo naturally didn't give Cohen a friendly look, appearing very indifferent and not even bothering to greet him.

When Grace saw Cohen arrive, a barely perceptible joy appeared in her eyes, but to avoid being noticed by others, she quickly hid her emotions and did the same thing as Quentin and Shazzo.

As expected, the representative of the Southern Empire was also an old acquaintance of Cohen's, the First Prince Gregor Yarvis.

Sitting next to him was a man who looked like a bureaucrat. Cohen had previously read the information about the Southern Empire and recognized the man as Winston Smith, the Prime Minister of the Southern Empire.

Claire must have been impressed by this Prime Minister Winston, who was Commander-in-Chief of the Navy before succeeding to the cabinet.

He spearheaded several oppressive and conquest campaigns against the merfolk.

Compared to the indifference and disregard of the representatives from the Eastern Empire, Greg's gaze was noticeably more hostile.

He hadn't forgotten that it was this King Effie who ultimately reaped the benefits, taking over all of the Southern Empire's assets in the Northwest Continent.

The Western Empire was none other than the old friend of Cohen's father and mother, the Grand Duke Roland, who provided great assistance to Effie in the early stages.

The representative of the Northern Empire was also familiar: Prince Aldrich Cox of Violet.

And the most popular choice for "strongest silver," the first in line to inherit the Northern Empire's throne, Jinlunga Cox, who has perfectly awakened the bloodline of the Frost Giants.

Besides the four great empires, there are also some powerful kingdoms on various continents.

The Ceylon Kingdom and the Windbreak Kingdom came from the northwestern continent.

When Cohen entered, he noticed that in addition to Greg's unfriendly gaze, there was another hostile gaze fixed on him.

It was clearly from the Kingdom of Ceylon.

The delegation from the Kingdom of Ceylon was led by Prime Minister Yod and Prince Orlando.

The Ceylon representative felt only anger and hatred towards the culprit who plunged the Kingdom of Ceylon into civil war.

If it weren't for the inappropriate occasion, the people from the Kingdom of Ceylon would have stood up and questioned them.

Besides the Kingdom of Ceylon, the Kingdom of Windrise was also invited, and the one who came from Windrise was Crown Prince Airo Windrider.

The Kingdom of Solandis, which came from the Land of Dragons, was represented by a man and a woman who looked similar. They were introduced as the Crown Prince and Princess of Solandis.

The two men were rather mild-mannered towards Cohen, and the princess kept secretly observing him.

In addition, representatives from several kingdoms and influential organizations representing their respective regions also came.

For example, the Night Watch and the Church of Light.

After entering the reception room, Cohen greeted Grand Duke Roland, Prince Elo, and other acquaintances.

Following the female official's directions, I sat down next to the Western Regions Empire.

Cohen and Grand Duke Roland were talking in hushed tones when, after a short while, footsteps were heard, and the atmosphere in the reception room became much quieter.

Shinis, dressed in an elegant court dress with minimal adornment, entered the reception room and greeted everyone warmly.

He had absolutely no airs of an emperor.

After settling into his seat at the head of the table, he glanced at the representatives and said with a light smile:

"I called everyone over an hour early because there are some things I want to discuss with you."

Everyone looked at the emperor, who had an exceptionally outstanding demeanor and appearance. Although they had some guesses in their hearts, they still waited for him to speak.

Xenise waved her hand slightly, signaling all the female guards behind her to leave.

Then he gently picked up the teacup, took a sip, and said slowly:

"The changes that will occur on the mainland more than two years later... I think you all have a premonition of them."

After a brief silence, Prince Quentin of the Eastern Empire was the first to speak:
"There are similar deductions, but we only know the general outline. Does Your Majesty have more detailed information?"

After Prince Quentin finished speaking, Prince Violet of the Northern Empire immediately followed up:

"We only have a vague understanding; we don't know the specifics."

A charming smile appeared on Shanis's lips:

"I don't know much, but I am certain that in two years, more than one deity will descend to earth."

It's even highly likely that a deity of the highest rank, a chief god, will descend from there.

As soon as Shanis said this, a murmur rippled through the banquet hall.

