Extraordinary Rise: Starting Contract with the Silver Dragon Countess

As soon as Prince Duke finished speaking, a violent coughing sound, caused by choking on alcohol, immediately rang out from the side.

The shrewd business representative's expression changed. He quickly tugged at Duke's sleeve and whispered a reminder:
"Your Highness, please be careful with your words. The representatives of the Central Empire are still here!"

Unfortunately, the intervention came too late; Prince Duke's voice had already reached the surrounding crowd who were listening intently to the gossip.

A burst of suppressed laughter erupted throughout the hall, filling the air with a joyful atmosphere.

The reason is simple: scandalous gossip involving the highest levels of power is always a timeless and popular topic of conversation.

Especially when the protagonists of the story are the philandering King Efein and the two stunning queens (emperors), the room for imagination is enough to temporarily set aside any serious political topics.

Just as everyone in the banquet hall was immersed in various speculations and noise, the clear, drawn-out announcements of the master of ceremonies came from outside the door:

"Her Majesty the Queen has arrived!"

A moment of silence fell over the banquet hall, and all conversations came to an abrupt halt.

Whether they were politicians giving grand speeches or nobles whispering amongst themselves, everyone involuntarily stopped what they were doing and turned their gazes to the slowly opening banquet hall door.

When Queen Freya reappeared at the door, she had changed out of the solemn and elaborate coronation dress she wore during the daytime enthronement ceremony.

She wore a lighter and more graceful evening gown, yet it did not diminish her elegance in the slightest.

The deep blue velvet, as dark as the night sky, perfectly hugged her slender yet powerful body curves. Without any superfluous embellishments, it only highlighted her innate nobility and elegance.

The smooth velvet fabric gleams with a soft, understated sheen under the magical crystals illuminating the dome that simulate starlight.

Her delicate, exposed collarbones and snow-white shoulders and neck were breathtakingly beautiful.

The crown, symbolizing supreme power, still rested firmly on her head, but under the soft lighting of the banquet, it lacked some of the imposing and oppressive aura it possessed during the day.

Freya walked calmly into the banquet hall, a perfectly timed smile on her beautiful face.

He nodded slightly, accepting the complex gazes that converged from all directions with composure.

Without a doubt, from any perspective, Queen Freya is the undisputed and radiant focus of this evening's grand event.

The musicians played the first dance tune at just the right moment, and the melodious tune echoed in the hall.

Everyone knew what the next step meant.

Following the millennia-old court tradition of Ceylon, this celebratory banquet and ball symbolized the beginning of a new dynasty.

It should rightfully be initiated by the Queen and her official partner.

However, it is well known that the young Queen Freya has never publicly acknowledged any partner.

This makes her choice of her first dance partner on the day of her coronation, in full view of everyone, particularly intriguing, and even carries a hint of political declaration.

Without the slightest hesitation, Freya walked straight to Cohen, smiling as she extended her hand:

"Your Majesty Corleone, to celebrate the friendship between our two nations, would I have the honor of inviting you to join me for the first dance?"

Cohen bowed gracefully, took Freya's hand, and placed a feather-light kiss on the back of her hand:
“It is my honor, Your Majesty.”

The two walked hand in hand into the center of the dance floor.

Cohen's hand gently rested on Freya's slender waist under the burning gazes of many young nobles, a mixture of envy and jealousy.

Freya's hand naturally rested on his shoulder, and she danced gracefully to the classical and beautiful waltz melody.

The dance steps were skillful and synchronized, with spinning and twirling movements, skirts fluttering, and movements as fluid as flowing water.

Under the dreamlike starlight, they were undoubtedly the most dazzling presence in the entire venue.

Every exchange of glances, every subtle interaction, seemed to silently proclaim the close bond between the two that transcended ordinary covenants.

People around them admired, envied, or secretly plotted, all focusing their attention on the man and woman who were a perfect match in terms of appearance and power.

