Chapter 481: The Hypocrite
This point was very clear to Xu Huo. People like Duke Tal might have a duke's title, but in reality, they wielded less power than their wives. This was because Duke Tal's family didn't have many outstanding elite players, while his wife's family, originally just a third-rate noble house, had produced several exceptionally talented players. Duke Tal's family had placed an early bet by arranging the marriage to unite the two families. Now, the sons and nephews of the Duke's wife's brothers were either high-level players or held important positions in the District 011 government. Therefore, it was mostly the Duchess who was active in public affairs.
As for people like Duke Tal, their greatest contribution to their own family might just be increasing the population, hoping to nurture a few talents among the next generation.
"To truly forge connections with the nobility, one must get close to the real elites," Ran Ying sighed with emotion. "It's a pity my background isn't great. Even after making contributions in Black Epaulets, I still don't receive much regard."
Mentioning this, Xu Huo said, "I haven't congratulated you yet on your promotion and raise."
Ran Ying smiled slightly. "Thank you. You just came out of a dungeon, right? Do you have time? Let's grab a meal together later?"
Just as Xu Huo was about to answer, the door to the smoking room opened again. A woman in a golden gown entered. She paused in her steps the moment she saw Ran Ying. "Black Epaulets?"
"Duchess," Ran Ying clearly recognized this woman. "I am Ran Ying, a squad leader of Black Epaulets."
"It's you," the Duchess said, lighting a long, slender ladies' cigarette and walking over to sit down. "You're following that fool Tal again, aren't you? A young girl like you, with a bright future ahead, why get tangled up with that sort of person?"
Ran Ying smiled. "You jest, Madam. I still have matters to attend to, so I'll take my leave first."