บท 572: Chapter 570 Karsten Family Duke
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"Crusch, huh?"
Emilia was somewhat taken aback.
To this, Fang Li simply remarked, "Isn't it something that surprising?"
Because even if Fang Li didn't suggest it, any discerning person would understand which covenant would be the best in this situation.
"As for the Karsten family, it goes without saying. As a great aristocrat who has always been by the side of the Royal Family, their power and influence are absolutely top-notch among all the major camps. Plus, the Duke's status brings with it influence and renown. Compared to the other camps, Crusch's advantages are more apparent."
Fang Li brushed the hem of his robe and said to Emilia, "In fact, among the five Royal Selection candidates, Crusch has the highest standing. With a legitimate background, extensive family history, and a righteous character, she's always been upright and honorable in her actions and character. If not for the need to consider the Dragon's Will and let the five Dragon Priestesses compete, Crusch might even have a chance to ascend directly to the throne, that's how influential she is."
Emilia immediately lowered her head, her gaze seeming somewhat complex.
Emilia still held a deep respect for Crusch.
As Fang Li had said, Crusch was upright and honorable, qualities that were well-known.
Moreover, Crusch had become the head of the Karsten family at a young age, gaining the status of a Duke. In the eyes of the public, she had always been highly praised. As an ally, there really wasn't a better choice.
But, the more outstanding Crusch was, the greater the obstacle for Emilia.
After all, Crusch was also Emilia's competitor.
"However, as it stands, Crusch is the most likely candidate to form a covenant with you." Fang Li directed his gaze towards Emilia and said, "The others, more or less, may have preconceived notions because of your status as a Half Elf. Only Crusch has never shown any negative emotions towards you. If you were to form a covenant as equals, she would be the best choice."
In other words, with the others, Emilia's covenant request might be rejected even before it begins.
Even Felt, upon their first meeting in the slums, had shown some apprehension upon learning about Emilia's identity as a silver-haired Half Elf, hadn't she?
If even that thick-skinned girl was like that, then the others would be even more so.
That's why Fang Li specially made this suggestion.
In fact, in the original work, Roswaal also wanted to form a covenant with Crusch, not with the others.
Perhaps because only Crusch had the potential to successfully form a covenant, and the benefits were also the greatest, right?
"Of course, a covenant is mutual. Since you've taken an interest in her, you'll need to offer something that she finds appealing." Fang Li said, "That's up to you."
Emilia nodded heavily.
Thus, the decision was made as a matter of course.
...
"The invitation has already been sent before departure."
In front of the Karsten family's mansion, Rem addressed Fang Li and Emilia, who were gazing at the opulent mansion before them.
"Though it happened just ten minutes ago, they have already accepted it."
Before Rem's words had even fully settled, at the other end of the spacious courtyard of the mansion, a figure was slowly making its way toward them.
Seeing the newcomer, not only Emilia but even Rem couldn't help but tense up involuntarily.
As for Fang Li, his eyes flickered slightly, and a playful smile appeared on his face.
The newcomer was none other than the old gentleman they had briefly met at Roswaal's mansion before.
Referred to as Old Man Wil by Ferris and as the "Sword Demon" by Julius.
"I apologize deeply for keeping the three of you waiting." The old gentleman bowed to Fang Li's entire group as he spoke.
"I am Wilhelm-Trias, the steward of the Karsten family. Lady Crusch has instructed me to guide the three of you. Please, follow me inside."
His words were polite yet assertive.
Just like the first time they met, Wilhelm exuded a presence that was hard to define, perceptible only to the keenly observant. That presence even surpassed that of Julius, the most outstanding knight in the Royal Guard.
It's no wonder Fang Li paid attention to Wilhelm instead of Ferris during their first encounter.
Emilia and Rem seemed to have a deeper understanding of Wilhelm, offering him respectful gestures.
Under Wilhelm's guidance, the entire group entered the vast courtyard and walked through the estate's grounds, eventually arriving at Crusch's mansion.
Their destination was the guest room nestled within the mansion.
Here, Crusch and Ferris greeted Fang Li's group as if they had been waiting for them. One stood up from the sofa while the other remained behind it, making it clear who was the master and who was the servant.
"Welcome to my estate."
Crusch greeted Fang Li's group with a dignified smile.
In contrast, Ferris welcomed them with a cute smile, playfully greeting Fang Li's group, saying, "Oh, didn't expect to see you again so soon after yesterday's Royal Selection meeting. Time flies, doesn't it?"
Hearing this, Emilia took a deep breath, stepping forward as if to ease her nerves.
"Apologies for the sudden visit."
Emilia's opening remark was delivered with utmost sincerity.
"I have something important to discuss with Lady Crusch today. Could you spare me some time?"
Her words were not mere flattery but emanated genuine sincerity.
This was precisely Emilia's strength.
Regardless of whom she faced or whatever difficulties she encountered, she always treated others with sincerity.
Crusch showed her utmost respect for Emilia.
"Just as I expected, you possess a noble soul."
Crusch looked directly at Emilia and smiled as she spoke.
"I cannot neglect such an important matter you bring. Please, let us discuss it."
With these words, Crusch suddenly changed the topic.
"However, can we postpone this matter for the time being?"
"Eh?" Emilia couldn't help but be stunned.
Even Fang Li couldn't help but look up at Crusch.
What surprised Fang Li was that Crusch also looked at him.
Then, Crusch spoke.
"Please stay here for the night."
"At this time tomorrow, I will listen to your intentions thoroughly."
...
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