Johnson

After tidying up, it wasn't yet time to lament their mutual longing. Edward was busy escalating the situation, while Tang Feiliu had been assigned a new task.

After all, once the relief center obtained the best formula, Alexander forbade him from going there anymore. The plague outside had grown truly horrifying, with half the city on the brink of collapse. For Her Majesty Josephine, this might even be a blessing in disguise. Driven to such extremes, most people would choose life over death and faith. Besides, that story provided them with a convenient excuse—the gods still cared for their lambs, hence the revelation to his child.

Yet perhaps the temple lacked sufficient piety, having defied the divine will, thus incurring the Lord's displeasure.

This rumor spread through every street and alley. As Charlemagne grew increasingly adept, Nat's imperial city—the very place where the plague first erupted—began to gradually gain control over the situation.

Residents of Natt received free treatment, while people in other nations were just beginning to be swept up in this unwarranted calamity. In this era, royal families were often intertwined through marriage. Soon, Natt received letters requesting aid, hoping to purchase the medicinal formula.

Though Doctor Charlemagne shunned fame and fortune, this time was different. Tang Feiliu earnestly proposed the concept of a patent bill and pressed Edward to secure legitimate compensation for Charlemagne.

Thus, through Her Majesty Josephine's diplomatic maneuvering, Charlemagne's formula soon yielded a steady stream of gold. From nearly facing the gallows to overnight wealth, Doctor Charlemagne himself remained utterly unaware, while Thorn also reaped a fortune alongside his mentor... Yet Thorne's greatest joy lay in finally earning his master's recognition. Through extensive practical experience at the almshouse, he swiftly gained his mentor's approval—Truthfully, Thorne had long been ready to strike out on his own, his theoretical knowledge already substantial. The cruel reality of this era, however, made it exceedingly difficult for both Thorne and his master to find opportunities to hone their skills. Had it not been for the plague in the imperial city, Thorne might never have gained the chance to stand on his own two feet.

In any case, the plague seemed to be under control, but the truly momentous events were only just beginning.

After delivering a stinging rebuke to the Temple, Edward and Alexander engaged in a rare private conversation. Following their secret discussions, for reasons unknown, a blond-haired divine envoy was summoned from the Temple within the imperial city.

That divine envoy was named Anthony. His hair was a deep golden hue, reminiscent of maple syrup. When he smiled, two lines appeared beneath his eyes. Tang Feiliu sensed a gentle and peaceful aura about him, and took an instant liking to him at first sight.

Anthony was reportedly a friend of Alexander's. At the Black Duke's invitation, he had been transferred from Landa City to the Imperial City, becoming one of the leaders of the three major cathedrals there.

Such matters should have been arranged by the Temple, but Her Majesty Josephine was on the verge of openly rebuking them. Moreover, the plague spreading across other nations had caused immense turmoil. and other royal houses were growing increasingly dissatisfied with the Temple's greed. At this juncture, nations beyond those closely allied with the Temple began to follow the example of the Nat Empire, subtly yet steadily curtailing the Temple's authority.

All this was merely the beginning.

None of this needed Tang Feiliu's attention, for he had his own pressing matters—after the plague, Her Majesty Josephine had tasked him with overseeing the reconstruction of the Nat Imperial City's sewer system!

The Imperial City of Nart had stood for centuries, its origins lost to history. It was known only to have been expanded and repaired through generations. Though it once possessed hydraulic systems, years of disuse and incomplete blueprints made restoration challenging. Despite Her Majesty Josephine granting him broad authority, the palace officials responsible for security and city maintenance were utterly clueless about such matters...

Tang Feiliu had no desire to linger here, painstakingly instructing a group of people before work could begin. After a moment's thought, he decided to send a letter to Mr. Allen, who was happily enjoying himself in the countryside while running a small business.

Then Tang Feiliu busied himself with his own tasks.

First, he had to clean up the city. Otherwise, even with medicine, as temperatures rose, people would still get infected and fall ill. This time it was only cholera, but if the real Black Death ever arrived, that would be truly disastrous. That disease was incurable—not even Charlemagne could handle it, let alone someone with modern medical knowledge.

Although cholera was also called the Black Death, it wasn't until later generations that the plague became the truly terrifying epidemic that struck fear into people's hearts.

