Chapter 183

— All-bright! My wife adores him!

— How is your wife?

— Pregnant! — the man beamed with happiness.

One could only be happy for the man and congratulate him sincerely.

— And it's all thanks to your advice! If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have remarried!

Alexander bowed.

— Since you appreciate my advice so much, allow me to offer you more. Privately.

The baron immediately caught the tone of the last word and led his guest to the office, handing the valuable barrel to a servant. Settling into their chairs, the men poured themselves a drink. Alexander had to sit in a way that the light from the window didn't fall on him, fortunately, the windows were not yet large enough to be a problem.

— So, what did you want to advise me, esteemed sir?

— If I may, I would first like to ask a question.

Waiting for a nod of approval, the vampire took a deep breath.

— How does his grace assess the results of the campaign?

The baron's mood soured.

— Extremely poorly. He expected more.

"Are we all supposed to die there or something?"

— Then allow me to offer you some advice and request a favor.

— I am listening, — the baron said slowly.

— Not long ago, you mentioned that of all the factions behind Duke Kass, you support the dowager duchess.

The baron tilted his head slightly.

— Would you be so kind as to convey to her grace my sincere respect and assurances of my loyalty?

Savoyardi raised an eyebrow.

— I am surprised, but I will gladly fulfill your request. And what advice did you want to give me?

For a few seconds, the vampire was silent.

— Captain Vilor. I believe the duchess might want to take advantage of the situation and remove him, eliminating one of her competitors.

The baron waited a moment, ensuring that his interlocutor was waiting for his response, and also pondered for a few seconds.

— I think it would be quite wise of her.

— I don't think so. Persuade the duchess to make her son keep Captain Vilor in his current position. Of course, first explain to Captain Vilor who is keeping him in his position and office.

Savoyardi didn't even notice that the knight had fallen silent, his eyes were dull and lifeless. What was said made sense, but...

— I don't think her grace will agree to that.

— She won't agree to infuse all of Captain Vilor's supporters and resources into her ranks? Don't make me laugh. His dismissal gives her nothing; this way, he will be her lapdog with all his connections. During the campaign, I studied Vilor; he is not power-hungry by nature. He's more of a good chain dog who needs a master.

The baron stood up and approached the cabinet, pouring himself some wine. He intended to offer it to his guest but remembered that he didn't drink. Downing his glass in one gulp, he returned to his seat.

— I don't think I have enough influence.

— Send your brother. I think he would be happy to take on this task.

The baron's face brightened.

— That might work. By Mur's beard! It might just work! But tell me, why are you interested in all this?

— I want to become a baron.

— And naturally, you expect the duchess to assist with that?

— My loyalty is worth a lot, — the vampire allowed himself a slight smile.

The baron nodded understandingly. Enough had been said. The friendly relationship between the men was evolving into a mutual interest, with one holding leading positions and serving as a kind of guide for the other. If everything worked out, the baron would gain a reliable and personally indebted neighbor for the coming years. It was worth the effort.

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