Meanwhile, on the edge of the dance floor, Prince Velma from Solandis only reacted slowly, as if he had been doused with cold water.

What exactly did Prince Duke mean by his seemingly joking remark that "King Alfie's son will become the new King of Ceylon"?

He felt his worldview and philosophy of life collapse in that instant, leaving him with only a cold, bewildered feeling.

The atmosphere of the ball gradually reached its climax as another piece of music began to play.

Asuna finally found an opening, and her sharp gaze deterred several socialites who wanted to chat with Cohen.

He naturally reached out to invite her to dance.

Grace was also eager to go up and dance with Cohen.

However, her relationship with Cohen still needed to be kept secret, so for the moment she could only suppress her emotions and casually swirl the crystal-clear liquid in her glass.

The audience watched as yet another woman of noble birth and outstanding appearance danced with Cohen.

They couldn't help but exchange envious glances and whispers.

"His Majesty Cohen is truly...enviable."

"Who says otherwise? There are several beauties in the family; it's truly a blessing to have multiple wives."

The grand coronation ceremony has finally come to a close.

The guests began to take their leave one after another.

At that moment, in front of several close friends, Freya naturally took Cohen's arm, her voice soft but clear:
"Your Majesty Corleone, please stay behind. There are still some details regarding the new terms for border trade between our two countries that need to be discussed with you."

Upon hearing this, Asuna and Grace, who were about to leave, both paused in their tracks.

Asuna looked at Cohen, a slight smile playing on her lips, and gave him a meaningful, somewhat teasing look.

Grace glanced quickly at Cohen, her eyes filled with a hint of resentment and helplessness, then turned and disappeared into the departing crowd with Asuna.

Cohen felt the strength coming from his arm and the subtle atmosphere of lingering alcohol in the air, and could only give Freya a wry smile.

I already know in my heart that this so-called "discussion on important matters" is probably not just about trade terms.

……

After Freya brought Cohen back to her luxurious and private bedroom, a mysterious smile appeared on her lips. She left him with only the words, "Please wait a moment. I need to prepare a special gift for you, sir."

Then, like mist, it quietly disappeared into the adjacent side hall.

Cohen sat alone on a tatami mat covered with velvet cushions, his fingertips unconsciously tapping the armrests.

I don't know how much time passed, maybe just a moment, maybe longer.

The door to the side hall passage was gently pushed open, and Freya reappeared, now dressed in a different outfit.

The deep purple velvet gown she wore at the daytime coronation ceremony, and even the heavy crown inlaid with the "Heart of Ceylon," were still firmly placed on her head.

Cohen looked up and couldn't help but chuckle, his tone slightly mocking:

"What's with you dressed so formally? Are you planning to have another coronation in the dead of night?"

However, Freya did not answer.

His eyes gleamed with an almost eerie, burning light as he slowly approached.

Until they arrived at the couch where Cohen was sitting.

Then, under Cohen's slightly puzzled gaze, his fingers, hanging by his sides, deftly hooked the silk sash tied around his waist and gave it a gentle tug.

The front of the gorgeous dress came undone, and the open neckline instantly revealed a dazzling expanse of white, succulent skin.

The sudden, erotic scene caused Cohen's breath to catch in his throat, and his mind went blank.

He almost instinctively abruptly looked away, his Adam's apple bobbing uncontrollably.

This girl! Underneath her dress, she's completely naked! Not a single piece of clothing!

Freya took in his embarrassment, a wicked, triumphant smile playing on her lips, her voice extremely low:
"This is the gift I carefully prepared for my husband."

Are you satisfied, sir?

Before he could finish speaking, she had already pressed herself against him from behind, her warm body and stunning curves clearly imprinted on Cohen's back through the thin fabric of her dress.

Feeling the alluring touch on his back, Cohen shuddered violently, his suppressed desire instantly ignited.

He suddenly turned around, scooped Freya up in his arms, pressed her into the soft quilt, and whispered through gritted teeth in her ear:
"I really shouldn't have let you hang out with Grace the other day, she's corrupted you!"

