Extraordinary Rise: Starting Contract with the Silver Dragon Countess

The cold-faced man's words made Nursi's face turn ashen instantly.

His throat moved violently, as if he were struggling to swallow something invisible and bitter.

Beads of cold sweat had formed on his forehead and were sliding down his temples.

His lips trembled uncontrollably, his voice hoarse and almost distorted.

I managed to squeeze out a few words:

"What...what kind of blessing?"

The chilling smile on the cold-faced man's lips seemed to deepen even further.

He slowly leaned closer to Nursi, put his lips close to his ear, and quickly said a few words.

"Om-!"

Nursi's brain felt as if it had been struck by a heavy hammer. His eyes widened suddenly, and his eyeballs bulged violently outward due to extreme terror.

She staggered backward uncontrollably, staring intently at the cold, aloof man before her with an expression as if she had seen a ghost.

Trembling he said:

"What...what did you say?"
Kidnapping Prince Orlando?

"How is this possible? How could I possibly do that!"

The aloof man remained calm, a faint, mocking smile even playing at the corners of his lips.

"You don't need to worry about the specifics of how it works."

All you need to do is figure out a way to lure Prince Orlando out of his heavily guarded palace.

Nursi, you should think this through.

Prince Orlando is now in charge of security for the entire palace.

As long as we control him.

It's like putting the palace's defenses in our hands!

His voice suddenly rose, becoming highly inflammatory:
"This is an enormous achievement, enough to propel you to the top!"

If you don't want to go, there are plenty of people eager to take this "blessing"!

Nursi's body trembled violently, and the muscles in his face were contorted from a fierce internal struggle.

On one hand, there is extreme fear of kidnapping the prince and the consequences.

On one hand, there's the immense temptation of "rising to the top in one step," as described by the other party.

And the even more terrible consequences that might result from refusing.

Time seemed to stand still, each second feeling like an eternity.

Finally, after several minutes of silence and struggle.

Nursi seemed to have all his strength drained away.

He raised his trembling hand and wiped the cold sweat from his forehead with his sleeve.

With trembling lips, he asked the most crucial question in an almost exhausted voice:
"What benefits would I get if I did it?"

His eyes gleamed with a complex light, a mixture of fear, greed, and the last vestiges of lucidity.

He knew he had boarded a pirate ship.

All we can do now is try to gain as many leverage as possible for ourselves.

The smile on the cold-faced man's lips seemed to deepen slightly.

He said slowly:

"What I promised you before was to protect your Sack family from being purged."

If you can complete this task.

Therefore, the Sark family would not only remain unscathed, but would also retain their hereditary marquisate title and all their original privileges.

He paused slightly, then added:
"Of course, your grandfather's position as deputy mayor is definitely not going to be kept."

This condition is already quite generous, after all, being able to retain a hereditary title is already a blessing for most nobles in Quesaon.

But a blazing fire suddenly erupted in Nursi's eyes.

His breathing suddenly became rapid, and even his voice became sharp and shrill due to extreme excitement:
"Do not!

not enough!"

Nursi stared intently at the cold, stern man, like a hungry wolf that had caught the scent of blood:
"I want to join Her Highness the Princess's army!"

Not those ragtag troops!
They must be elites jointly trained by Effie and Guimiancheng!
Commander!

At the very least, he needs to be a regimental commander!

This request surprised both the wealthy businessman and the aloof man.

The aloof man clicked his tongue softly, revealing a rather amused, even slightly admiring, expression.
“Clever, Nursi.”

You are a very smart person.

"He's far wiser than your stubborn, foolish, and short-sighted grandfather, the Marquis of Sack."

However, Nursi's emotions were clearly not calmed down by this "praise".

His body was still trembling slightly, but his eyes had become unusually firm.

He shook his head vigorously and said loudly in an almost obsessive tone:

"And I don't need your promises!"

I want to see the top leaders of your 'Military Intelligence Bureau'!

He stared intently into the cold, stern man's eyes:
He said, slowly and deliberately:

"I want them to make a promise to me in person!"

Just as Nursi finished speaking, making a desperate request, a clear, cold female voice suddenly came from the shadows on one side of the living room:
"I, on behalf of the Military Intelligence Bureau, agree to this condition."

The sound wasn't loud, but it seemed to possess a strange magic.

It instantly froze the air in the entire living room.

The half-open door to the side hall was gently pushed open, and a slender figure slowly walked out.

She wore a finely made dark blue uniform and had an exceptionally striking appearance.

It was Lucia.

The key figure who accompanied Princess Freya to the Kingdom of Ceylon and orchestrated a series of crucial actions behind the scenes.

