Chapter 234: Change of Attitude

Ronin and Gallil strolled as they conversed, only parting ways after entering the city.

After completing today's patrol, Gallil still needed to lead his squad to the drill field for handover; otherwise, he would have been more than happy to invite Ronin to his home.

Merchant caravans frequently traversed Wushan City, so taverns clustered near the gates, offering safe and comfortable lodging for travelers and traders.

The innkeepers were a motley assortment: wealthy free citizens of the city, those of noble lineage, and chain inns operated by major trade guilds across cities.

Ronin chose a tavern that appeared well-maintained.

The innkeeper greeted him warmly, waiving accommodation fees, preparing fine wine and delicacies, and even inquiring about singers or dancers.

The grandson of Lord Rulans, Viscount of Northern Wu, staying at their inn was a matter of great honor.

The owner could use this as a promotional tool to boost the inn's reputation and attract more guests.

Yet Ronin refused such perks, paying what was due and declining unnecessary services; he merely sought a restful night without drawing attention.

The night passed without incident.

Early the next morning, he hurried through breakfast before taking the inn's carriage back to Wushan Castle.

Compared to his previous visit, the castle was far less bustling.

For the nobility, Ronin's birthday held little significance; they wouldn't travel great distances to celebrate as they did for Rulans.

Following protocol for foreign dignitaries, guards led Ronin to the reception chamber while sending word to the current steward—Diane.

Ronin could have gone straight to the rear courtyard to see Rulans, likely unobstructed, but since he had moved out of Wushan Castle, he would abide by the host's wishes.

Soon, quick footsteps approached as Diane strode in, carrying a waft of perfume.

At forty, she remained stunningly beautiful, her simple gown enhancing her regal bearing.

Ronin rose to greet her, only to find her more effusive than usual.

Diane stepped forward, arms outstretched, embracing him warmly.

"Welcome home, Ronin. I'm so glad you've come to Wushan Castle for your eighteenth birthday!"

Ronin was taken aback.

In memory, Diane had treated the former self decently, not the typical stepmother who tormented and targeted.

On the contrary, she provided what was due and ensured necessary provisions.

Except for infrequent communication, there was nothing amiss.

Yet Ronin believed Diane was well aware of the Hyde family's deeds.

Now stripped of his inheritance, Diane would undoubtedly want her son Breton to remain the heir.

Thus, she should harbor hostility towards Ronin's rise, yet today's warmth was perplexing.

This was likely the first embrace between them since Diane married into Wushan Castle.

Diane released him, stepped back, and studied him with a pleasant expression.

"You seem taller than last time," she remarked.

Ronin chuckled. "Not yet twenty; there's still room to grow."

When he first transmigrated, Ronin stood over 1.7 meters; now he surpassed 1.8, a significant increase.

Faced with Diane's unexpected warmth, Ronin sensed something amiss and quickly changed the subject.

"Where are Father and Breton? I'll go find them."

"They're not in the castle right now."

Diane said, "Breton studies at Wushan's Ascendant Academy. I've sent word; he should return by afternoon or tomorrow morning for your birthday ball tomorrow night."

"That's too much trouble."

Ronin rubbed his nose. "Breton's studies are important; it's wasteful to have him make the trip."

"He can train in the castle too, and exchange techniques with you."

Diane smiled. "Since you taught him swordplay last time, he's been praising your skill. I think, next to the Marquis, you're his greatest idol."

Diane's temperament resembled her father Osun's; she'd never admit her son was inferior to Ronin, yet now she had changed her tune.

Strange, very strange.

"And Father?" Ronin shifted the subject.

She sighed, sitting down troubled.

"You might not know, the Polant Raiders have returned, threatening Red Mountain Town. The border peace is about to shatter. Captain Koren has requested reinforcements. Your father is gathering grain, weapons, and armor for them."

Ronin's expression turned peculiar. Vingis, with a broken leg, was so invested?

"I heard a shipment of grain was sent. Why are they still collecting more?"

Plus, Red Mountain Town has an iron mine; they shouldn't lack weapons or armor.

Diane's eyes flickered. Indeed, Ronin, though in Northern Wu, was well-informed about Wushan Castle.

Thus, either someone in Wushan Castle had defected to Northern Wu, or Rulans had informed Ronin.

If the former, Ronin sought the Wushan inheritance;

if the latter, Rulans valued him more.

Either way, Ronin and Northern Wu would rise.

In truth, Diane was overthinking.

Ronin had merely heard rumors from Gallil, who hadn't defected to him.

As for Rulans, they'd only exchanged one letter.

"Perhaps your father is preparing for the impending conflict."

Diane replied, "After all, your father cares deeply for Red Mountain Town."

Ronin pondered briefly.

Years ago, it was Vingis who led troops to hold Casir Town, thus protecting Red Mountain Town.

So this Wushan Count cherished his sole victory, protecting it fiercely, and despite his crippled leg, sent supplies?

Ronin silently shook his head. Perhaps it was just the old adage: provisions before troops.

He glanced at Diane, a thought striking him. "How is Count Osun lately?"

Mentioning her father, Diane's eyes flickered, her smile fading into sorrow.

"After returning from Wushan Castle, he lay in bed for over a month, only recently able to walk with a cane. His inner energy can no longer be easily wielded."

She sighed, shaking her head in regret. "I warned him not to challenge your grandfather, but he wouldn't listen."

This was news to Ronin.

She not only revealed Osun's condition but also admitted she'd warned him against challenging Rulans.

Is she trying to tell Ronin she had nothing to do with Osun's challenge to Rulans?

Coupled with today's warmth, Ronin frowned. What did this woman want? (Chapter end)