As he spoke, he reached out to remove the crown that was swaying in her hair.

Freya suddenly raised her hand and gently blocked Cohen's wrist as he reached for the crown.

She tilted her head back, her innocent eyes gleaming with a mischievous, alluring light, and whispered:

"No need to take it off... just leave it on."

These words were like a spark thrown into dry tinder, instantly igniting the deep undercurrents in Cohen's eyes.

His pupils suddenly contracted, their color becoming even deeper and darker, as if they could suck a person's soul into them.

My heart pounded wildly in my chest like a runaway horse, and my breathing became erratic and out of control.

His hoarse voice suppressed turbulent emotions.
"Besides these, what other nonsense did that lawless succubus teach you!"

Far from being afraid, Freya wrapped her arms around his neck like a water snake and chuckled softly:
"Sister Grace also said...you seem to be particularly fond of the way she kneels in front of you."

Do you need me too...?

Before she could finish speaking, Cohen suddenly leaned down and fiercely silenced her with his burning lips.

All the turbulent restlessness and helpless indulgence were crushed in this kiss, which carried a punitive undertone yet was also uncontrollably deep. A muffled sigh escaped between their intertwined lips and teeth.
"You're such a little devil..."

……

The first light of dawn cast a hazy glow over the palace.

Cohen slowly woke up and looked down at Freya, who was still fast asleep in his arms.

Her delicate brows were slightly furrowed, as if she was still feeling a little unwell in her dream.

A wave of pity washed over him, and he gently pulled his arm away from under her neck, carefully placing her on the soft pillow.

He leaned down and placed a light, apologetic kiss on her slightly furrowed brow.

Recalling the intimacy of the previous night, he felt both warm and guilty.

Of all the women in Cohen's life, Freya had the lowest cultivation level.

Normal intimacy requires him to consciously restrain himself, let alone his out-of-control demands last night.

She was clearly already exhausted from the conquest, but in order to satisfy him, she gritted her teeth and remained silent.

It wasn't until he came to his senses from the whirlpool of lust that he realized she was almost completely exhausted.

Cohen reached out and gently rubbed Freya's forehead, sighed softly, then quietly got up from the bed, straightened his robes, and gently pushed open the door to leave. He then called Asuna and whispered a few words to her.

Asuna strode into the palace and looked around; her face already showed a hint of reproach.

He lowered his voice and complained to Cohen:

"She's young and doesn't know any better. She's just starting out and doesn't know how to control herself. Don't you know that too?"

He acted recklessly and impulsively, and now he's passed out and can't be woken up anymore..."

Cohen looked embarrassed and said with a wry smile:

"It's my fault. I'm leaving this place to you. Take good care of her."

Asuna waved her hand, her tone urging:

"Alright, go ahead."

Grace is already waiting for you. It seems the delegation from the Eastern Empire is determined to welcome you back with them.

Cohen's expression hardened, and he slowly nodded:

"I see!"

……

To meet with people from the Eastern Empire, he naturally couldn't appear openly as Cohen Corleone.

Of course, it would be inconvenient to arrange it directly within the Ceylon Royal Palace.

Therefore, Cohen had already arranged with Grace to meet at a quiet manor outside the city.

This manor is an important property of the Fiery Red Lips Merchant Guild located in the Kingdom of Ceylon. It is a secluded place with strict security.

It is a villa specifically for Princess Grace to stay and rest when she comes to Ceylon for sightseeing and inspection.

This is the perfect opportunity to use for this meeting that cannot be publicized.

In the elegantly decorated yet luxurious living room, Viscount Longdo, the Grand Councilor representing the Eastern Empire to attend the coronation ceremony of the new King of Ceylon, sat in the guest seat.

Princess Grace naturally took the main seat, accompanied by the newly appointed Prime Minister of Ceylon, the Duke of Gavin.

