The next morning, Serena sent a letter bearing the Selwyn crest to the Second Prince.
A short while later, Dyanne arrived with news. "Your Grace, Claude the merchant has come to see you."
Serena nodded and made her way to the guest room, where Claude was already waiting. He immediately stood and greeted her warmly.
She raised a hand lightly. "Please, sit."
Once they were both seated, Serena tilted her head slightly. "So, Claude… why have you suddenly come to see me?"
Claude cleared his throat, a rare trace of unease crossing his expression. "Actually… I lied to you about something, duchess. For the security of the guild, I had no choice at that time. But you are the dowager duchess… I felt guilty keeping it from you for so long. Anna didn't even accompany me today in case you were angry."
He took a steady breath. "In truth… I am the owner of the Crimson Bolt Merchant Guild."
Serena remained calm, her expression unchanged. "I already knew that, Claude."
Claude froze.
"The very first day you came," she continued softly, "I asked Aiden to look into you. You might be surprised to know that my butler used to work at the information Guild. It wasn't difficult for him to uncover your identity."
A faint pause. "Still, it's a good thing you told me the truth yourself."
Claude immediately bowed his head, apologising repeatedly.
After he left, Dyanne returned with another report. "Your Grace… the Second Prince has agreed to meet you. It looks like he didn't waste any time and sent another letter saying he will accept your audience."
Serena clenched her hand, "We should get going."
The Selwyn carriage came to a halt in front of the grand palace.
Serena stepped down and gazed at the entrance of the Second Prince's residence. A guard was already waiting to escort her.
She glanced at Rika. "Let's go, Rika."
Rika nodded and followed closely behind.
They were led through the palace corridors into a private chamber, where Maximus was already waiting.
Serena paused briefly, then bowed with grace. "Your Highness, the Second Prince. I thank you for granting me this audience."
Maximus looked at her for a moment before gesturing toward the seat across from him. "Please, have a seat." Serena took her seat, though a faint unease lingered in her expression.
"Your Highness," she began calmly, "I know you are busy, but this is an important matter. I understand you have no interest in ascending the throne. However, as things stand, if the Crown Prince succeeds, the vassals who support you will be targeted and absorbed into his schemes. The First Empress will not let them go easily either."
Her gaze steadied. "Even Selwyn would not be safe from that influence. I do not wish for that outcome. That is why I seek your cooperation."
Maximus listened carefully. "You are right. I have thought about this as well," he said. "I am also worried about my mother and brother. Even they are not safe in this situation." He looked directly at her. "So… what do you suggest we do?"
Serena's expression turned serious. "Then let us work together, Your Highness. If we do not take action now, the enemy will eventually push us off the board. We must move before they do."
She paused before continuing, "I will send letters through my servants in case of emergencies. That will be our safest way of contact for now."
Maximus leaned back in his chair, considering her words for a moment before nodding. "Very well. I have no objections to that."
After a brief silence, he spoke again, his tone softer. "There is also something I have been meaning to apologise for… the anonymous letter I sent you before. I hope you are not displeased by it. I just wanted to help you and the publishing house. I meant no harm."
Serena shook her head calmly. "I am not displeased. However, the man at the information Guild revealed your name quite easily. You should be more careful about who you choose to contact."
Maximus let out a deep sigh. "Yes… Matthew already told me about that incident. We reported it to the information Guild. I believe they have taken care of the man who leaked the information."
Serena let out a quiet sigh. "I suppose that settles things."
She paused before adding, "Also… I won't be able to meet you for about half a month."
Maximus frowned slightly. "Why?"
"I'll be traveling to Maryland," Serena replied. "You've heard of it, haven't you?"
Maximus nodded. "Yes. It's known for its scenic beauty and vast green lands."
"That's right," Serena said. "I only found out recently that Selwyn owns a villa there. As you already know, I wasn't familiar with many things related to the duchy… so it came as a surprise."
She folded her hands calmly. "I've decided to go there for some rest."
Then, after a brief pause, her tone grew quieter.
"Above all… that is where the Church is located."
Maximus's gaze sharpened.
"I intend to investigate them."
"You may do so, dowager duchess," Maximus said, his voice steady but laced with concern. "But it will put you in danger. Are you sure about this?"
Serena met his gaze without hesitation and nodded.