The rivers surrounding the imperial city were all polluted, making it extremely difficult to ensure everyone had access to uncontaminated water.

Tang Feiliu planned to broach the subject with Count Ryan the following day.

This time, when Count Ryan met Tang Feiliu, his attitude had shifted dramatically. It wasn't for any other reason—rumor had it that Count Ryan himself had fallen ill a few days prior. Fortunately, he'd visited the relief center and managed to stop the diarrhea after only a short scare.

Had this happened not long ago, even without cholera, mere diarrhea would have likely led to prolonged bloodletting and enemas. After this experience, the Earl had become remarkably receptive to modern medicine. When Tang Feiliu met him now, it was as if he were seeing a new man—the Earl was not only thoroughly clean from head to toe, but one could even detect the faint scent of soap on his skin.

Not only that, but the Earl had become quite fastidious about cleanliness. He even discussed with Tang Feiliu the rumor that the Black Duke's residence possessed a bathtub.

Tang Feiliu had initially feared that the idea of cleaning up excrement and establishing public bathhouses and toilets would meet fierce resistance from the Earl. Instead, he received the Earl's enthusiastic support. The next day, recruitment posters were plastered on the bulletin board. Everyone without work gathered around to look, instantly stunned.

When Edward returned, he found Tang Feiliu slumped dejectedly on the sofa. As he removed his coat in the outer room, Ivana whispered in his ear, "Sir, you planned to use compost irrigation today, but the reaction was quite negative."

Indeed, saving his own life was one thing, but compost irrigation—using filthy manure to water fruit trees, vegetables, and wheat... It was only natural that people would oppose such a practice.

After years of indoctrination, it was only natural they feared such filth would contaminate their food. This wasn't Edward's domain, and he couldn't simply order his subjects to comply. Yet seeing young Lance curled up on the sofa, hugging his knees in dejection, Edward couldn't help but want to ease his burden.

Edward scooped up the dejected little bundle from the sofa and carried him upstairs while saying, "Don't worry. Tell me exactly who's been the loudest in their objections, and I'll figure something out."

"I won't," the bundle in his arms nudged him softly, "I'm figuring out how to make them truly agree from the heart."

"Don't worry," Edward murmured, rubbing the little one's back as he soothed him. "I won't force them. I promise to win them over completely."

"Really?" Tang Feiliu perked up instantly, though he remained a bit skeptical. But Edward had never lied to him before. He never made empty promises about things he wasn't certain of. So Tang Feiliu thought about it for a moment, his spirits lifting again. "How do you plan to do it?"

"I'll tell you when the time comes. First..." Edward's voice grew muffled as he buried his head to lick and nibble at the soft, white dumpling. "Let me collect a little interest first."

This collection of interest wasn't the light teasing of before. Tang Feiliu was kneaded into a doughy mess, trembling and quivering. The more obedient and pitiful he acted, begging for mercy, the more Edward's pent-up mischief craved to torment him. After this ordeal, Tang Feiliu woke up the next morning with a hoarse voice.

Meanwhile, Edward was unusually relaxed, leaning back against the pillow as he watched Tang Feiliu anxiously inspect the marks on his body, terrified someone might discover just how outrageous last night had been.

Tang Feiliu seethed with frustration, itching to bite Edward. But seeing him squint contentedly, like a big cat lazily swishing its tail after a satisfying meal, Tang felt a wave of unease wash over him. Though Edward appeared harmless now, the memory of him biting Tang’s shoulder yesterday only made him more excited, tormenting Tang until he nearly passed out... Tang Feiliu told himself to endure. After all, he still needed to go out and work hard!

As he watched, a chill ran down Tang Feiliu’s spine. He turned to find Edward squinting, seemingly deep in thought. That eager-to-pounce look—any cat owner would recognize it—the poised readiness before a leap!

"Stop! I have to go to work later!" Tang Feiliu promptly stomped his foot down on Edward's face, just barely saving his dignity in the nick of time.

Though his dignity had already been pretty much wiped out last night... Still, waking up in the morning versus the afternoon was a whole different story! Technically, today was a day off, but how long had it been since either he or Edward had actually had a day off?

Today, however, Edward clearly intended to make the most of it.

"Ah!" Tang Feiliu was feeling relieved when suddenly, his foot was grabbed and gently licked. Startled, he looked up to see Edward's amused expression.

