Lizzy’s visit to the Blackwood estate wasn’t solely to see me. As it turned out, she came to propose establishing a branch of the August Trading Company in Blackwood territory.

The primary reasons were the lack of an established branch in the eastern region and the proximity to the Barbaracus tribe's territory.

“So, originally, I came to speak with Duke Harold, but unfortunately, it seems he’s not here today.”

“He left for the academy three days ago. The new semester starts in March, after all.”

“Oh, that’s right, Duke Harold is also a professor. Even though Ethan and you graduated, …