Weiser Family Mansion — Grand Reception Hall
The door opened quietly, and a man in his mid-forties stepped inside. His imposing presence arrived before he did, while his smile concealed far more than it revealed.
The servant spoke in a low voice, "My Lord, Viscount Haron Weiser, your guest is waiting."
Siron Silver rose from his seat, a warm smile spreading across his face.
"It has been a long time, Haron."
Haron walked closer and replied, "Welcome, Siron. I didn't expect to see you under these circumstances."
The two men sat across from each other. A heavy silence lingered for a few moments before the viscount spoke in a serious tone.
"I heard you've returned for the county."
Siron nodded without saying a word.
Haron let out a quiet sigh, looked him straight in the eyes, and continued,
"The Silver family has completely fallen apart. The eldest is arrogant, reckless, and devoid of reason. The middle son harbors deep resentment toward the family and has no loyalty to the territory. As for the youngest... he's just a child. No one has faith in his future—not even the rumors spare him."
The viscount nodded knowingly and asked,
"So... have you come to seize power?"
Siron answered firmly,
"I've come to set things right."
Haron chuckled lightly.
"My son, Otana, will be fighting Jamie soon... It will be a good opportunity to see the future of your family."
---
Silver Family Mansion — Southern Wing
Meanwhile, Emilia Wilton sat quietly, her unwavering gaze fixed on Jamie. The atmosphere felt like a deal from which there was no turning back.
She asked sternly,
"Tell me, what is this deal you've been talking about?"
Jamie pulled a document from inside his coat and placed it before her.
"An employment contract... with very fair terms."
Then he continued in a low voice,
"I'll grant you power and freedom from your family in exchange for your absolute loyalty to me."
She raised an eyebrow and asked seriously,
"And how exactly do you plan to do that when you're just a child?"
Jamie smiled faintly.
"Because I know what's lurking inside you."
A look of shock crossed Emilia's face.
Suddenly, Jamie stepped forward and forcefully placed his hand on her head.
In that instant, her eyes glowed a deep crimson, and a dark spiritual aura poured from her mouth.
Jamie murmured to himself,
"A Contract Demon... I was right."
Then, with a mocking smile, he said,
"Take a look at yourself."
He handed her a small mirror.
She looked into it and gasped in disbelief.
Her appearance had completely changed.
Leaning back, Jamie smiled.
"This is your true face... Do you still think I'm just a child?"
He took out another sheet of paper and said,
"Sign here... with your blood."
Emilia signed silently.
Then she bowed respectfully and left the room with confident steps.
Jamie remained alone, staring at the closed door before him.
Then he said coldly,
"The game has truly begun."
A faint black flame ignited on his fingertip, and he slowly burned one copy of the contract.
For a brief moment, the flames illuminated his face, revealing the shadow hidden behind his smile...
The shadow of a demon who never negotiates—only plots to bring the game to its end.