Mechanical Alchemist

Su Lun glanced at the people in the room, while the residents of Regadia also scrutinized him with assessing gazes.

Without taking a stance, the docile Yekaterina, also not lacking in etiquette, bowed in the direction of the main seat where King Kelson and Queen Portia sat, saying, "I have seen His Majesty, my father, and the esteemed Queen."

After all, she was now a daughter-in-law of Regadia.

Kelson, looking at Yekaterina, naturally had nothing to be dissatisfied about, his face carrying a satisfied smile.

Whether in terms of looks, family background, or reputation, this fourth young miss of the Lance family was worthy of their Regadia clan.

Just hearing this, William in the corner bit his cheek, his heart so pained that he could not help but contort his expression.

Su Lun did not bow, and everyone in the room seemed to completely ignore him.

As the Family Head, Kelson uttered a few pleasantries.

They had thought only "Feike" was coming, but now that Yekaterina had arrived too, they could just as well discuss other official matters with her.

After a few idle chat from the Regadia folks, Lady Portia went straight to the point and asked about some of the interest trades after the marriage alliance.

Now that the girl was married to them, many things could be discussed anew.

Since it was a political marriage to begin with, it seemed customary to talk terms, and she asked directly, "Katya, I heard you have some shares of 'Crimson Potion' in your possession?"

No one noticed the red line moving like a parasite beneath the skin of Portia's neck.

Hearing this, Yekaterina's pretty face immediately showed an innocently harmless smile and she nodded, "Mhm. Father and mother transferred half of the family's Potion shares to my name, saying that would give me and Feike enough funds for our married life and future..."

This was normal among the nobility of Luying, where, besides feigning ignorance, parents would also give their daughters a little private coffer to prevent them from being wronged after marriage.

Everyone knew that this fourth princess of the Lance family was the "Tulip Duke" Bartolo Lance's most cherished pearl in his palm.

But no one expected that the Duke would actually give away half of his Potion shares as her dowry!

These shares were so valuable on the current market that they were beyond measure!

Upon hearing this, the faces of the Regadia elders each showed varying expressions, and despite their efforts to hide it, the gleam of anticipation in their eyes was uncontrollable.

Their gazes were like greedy old wolves looking at a naive little lamb.

Lady Portia said outright, "Oh, Katya, you're marrying into our family, and you'll be one of us from now on. Have you thought about how to handle those shares? After all, Potion prices can fluctuate greatly on the market, and holding onto them might lead to depreciation or such...What I mean is, if you don't have a good plan, we could help you think of one."

All the beating around the bush, and it was the last sentence that mattered.

Yet Su Lun, though expressionless, just wanted to laugh inwardly.

As soon as he heard Yekaterina speak, he knew someone was about to get conned.

They were scheming for her dowry while she had other plots in mind.

Yekaterina, as if not catching on to the old folks' schemes at all, nodded agreeably, "That's right. My father said the same. He mentioned that holding onto Potion shares could be very risky. He said that as long as Feike and I agreed, we could freely sell them and exchange for some more dependable stocks. Hmm... My mother suggested that if we were to sell the Potion shares, it would be best to exchange them for railway and shipping stocks, so that Feike and I would not lack money for many years to come..."

My goodness, what an innocently naïve princess...

And how understanding she was.

The moment they heard this, the eyes of the elderly Regadia men nearly sparkled.

Su Lun was expressionless.

Yekaterina, clinging tighter to his arm, seemed to signal: Hold back, don't laugh.

But she hadn't uttered a single lie in her statement!

The Potion was guaranteed to have great fluctuations in the future, and whoever was holding it at the time could wait for a crash!

Lady Portia was all smiles, her eyes narrowing into slits as if with a 'I have your best interests at heart' elder's expression and added, "Katya wants to exchange for some railway and shipping stocks? Oh, indeed, that's the most stable business there could be."

Yekaterina continued, "Mhm. My mother said, since I'll be living in the south in the future, I could exchange my shares for 40% of 'Southern Railways' and 35% of 'Southern Shipping.' I feel like that's too expensive, and it would be okay to have less. My dowry is quite substantial, and I really don't need that much money."

Her tone and demeanor sounded completely like a naive young miss without many opinions of her own and with no interest in politics.

Luying was currently in a phase of national development, with railways and shipping being sunrise industries, hardly considering losses or bankruptcy.

