Henry spent the last week reorganizing the city guards. The knights were cutthroats who spent more time harassing the civilians than protecting them. After delivering a severe beating, Henry was able to separate the wheat from the chaff, quickly whipping the remaining guards into shape. Soon, orderly guards patrolled the streets, and criminals who once thrived in Grand City’s chaos were imprisoned or executed swiftly.

Within a week, the city had drastically changed. The city, once riddled with crime and starvation, was regaining its former glory. The princess’s generous rations and enhanced security measures helped the city bloom with life once more.

Today, Henry found himself sitting to the right of Princess Sophia as she sat on her throne. Heather and several high-ranking ladies-in-waiting looked on as the princess addressed her brothers’ messengers. Before the princess stood her court of noblemen and city officials.

“Emperor Phillipe accepts his generous sister’s invitation to the conference,” announced Phillipe's messenger. "He desires to once and for all formalize his legitimacy as the imperial successor.”

Sophia then turned to her younger brother’s messenger, who cleared his throat before announcing, “Emperor Philonous accepts his generous sister’s invitation to the conference. He hopes this conference formalizes his right as the imperial successor.”

Over the past week, Henry had observed the princess grow more comfortable in governing. As her power and influence grew across the city, she looked more at ease dealing with her court.

“Good,” Sophia said. “Inform my brothers of my thanks. I hope to put a rest to their constant warring and establish civil rules of war.”

When the messengers left, Princess Sophia turned to Henry to ask, “How fares the city? I do hope my brothers’ messengers have not caused too much trouble?”

“Your Highness, their soldiers did cause a ruckus at an inn. However, I was able to handle it diplomatically. The innkeeper has been reimbursed for the damages.”

“Thank you. I know dealing with their antics wasn’t easy,” she said, rubbing her temples. Then she turned to the city administrator, whose servile behavior had grown considerably over the week. “How are the accommodations going for the conference next week?”

“Steady, they should be done by week’s end,” he replied with a humble bow.

“Good. We must be prepared for my brothers’ arrivals. Nothing can go wrong!” she decreed. “You all may exit.”

Now only Henry, Heather, and Sophia remained in the throne room. Turning back to Henry, the princess asked, “Have you identified my brothers’ spies?”

“Yes, Earls von Laurent, Allard, and Moreau support Phillipe. And Earls von Beaufort, Dubois, and Cartier support Philonous.”

“And Earl von Garnier, who does his household support?”

“It’s unclear, Sophia. However, I suspect it may be an outside entity,” Henry apologized.

“Like another kingdom?”

“It could be,” Henry shrugged.

The first day of the conference was a whirlwind of debate and diplomacy. Nobles from across the empire had gathered in the grand hall, their voices filling the room with heated discussions about the future of the realm. Each faction presented their candidate for the throne, but no consensus was reached. The air was thick with tension as alliances were tested and strategies were formed behind closed doors.

As evening fell, the atmosphere shifted from tense deliberation to forced merriment. The gala was held in a lavish ballroom adorned with banners of every noble house in attendance. Tables were laden with the finest foods, and servants moved swiftly to refill goblets with wine. Musicians played softly in the background, their melodies a stark contrast to the day's earlier turmoil.

Henry entered the ballroom with Heather on his arm, their eyes scanning the crowd. Henry could feel the eyes of various nobles upon him, some curious, others calculating. As the Knight Commander of Grand City, his influence had grown significantly, and many saw him as a strong ally to be won.

They moved through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries and introducing themselves. Many were surprised to learn he held two fiefs, and Heather was a Master Alchemist. Together, they were a power couple. The more the imperial nobles learned of the mysterious couple, the higher Henry and Heather’s stock rose. Many were curious about how and why this mysterious power couple had joined the princess’s faction.

As he reached the center of the room, a group of high-ranking lords from the kings’ factions approached him, their expressions friendly but guarded. Duke Alaric of Sapindacea, a tall man with a commanding presence and sharp eyes that missed nothing, was the first to introduce himself.

"Lord Henry," Duke Alaric greeted him with a warm smile, "It's an honor to finally meet the man who has turned the depressed capital into a thriving haven."

Henry inclined his head respectfully. "The honor is mine, Your Grace. I've heard much about your liege’s achievements as well."

Duke Alaric nodded in agreement, each of them eager to make their introductions. It wasn't long before they ushered Henry to a more secluded part of the ballroom, away from prying ears.

"His Majesty, King Phillipe, has a proposal for you," Duke Alaric began, his tone serious but inviting. "He recognizes your strength and the leadership with which you command the city guards. He believes that a man of your caliber could be of great service to the future of the empire."

Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

Henry listened intently, his expression neutral. "I'm honored by your words, Your Grace. But what exactly do you have in mind?"

Duke Alaric exchanged a look with the other faction members before continuing. "We are prepared to offer you a higher peerage—a dukedom, perhaps—along with a substantial amount of gold to ensure your towns continue to flourish."

Henry raised an eyebrow, intrigued but cautious. "And what would you ask of me in return?"

"Your submission," Duke Alaric replied smoothly. "The support of a man like you could tip the scales in our favor. We need a strong warrior such as yourself to turn the tide of this war. Someone who can help us secure the throne and ensure stability for all."

Henry nodded slowly, weighing his options. A higher peerage might indeed provide greater security, allowing him to expand their influence even further. But he knew there would be strings attached—there always were.

"I appreciate the offer," Henry said carefully. "It's a generous one. I would be willing to meet with you tomorrow to discuss this further. Please know the welfare of my people comes first."

Duke Alaric nodded, a satisfied smile on his lips. "Of course, Lord Henry. We would expect nothing less from a man of your standing. We look forward to continuing this conversation."