The three of them seemed to be leisurely sipping fragrant tea, casually chatting about the customs and products of the two countries and the post-war situation, creating a very harmonious atmosphere.

Suddenly, Viscount Rondo asked, seemingly casually:
"Your Highness, Queen Freya's coronation ceremony yesterday was a grand and solemn affair."

Why didn't we see the Pirate King, Yann Hughes, make an appearance?
Logically speaking, the Pirate King made a great contribution in this war to restore his kingdom; he shouldn't have been absent!

Grace, without the slightest change in expression, elegantly picked up her teacup, took a small sip, and replied naturally:

"Viscount, you may not know this, but the naval battle between Ceylon and the Scarlet Raiders has only just ended."

The situation at sea still needs to be stabilized, and Yann has many post-war affairs to attend to.

We need to travel to the Eastern Empire next, so we're returning to Crimson Island ahead of schedule to make arrangements.

Therefore, they were unable to attend the ceremony.

Upon hearing this, Viscount Rondo looked enlightened, as if he had accepted this reasonable explanation and showed no doubt whatsoever.

The three of them then tacitly steered the conversation back to trivial chatter.

Around noon, footsteps were heard outside the manor.

Then the door opened, and a burly figure slowly walked in.

He wore a seemingly ordinary black cloak, but his movements naturally exuded an imposing aura of someone who had long held a high position and wielded the power of life and death.

This was naturally Korn, disguised as the Pirate King Yann Hughes.

To be honest, this was the first time Viscount Rondo had ever seen this legendary figure who dominated the Endless Sea and was rumored to have intricate connections with the Demon God.

Although his appearance wasn't particularly striking, his gaze was so sharp it seemed to pierce through people's hearts.

Especially the kind of oppressive aura that lingers around him, a pressure that seems to freeze the air.

This made Viscount Rondo, a seasoned official, immediately realize that this was definitely a high-ranking person who was used to controlling fate and deciding life and death.

Such a man is indeed very charming, no wonder the proud princess fell in love with the Pirate King at first sight.

Grace, seated at the head of the table, rose gracefully and introduced the two parties:
“Viscount Rondo, this is Mr. Yann Hughes, whom you have been wanting to meet.”

Cohen spoke up at the opportune moment:
"Viscount, just call me Ya'en."

Grace continued:

“My dear, this is Viscount Longdo of our military council, who has come here on the orders of our father.”

The two greeted each other politely and exchanged a few pleasantries.

Viscount Rondo didn't waste any time with pleasantries and went straight to the point, saying solemnly:

"Mr. Hughes, to be honest, His Majesty the Emperor of our country, and many subjects of our Eastern Empire..."

I've been looking forward to One Piece for a long time.

His Majesty has specially dispatched me here to welcome you to the Land of Dragons, to complete some necessary ceremonies and preparations before your engagement to Princess Grace."

Upon hearing this, Cohen nodded slightly, his voice low and calm, carrying just the right amount of apology:

"Viscount Rondo and His Majesty the Emperor are too kind."

"To be honest, it was indeed my oversight. I should have personally visited His Majesty in the Eastern Empire long ago; the delay was truly inexcusable."

Viscount Rondo's face lit up with a relieved smile, and he quickly replied:

"Sir, you flatter me."

Since that's the case, then there's no time to lose.

If you have no other urgent matters to attend to here, sir, how about we set off back to Dragon Land first thing tomorrow morning?

Cohen hesitated for a moment, then nodded in agreement:

"Alright, then we'll follow the Viscount's arrangements."

After seeing Viscount Rondo and Prime Minister Gavin off, Grace clapped her hands lightly.

With this elegant gesture, the hidden magical sound chambers around the living room quietly activated, releasing a soothing melody like moonlight spilling onto a calm lake.

The gentle melody instantly filled the empty living room, casting a hazy, ambiguous atmosphere over this private space.

Cohen was startled by the sudden music, but his gaze was immediately drawn to the scene before him.

Grace, seemingly oblivious to his presence, calmly began changing her clothes right in front of him.