After the establishment of the new regime in Guimian City, she served as the chief minister to Princess Freya.

Assist Freya in handling daily administrative affairs.

But few people know that she also held an important position within the Military Intelligence Bureau.

Based on her outstanding performance in the Kingdom of Ceylon, she has been promoted to deputy director of the Military Intelligence Bureau's Overseas Liaison Department!
They are truly powerful figures who can directly influence high-level decisions.

Upon seeing her, both men, whether the aloof one or the portly one, reacted.

They immediately composed themselves, their faces displaying utmost respect.

He then bowed deeply in respect.

Nursi was so shocked that his mouth dropped open.

He stammered:
"Your Excellency, Grand Minister!"

Having already decided to surrender, Nursi naturally had already learned about the core leadership of Guimian City.

Of course, they also knew Lucia, who could almost be considered the number two person in the group.

Lucia's gaze swept indifferently over the three people present.

Finally, the weight fell on Nursi, whose face remained expressionless.

He said slowly:

"Besides being His Highness's chief minister, I am also the deputy director of the Military Intelligence Bureau's Overseas Liaison Department."

My promise should be enough to dispel your concerns, right?

After hearing Lucia's assurance, Nursi's last trace of hesitation and unease completely vanished.

He suddenly straightened up and almost roared in response:
"Yes, Your Excellency!"
Your subordinate guarantees the mission will be completed!

At this moment, all his doubts and fears had vanished.

Instead, there was a euphoric joy at being struck by a tremendous opportunity, and a determination to serve to the death.

He knew that his fate was now inextricably linked to the woman before him, who stood high above him, and the power she represented.

Whether the road ahead leads to an abyss or a smooth path, he has no choice but to keep going!

……

Inside the Ceylon royal palace, the atmosphere was so heavy it seemed to drip water.

In the enormous council chamber, King Gaius had just returned from the nameless, deserted island of the Weeping Trench.

Without rest, he immediately summoned all the important officials who remained in the capital to urgently discuss the military situation.

When the news that the Effie expeditionary force had launched a major offensive was confirmed, the entire palace seemed to be instantly swept away by an invisible chill.

The air was so still it was suffocating.

Every minister's face was filled with barely concealed anxiety and fear.

Only King Gaius managed to remain calm, his gaze sweeping over the fearful and uneasy faces below.

He deliberately raised his voice and said in a deep tone:
"Everyone!
Hold on, as long as we hold on firmly, there will always be hope!

"Seven days! I assure you all, if we can hold out for seven days, the entire battle will be completely reversed!"

These words acted like a shot in the arm, easing the expressions of many ministers somewhat.

But the deep-seated worry in his eyes did not truly dissipate.

Gaius’s gaze then turned to a tall, resolute young man standing at the very front of the court.

It was his eldest son, Prince Orlando.

Currently the highest-ranking official in charge of security for the entire royal palace and the core area of ​​the capital.

"In Orlando these past few days, near the palace, including the residences of many high-ranking officials and dignitaries."

We must continue to strengthen patrols and vigilance; any suspicious individuals can be dealt with without prior notice!
Absolutely no mercy!

Orlando immediately stepped forward, knelt on one knee, and responded in a firm and powerful voice:

"Yes!"

After the meeting, Orlando didn't linger and immediately returned to his palace to begin arranging the tasks his father had entrusted to him.

The guards at the Prince's residence were noticeably more stringent than usual.

Squads of armored guards patrolled solemnly.

A tense atmosphere, like the impending storm, filled the air.

Just as Orlando had finished dealing with several urgent military matters and was preparing to take a short rest.

A trusted attendant strode into the study and whispered his report:

Your Highness.

Young Master Nursi from the Marquis Sak's household has come to pay a visit.

Orlando raised an eyebrow slightly upon hearing this.

He didn't show much surprise on his face.

Nursi Sak.

He was his childhood playmate, and the two were very close, practically best friends.

They often keep in touch.

Therefore, Orlando had no suspicions about Nursi's sudden visit.

He casually waved his hand and instructed the attendant:

"Let him in."

The attendant bowed, accepted the order, and left.

Orlando straightened his robes, preparing to greet his friend.

Completely unaware that a meticulously planned conspiracy against him had quietly begun with the arrival of this "friend."

……

Inside the reception room of the Prince's Mansion.

Nursi waited somewhat restlessly, his fingers unconsciously stroking the rim of his teacup.

His eyes kept glancing towards the doorway.

Finally, a steady sound of footsteps approached from afar.

Orlando appeared at the doorway of the reception room, and Nursi quickly took a deep breath.

He stood up, a warmer smile spreading across his face, and went to greet her:

"Big Brother Orlando!"

