mple was now clean, and the remains of Caligula, the former lord of the castle and high priest, had been laid to rest outside the castle walls. Priests offered prayers for him.The priest slowly raised...Chapter 338: Hubert came to steal the house
Protos Empire, April. {Updated chapters are the most complete and comprehensive, with error corrections being the most timely. Due to caching reasons, it is recommended to browse the official website with a browser.}
Northwest Province, Milford Borderlands.
Accompanied by the wind chimes ringing, a light drizzle fell from the overcast sky in spring, covering every inch of Milford's land.
Two gleaming armored knights stood ready at the gates of Milford, their eyes sharp and unwavering as they checked each passing soldier.
This path leading into the heart of Milford's territory does not border the kingdom of Aethelstan, but lies within the Protoss Empire. It is a common trade route used by other Protoss city-states to reach Milford's border regions.
Under the circumstances of a deliberate breach in border security orchestrated by the Earl of Milford prior to his communication with the Goddess of Fate, Hyberlians have successfully infiltrated the Protosian Empire with the help of executioners, priests, and paladins.
After circling around, they were about to officially enter the defensive barrier within the Milford Border Territory.
Hubberley, waiting at the rear of the squad, looked like a wealthy merchant's daughter. Her soft hair cascaded down her shoulders, tied with a red ribbon. A black fitted bodice and a red gingham skirt gave her an elegant, light yet classical air that added a touch of mysterious allure. Her eyes held a knowing gleam that was impossible to decipher.
Every one of her movements, whether a simple gesture or an instruction to the attendants behind her, was imbued with authority and confidence. She exuded an aura of aloofness that made her seem unattainable, yet she didn't lose sight of the feminine grace and elegance that defined her.
Being born into a ducal family, she possesses an innate noble air. Coupled with her superb acting skills, it's impossible to tell that her current persona is anything but genuine.
Three reliable six-rank divine officials became her guards, escorting goods behind her. Through their performance, they no longer had any trace of divine officials on them, and even had a kind of social air about them.
Being able to enter the Protoss Empire's territory smoothly was inextricably linked to the internal disruption orchestrated by Earl Milford.
Although the Earl of Milford, an aide to the Goddess of Fate, held a high position in the Empire, he also risked being caught by the Annihilation Branch if they found any slip-ups.
"I really want to meet that gentleman soon."
The three clergymen's thoughts were almost all over their faces.
After being separated for nearly half a year, they missed Mr. Wilford very much.
Simply talking with him makes them feel that life is meaningful, every second real and fulfilling.
“……”
Huberly glanced back at the three men, but said nothing.
Seeing how much they missed Lance, she couldn't help but start worrying about him too.
I wonder how Lance has been doing these past couple of months since we got separated. I hope he's living a relaxed life down south in the Protoss Empire right now.
After waiting in line for several minutes, Huberley and the guards finally arrived at the inspection checkpoint.
These knights responsible for the inspection clearly remained on guard against them, not only because they needed to check the legality of their goods, but also because they looked too strong.
One of the knights of the Guard, the captain in a helmet with red feathers, stepped forward: "Where do you come from The lordship of Milford does not welcome strangers."
At this time, the border city-states were in a state of fear, and rather than allow passage, they would prefer to avoid increasing the risk within their own cities.
Huperbly was about to explain, she had prepared her response to this kind of situation.
But just as the atmosphere became tense, a figure walked out from the depths of the city gate.
He looked to be in his early forties, with a serious expression. His jaw was firm, his nose straight, and his eyebrows were neatly aligned. He wore a finely crafted crimson velvet robe, embroidered with the Milford family crest and gold accents.
"Captain, these are my guests."
Earl Milford's voice was steady, but not as severe as his demeanor.
The captain seemed clearly surprised, and then bowed: "Yes, my lord."
Following a signal from Lord Nelson Milford, Hubertlyan and the three clergy came before Lord Milford.
Hubert had not expected to see Earl Milford so soon, nor should the Earl have personally come out to meet them at the city gates.
Ascetics of the Annihilation Branch had eyes everywhere in the northwestern provinces. The more Earl Milford acted, the more likely he was to leave traces and attract scrutiny from the Annihilation Branch.
Count Milford said nothing.
They were only instructed to follow the Earl's carriages and proceed to the Earl's residence first before discussing further.
Hubert and the clergy exchanged glances. The executioner, priest, and paladins all nodded in agreement; in their eyes, Earl Milford was a trustworthy man.
Immediately, they followed Earl Milford.
Entering Milford, they came to the path paved with slate stones of a pale grey hue. The massive gates closed behind them slowly, but Hyberlian did not look back. Though his journey across his empire filled him with a mixture of excitement and trepidation.
Today, we finally officially entered the territory of the Protoss Empire.
And the path ahead, whether it was evading the scrutiny of the Northwest Province's annihilation branch or ascending to the Royal Magic Academy of Protoss in the Imperial City, or even the final prison break plan, every step was fraught with danger!
One wrong step and you will be doomed forever.
But this is also a challenge she needs to face and a mission she must accomplish.
As the Milford Earls' carriage led them through the city, the city-state revealed its grandeur and splendor. Towering skyscrapers, unyielding walls, and winding rivers formed an imposing border city-state.
Through the car window, Huberly could also clearly sense the tension and alertness of Milford's citizens towards their current lives.
Not too long after, they arrived at Milford Manor, located on the eastern side of the city-state.
The mansion's main gate was crafted from sturdy black oak, inlaid with copper rings and carvings. Stepping through the entrance led to a pathway paved with pebbles, flanked by neatly trimmed low-growing shrubs and hardy plants.
Although this place is not as cold as the northern border of the Empire, there are still occasional sharp drops in temperature during early spring.
A squad of servants in crimson livery came forward to greet Hubert and his companions, taking their luggage. The four followed Earl Milford into this magnificent Milford manor.
After entering the mansion, passing through the entrance garden and several corridors, I arrived at the guest lounge. The high arched ceiling was adorned with crystal chandeliers that cast a warm glow throughout the room. Deep red velvet sofas and armchairs were placed beside a huge fireplace where logs crackled merrily, bringing a long-lost sense of comfort.
Not until all the attendants had left the hall and his most trusted valet was stationed at the door, did Milford finally turn his gaze once more to the visitor from the kingdom of Ethersyl.
Please sit down.
In contrast to this luxury, Count appeared as always serious and cold, but his reception was very simple and friendly.
"Thank you, Lord Milford, for your support of our church."
Upon taking her seat in the lounge, Huberly addressed the Count.
Under the strong xenophobic sentiments prevailing in other families across the northwestern province, Earl Milford and his family stood out with their welcoming attitude towards outsiders. Their willingness to lend a hand to those fighting for justice is a rare opportunity indeed.
Despite Earl Milford's strange behavior today, like the fact that he had lowered his guard against the minions of the Annihilation Branch, the greatest threat to the Northwest Province, she was still willing to trust the Earl.
(The End)
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