However, inside Alden knew the real reason. The Duke of Hans had witnessed the shift in power when Julian killed Marcus in front of the dukes and the king. He understood that the Duke was likely coming as a gesture to form an alliance, knowing full well that in a world ruled by power, politics were everything.
Eleanor then asked, “Father, what really happened during the war? You seem to be hiding something.”
Julian simply chuckled as he was fully aware of the real reason for the duke’s visit. It was definitely a smart move, and Julian commended the fast thinking of Duke Hans.
Alden teased and responded, “Eleanor, you are still in the Sovereign Realm. Look at your brother—he is so young and already a Supreme Mage. He will catch up to you in no time. So stop worrying about others and start cultivating.”
Eleanor rolled her eyes and glanced at Julian, completely aware of how strong he had become.
Oh father, I do know, she thought, and I also know that I am carrying his child. A sudden blush crept across her face and her thoughts raced as she tried to push the embarrassing realization aside.
The usual conversation continued as everyone engaged in the food, the chatter flowing around the table.
After the breakfast, Julian spent the rest of the time cultivating, focusing deeply as he absorbed the mana around him. He could feel his world expanding and increasing his strength. Similarly, the quality of the mana in his world also began to rise.
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The time soon passed, and the Hans family finally made their way to the Easvil estate.
Julian and his family stood together at the front of the castle as they waited for the Hans with composed expressions.
Moments later, the sound of approaching hooves filled the air, and a luxurious carriage came into view. The carriage came to a stop and as the door creaked open, three figures emerged, each commanding attention with their presence.
First, the Duke of Hans stepped out with his tall figure and regal demeanor. His eyes scanned the surroundings as he took in the beauty of the Easvil duchy.
Behind him, the Duchess of Hans descended gracefully. Her gown flowed elegantly as she carried herself with the grace and charm that were expected of someone of her importance.
Finally, Isabel stepped out of the carriage with a hint of curiosity and excitement. Her beauty was undeniable. Her eyes swept over the gathered Easvil family and settled on Julian for a brief moment.
The members of the Easvil family stood still as they observed the approaching Hans family.
As they drew closer, they all bowed deeply to the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess and spoke in unison, “Your Grace, we all hope for your long and healthy life.”
Augustus stood tall and proud and laughed cheerfully as he raised his hand in a gesture of warmth. “Raise your heads, Frederick, Lisa, Isabel,” he said.
The Duke of Hans, Frederick, and his wife, Lisa, both stood straight, their postures as noble as ever, while Isabel remained slightly behind as she observed the exchange with a thoughtful expression.
The tension in the air loosened as the usual cheerfulness and warmth of Augustus’s personality broke through the formality and awkwardness.
Isabel’s gaze lingered and it briefly met Julian’s. A silent exchange passed between them, both aware of their past exchange.
Alden and Frederick exchanged a few words. Their conversation was light and friendly, though both men were aware of the underlying importance of the visit.
Meanwhile, Duchess Lisa and Regina shared a warm reunion as they hugged and exchanged pleasantries.
Julian stood beside them, watching the scene unfold with a grin. His gaze locked onto Duchess Lisa and couldn’t help but admire her beauty—she wore a stunning blue noble gown, and the fabric was adorned with glowing jewels.
Her figure was striking. It was milfy and curvy, with a big breasts and hips that spoke of her maturity and elegance.
Julian’s thoughts flickered for a moment as a sly grin tugged at his lips. Guess the time has come. he thought.
Julian approached Isabel with a playful glint in his eyes. “Long time, Isabel. How have you been?” he asked.
Isabel’s cheeks flushed slightly at the sight of him. She managed a soft smile and replied, “I have been well. What about you? You sure got famous after splitting with us.”
Her words were light, but there was a hint of curiosity in her tone. Her gaze locked onto Julian as she took in his new presence that seemed to radiate power, almost on its own.
Julian laughed softly with a grin on his face. “Well, a man like me is definitely destined for greatness,” he said.
Isabel chuckled, a light laugh escaping her as she shook her head. “Sure, sure,” she replied.
Julian leaned a little closer and his voice lowered to a more teasing but seductive tone. “We haven’t gotten intimate in ages. Did you miss my touch?” he asked with a subtle challenge in his words.
Isabel’s cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red as she quickly glanced around, ensuring no one had overheard Julian’s bold words.
She leaned in slightly and with low whisper said, “Julian, not in the broad daylight. They might hear us.”
Julian laughed softly at her response, and he noticed Frederick and Lisa looking at him with appreciating expression.
Frederick with a warm smile said, “Julian, you sure have grown even stronger than the last time we met.” His tone carried a hint of flattery, and Julian couldn’t help but sense the sucking up from Duke Hans.
Lisa leaned in slightly closer as she revealed a subtle hint of her cleavage. “Yes, Julian, it was just yesterday that you were sharing your stories with us back in the royal academy,” she said, her voice tinged with admiration. “And now look at you; you are unrecognizable.”
Julian’s gaze briefly lingered on Lisa’s cleavage. Sorry, Duke, she is the one who should be doing the sucking up, he thought with a smirk.
Then, he bowed respectfully to both the Duke and Duchess as he said, “Your Graces, thank you for your compliment.”
They all made their way inside. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. The grand dining hall was filled with the sounds of laughter and friendly chatter as everyone took their seats. The conversation flowed as the both families exchanged pleasantries. The feast was laid out before them, with delicious food and the aroma filling the room.
