Cosmic Ruler - Chapter 316

Chapter 316: Loain Family

As he straightened his collar, Valeria entered the room, her usual sharpness softened by the morning light. Her shadowy figure moved gracefully toward him, her crimson eyes lingering over his attire with approval.

“Master, you look formidable,” she said with a smirk, crossing her arms as she watched him.

“Good. It’s exactly what I’m going for,” Aiden replied, his gaze steely. “Today, we’re making sure the Loains know that an alliance with me is their only true path forward.”

Valeria nodded, her demeanor growing serious. “The Loain family head, Lord Edrik, is known for his pragmatism. He won’t be easily swayed by mere promises.”

“That’s why I’ve prepared something more substantial than promises.” Aiden’s smirk mirrored hers. “We’ll be bringing them protection. Resources. A foundation to elevate their standing while keeping them loyal to the crown.”

He gathered a few sealed documents he’d prepared the night before, each one detailing plans for security and trade routes that would benefit the Loain family. Just as he slipped them into his coat pocket, Zara arrived, her expression composed but her eyes holding a spark of excitement.

“Your transport is ready, and everything is set as you ordered, sir,” she reported. “The Loains have been expecting us since dawn.”

“Good. Let’s not keep them waiting,” Aiden replied, striding toward the door with purpose. Valeria and Zara flanked him as they exited, their presence lending him an aura of strength and control.

**&**

The ride to the Loain family’s estate was silent, but Aiden’s mind was anything but quiet. As the carriage wheels rolled along the cobbled roads of Moon City, he replayed his strategy, fine-tuning his approach to ensure nothing was left to chance. He’d carefully studied the Loains’ position and knew that Lord Edrik, despite his loyalty to the throne, had grown wary of the power struggles within the noble circles.

When they reached the estate, Aiden was greeted by the sight of towering stone walls and a modest but well-kept garden. The Loains were not as ostentatious as some of the other noble families, preferring strength and practicality over excessive display. It was a trait Aiden respected.

The large, wrought-iron gates swung open, and a few of the Loain guards bowed respectfully as they approached. Inside, the grand hall was spacious but unpretentious, its walls adorned with relics of the Loain legacy—paintings of past family heads, old swords hung ceremonially, and tapestries depicting their alliances over the years.

Lord Edrik awaited him in the main chamber, standing beside his eldest daughter, Lady lana. She was known for her quick wit and sharp mind, and Aiden knew she would be a key player in securing this alliance. As he stepped forward, Lord Edrik offered a measured nod, a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes.

“Lord Aiden,” Edrik greeted, extending his hand. “It’s a pleasure to finally have you at our estate.”

“Thank you, Lord Edrik.” Aiden shook his hand firmly, meeting the older man’s gaze with respect. “It’s an honor to be here. I trust you’re well.”

“We are, though these times test all of us,” Edrik replied, his gaze assessing. “I understand you wished to discuss a matter of mutual interest?”

“Indeed.” Aiden motioned for them to sit, and once they did, he leaned forward slightly, his voice low and persuasive. “As you know, Moon City’s future is in flux. The throne grows weaker, and some families would rather seize power for themselves than see stability restored. But I believe the Loains can stand as the cornerstone of that stability.”

Edrik’s expression remained guarded, but Lana’s eyes sparkled with interest. Aiden noticed her observing him intently, weighing his words.

“What exactly do you have in mind, Lord Aiden?” Lana asked, her tone even.

Aiden took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. “An alliance. The Loains are the only family with a reputation for loyalty to the throne, but loyalty alone will not keep you safe from the ambitions of the other houses. I offer you an exchange—protection, resources, and influence to secure your position in Moon City.”

Edrik raised an eyebrow. “And in return?”

“In return, your support in strengthening the kingdom’s control over the city,” Aiden replied confidently. “I’ve already begun to dismantle the influence of those who would seek to undermine the throne. With the Loains by my side, we can ensure Moon City thrives under a stable rule, rather than descending into chaos.”

Lord Edrik glanced at his daughter, who gave a subtle nod, her expression thoughtful.

“I’ll be direct, Aiden,” Edrik said. “What’s to stop the other families from retaliating against us for aligning with you?”

“Because they won’t have the power to retaliate,” Aiden replied without hesitation, a hint of steel in his voice. “I’ve uncovered significant leverage against them, and I know where their weaknesses lie. They’ve been hiding secrets that, if revealed, would crumble their positions. Besides, I believe the people would rally behind the Loains, knowing that you have the kingdom’s best interests at heart.”

A tense silence followed his words, the weight of his proposition settling heavily in the room.

Lord Edrik finally spoke, his voice thoughtful. “You’ve given me much to consider. This isn’t a decision we take lightly.”

Aiden nodded, understanding the gravity of the choice. “Of course. Take your time. But I would advise that we act quickly—rumors are already stirring, and the other families won’t wait long before making their move.”

Lady Lana’s gaze remained on him, and for a moment, Aiden could see the sharp mind working behind her composed expression. She nodded slightly, as though reaching her own decision.

“Father,” she began, turning to Edrik. “Aiden’s proposal holds merit. With our resources combined, we could secure the people’s trust and shield ourselves from the other families’ schemes.”

Lord Edrik sighed, nodding as he seemed to consider her words. After a moment, he turned to Aiden, a look of resolve in his eyes.

“We accept your offer, Aiden. The Loain family will stand with you, for the stability of the kingdom and the city.”

Aiden inclined his head respectfully. “Then consider Moon City one step closer to true unity. Together, we’ll see it through.”

They shook hands once more, sealing an alliance that would mark the beginning of Moon City’s transformation. Aiden knew that with the Loains by his side, the balance of power would soon shift in his favor, and the path to his ultimate goal was now clearer than ever.