Long time no see, I'm free today.

I came here specifically to talk to you and cheer you up.

As he spoke, he secretly observed Orlando's expression.

We'll proceed as planned. We'll start by using some trivial topics to build rapport.

Then we'll find the right opportunity to implement that earth-shattering plan.

However, just as he opened his mouth, before he could even say a few words...

A servant hurried in again, bowed, and reported:

"Your Highness, Young Master Raylon from the Duke Solan's mansion has also come to pay his respects."

Rayron Solan!

Upon hearing this name, Nursi's expression changed slightly, and his heart clenched tightly.

Countless thoughts surged through my mind in an instant!
"Why is he here too?" "Should the plan continue?"

"What if he finds out..."

A fleeting hint of panic flashed in Nursi's eyes, but he quickly suppressed it.

He still wore that relaxed smile, but there was a hint of stiffness beneath it.

Orlando laughed heartily upon hearing this, his face beaming with even greater joy:

"What a coincidence! What a special day it is today?"

"You two actually came together!"

He was clearly delighted by the arrival of his two childhood friends and was completely unaware of anything unusual.

He quickly instructed his servants:
"quick!

"Quickly, please invite Young Master Lei Long in!"

Soon, a series of heavy, powerful footsteps came from outside the door.

A burly young man with a resolute face strode into the reception room.

It was Rayron Solan.

He was wearing a crisp Army Staff uniform, and the insignia on his shoulder straps showed that he held a high rank.

His eyes were sharp, and his steps were steady.

He exudes the competence and heroic spirit unique to soldiers.

This contrasts sharply with Nursi's spoiled and dissolute demeanor.

This young master Leilong is just like Orlando and Nursi.

They were all childhood playmates.

In their youth, the three of them often indulged in debauchery and pleasure in the red-light districts of the capital.

Unlike Nursi, who could only rely on the protection of his ancestors, Leilong was an extremely promising person.

He once won the runner-up title in the National Extraordinary Martial Arts Tournament.

He displayed amazing talent and strength, and was therefore highly regarded by King Gaius.

Now he holds an important position in the Army General Staff and is undoubtedly a rising star among the Kingdom's younger generation.

He is a person who truly holds real power and has a promising future!

His sudden arrival made Nursi, who already harbored ulterior motives, even more uneasy.

She glanced furtively at Lei Long, her mind racing as she considered whether to continue with the dangerous plan.

Orlando warmly greeted him and gave Rayron a big hug.

His face was beaming with the joy of a long-awaited reunion.

It felt like I had returned to those carefree days of my youth.

Unbeknownst to them, a turbulent crisis was quietly lurking in this seemingly cozy living room.

……

Inside the lavishly decorated reception room of the Orlando Royal Palace.

The three of them chatted and laughed, reminiscing about their wild and unruly youth.

But a subtle undercurrent of conflicting thoughts was subtly flowing in the air.

When it was time for dinner, Orlando seemed to be intrigued by this rare gathering.

He leaned back slightly in his chair, a relaxed smile on his face.

He opened his mouth and said:
"It's rare that the three of us can get together like this today."

"Don't leave at noon, let's all stay and have lunch together."

Nursi's heart tightened suddenly, and he secretly took a deep breath.

Forcing a warmer smile onto his face, he quickly spoke first:
Your Highness!
I can't possibly let you go to the trouble of entertaining me at your home.

I've already made arrangements; it'll be at the Alba Hotel in the East Third District.

He paused slightly, then coughed deliberately.

With a knowing, unspoken tension between men, he added:

"And there are also a few new young ladies..."

He didn't say everything, but the meaning couldn't be clearer.

Orlando frowned almost imperceptibly upon hearing this.

A hint of hesitation appeared on his face.

Clearly, during this extraordinary time, he had reservations about such suggestions to go out and seek pleasure.

However, before he could respond, Lei Long, who was sitting next to him, suddenly spoke up.

The voice was steady and powerful.
"Oh?

Yabo Hotel?

I've also heard that they recently introduced some very novel dishes.

I've always wanted to try it.

His gaze shifted to Orlando, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips:

"Since Nursi has already made the arrangements."

"Your Highness, why don't we go there?"

Nursi was greatly surprised by Leilong's sudden agreement.

He glanced at Lei Long furtively, a surge of elation welling up inside him.

Unexpectedly, this uninvited guest gave me an excellent assist.

With the support of Rayron, a childhood friend who held considerable sway in Orlando's heart.

The hesitation on Orlando's face vanished almost entirely.

He glanced at Nursi, who was looking expectant, and then at Leilong, who had a calm expression.

Finally, he nodded slightly.

