The announcement of the new Marquis swept through the city like wildfire, leaving its denizens stunned. Rumors buzzed through the streets, carried by whispers of fear and resignation.
For the most people, nothing really changed. To the powerful, they were merely disposable, and the rise of a new Marquis was a reminder of that harsh reality. Yet, despite their shock, they accepted the news in silence, as resistance felt futile.
All they could hope for now was that the new ruler would not make their already miserable lives worse.
Bella was undeniably capable, but even for her, managing resources for millions of people was a daunting task. The sheer scale made any promises difficult to keep. However, for Aengus, it was a trivial challenge.
While transforming barren lands was beyond his abilities, acquiring resources was a different story. By utilizing his skill of synthesizing demon cores, he produced them in the millions. This ability allowed him to resolve the resource crisis efficiently.
Over the next 3-4 days, Aengus expanded his secret networks throughout the neighboring Marquisate cities and even infiltrated the Duchy capital. Through these covert operations, he amassed near hundred million demon cores, securing the needed resources for the city.
With resources now abundant, the citizens were offered more work in exchange for additional supplies, leading to an improvement in their living conditions. Soldiers, especially those formerly under the demon regime, now rebranded as the Army of Liberation, received a substantial share of demon cores, allowing them to enhance their strength significantly.
The commanders and soldiers were overjoyed, their loyalty solidified by the influx of power. Aengus, understanding the importance of morale and allegiance, made personal visits to the army. During these visits, he would perform “miracles” by showcasing the incredible transformations of a few demons further strengthening them.
Each demonstration further brainwashed the soldiers, making them more devoted to him and driven to rise in power through the ranks.
The city, once desolate and fearful, now buzzed with newfound energy, as Aengus’s influence spread like wildfire.
“Brother-in-law, you’re really awesome!” Bianca exclaimed, her eyes gleaming with admiration.
“I didn’t think you could pull off these kinds of miracles in just a few days and take full control of the military,” she added, clearly impressed.
A faint sigh escaped her as she continued, “It was such a headache for me when I was in charge of managing the territory. The soldiers were always so unruly, and resources were so limited…”
“Really, comparisons are odious,” she muttered with a slight grin, knowing full well how much Aengus had outshone her efforts by a large margin.
Aengus stayed silent, walking down the bustling market streets, his presence drawing curious glances and respectful bows from the onlookers. It was clear to all that their new lord had already made a significant impact, improving their lives just shortly after taking over the territory.
“Urgh…” Bianca grumbled, clearly frustrated as she walked beside him, her red wings fluttering in irritation. She glanced over at Aengus, who remained aloof, completely ignoring her. “Sister, you should really try to cheer him up sometimes. He’s so gloomy all the time. And why do you two sleep in separate beds anyway?”
Bella, who had been smiling earlier, froze at Bianca’s blunt statement. Her cheerful expression faltered as she sighed deeply.
“What should I do now, Bibi? Your brother-in-law is always like that,” Bella admitted, her voice filled with resignation. “A few days ago, when I was stronger than him, I could force him to sleep next to me, but now… it’s much harder.”
Bianca almost tripped over her own feet, her eyes wide with surprise. “F-Forcing him to sleep together?” she stammered. “But you’re so beautiful, Sister! You really need to force him to… ‘do that’?”
Bella’s face flushed at Bianca’s implication, her embarrassment quickly turning into irritation. “What nonsense are you talking about?” she snapped, twisting Bianca’s ear as punishment. “I was just trying to break the ice! You naughty succubus!”
“Ouch! Stop it Sister! I am Sowwy..” Bianca whined, squirming under Bella’s grip. “Brother-in-law, save me!”
Aengus, watching their antics out of the corner of his eye, simply sighed. “I don’t have time to bicker with you two,” he muttered, continuing to walk ahead, ignoring their playful exchange.
“Ugh, brother-in-law is so bad!” Bianca pouted, rubbing her ear, though she couldn’t help but smile at the lighthearted moment.
Bella composed herself and turned to Aengus, her voice softening. “Yes, you’re right, Darling. We have to prepare for the journey to the duchy capital, to my father’s estate.” She stepped closer, matching his pace, her presence a gentle reminder of their shared responsibilities.
“Hey, wait for me, you two!” Bianca grumbled from behind, trying to catch up. “Sister, I want to come with you and Brother-in-law to visit Father. I haven’t seen him in quite a while.”
Bella, without missing a beat, shook her head. “No, you can’t come this time, Bibi,” she said flatly. “Not at least on this trip. Darling and I will be going alone. Do you really want to ruin our romantic moment together?”
Bianca faltered, unable to find a solid argument. Bella’s words struck at her playful persistence.
Bella’s expression softened as she placed a reassuring hand on Bianca’s shoulder. “Besides, someone needs to be in charge of the city while we’re away. You’re the only one we trust with that responsibility. We can’t leave it to those old fogies. Isn’t that right?”
With a reluctant sigh, Bianca nodded. “Yes, you’re right, Sister. I’ll manage the city.”
Bella smiled at her, giving her a comforting squeeze. “Don’t worry. I’ll ask your brother-in-law to craft you a fine weapon of your choice when we’re back.”
Bianca’s eyes lit up at the promise, a small smile forming on her lips. “Really? Fine, but you better keep that promise!”
“Of Course!” Bella smiled…
—
As they reached the mansion, Butler Yu stepped forward.
“Lord, the distribution of demon cores to the army had been done successfully.” he informed Aengus respectfully.
“Aengus, glanced at him and asked, ” How much demon cores left?” His tone was curt.
“Nearly 20 millions, my lord. That’s all we have left in the treasury. It’s enough to last for a month after all the settlement.”
“Hm.. That’s good. I will be leaving for the Duchy Capital, while I am away listen to Bianca’s every order. Inform the others as well.”
“Yes, my lord. As you wish.”
