Arthur's previously calm demeanor shifted abruptly, exuding an intense and heavy aura that caught Lucas off guard.
The sudden change in Arthur's nature surprised him greatly.
"Please, young Master Arthur, try to calm yourself." Lucas hurriedly rose from his seat, his voice laced with apology.
Lucas found himself taken aback by the abrupt change in Arthur's demeanor, struggling to grasp the newfound intensity that emanated from him.
Arthur took a deep breath, his gaze still piercing as he looked at Lucas with indifference.
"There's no need for such tests, Lucas Weis," he said, his voice cold and unwavering.
"You are well aware of the consequences that would follow."
Lucas nodded hastily, his expression filled with genuine remorse.
"I apologize, young master Arthur. I assure you, I will not repeat such actions."
Bowing his head respectfully, Lucas conveyed his sincerity and vowed to refrain from any further attempts to probe or test Arthur.
Despite the circumstances, there was no trace of displeasure on Lucas's face.
His emotions were not directed at Arthur's response but rather at his relief that his concerns had been proven unfounded.
However, he realized that his course of action had been perilous, nearly causing his own downfall.
While it was natural to harbor doubts about the heir to the Duke, Lucas realized that such suspicions needed to be substantiated with concrete evidence.
Otherwise, he risked being viewed as a rebel himself for doubting the crown prince, who had been directly chosen by the Duke!
Upon reflection, Lucas acknowledged that Arthur's actions had not displayed any signs of rebellious intentions but rather a genuine commitment to the progress and prosperity of the southern region.
He realized his previous doubts had been completely unfounded, and he wholeheartedly accepted this realization.
Arthur shook his head lightly and said, "It's alright."
"I forgive you."
In an instant, his previously cold demeanor vanished, and his tone and expression returned to normal, as if the tension had been a mere illusion.
Lucas couldn't help but feel both amazed and intimidated by this sudden change in Arthur's disposition.
"He truly is formidable," Lucas thought to himself as he settled back down on his sofa.
As if recalling Arthur's previous concerns, Lucas quickly reassured him, saying, "Please rest assured, young master Arthur! The Weis family, being loyal to the Asvold family, would never engage in such unethical practices as hoarding goods and selling them at exorbitant prices during times of war."
His words carried a sincere tone, and Lucas made a solemn pledge on behalf of his family.
Hearing Lucas's assurance, Arthur felt a slight sense of relief, as his initial doubts about the Weis family's loyalty had been somewhat alleviated.
"Very well, I will trust your words," Arthur responded without hesitation.
He then added, "As a prominent merchant, I understand the need for some profit to be made during times of war. However, I implore you to ensure that your actions do not cause harm to society as a whole."
His tone carried a mixture of relaxation and underlying concern, making his message clear to Lucas.
Lucas's smile quickly faded, and his expression turned serious as he responded, "Thank you for your permission, young master Arthur."
However, his countenance quickly shifted, and he frowned in concern.
"Apologies in advance, young master Arthur," Lucas began, his tone carrying a touch of frustration.
"While I may have the ability to act responsibly, I am afraid that not everyone will share the same sentiment."
Lucas let out a small sigh, visibly troubled by the potential actions of others, and ran a hand through his hair in a gesture of frustration.
Observing Lucas's troubled expression, Arthur crossed his legs and calmly responded, "Are you referring to the 'Society is One' that holds a 30% market share?"
He acknowledged that the "they" Lucas mentioned referred to the powerful merchant associations discussed earlier.
Although their market share of 30% might seem insignificant compared to the Weis family's commanding 60% control over the southern region, it was not to be underestimated.
Furthermore, that 30% encompassed a significant market in a relatively developed region!
"Young master knows that?!" Lucas exclaimed, looking at Arthur in surprise.
Arthur nodded and spoke nonchalantly: "If out of all the things that give you trouble in business, isn't that the only one?" He gave Lucas a casual glance.
Lucas nodded in agreement and replied, "You're right, young master Arthur."
"They do give me quite a headache." Lucas sighed and shook his head.
"Society is One" was a powerful coalition of merchants that functioned as a tight-knit community.