And there was nothing wrong with what she said.

But when "Southern Railways" and "Southern Shipping" were mentioned, Lady Portia's face shifted slightly.

Because those assets were controlled by the Regadia royal family.

Unlike other territories, Regadia's southern island holdings meant that their railway and shipping were strategic internal resources not for sale to the outside world.

Otherwise, letting outsiders control the transport lifelines would lead to endless troubles.

Obviously, Yekaterina had already considered this, and she "understandingly" said, "My mother also said that Southern stocks are rarely traded on the Lingdon Market. If I wish to purchase them, a non-transfer agreement could be signed. The shares will permanently be in Katya and Feike's names, never to be transferred to anyone outside Regadia."

Listen, what an understanding princess!

What a child who listens to her mother!

As long as they could sign this leap, the shares would still be in the hands of their Lei family; with one exchange, they would have obtained a Potion share worth billions for free!

Upon hearing this, the old folks of the Lei family, who had just been frowning in deep thought, had their expressions instantly wiped clean.

Lady Portia even exchanged a glance with King Kelson beside her and immediately decided, "Oh, Katya, I think your mother has arranged everything. If you really want to exchange some shares, I can think of a way for you right now. After all, Mr. Dawson, he is the major shareholder of the Southern Transportation Group. The 40% and 35% shares you mentioned, I think they are quite suitable..."

Turning around, she addressed the white-bearded old man nearby, "Don't you think so, Mr. Dawson?"

Mr. Dawson also nodded politely, "Yes, Your Majesty."

Everyone in the room turned their gaze to Yekaterina, waiting for her approval, and immediately, a fortune worth billions would enter their pockets.

They, the Lei family, could also exchange these Potion shares for even more benefits.

....

Su Lun had been silently listing to the exchange between the two sides and also felt that Yekaterina was wrong.

After all, he had long known that the marriage alliance was for benefits.

Both sides were.

It was just a matter of who had the more clever means and could secure more.

Moreover, from start to finish, Yekaterina had not told a single lie; all the conditions of the benefit seemed reasonable and proper.

Su Lun had thought that this matter had nothing to do with him.

But unexpectedly, at this moment, after pondering for a moment, Yekaterina suddenly turned her face towards him with a serious expression and asked softly, "Fyodor, what do you think?"

After a pause, she added, "After all, this will be our shared property in the future."

"Me?"

Su Lun could hear in her tone that she was indeed asking for his opinion.

In those twinkling eyes, there was an underlying implication: if you say it's not a trap, I won't set a trap.

The question was asked with full respect.

Su Lun was well aware that, in fact, Yekaterina did not have to consider his opinion at all.

Besides, even if he were to object, the people of the Lei family would override his opposition.

After all, he was only considering this for a moment, and those gazes had already turned subtly hostile. As if he would face a fierce backlash the moment he uttered a semblance of "no".

Su Lun fully understood the current situation.

In the entire Lei family, he was the only outsider.

Su Lun chuckled lightly at Yekaterina and said mildly, "Katya, decide for yourself."

Yekaterina gave a slight smile and nodded, "Mhm."

....

After Yekaterina agreed to the Potion share exchange for equity, Lady Portia couldn't wait to arrange for her to go to the next room to sign the contract.

Fearful that this naive girl would consult with someone else and change her mind.

Su Lun was left alone in the room.

Without Yekaterina, the way the Lei family looked at him was now just numb as if seeing a "tool person," mixed with hatred.

From beginning to end, Su Lun did not pay attention to these people.
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But this attitude also made the big shots of the Lei family very unhappy.

Lady Portia even coldly commented, "Fyodor, seeing your father and the elders of the clan, should you not show respect?"

Su Lun remained expressionless and unmoved.

He was well aware that these people had no way to affect him for not showing respect.

Could it be that on the first day of the marriage alliance, you would dare to kill me outright?

Seeing this, one of the elders commented, "He must have memory loss. It's normal that he doesn't recognize us."

The others then realized that the previous banishment in Duke Raphael's Black Tower involved a procedure to wipe memories.

King Kelson, in the main seat, with a lazy demeanor, gestured, "Bring the Potion up."

As Su Lun looked at his original cheap father, his expression unchanged, he mumbled to himself, "Is this guy dying?"

Although King Kelson appeared to be in good health, according to the soul fluctuations, it seemed that some secret technique had affected his lifespan, similar to that of a dying man.

