Chapter 42: A Conversation Between Father and Daughter

Chapter 42: A Conversation Between Father and Daughter"In that case, we’ll take our leave, Princess Elina." The two guards bowed respectfully to her. Elina gave a small nod. "Very well, and thank you." "You’re welcome, Princess," they replied with courteous smiles. With that, the two guards turned and left, leaving Elina alone at the door to Ragan’s workspace. "Huft..." Elina took a deep breath and was about to knock when Ragan’s indifferent voice came from inside. "Come in, Elina. The door’s unlocked." Elina was slightly surprised but said nothing. She slowly turned the doorknob and stepped inside. She found her father standing with his back to her, gazing out the window at the sky. Suppressing her anxiety, Elina quietly closed the door behind her and walked over to him. "Good afternoon, Father," she greeted respectfully, tugging at the hem of her dress and bowing her head. Ragan turned around, his indifferent expression softening slightly. "You’re looking more and more like your mother," he said. Elina raised her head and smiled. "Thank you for the compliment, Father." Ragan gave a small nod and walked over to his seat, then sat down. "Sit," he said. Without a word, Elina took the chair in front of him. "Elina, you know why I called you here, don’t you?" Ragan got straight to the point. Elina’s expression remained calm and composed as she gave a small nod. "Yes, I understand, Father." "Good." Ragan nodded in satisfaction. "Then tell me—how were you able to connect with the Singularity of Chaos?" His eyes narrowed slightly as he fixed her with a serious gaze. Sensing the shift in atmosphere, Elina felt a hint of pressure but forced herself to remain steady. "I’m sorry, Father." She shook her head. "Honestly, I don’t know how to explain it. I have no connection to the Singularity of Chaos at all." "Hm?" Ragan raised an eyebrow. A moment later, a powerful aura burst from his body, making the air around them feel heavy. "Are you telling the truth, Elina? You know that lying to the Emperor is unforgivable. Even if you are my daughter, I won’t hesitate to deliver severe punishment if you’re caught lying." Elina met his stern gaze and replied firmly, "I’m telling the truth, Father. I’m not lying. I don’t know the Singularity of Chaos at all. His last appearance was in the Duke of Valcrest’s territory, in the west." "As for me, I’ve always been in the palace. I never left except for occasional visits to the capital with Brother Nolan—for fun or shopping. So I can swear that I’ve never had any contact with her." Her statement sounded a bit far-fetched, but it was the truth. The Duke of Valcrest’s territory was over three thousand kilometers from the capital—a considerable distance. Besides, Elina was the kind of homely princess who rarely left the palace, except for the occasional visit to the capital’s center. That wasn’t too surprising, given her lack of interest in going out. Perhaps it was also because her brother’s lazy nature had rubbed off on her—subtly, but surely. Ragan fell silent at her words. As much as he wanted to challenge her, what Elina said made perfect sense. He had never seen, nor received any reports of, her leaving the palace—except during her outings to the capital with his brat, Nolan. And he knew his children well, especially Elina. She was quiet, cold, and indifferent—much like himself. More importantly, she was always honest, speaking her mind even when her words could cut deep. So Ragan had no reason to doubt her. Still, the Singularity of Chaos’s decision to protect and support Elina remained a strange matter—one that couldn’t be ignored. After a moment of thought, he let out a long sigh and rubbed his temples. "Alright. I understand. I trust you." Elina looked relieved. The worry that had clouded her face was gone. "However," Ragan continued seriously, "I’ll still conduct a thorough investigation. I’m sure you understand how valuable an alliance with the Singularity of Chaos is." "I know, Father," Elina said with a serious nod. Of course she knew—this matter was common knowledge. Even ordinary citizens were aware of it. Tensions between the Great Empire of Velmora and the Holy Empire of Valtanir had been steadily rising lately. At the heart of the conflict was the northern territory governed by the Duke of Ashvale. The Holy Empire of Valtanir bordered Velmora directly to the north. Rumors said they were especially interested in the Eldrath Mountains—an enormous range stretching two hundred kilometers across the Duke’s land. The mountains, rising three kilometers high, created a natural fortress almost impossible to penetrate. Their interest in the region came from its wealth of precious resources: gold, orichalcum, adamantine, and other valuable minerals. Estimates placed the total value of those resources at over five hundred billion Sharn—perhaps even more. One could only imagine how valuable the Eldrath Mountains were. Beyond their wealth, they served as the last natural line of defense protecting the Duke of Ashvale’s territory from Valtanir’s ambitions. Although the Great Empire of Velmora was the most powerful on the continent, they had no shortage of enemies. Among them, the Holy Empire of Valtanir stood out as the most formidable—especially with the support of the Singularity of Light, renowned for his unparalleled swordsmanship. If a full-scale war broke out, everyone—including Elina—knew the Great Velmora Empire would suffer a devastating defeat. Ragan smiled and said, "It’s good that you understand. Even if you don’t know the Singularity of Chaos personally, if you ever meet him, try to gain his support for the Empire. If you manage that, I will be truly grateful." The gratitude of an emperor was a reward far greater than any wealth or possession. As long as Elina’s request didn’t break the law, it would surely be granted. That showed just how serious Ragan was about forging an alliance with the Singularity of Chaos. "I understand, Father. If the chance arises, I’ll try. After all, as a princess, it’s my duty to serve the Empire." "Good." Ragan nodded, feeling more at ease. "You may go." Elina nodded slowly, stood, and headed for the door. But just as her hand reached the doorknob, Ragan’s voice stopped her. "Be careful around your brothers. Gaining the favor of the Singularity of Chaos may also invite their hostility." Elina didn’t turn around. She simply nodded and replied calmly, "I understand." She opened the door and stepped out. Watching her leave, Ragan sighed softly and leaned back in his chair. He spun it around and gazed up at the bright blue sky with a thoughtful expression. "Ambition, division, and hatred..." he murmured.