Arga's words shifted the atmosphere. Gradually, the initially skeptical expressions of the senior officials began to soften. Ayato, one of the oldest elders in the room, smiled sagely. "I suspected as much. Our concern was that you might forget our interests. But you've proven otherwise. They say money can solve many problems, and it seems true."
Arga nodded confidently. "In that case, we're agreed to recruit 6,000 soldiers."
Smiles spread across the faces of those present. The decision had been made, and they were confident that Kashgar 's future was in capable hands.
At the Tang family's residence, tension filled the air as conversations unfolded. The grand house, which also served as a pawnshop and lending establishment, was suffused with the scent of sandalwood, adding a sense of warmth to the cold night. Nico Hanay stood at the center of the room, surrounded by the Tang family and several key figures.
"Good," Nico said, eyeing Malik Hanay from head to toe. "You truly are the heir of the Tang family—handsome, wealthy, and charming. I'm certain you can catch Princess Viola's attention. Your task is simple: win her over and ensure she marries you. If that happens, Emperor Arga will be pleased, and our mission will proceed as planned."
Malik gave a slight nod. Beneath his calm expression, there was a hint of doubt. He didn't fully grasp the grand scheme devised by Nico and Emperor Arga.
Noticing the subtle change in Malik's demeanor, Nico gave a faint smile. "Don't worry too much. Just ask your mother. She's a woman; she'll know how to judge your appearance," he said, gesturing toward Sana Hanay, Malik's mother, who sat in the corner of the room.
Malik approached her nervously. "Mother, how do I look?" he asked, straightening his outfit.
Sana smiled, her eyes full of affection yet tinged with a teasing tone. "I don't know what young women these days prefer, but I think you're attractive enough. That middle-part hairstyle of yours... yes, you're more handsome than your father," she said, glancing at Nico with a wide grin.
Nico chuckled softly, taking the jab without retort. "Alright, then. Off you go. Diandra, you're Malik's younger sister. Make sure to support him there."
Diandra, who had been sitting quietly on the right side of the room, nodded firmly. "I'll look after Brother Malik," she said curtly, her tone brimming with determination.
"Father, have you ever seen Princess Viola's face?" Malik suddenly asked, unable to suppress his curiosity.
Nico shook his head. "Not yet. King Bernault is highly protective of his daughter. Even his guests rarely catch a glimpse of her. But don't worry; you'll find out soon enough."
Malik nodded, trying to steady his thoughts.
That evening, King Bernault's residence in Soltera became the center of attention. Invitations had been sent far and wide—to nobles, merchants, and even some suspicious individuals, including bandits from the Black Tiger group.
After ensuring everything was in order, Malik set off with Diandra. They rode in a luxurious carriage adorned with golden carvings, heading toward the grand palace atop Soltera's hill. The road leading there was lined with lanterns, and the night air carried the scent of spring flowers.
Inside the palace, the atmosphere was opulent and bustling. Guests were dressed in their finest attire. Men and women from Soltera's highest circles filled the grand hall, speaking in tones that were polite yet calculated.
"This will be a long night," Malik whispered to Diandra. Diandra gave a small smile, her eyes scanning the crowd continuously. Their task had only just begun.
Upon arriving at King Bernault's palace gates, Malik and Diandra stepped out of the luxurious carriage. The soft Soltera night breeze carried the fragrance of jasmine planted around the courtyard. Malik glanced at Diandra, who wore an elegant light blue gown complete with a silver mask that covered most of her face.
"Are you ready?" Malik asked, slipping his arm through hers.
Diandra smiled faintly before replying, "Always ready, Brother."
Together, they walked toward the grand doors guarded by two soldiers in black uniforms bearing the royal emblem on their chests. One of them bowed respectfully.
"Welcome, Young Master Tang. Please, come in," the soldier said, his tone flat but full of respect.
Malik nodded without saying a word, maintaining an air of elegance. Accompanied by Diandra, he stepped through the massive doors, which slowly opened to reveal a long corridor adorned with crystal chandeliers.
As they ventured deeper inside, the atmosphere began to shift. The main hall was filled with lavishly dressed individuals, each wearing intricately designed masks. Some masks were adorned with jewels, others with delicate feathers. The sound of conversations blended with the clinking of glasses and the soft music played by musicians in the corner of the room.
"So this is the event..." Malik whispered, his eyes scanning the crowd.
"Everyone important is here, Brother," Diandra replied quietly, her eyes darting across the masked faces.
The rules of the event were clear: every guest was required to wear a mask to maintain anonymity. This tradition was strictly upheld by the royal family, especially since the event centered around Princess Viola, whose presence was still shrouded in mystery.
"Whoever is hosting this event, they know how to pique curiosity," Malik murmured as he moved through the room, occasionally nodding politely at other guests who glanced his way.
Diandra tightened her grip on Malik's arm, adjusting her stride to match his. "Brother, we must stay focused. This isn't just a party. There's more to it than meets the eye."
Malik smirked faintly behind his mask. "I know, Diandra. That's why we're here."
Their steps brought them to the heart of the crowd. Malik could feel the gazes—some friendly, some curious, and others sharp, as if trying to discern his true identity.
"Let's find a strategic spot to observe," Malik said, guiding Diandra toward a quieter area near the main staircase. From there, they could survey the entire room without drawing too much attention.
"It starts here," Malik thought to himself. Tonight, their mission had just begun, and the stakes were far greater than simply winning a princess's heart.