Could it be that [Profane Crown]?

Possibly, but it's a small chance.

The people of the Lei family must know that it would affect lifespan, and even those below the seventh tier would use up too much lifespan utilizing the crown.

So, murder?

The King is dead, who benefits the most?

Naturally, it's the heir.

Su Lun's mind suddenly flashed with a line: "Da Lang, it's time for your medicine."

No outsider could possibly assassinate the mighty King of Regalito, so, was it that viperous Lady who, eager for William to ascend, resorted to underhanded tactics?

Moreover, Su Lun had noticed another major issue.

That was, when she entered just now, Lady Portia's nostrils flared slightly, as if forcibly suppressing a sneeze.

So, this woman is a believer in the foreign gods?

This matter just got quite delicate.

He still hadn't figured out why she needed those potion shares; could this be why?

...

Various thoughts went through Su Lun's mind, yet he remained silent.

At this moment, a servant brought out a tray.

On the tray was a potion.

[Exquisite Awakening Potion]

Detailed Description: An extremely rare potion; after consumption, it can heal brain damage and restore lost memories; when used by normal people, it enhances brain function and slightly and permanently increases intelligence attributes;

At the sight of it, Su Lun clicked his tongue, "Nice stuff."

It actually permanently enhances attributes!

He had heard of this potion before, a top-tier potion that money couldn't buy.

However, King Kelson made no attempts to explain, and instead commanded Su Lun in a directive tone, "Drink it."

It sounded like a gracious gift, a reward for you.

Su Lun didn't like the tone, but it was a great item after all, so he didn't show any objections and downed it in one gulp.

There was no particular sensation, just a cool, refreshing feeling.

After all, "Feike's" soul had been sacrificed, leaving not a trace behind, so drinking a potion wouldn't bring back any memories.

...

And according to the intelligence gathered by Sabrina, "Feike" didn't have much of a presence within the Regalito family anyway.

He was originally a talentless waste, and even King Kelson, his father, wasn't particularly fond of him.

His mother had died, and the grandfather who had left him a treasure map on his retina also suddenly passed away last year.

Thinking back now, the deaths of his mother and grandfather were not simply due to illness and accidents as the outside world believed.

After the potion settled in his stomach and some time passed, Su Lun's face remained expressionless.

But he cooperated by displaying a slightly dazed look in his eyes from the potion's effects, as if remembering something.

King Kelson remained silent.

Lady Portia said arrogantly, "Feike, let's not talk about the past. You've suffered some hardships, but now that you're back... it's all good."

Upon hearing these words, Su Lun sneered inwardly.

He also made no mention of the two assassination attempts by William.

The first time, it happened at sea where no one saw it, and the second time, that guy hid behind the scenes, leaving no evidence behind.

Mentioning it would be pointless since no one would believe him anyway.

Besides, from the look of it, this woman seemed more intent on calculating against him than welcoming his return.

Portia gave him another glance and continued, "Now you have some abilities. You should always remember that the 'Regalito' surname is your lifelong glory. And you must understand, everything you have is bestowed by the family, including the arranged marriage, and your privilege to marry the lovely Miss Lance from the Lance family."

Her tone was arrogant, implying: what is given can just as easily be taken away.

"As a member of the Regalito family, you should have a sense of the bigger picture, with the family's interests paramount."

"Indeed. As royalty, carrying the sacred mission of family revival, you should have a higher awareness and always remember to be grateful..."

"This marriage arrangement with the Lance family was facilitated through the family's great efforts. Therefore, it's your honor to marry Miss Lance, and it's also a reward the family has granted you. From now on, you should consider the family's agenda even more..."

"..."

Upon her words, the cluster of family elders chimed in with their brainwashing speeches.

Su Lun listened, still not saying a word.

He thought of humoring these people with a few words, knowing that he wouldn't see them again after today.

Lady Portia continued to entice him with promises, "Any news from the Lance family, remember to report to our family immediately. Rest assured, our family will not treat you unfairly. You were still young before, with no fief of your own. But now that you have come back, the four provinces of the Western Gingsfit in the kingdom, that will be your fief..."

What they didn't know was that Su Lun had no interest in politics and did not wish to become some feudal lord.

Moreover, Su Lun was well aware that this viper of a woman, knowing full well that he and William were mortal enemies, spoke thus, clearly intending to set the whole family against him.