Tang Feiliu thought he was doomed. Edward was usually fine, but whether it was due to his boundless energy or not, back at the Black Swan he could vent his excess vigor during morning drills with the knights. Now in the imperial city, he had no sparring partners, and with his daily political duties keeping him busy, the longer he was bottled up, the more clingy and demanding he became.

And while this guy might be clueless in other areas, he utterly crushed Tang Feiliu in this particular game. Shivering and trembling, Tang Feiliu wanted to cry as he was licked, inwardly wailing—he absolutely couldn't go out these next couple of days!

Meanwhile, Alexander was putting on quite a show with Mr. Johnson, who felt like he was carrying a coal fire in his chest!

Thanks to his younger brother and the Black Duke's sister-in-law (?), coupled with the fact that although Her Majesty Josephine had maintained good relations with the nobility over the years and had loyal supporters at her disposal, the actions she was taking this time fundamentally challenged everyone's established perceptions. When it came down to getting things done, Tang Feiliu and his band of die-hard loyalists proved to be the most efficient.

As one of the most dependable figures, Alexander now had a prime opportunity to shine before Her Majesty. For no other reason than his partnership with Johnson in the soap business, Empress Josephine waved her hand generously, granting him substantial orders and tax exemptions.

Moreover, owing to his long residency in Black Swan City and his trustworthy background, Alexander had recently been formally appointed as Tang Feiliu's assistant. He now wielded some authority, assisting his younger brother with field surveys and the planning of the imperial city.

Her Majesty Josephine had no choice in the matter. Edward had been clinging to Lance these past days, forbidding him from leaving the palace. Normally quite stingy with his time, Edward now made it impossible for Josephine to summon Lance to the palace whenever she needed to issue instructions or inquire about progress. Even when Lance did enter the palace, Edward would stand guard beside him like a door god, his presence so conspicuous it grated on Josephine's nerves.

Later, during a visit to the relief center, she happened upon Alexander and promptly put him to use. Initially intending him merely as an informant, she soon discovered that despite his humble origins, his insights closely mirrored his brother's. He reported matters coherently and methodically, possessed a cautious and prudent nature, and crucially, demonstrated rare tact and discretion.

Her Majesty Josephine had barely ascended the throne when this dreadful plague struck. Behind the scenes, the Temple kept throwing obstacles in her path. She bore two sons—one foolish and cruel, the other weak and useless... Perhaps future generations would call her a cold-hearted mother.

Yet who could know? In this position, the world may call her scheming and venomous, but in the beginning, who among us hasn't dreamt of a life like a fairy tale?

These were thoughts unworthy of sharing with anyone. Yet having come this far, she would not allow anyone to force her back!

Josephine's gaze sharpened. Rubbing her temples, she murmured, "Let Alexander in."

This imperial palace had a new master. Every soul in Natt, including the Temple, must accept this reality.

When Alexander emerged, his heart pounded with excitement. Not only had he secured a new position, but he had gained something even more precious—the emperor's promise.

It was what the Doug family had longed for most, the hope of changing their fortunes.

A noble title.

Not a viscountcy like Tang Feiliu's, which only benefited the individual. Her Majesty Josephine had promised him a true fiefdom and a hereditary title. Though it might not be exceptionally high, it meant—the Doug family would change their status! He could be addressed as "Your Excellency"!!!

"Alexander! What are you daydreaming about?!" Mr. Johnson, the nouveau riche, had grown so euphoric from his profits that he'd gained another layer of fat, his skin flushed pink like a piglet. Radiating festive cheer and exuberance, he waved his ledger and bellowed with laughter, "What's the matter? Stunned by our profits?!"

"I'm buying you dinner!" Alexander hugged his friend excitedly. "Johnson, you rascal, our golden days are finally here!"

"Isn't this already the good life?" Johnson looked at Alexander, who seemed ready to fly, with a puzzled expression. Besides... Johnson patted his chest and declared boldly, "And what cook could possibly rival the Johnson family's! My cook is so skilled even some adults would be jealous!"

Then Johnson suffered a critical hit—he suddenly realized how much he'd been shortchanged in the meat department all his life!

Author's Note:

Thanks to Tangyuan Nuonuo and 26876695 for their support.