After Mayor Grine's speech concluded, preparations to head to the capital began immediately. The scene unfolded in the courtyard of the estate where Caron and his group were staying.0

"Haha, Mayor Grine! You truly are a master orator. I almost found myself caught up in the fervor!" Caron said.0

Mayor Grine chuckled and said, "Haha, Young Master Caron, you're too kind. I must give credit to you, for giving me the perfect cause. Ah, and about Duke Halo...?"0

"Could there be any doubt? Don't worry. Additional forces have already been dispatched from Azureocean Castle," Caron replied confidently.0

"As expected of the Leston family! Such impressive efficiency!" Mayor Grine said.0

Caron and Mayor Grine exchanged hearty laughs as they looked at each other with shared understanding. 0

From a distance, Leo watched the scene unfold. Perhaps it looked like a simple, friendly exchange between an elderly man and a thirteen-year-old boy on the surface, but Leo knew there was more to it.0

"Ah, and Mayor Grine, since you'll soon start to move in earnest, you're going to need quite a bit of money, won't you?" Caron asked.0

Mayor Grine cleared his throat and said, "Yes, that's right. I certainly will."0

"Now, now, don't be shy…" Caron said as he glanced around, before pulling out a small pouch and handing it discreetly to Mayor Grine.0

The mayor took the pouch Caron offered and peeked inside. Inside the pouch, there were gold coins, and a significant quantity at that.0

"Have you perhaps heard the news that a mana stone mine was discovered in Belrus Barony?" Caron asked.0

"Oh, yes, I'm well aware. I heard the Leston family has already set up a joint venture there," Mayor Grine respond...0