Latest Chapter
A FIELD MARSHAL IN PLAIN SIGHT
Simon studied Victor Ashbourne carefully, realizing that the older man's suspicions were considerably more serious than he had initially believed.For several seconds, he considered how best to answer without revealing anything about his military identity. Victor was an experienced man with influential connections, and Simon understood that dismissing his question too casually might only encourage further investigation."Mr. Ashbourne, I would advise you to tread carefully when making judgments concerning a man like the Red Butcher," Simon eventually replied. "He was not merely another military commander. He was one of the greatest warlords of the Continental War, and his reputation extended far beyond the country he fought for."Victor raised his eyebrows. "I'm quite familiar with his reputation, Mr. Gallagher. But I'm not certain I understand your point.""My point is that the Red Butcher became a legend, particularly throughout the western part of this continent. His battlefield ac
DID YOU SERVE UNDER THE RED BUTCHER
"First, Mr. Gallagher, please accept my condolences once again," he began. "I understand how difficult today must be for you, and I appreciate your willingness to spare me a few minutes.""Thank you, Mr. Ashbourne," Simon replied. "My grandfather meant a great deal to me. I appreciate your family's presence here."Victor nodded respectfully before gesturing towards a quiet pathway leading away from the burial grounds."Would you mind walking with me?"Simon agreed, and the two men moved towards a secluded section of the cemetery grounds.For several moments, Victor remained silent, apparently choosing his words carefully."Mr. Gallagher, I have spent many years dealing with powerful businessmen, government officials, and influential families," he eventually began. "I know how easily people allow wealth and authority to influence their judgment. But I would like you to understand something about me."Simon regarded him attentively."I respect your position as chairman of the Arranguare
A KISS UNDER A FATHER'S WATCHFUL EYES
"Simon," she whispered, moving closer, "there's something I've wanted to do for a long time."She hesitated briefly, allowing him an opportunity to pull away, before leaning forward and kissing him.Simon was surprised by the unexpected affection. However, he did not reject her. He placed a hand gently against her back and returned the kiss, allowing himself to enjoy the warmth of someone who genuinely cared about him.The kiss was brief and tender, but it carried feelings neither of them had fully expressed before.Although several mourners noticed the moment, nobody interfered. The people attending the funeral understood that Simon was grieving and respected his privacy. Rather than making remarks or drawing unnecessary attention to the couple, they continued their conversations or quietly moved away.However, one person found the sight considerably more difficult to accept.Genevieve had been standing near the reception area when she noticed Clara approaching Simon.She had watche
THE EMPEROR'S FINAL FAREWELL
The first handful of soil struck Pa Gallagher's coffin, and Simon felt a pain that no battlefield injury had ever caused him.For several minutes, he stood motionless beside the grave, watching the burial attendants carry out their duties. His grandfather was finally being laid to rest, and the painful reality of his death had become impossible to escape.The funeral was taking place at a private cemetery in Betford. Despite Simon's immense wealth and influence as chairman of the Arranguare Group, he had deliberately arranged a modest ceremony. It was a remarkable contrast to the life Pa Gallagher had once lived. Years earlier, he had occupied the imperial throne of Navauria, one of the world's great military powers. As emperor, he had commanded enormous respect, enjoyed extraordinary wealth, and possessed the authority to influence the destiny of an entire nation. However, he had voluntarily abandoned his imperial responsibilities and the privileges of royalty to pursue a quieter, s
A PROMISE WRITTEN IN TEARS
"My boy, I am afraid that the people who once plotted to kill you may now be close enough to your younger brother to decide whether he lives or dies."He looked at his grandfather, his concern becoming increasingly difficult to conceal. Damon was not merely the emperor who had inherited the throne Simon abandoned. He was his younger brother, someone Simon had protected and loved long before either of them understood the responsibilities of the imperial crown.Simon's shoulders stiffened. "Do you have proof that my brother is in danger?""Not proof of a plan against him. But I have proof that is enough for you to fear one." Pa glanced toward the cabinet beside his bed. "My brown bag. There's a sealed envelope beneath the clothes. I wanted you to have it."Simon found the envelope and recognized the old-style imperial marking across its flap. He looked up, but Pa shook his head."Read it when I'm gone. I don't know who can still be trusted. Don't accuse anyone until you understand what
THE TRAITORS BEHIND THE CROWN
Pa Gallagher watched Simon for several seconds before speaking. His breathing was uneven, but he tightened his weak fingers around Simon's hand."Do you remember the Crownfall Front?" Pa asked.Simon frowned. "Of course. I fought them in Navauria. Grandfather, why are you asking about rebels who were defeated years ago?""Because you never knew who was helping them," Pa replied. "Jebbah financed their operations. The republic of Colsvogg supplied weapons and military advisers. The men you fought had friends in countries far beyond Navauria's borders."Simon leaned forward. Crownfall had used equipment the rebels could never have purchased themselves. "We suspected that they had foreign support during the continental war. If that's what you wanted to tell me, it can wait until you're stronger.""No, my boy. There's more." Pa swallowed and rested against his pillow. "Some of those friends were sitting inside our own imperial government."Simon's grip loosened. "What are you saying?""Of
You may also like

The Heir's Revenge
Twine Twin81.9K views
Rise From Prison: Married To A Beautiful CEO
Rex Magnus271.0K views
God of War, Returned For His Wife
DoAj43286.0K views
The Gilded Man With A Thousand Lives
Kaiser Ken102.2K views
APEX ASSASSIN
Chidezny197 views
The Son In-law They Mocked Found The Lost Vault
Clara Bliss133 views
Beneath The Servant's Apron
Hunter Santiago101 views
The Poor Orphan Boy Is The Campus God
Winner Amazing175 views