Chapter 110
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Chapter 110: Monopoly and Competition
Awakening held inherent appeal.
An awakening without side effects proved even more enticing.
When the temptation of power combined with guaranteed safety, even the cunning branch leaders of seven major branches couldn’t resist. Their alliance remained fragile – each harbored secret ambitions to claim greater benefits after Iron-Blood Duke’s downfall.
Now, as disagreements split the leaders, Fina seized control of the family meeting by offering bait. After prolonged negotiations, the leaders reluctantly agreed to let Fina consolidate branches for the coming civil war. In exchange, Hawk Brigade would provide awakening facilities.
The magic research department’s about to get busy.
Midi thought privately, releasing quiet breath.
The meeting achieved half-success – not decisive victory, but clear advantage.
Though appearing simple, this outcome required countless calculations between Midi and Fina. The Ultimate Intent’s devastating sword strike, analysis of each branch’s motives, secret alliances forged through probing, plus Elven Palace’s heritage and Alice’s magic as backing – all combined with their flawless teamwork finally pressured the seven branches into concession.
Yet these remained mere verbal promises. Actual compliance – whether genuine or feigned – remained uncertain.
"We’ve settled consolidation. Now we address Hamilton family’s critical matter." Ice flashed in Fina’s blue eyes. "Finding the traitor who poisoned grandfather. Execute without mercy!"
The thawing atmosphere refroze instantly. None spoke, observing how far these youths would push.
Midi understood – for the Queen of Magic viewing Iron-Blood Duke as both opponent and family, this wasn’t political maneuver but personal justice.
"Since none wish to speak, I’ll begin." Fina turned to her target. "Uncle Golien. Explain why swordsmanship branch’s leader incited members to intercept me?"
No pleasantries. The red-haired girl in family head’s seat launched direct accusation.
Golien’s face darkened.
As swordsmanship branch leader bearing Hamilton name, his mere presence commanded respect. Level 50 peak power demanded deference even without titles.
Yet this eighteen-year-old dared challenge him in Rose Mountain City’s ancestral hall?
Though master of composure, Golien’s fury surged. But reality checked him – fresh agreements required cooperation. Aggression now risked united opposition. His shoulder wound throbbed, reminding him of black-haired boy’s power beside Fina.
Patience! Their momentum will fade. Wait for flaws.
After moments, Golien steadied himself. "My branch spotted you approaching Hertonmar. With reports of assassin movements and no contact, I mobilized protection. Prevent vermin from harming family’s first heir."
Smooth lies. Pre-prepared excuses. Classic noble tactics – always plan retreats before victories.
But needing such excuses before witnesses marked Golien’s defeat.
Fina pressed harder. "Evidence?" Her voice pierced like glacial winds. "Who saw us? Where’s assassin intel? Acting on speculation questions your qualification as branch leader!"
"What?!" Golien’s beard quivered with rage, face flushing crimson.
He had chosen to back down, never imagining Fina’s true aim wasn’t merely to suppress him, but to outright knock him from his position as branch leader!
"Golien acted with good intentions. I hope the acting family head will consider this," the Scroll branch leader adjusted his glasses, offering sideways reinforcements.
"Haha, Golien, don’t take offense. Youngsters are always hot-blooded," another chuckled. "And little princess, now that you’re in charge, think carefully before acting. Everyone makes mistakes, no?"
One tried calming tensions, another mediating while delivering a veiled threat.
Though they’d initially accepted Fina’s dominance and offered Golien as sacrifice to appease her, letting her depose the swordsmanship branch leader was unthinkable.
If they didn’t support others being ousted today, who’d help them tomorrow?
These leaders weren’t fools. Though divided in interests, they’d never allow themselves to be isolated.
Facing their shifting allegiances, Fina coldly declared: "These chaotic times demand proven strength. How can I trust unstable leaders like Golien? Cling to past glories if you wish – but don’t complain when left behind."
"Left behind?" a leader sharply interjected. "Does this mean awakening?"
The Queen of Magic smiled faintly, the hall brightening with her beauty. "Eagle’s Nest’s awakening hall will open to all Hawk Brigade members earning enough contribution points. Golien can’t compete with adventurers – he’d only hold back his branch."
Awakening for the Hawk Brigade, not just Hamilton family!
The words struck like thunder. Where leaders had schemed to gain awakening moments before, now they imagined common adventurers surpassing them.
Monopolies mattered less than competition – such was human nature.
Every face darkened except Midi and Fina’s.
Nobility armies relied on numbers and gear, not high-level practitioners. Leaders assumed only near-peak-level elites like themselves could pursue awakening.
The Asreks family couldn’t produce a single awakening candidate despite hosting Eagle’s Nest – not even Midi.
Leaders felt secure as awakening’s sole buyers. Other nobles had few level 50s – insignificant competition.
But commoners changed everything. Top mercenary corps leaders already reached level 40. With turmoil enabling rapid leveling and potions, they’d soon hit level 50.
Worse, Fina’s Hawk Brigade gathered adventurers who could reach peak level swiftly.
Leaders realized with dread: Fina had options, they didn’t. She’d prioritize her loyal Hawks over scheming family branches.
The seller kept monopoly.
Buyers lost control.
One girl’s words transformed the hall’s atmosphere completely.