With that, King Phillipe’s faction took their leave, blending back into the crowd. Henry watched them go, his mind racing with possibilities. The path before him was fraught with danger, but also with opportunity. He would have to tread carefully, balancing his ambitions with the needs of his people.

As Henry was exchanging pleasantries with a group of nobles, a tall figure with a commanding presence approached him. It was Duke Orleans, a key member of King Philonous's faction. His dark, piercing eyes and neatly trimmed beard gave him an air of authority and cunning, one that Henry had come to recognize in the political landscape of the empire.

"Lord Henry," Duke Orleans greeted with a subtle bow, his tone respectful yet firm. "I must say, your reputation precedes you. I've been most eager to speak with a man of your many talents. They say you are the man who has swiftly turned Grand City from a lawless place into a haven.”

Henry returned the bow, recognizing the duke's status. "Duke Orleans, the pleasure is mine. I've heard much about your cunningness and strategic mind. What can I do for you this evening?"

Duke Orleans motioned for Henry to walk with him, away from the crowd and toward a quieter corner of the ballroom where they could speak privately. As they moved, Henry noticed several people carefully watching from a distance.

Once they reached a more secluded area, Duke Orleans wasted no time getting to the point. "Lord Henry, I won't beat around the bush. King Philonous sees great potential in you. He believes that with the right allies, the empire can be steered toward a more prosperous future."

Henry nodded, his expression guarded. "I appreciate the sentiment, Your Grace. But as I've mentioned to others, my primary concern is the well-being of my people and the stability of my towns."

"Of course," Duke Orleans replied smoothly. "But stability cannot exist in a vacuum, can it? It requires strong partnerships. The right alliances can determine victory or defeat. King Philonous believes you would make a good partner, and he's prepared to offer you a place by his side—a marquessate and a hefty sum of gold. All he asks is your allegiance in this delicate time."

"Your Grace, I am honored. But I’m already meeting with King Phillipe tomorrow. However, I’m happy to meet King Philonous tomorrow as well,” Henry replied carefully.

Duke Orleans nodded, expecting this response. "Understandable. We can discuss specifics at a more private meeting tomorrow. But know this, Lord Henry, King Philonous is a greedy man. Those who stand with him will find themselves rewarded handsomely. But those who stand against him will lose their property... and their lives.”

Henry inclined his head slightly. "Then I look forward to our meeting tomorrow, Duke Orleans.”

The duke smiled, satisfied with Henry's measured response. "Very well, Lord Henry. Until tomorrow, then."

As Duke Orleans departed, Henry felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned to see Heather and Princess Sophia. The Princess’s expression was a mixture of curiosity and concern.

"Are you alright?" Heather asked quietly.

Henry nodded, glancing around to ensure no one else was listening. "Yes, just another offer. Both factions are eager to win me over, it seems."

Sophia frowned slightly. "You haven’t heard my offer yet. Unlike my brother Phillipe, I do not have a strong army. Nor do I have barrels of gold like Philonous. But I can promote you to Earl and grant you a manor in Grand City.”

“Thank you, Highness. But you already have our support.” Heather reminded her. “Both, by the Twilight Order and Goddess Demeter.”

The princess sighed and looked back at the bustling ballroom filled with nobles and power brokers. “Well, I’m happy to have at least two supporters here,” she smiled wryly. “But I must gather more to achieve the goddess’s plan.”

Heather nodded, her hand slipping into Henry’s. “Just be patient, Your Highness. You’ll gain more supporters. It’s just a matter of time. Already people appreciate your neutrality and the safety of the capital.”

Henry squeezed her hand, a small smile breaking through his serious demeanor. “She’s right, Your Highness. Your faction will increase in time. By joining your faction, people can prevent alienating themselves from the kings. Only your faction can provide nobles safety," he agreed.

Princess Sophia gave a small, thoughtful nod at Henry's words, her gaze drifting over the crowded ballroom. "You both may be right," she said slowly. "If I can maintain the city's neutrality and keep the peace here, others might see the value in supporting a faction that is not tied to the ambitions of my brothers."

The princess glanced around, noting the subtle looks and whispered conversations happening in clusters throughout the room. It was clear that the attendees of this conference were not just here to enjoy a lavish gala—they were carefully weighing their options, considering where their loyalties might lie.

Sophia smiled, though there was a hint of worry still lingering in her eyes. "Thank you, Lord and Lady Brown. Your counsel has been invaluable.”

Heather leaned in closer to Sophia, speaking softly, "Remember, Your Highness, every great leader starts with a few loyal followers. From there, they build their strength. You have the support of your people and the backing of those who desire a safe place to live and fair rule. That’s a strong foundation."

The princess nodded, her confidence seeming to grow with each encouraging word. "You’re right, both of you. I must focus on strengthening my position here and gaining more allies through deeds, not just words."

As the evening wore on, they continued to engage with various nobles, always mindful of the delicate balance of power at play. The grand hall remained a hub of activity, filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and the underlying hum of political maneuvering.

Henry knew that the days ahead would be crucial. He would have to attend meetings with both factions tomorrow, navigating their offers and threats with the skill of a seasoned diplomat. He had to be prepared for anything, as the stakes were higher than ever.

But tonight, for this moment, there was a strange sense of calm. As he looked around the room at the swirling mix of ambitions and allegiances, Henry couldn't help but feel that he was exactly where he needed to be.

The night continued, and as the gala reached its peak, Henry couldn’t shake the feeling he was missing something. Tomorrow the kings and princess would meet to decide a successor, while nobles conferenced and schemed for their own interests. Henry knew he would need all his wits, strength, and alliances to navigate the treacherous waters ahead.