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Trading secretly with other nations was clearly against the laws of the Seven Hills Empire. If discovered, even Duchess Skaiar would have to face punishment. Thus, this wasn't something she could confess to willingly, especially out of the blue like this.
Cecil and the Inspection Bureau had investigated all noble families, but even they couldn't uncover this. So, if the Duchess had kept silent, it would have remained a secret forever. Why now?
Detria was now smiling broadly, her smile obviously indicating flattery, and I couldn't help but admire her shrewdness a bit.
"I need to first hear why you're telling me this."
"The families in Zilton we dealt with seem to not welcome Gripton's ruthless rule. If used wisely, they could help Seven Hills' victory."
"But there's no guarantee they'll welcome Seven Hills, is there?"
"As you know Your Majesty, the Zilton nobles are merchants to the bone. We just need to show them what's in their best interest."