In Arthur's view, it could be described as an association of capitalists in the southern region who collaborated, supported one another, and collectively controlled the trade activities in the south.
Despite the formidable presence of the Weis family, the group managed to secure a significant 30% market share, showcasing their considerable strength.
Aware of the potential threat they posed in the event of a war, Arthur had already devised a countermeasure to neutralize their influence, much like a prepared antidote for a deadly disease.
Arthur chuckled and reassured Lucas, saying, "You can trust me on this. I have a plan in place for dealing with them."
Lucas, hearing this, was taken aback and looked at Arthur with a mix of surprise and curiosity.
"Really?" he instinctively asked.
Arthur nodded affirmatively and said, "No need to worry. I have no reason to deceive you." He gave Lucas a meaningful look.
Lucas remained silent, reflecting on Arthur's past accomplishments and seeing the potential for success in the future.
"Well then, I entrust everything to you, Young Master Arthur," Lucas said, his tone filled with solemnity.
Following that, the conversation between the two grew increasingly intense as they delved into topics such as the impending war and various aspects of trade that Lucas had never before encountered.
Arthur's profound insights and vast knowledge left Lucas both intrigued and unnerved, as he witnessed firsthand the depth of Arthur's formidable intellect and unconventional ideas.
It was already very late at night, and both of them were keenly aware of the time.
"Alright, Mr. Weis, I must head back to my room as I have to return to the Duke's mansion tomorrow," Arthur said as he stood up and stretched his waist.
His tone shifted slightly, indicating his proximity to Lucas.
Observing this, Lucas too rose from his seat, curiosity evident in his voice as he asked, "Don't you wish to linger a while longer, young master Arthur?"
Upon hearing this, Arthur promptly shook his head and replied, "No, I must return. I have pressing matters to attend to."
One of those matters involved accompanying Vivian to Arkham, where they were to meet her brother, Emperor Alex.
Additionally, Arthur yearned to reunite with Lucia, whom he had not seen for a considerable period of time.
"How is that girl?" Arthur pondered, reminiscing about the innocent expression she wore during their last encounter.
The passage of time had grown extensive, intensifying Arthur's yearning for her presence.
He longed to see her again.
Upon hearing Arthur's words, Lucas refrained from suggesting a longer stay.
"Very well, then. I will make the necessary arrangements for your departure tomorrow to ensure a swift and safe journey," Lucas stated respectfully, assuring Arthur of his commitment.
Arthur acknowledged Lucas's words with a nod and replied, "Thank you for your dedicated preparations, Mr. Lucas."
He readily agreed, recognizing that with the escort provided by the entourage arranged by the Weis Family, his journey would likely be significantly expedited.
This was especially apparent as he had recently traveled with Rian, who employed the elemental art of wind to enhance their horses' speed, completing their journey to Celestria four times faster than usual.
Without the aid of Rian's wind elemental art, Arthur realized that if he were to travel alone on horseback, he would likely arrive at his destination the following day.
However, undertaking such a journey alone would pose risks to his safety, which further emphasized the importance of the entourage provided by the Weis Family.
"Alright, then I'll retire to my room first," Arthur said with a yawn, his palms covering his mouth.
Lucas bowed his head once more and spoke in a tone of respect, saying, "Well then, have a restful night, young master Arthur!"
Arthur nodded in acknowledgment, but as he turned around, a sudden thought struck his mind.
"By the way, I have a surprise for you in the future that will be incredibly astonishing," Arthur said, a subtle smile gracing his lips, before swiftly walking away, leaving no opportunity for Lucas to inquire further.
Observing Arthur's departure, Lucas promptly abandoned his intention to question the nature of the surprise.
Perplexed by Arthur's enigmatic statement and his sudden departure, Lucas was left contemplating its significance, his mind filled with curiosity and confusion.
However, he eventually dismissed his confusion, shaking his head and deciding not to dwell on it any further.
"I just hope he doesn't turn against the Duke, or else he might outmaneuver the Duke himself," Lucas murmured under his breath, taking a deep breath before redirecting his attention to his study.
Their conversation came to a close amidst the backdrop of a starry night sky, its brilliance illuminating the scene while a strong wind swept through, adding an ethereal touch to the atmosphere.
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