Her slender fingers deftly unbuttoned the pearl buttons of her court dress, and the magnificent outer robe slid down her smooth shoulders, revealing a back that looked as if it had been carved from the finest mutton-fat jade.

Skin glows with moisture under the slanting afternoon sunlight.

Her snow-white body, completely exposed, seemed to possess a deadly magic in every curve, making Cohen's throat tighten.

The burning desire he had barely managed to suppress that morning reignited like oil thrown into embers, scorching his reason.

However, Grace seemed oblivious to his almost tangible, burning gaze. She tilted her head slightly, her smooth neck tracing a graceful arc, and let out a soft, coquettish hum.

"I suppressed my dancing enthusiasm yesterday, so now you'd better make it up to me!"

Cohen took a deep breath of the air, which carried her unique, cool fragrance, suppressed the burning desire in his lower abdomen, and strode forward.

His strong arms encircled her slender waist, which was clad only in a fitted slip dress, and he pressed her warm body tightly against his, lowering his head to whisper in her ear:
"Perfect timing, I also wanted to ask you, what exactly have you been secretly feeding Freya these past two days... unusual knowledge?"

Grace was held captive in his arms, and instead of struggling, she let out a soft laugh like a triumphant kitten.

She raised her slender finger and tapped his tense chest lightly.

He tilted his head back, his eyes gleaming with a cunning and knowing light, his breath sweet as orchids:
"Last night... I suppose His Majesty enjoyed a rather unusual 'gift'?"

However, you've guessed wrong this time. It wasn't me who actively corrupted your innocent little queen.

Instead, it was that little devil who couldn't contain herself and took the initiative to come to me, pestering me to ask her all sorts of questions..."

……

Dusk slowly enveloped the Ceylon Royal Palace.

Freya didn't seem to wake up from a deep, long dream until evening, her long eyelashes trembling a few times.

His eyes barely opened, still wet with the lingering mist of exhaustion.

Asuna, who had been staying by the bedside, quickly relayed the message.

Moments later, hurried footsteps echoed down the corridor.

Cohen pushed open the door and strode to the canopy bed, which was draped with heavy curtains.

He leaned down and stared at Freya's still pale face, his heart feeling as if it were being gripped tightly by an invisible hand.

He reached out and gently brushed away the blond hair damp with cold sweat from his forehead, his voice low and filled with undisguised heartache as he said:
"You silly girl... You have a long future ahead of you, why are you so careless about yourself?"

Freya seemed to want to force a reassuring smile, but her pale lips only curved slightly, ultimately turning into a barely audible whisper:

"I understand, I won't do it again next time."

Her docile response only made Cohen feel a pang of sadness. He looked at her obedient yet exhausted appearance.

I couldn't help but think to myself, next time, after this experience, if I want to get close to you again, I'll probably need a few more "guardians".

Suppressing his chaotic thoughts, and thinking of the impending separation, Cohen sat down on the edge of the bed, took her slightly cool hand, and his tone became solemn:

"Freya, I will be leaving Ceylon for a while soon."

Upon hearing that he was leaving, Freya's eyes widened slightly, revealing a hint of barely perceptible resentment.

Cohen quickly told her the whole story.

Freya's delicate brows immediately furrowed with worry:
"Sir, is there any risk in going to the Eastern Empire disguised as the Pirate King?"
That Prince Xia Zuo has always seen you as a thorn in his side, I'm worried..."

Looking at her worried expression, Cohen felt a surge of warmth and affection. He reached out and gently ruffled her soft hair, softly comforting her:

"Don't worry, there are very few people on this continent who can truly threaten my safety."

What you need to do is sit securely on your throne, rest and recuperate, and accumulate strength.

I've made arrangements; Saint Garin will remain in Ceylon to assist you.

Once she has helped you completely stabilize the domestic situation and integrate the army, that will be the time for us to set our sights on the Kingdom of Serene! (End of Chapter)