The news that a deity of god-like status has descended to earth is extremely important.

Cohen's eyes also flashed with surprise. It seemed that the Central Empire's high-ranking officials had very powerful information channels with the gods.

Two years later, many gods will indeed appear in the world and announce a new divine covenant to the nations of humanity.

This information is currently top secret even in the world of gods. The fact that the Central Empire was able to obtain this information is enough to prove that they have sources of information from the main gods.

After a brief discussion, Prime Minister Winston of the Southern Empire asked in a deep voice:
"Does Your Majesty know the purpose of these deities' descent to earth?"

Shanis gently shook her head:
"It's unclear at the moment. Does anyone have any relevant information they could share?"

Everyone shook their heads.

Shanis didn't pay any attention, but her beautiful eyes fell on Cohen with interest.

Cohen was able to get the dean of Cobalt Soul Academy to take action at the Northwest Regional Exchange Conference three years ago.

Many people suspect that the other party made some kind of deal with Cobalt Soul Academy.

Combined with Cohen's identity as the prophesied son, everyone speculated that Cohen made a deal in exchange for detailed information about future turmoil.

Shanis's actions drew everyone's attention to Cohen.

Cohen raised an eyebrow, seemingly understanding the purpose of Shanis's early meeting today.

This provides an opportunity for oneself to negotiate with countries and organizations on the mainland that influence the situation.

To maximize the advantages of being the prophetic child.

It's not time for complete chaos yet, and Effie still needs some allies.

After Cohen understood everything, his expression relaxed considerably, and he addressed the crowd:

"I do not have any new predictions at the moment."

A barely perceptible look of disappointment crossed everyone's faces.

"but……"

Cohen changed the subject and said softly:

"I have recently sensed a glimmer of hope that I may be able to make some predictions about the great upheaval that is about to come."

Everyone's eyes lit up; Cohen's predictions were well-regarded and rarely went wrong.

However, after Cohen said that, the representatives understood what he meant.

What is not predicted now will be predicted in the future.

As for how to obtain the prophecy, that depends on the sincerity of each country.

"You have to inspect the goods before you buy them," Prince Quentin asked.

"What is His Majesty Corleone's prophecy about?"

Cohen smiled slightly and said unhurriedly:
"The exact time of the gods' descent into the world and...the source of the turmoil!"

Everyone's breathing quickened suddenly, and the atmosphere in the room became much more eerie...

……

An hour passed quickly. After providing Cohen with a stage, Shanis didn't say anything more and soon left to prepare for the welcome banquet later.

As the time for the welcoming banquet approached, the representatives left the reception room and headed to the banquet hall they had just passed, awaiting the evening's feast.

Inside the banquet hall, most of the contestants from various countries had arrived one after another, and waiters carried champagne and desserts, moving between the long tables.

Not long after, with a melodious chime, everyone turned their attention to the main entrance of the banquet hall.

Two female officials pushed open the gilded doors of the banquet hall, and the glass chandeliers suspended in the dome lit up with a golden halo.

The rose and thorn emblem embroidered on the deep red and gold carpet shimmered with a dark golden light, extending from Her Majesty the Empress's gilded throne all the way to the gate.

Upon seeing this scene, the participants and representatives from various countries straightened their appearance and stood solemnly.

The crisp sound of high heels clicking on the ground rang out.

Every step seemed meticulously calculated, with a precise sense of rhythm.

A long, flowing robe woven from silver threads trailed across the red carpet, its dark gold iris embroidery appearing and disappearing as she walked, complementing the golden crown that cascaded from her hair.

When the figure was fully revealed in the light and shadow, the previously noisy banquet hall suddenly fell silent.

The Empress stood backlit, her face flawless. Her long, silver-gray hair was tied up with a thorn-shaped crown, and the scattered diamonds hanging down her ears swayed gently, refracting starlight-like sparkles.

What is most captivating are those golden eyes, which sweep over the crowd like a supreme monarch looking down upon his subjects.

Unlike her simple and elegant attire in the reception room, Shanis now truly resembled a majestic monarch!

Exquisite beauty and noble elegance! (End of Chapter)