Su Lun continued to ignore her, and listening to her even made him feel sleepy.

However, at that moment, Lady Portia changed the subject and suddenly asked, "Also, Fick, what exactly is this 'Dawn Organization'? Give the intelligence to the family's intelligence department later."

"And pass a message to 'Mr. Jing,' saying I'm interested in meeting her. If we can cooperate with 'Dawn,' it would be a significant boost for our restoration effort. After all, an eighth-rank professional is not to be taken lightly."

"From now on, just focus on your role in the family. Contact us if there's anything."

"..."

Su Lun listened, and it was all within his expectations.

In the eyes of these Leiga people, his value lay only in a marriage alliance and the Dawn Organization member.

These people also seemed convinced that he, being married, could not willingly cast aside his noble status.

As long as he had to use the identity of "Fick," he would forever be tied to the Leiga family.

Little did they know, Su Lun had absolutely no interest in their pie-in-the-sky promises.

But he didn't plan on causing too much of a stir either.

After all, it would do him no good and might even affect Yekaterina's plans.

To kill someone, he'd find an opportunity later.

Enduring the tedium for half an hour, it wasn't until Yekaterina, who had just signed a trade contract, came to his rescue that Su Lun could finally excuse himself.

...

After exiting the drawing-room,

Yekaterina, seeing Su Lun's dark expression, knew that the conversation had obviously been unpleasant.

With an apologetic face, she said, "Sorry for troubling you."

Su Lun was originally in a bad mood, but looking at the supposedly "harmless" princess before him, he suddenly felt amused and teased, "I just realized, Miss Yekaterina, that the image of you in the eyes of others seems different from the one I know."

Yekaterina didn't deny it and smiled slightly while correcting him, "Ah... You should address me as 'Katya' or 'My Lady' now, otherwise, it would sound odd to others."

The two exchanged a smile, as if they were a small interest group with a shared secret.

Yekaterina continued, "I'm afraid I must trouble you again, sir. We have a party to attend and guests to receive."

Su Lun shrugged and replied, "Fine."

After a thought, he added another question, "By the way, do you know that Lady Portia is a worshipper of an external deity?"

Upon hearing this, Yekaterina's eyes momentarily sharpened, "No wonder."

...

After Su Lun left, the group from Leiga didn't rush to leave.

Everyone noticed that "Fick's" attitude was greatly different from their expectations.

They convened a brief high-level family meeting.

"It seems Fick isn't so easy to control. The Lance family is manageable, and the fourth princess is quite obedient. I suspect Fick isn't planning to share the Dawn Organization's intelligence willingly; perhaps he's gotten a bit too confident, thinking he's 'Death' himself and has grown wings."

"Indeed, he deserves a lesson. But it doesn't affect the bigger picture; after all, the marriage alliance is in place, and Fick's attitude isn't crucial."

"That's true. This 'Mr. Jing' might be an eighth-rank professional, which is not bad, but he's just on the level of King Oleg of the North Sea—nothing to fear. It would be ideal to bring him to heel, but it's no issue if we can't. We should use this marriage alliance to find better opportunities to extend our family's influence to Lingdon."

"Right, the political situation in Ruying is unstable, presenting us with the perfect opportunity."

"..."

"By the way, do you think it's wise to proceed with the Crimson Potion? I have a feeling there's a catch."

"The potion itself is fine. I've personally confirmed this with the Empress. There are some secrets within, but for now, we must take sides. Either we support the royal family, or we support the opposing Senior Councilors. Currently, Ruying's parliament is dominated by these councilors, and the powers are fragmented, making life difficult for the Bonaparte royal house. Empress Charlotte doesn't have many allies left to use, and we, the Leiga family, are definitely ones she must rely on. Just yesterday, I went to the palace, and the Empress herself promised to tilt more resources to the south in the future. This is our big opportunity. To gain support, we must show the Empress where we stand..."

"Mm. The Queen is right. Supporting the royal family is indeed our best choice. Now that we are allied with the Lance family, and Duke Raphael is also intending to charm us, it's clear we can get more resources—no reason to keep all our eggs in one basket."

"I second the motion."

"..."

"William, don't overthink it. As one in power, you must look further ahead. It's just a woman, after all. I've already discussed it with the Empress, and in the future, she plans to marry Princess Sofia to you, a royal blood princess—far more prestigious than the fourth princess of the Lance family..."

"..."