CHAPTER 7: A GAME OF INFLUENCE
The tension in the city had shifted. House Liora's name was no longer just a whispered relic of the past—it was a looming presence, forcing nobles and merchants alike to reconsider their positions.
But Seraphina knew better than to be complacent. A single step forward could be erased with one misstep.
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The Weight of a Name
The morning after her confrontation with Lord Whitmore, Seraphina found herself in a quiet carriage ride through the city streets. Elise sat beside her, holding a scroll listing potential business partners, but Seraphina's attention was elsewhere.
The markets bustled with activity, yet she could feel the occasional curious glance thrown her way. Merchants whispered, guards stood just a bit straighter as they saw her crest, and noblewomen in their carriages tilted their heads to get a better look at her.
House Liora was being noticed.
"Your presence alone unsettles them," Elise murmured, as if reading her thoughts. "They don't know whether to welcome you or be wary."
Seraphina smirked. "Then I must ensure they choose wisely."
The carriage pulled up to Master Laurent's estate, the merchant who had subtly shown support for her at the gathering. This meeting was crucial. He was well-respected, and his endorsement could sway others.
But before Seraphina could step out, something caught her eye—a beggar cloaked in rags sitting across the street, staring directly at her.
There was something unnerving about his gaze. His lips moved as if whispering something.
"Strange," she muttered.
Elise followed her gaze. "What is?"
Seraphina hesitated. In the next moment, a passing crowd shifted, and the beggar was gone.
A trick of the mind? Or something else?
She shook off the unease. This was not the time for distractions.
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An Alliance, A Warning
Master Laurent received her in his grand study, filled with tapestries and rare artifacts from across the kingdom. He was a man who had built his wealth with patience, and it showed in his careful words.
"You handled Lord Whitmore well last night," he remarked as he poured tea. "That kind of composure is rare."
Seraphina accepted the cup with a graceful nod. "House Liora was built on more than just power—it was built on understanding people. It seems not everyone has forgotten."
Laurent smiled knowingly. "A name like yours carries both prestige and danger." He set down his cup. "You must know that House Ravencourt won't sit idly by."
"I do."
"Then understand this, Lady Liora," he said, his tone turning serious. "The merchants do not fear House Liora—they fear the nobles who would oppose you. If you want to reclaim your influence, you need more than just allies—you need security."
Seraphina took a slow sip, considering his words. "And do you have a solution, Master Laurent?"
He leaned back, watching her carefully. "There are whispers of a group—a neutral faction of traders and lower nobles who seek to break free from the stronger houses' control. If you gain their favor, you may find doors opening where they were once closed."
A faction of merchants and minor nobles wanting independence from houses like Ravencourt and Everhart?
Interesting.
"I'll consider it," she said smoothly.
Laurent chuckled. "I thought you might."
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A Cryptic Message
By the time Seraphina returned to her estate, dusk had settled. She stepped out of the carriage, her mind still mulling over Laurent's words.
But as she entered the grand hall, Elise rushed toward her, holding out a folded piece of parchment.
"My lady… this was delivered an hour ago. There was no name, no crest—only this."
Seraphina took the letter cautiously and unfolded it.
The message inside was written in elegant, unfamiliar script:
> You are walking a path that others have tried to bury. Be careful where you step, or you may find yourself swallowed by the past.
There was no signature. No indication of the sender.
A warning? A threat? Or something else entirely?
Seraphina's grip on the parchment tightened. Who was watching her?
She would find out soon enough.
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