"Alright, since you've all put it that way."

"Then let's go to the Albert Hotel."

……

Yabo Hotel.

The most prestigious luxury venue in the East Third District.

Inside a lavishly decorated private room on the top floor.

The three sat around a huge round table, which was already laden with exquisite dishes and fine wines.

Several scantily clad and beautiful women were attentively serving him.

The atmosphere seemed harmonious.

But Nursi's heart was pounding like a drum.

He forced a smile and chatted casually with the two of them while secretly calculating the time.

Finally, he felt the time was right.

He put down his wine glass and gave a slightly apologetic smile.

He said to Orlando:

"Your Highness, I need to use the restroom."

He tried to keep his voice steady.

But only he knew that his palms were already sweating.

Once this step is taken, there is no turning back.

Inside the men's restroom on the third floor of the Yabo Hotel.

Nursi stood alone in front of the cold marble urinal.

His hands trembled slightly, and a fine layer of cold sweat beaded on his forehead. His mind was in turmoil.

Those hostesses were undoubtedly pawns planted by the Military Intelligence Bureau.

But Leron's sudden appearance completely disrupted his rhythm.

This national runner-up in the extraordinary competition... it was like a sword hanging over his head, making him restless.

Will the plan run into problems?

Could he have discovered something?
With another Lei Long, will it be easier for the Military Intelligence Bureau to take action?
All sorts of terrifying thoughts swirled wildly in his mind.

Just as he was feeling uneasy.

squeak-

The toilet door was pushed open, and a series of steady footsteps followed!
Nursi shuddered, and like a startled rabbit, he frantically unzipped his pants.

He hurriedly turned around, pretending to urinate.

My heart was pounding so hard it felt like it was going to jump out of my throat.

There were only three guests at the entire Yabo Hotel, so who could they be?
Out of the corner of his eye, he recognized the figure as Lei Long.

In an instant, an irrepressible surge of smug joy welled up in Nursi's heart.

The gods are on your side; this kid actually delivered himself to our doorstep.

He was having such incredible luck today that he almost burst out laughing.

However, this joy lasted only a few seconds.

As Rayron walked leisurely to the urinal beside him and slowly unbuckled his belt...

Nursi's mood plummeted from cloud nine to rock bottom.

A chilling sense of dread, like a venomous snake, coiled around his spine.

Damn!

He was the runner-up in the National Extraordinary Individuals Competition.

He feared that a single encounter could kill him.

If things get chaotic later and he notices any flaws, I'm afraid I'll be the first one to be finished.

Nursi's body tensed uncontrollably as he stared intently at the tiled wall in front of him.

He desperately tried to squeeze out a few drops of urine to maintain the illusion of "going to the toilet".

But the more nervous I am, the less I can urinate!

His bladder felt as if it were being gripped by an invisible hand.

Drip...

The sound of flowing water came from the side.

It sounded particularly jarring in this deathly silent space.

Nursi's forehead was covered in cold sweat, which trickled down his temples.

He could even feel Rayron's seemingly casual gaze sweeping across his profile.

"It's over!"

"He must be suspicious!"

A desperate wail escaped Nursi's heart.

He tried desperately to control his trembling legs, but they only shook more violently.

Just as Nursi's nerves were stretched to their limit, on the verge of collapse—

Standing beside him, Lei Long suddenly let out a light chuckle with a hint of amusement.

His gaze remained fixed ahead, but his languid, all-knowing tone pierced Nursi's eardrums like an ice pick:

Why are you so nervous?

Do you really think the higher-ups are counting on you to get things done all by yourself?

"boom--!"

These words struck Nursi like a bolt from the blue.

Nursi shuddered violently and almost jumped up.

He turned his head sharply, his eyes wide as copper bells.

His eyeballs bulged violently outward due to extreme horror.

She stared intently at the calm-looking man beside her, her face filled with disbelief.

He pointed a trembling finger at Lei Long, making a hoarse sound like a broken bellows coming from his throat.

He couldn't utter a complete sentence for a long time:
"You...you...you actually..."

Only now did he finally realize what was happening.

This kid is actually in cahoots with him!

What a coincidence that he visited Orlando, what a coincidence that he agreed to have dinner at the Albert Hotel and even happened to follow him to the restroom.

It turns out it was all part of the plan all along!

Nursi was filled with shock and horror.

I am an unambitious playboy with an unstable stance and will, easily corrupted and swayed. I'm willing to do anything to find a way out for my family.

But you, Rayron Solan, were the runner-up in the National Extraordinary Tournament.

A favorite of His Majesty the King!
A promising young talent!

How could such a loyal and patriotic young man like you betray us? (End of Chapter)