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Chapter-11 Settling In and New Changes

  The Gremory family, while maintaining a stronghold in Oasis, found their influence somewhat limited compared to the more prominent Dukes. Their estate, though modest by Oasis standards, was a symbol of their enduring strength and resilience. The stone walls, adorned with tapestries bearing the Gremory crest, stood as a testament to their heritage. Despite their lesser standing, no one dared to provoke them. The Gremory family boasted a formidable force of five Apex Realm experts, a power not easily dismissed or challenged.

  The five Apex experts were Izark, Raiser, Raina, and two of Izark's other followers, Welfin and Jimin. Each had carved out a reputation for themselves through countless battles and victories in planar wars. Their prowess had earned Izark the ominous nickname of "Grim Reaper" and his followers the fearsome title of "Death Knights." Their very presence exuded an aura of menace and power, a silent warning to all who might consider crossing them.

  In Oasis, a realm where power was the ultimate currency, respect was accorded to those who wielded it with authority. Consequently, the Gremory family, despite their modest economic status, commanded a level of deference born out of fear and respect. Their wealth, though not immense, had been sufficient to deter any would-be challengers. No one wished to incite conflict with such a formidable force without substantial incentive or reward.

  Oasis itself was most renowned for its Ivory Wisdom Academy, an institution with a storied history of producing unparalleled talents in various fields. The academy had birthed numerous great mages, warriors, clerics, and scholars, each contributing to the grandeur of the planes they hailed from. Every plane within the Albion Alliance vied fiercely for the most seats in the academy, recognizing the prestige and power that came with such positions.

  However, the entrance requirements for the Ivory Wisdom Academy were notoriously high. Even individuals considered super geniuses sometimes failed to gain admission, their dreams dashed by the rigorous standards. Nonetheless, the academy consistently produced the most powerful figures, their names echoing through the annals of history.

  "Hmm... I need to check this place out." Zain mused, his curiosity piqued by what he had read about the academy. The allure of its hallowed halls, filled with the echoes of countless brilliant minds, beckoned to him.

  ---

  In the following weeks, the Gremory Dukedom underwent significant changes, particularly in its ruling and trading systems. The construction of numerous large and small warehouses throughout the territory was met with mixed reactions. Initially, there were fears that this would bring chaos, but remarkably, not even a minor scuffle broke out.

  Farmers and commoners, long burdened by taxes and high prices, were delighted as they received much-needed relief. The elimination of oppressive taxes and the decrease in the prices of goods brought about a wave of joy. The entire territory buzzed with happiness, families that had previously struggled to secure three meals a day now finding themselves well-fed and content.

  Contrary to expectations, the merchant guilds reacted positively to these changes. Many chose to join the newly formed Royal Stag Guild, while others found employment managing the warehouses and handling various tasks. This shift was a boon for them, as they now served directly under the Duke, enjoying strong support and high pay.

  Of course, some nobles and merchants attempted to scheme in the shadows, seeking to undermine the new order. However, the Gremory family, vigilant and decisive, swiftly rooted out these threats. With strategic precision, they neutralized potential dissenters, further solidifying their control. Now, the Gremory family controlled seventy percent of the market within the Dukedom, a significant and strategic achievement.

  Stolen novel; please report.

  All the officials and important members of the family were engrossed in preparing for the next harvest season. They busied themselves with setting up and managing warehouses, negotiating with farmers, and drafting contracts for the sale of crops.

  The farmers, pleased with the elimination of taxes and the absence of merchant thugs, found the process remarkably smooth. The people of the Dukedom rejoiced, no longer burdened by taxes on food. This newfound freedom fostered a sense of unity and purpose, as everyone worked towards a prosperous future.

  A major task lay in stabilizing the new guild, which had just absorbed dozens of smaller guilds. The resulting internal conflicts were a source of frustration for Raina and Morris, who worked tirelessly to manage the discord.

  However, the strife ceased after Izark appointed Guild Masters. Raina, Morris, Jimin, and two high-level guild masters who had sworn loyalty to the Gremory family assumed these roles. Their efforts to manage internal conflicts and ensure the efficient operation of the guild soon bore fruit, bringing a semblance of order and stability.

  Soon, everything stabilized, and winter passed, giving way to the vibrant promise of spring. It was a time of peace and renewal, with commoners preparing for the bountiful harvest and nobles indulging in their opulent parties. The fields, lush and green, promised a season of plenty, while the nobles' laughter echoed through the grand halls of their estates.

  ---

  The palace of Vermillion City had become much noisier following the recent changes. The usually serene corridors now bustled with activity, the sound of hurried footsteps and lively conversations filling the air. Soldiers and servants, each absorbed in their tasks, moved with purpose, lending the palace an energetic vibe.

  Zain, however, had immersed himself in his studies, locking himself in his room for a month. Not even Lily and Ruby, his closest companions, could persuade him to come out. The allure of knowledge and the drive to master the intricacies of power consumed him.

  Izark, though proud of his son's dedication, was increasingly irritated by his prolonged absence. He often needed Zain's intelligence and strategic mind, especially with time passing quickly and numerous plans requiring his input.

  In Izark's room, he sat at his ornate desk, papers and maps spread before him. Raina and Morris stood before him, their expressions a mix of awkwardness and concern.

  "What in the world is that kid doing in his room for a month?" Izark's voice was tinged with frustration, his patience wearing thin.

  "My lord, maybe I gave him more books than I should have. Forgive me, my lord. But the young master will surely come as..."

  Just then, the door creaked open, and Zain entered the room.

  "I am here. Let's discuss the plans." he said, his voice weary yet determined.

  Zain had dark circles under his eyes, a testament to his sleep-deprived state. He lazily stumbled onto a couch in the room, his movements sluggish.

  Izark, irritated by his son's disheveled appearance and nonchalant behavior, reached for a bottle of wine. As he uncorked it, the rich aroma of the unaged wine filled the room.

  "What are you doing?" Zain asked, his eyes narrowing in concern.

  "What? Do I need your permission to drink?" Izark retorted, his tone defensive.

  "Why are you drinking wine that hasn't passed the aging process? Didn't Chris warn you against that?" Zain's voice was sharp, his concern genuine.

  "You really think he can stop me from doing what I want? Hahaha... And about the wine, I just wanted to try some unaged wine." Izark said, an amused smile playing on his lips as he raised the bottle.

  Zain leaned back on the couch, his eyes still fixed on Izark. He began humming a soft tune, a habit that often indicated he was deep in thought. Izark hesitated, the bottle poised in mid-air.

  "Oh... Why did you stop? Come on, drink it." Zain goaded, his voice teasing yet serious.

  Izark couldn't bring himself to drink it. He replaced the cork and set the bottle back on the table, his eyes meeting Zain's.

  "Wise choice. It has poison in it." Zain revealed, his tone matter-of-fact.

  "What!!!!" Everyone in the room screamed, their shock palpable.

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