"What?"

Marquis Branford squinted his eyes, unsure if he had heard correctly, and glanced around.

Everyone nearby stood frozen, their mouths gaping like statues.

Even the butler, who always maintained his composure, now wore a clear expression of shock.

To dare demand something from the marquis?

Not even the chancellor, the second most powerful man in the kingdom, would make such a bold statement. Other powerful figures merely hinted at their desires, never making such open demands.

This was undoubtedly the first time someone had been so audacious in front of Marquis Branford.

The marquis turned fully toward Ghislain, staring …