Chapter 5: Succession
At the event, before the Duke spoke with Benjamin, he remained on the second floor with Marquis Vapund.
Marquis Vapund approached the Duke with the intention of having a conversation, but the Duke showed no interest until the Marquis mentioned a particular topic that caught his attention.
"So." The Marquis began, "Have you made your decision on the marriage alliance between our houses?"
The Duke remained silent, clearly uninterested in responding.
"You should think this through, Gerin." The Marquis said, using the Duke’s first name. "Your family is by far the strongest. Even the King and his kin fear you. But your family’s isolationist mindset has left you with no allies in the Capital. Everyone hates you and if the time comes, they will take up arms and attack you from all sides."
The Duke was surprised by the thinly veiled threat but kept his composure.
"Marquis, it’s true my family has remained on the sidelines of Ikarus’ politics." The Duke replied with pride. "But don’t forget that we were never conquered like the rest of you. The Kingdom asked us to join to end a war they were losing. We accepted peace in exchange for autonomy. So it’s irrelevant whether or not we gain influence in the Royal Government."
The Marquis laughed mockingly. "Sure, sure. Whatever you say. But the reality is that they are drafting laws and making plans specifically designed to undermine your house." He leaned in slightly. "You may think you’re powerful, but in politics and influence, Duke Gerin, you’ve got nothing."
The Duke scoffed. "So, you’re suggesting I ally with a newly-born, upstart house from the middle of nowhere? What support can you possibly offer me? A few votes in the Royal Parliament where the King’s supporters already hold a majority, while his two children are busy waging a shadow civil war for the throne? You bring nothing to the table to get my interest."