Even if they had been in contact several times, Luo De would unquestionably choose profit in the face of interests.

He would never waste the slightest affection Luo De has for the Tulip Clan on such trivial matters.

Moreover, the Earl of the Tulip does not think that the young daughter of the Rose Clan is qualified to be Luo De’s wife.

"You are, after all, his father..."

"I don’t want to interfere with Luo De’s life, thank you for your kindness."

The Earl of the Tulip forcibly interrupted the Earl of Rose.

Just then, the servant brought over the freshly brewed tea, and the Earl of the Tulip changed the subject,

"Try this floral tea, it was sent to me by Luo De, it helps relieve the day’s fatigue after drinking."

"Really?"

The Countess of Rose’s eyes lit up, and she quickly picked up the cup from the wooden tray.

She might not trust the words of others, but this was a gift from Duke Luo De who could transform into a dragon, it couldn’t be fake.

Faced with such novelty, the Countess of Rose abandoned her noble demeanor.

Ignoring the scorching heat of the tea, she blew on it a few times and took a big sip.

The burning pain contorted her face in agony, but soon it was filled with wonder.

"Truly amazing!"

The Countess of Rose praised, "I feel a sense of relief in my body!"

"As long as you like it."

The Earl of the Tulip responded with a smile, "I’ll send two packs to your carriage later."

In fact, the tea brewed by the servant was just a mixture of dried flowers the Earl had prepared himself, with a bit of honey added.

The real tea Luo De sent him, he couldn’t bear to drink himself, let alone give it to an unrelated old woman.

Everyone was merely praising each other.

The Countess of Rose detected the Earl of the Tulip’s subtle hint to leave, understanding that lingering would only irritate.

She immediately stood up to take her leave, leaving with her servant in tow.

In truth, the Countess of Rose wasn’t the first visitor.

On this journey, there had already been five nobles currying favor with the Earl of the Tulip.

Some nobility, like the Countess of Rose, had their eyes on the Tulip Clan’s bloodline,

While others hoped the Earl of the Tulip would speak well of them in front of Luo De, securing their family’s territory.

The Earl of the Tulip mostly brushed them off without making any commitments.

Vincent slowly approached the Earl of the Tulip and whispered, "Father, do you think brother would really be so heartless to us?"

"Since we didn’t provide enough assistance during his adversity, it’s best not to become a burden during his rise."

The Earl of the Tulip said calmly, "Regardless of how he views the Tulip Clan, you should offer him enough respect."

"Alright, father, I’ve got it." Vincent nodded solemnly.

Then Vincent bowed his head in salute and personally went to arrange the sentries.

As nightfall descended, the sky was covered with heavy clouds.

The sound of burning branches and faint shouting made the night even quieter.

As the mist rose, the Night Guard at the edge of the camp became highly vigilant, watching their surroundings closely.

Suddenly, a dull and short sound came from the mist, as if something heavy fell.

The Night Guard immediately stood up and shouted softly, "Who!"

His voice instantly alerted those around him, and the lying guards quickly grabbed their swords and got up.

Vincent also opened his eyes and asked softly, "What’s going on?"

"Something doesn’t feel right, sir." The Night Guard kept his gaze firmly fixed ahead.

Vincent silently observed the mist-covered surroundings, frowning.

"Maintain vigilance."

Vincent pointed to the two guards beside him, "You two go protect Lord Earl."

Vincent also realized something was amiss.

It was too quiet around.

The woods and meadows at the end of summer wouldn’t be this quiet.

"Yes, sir."

The guard responded softly and immediately turned to head towards the Earl of the Tulip’s tent.

"Whoosh whoosh whoosh!"

At that moment, dozens of arrows shot out from the mist!

"Look out!"

Vincent dove towards the nearest guard, grabbing a wooden shield and holding it in front of him!

"Clang clang clang!"

The urgent knocking sounds followed in succession, the wooden shield quickly embedded with several arrows!

The guard saved by Vincent also picked up his wooden shield to block, luckily saving his life!

While another slower-reacting guard was unfortunate, struck down as a pincushion!

"Enemy attack!"

Vincent shouted aloud, raising his wooden shield and frantically retreating to the tent’s side,

"Protect Lord Earl!"