Damn, I Have to Marry the Strongest Antagonist at the Start?-Chapter 572 - 22-Empire in Turmoil

"What? Has he mobilized his legion and set out for the imperial capital?"

Upon hearing the report from Grand Commander Andre of the Holy Templar Order, Yevna's expression darkened in an instant. A chill swept across her face like a sheet of frost.

Yelude, how dare you!

At that moment, the royal court felt like the stillness before a storm—oppressive and suffocating.

Just recently, Master Eldritch had received the flesh of a Phoenix brought back by Elena. Not only had his injuries fully healed, but his strength had taken a significant leap forward.

Now, he stood on the verge of the Legendary Rank, just a single step away from becoming a living legend—a feat that would make him the focal point of attention across the entire continent.

His breakthrough could determine whether they would gain the upper hand in the looming confrontation with the Soul Pontificate.

In such a critical and uncertain moment, even the smallest fluctuation could lead to disastrous consequences.

Thus, any action taken by the Thunder Knight Commander tugged heavily on the nerves of every court official present.

Andre knelt on one knee, his voice solemn.

"Your Majesty, for the moment, Duke Victor's elite Emerald Shield Legion still holds the southern front. Thunder Knight Commander Yelude dares not make any hasty moves. However…"

He paused briefly, then continued, "Today, urgent intelligence arrived from our spies scattered throughout the empire. The Commander has dispatched numerous small units composed of high-rank mages and elite knights. Their current mission: to investigate the disaster conditions across the nation!"

"I cannot fathom his true intentions behind this sudden operation. The situation is dire, and I came to report it to Your Majesty immediately, hoping for your decision."

The moment those words landed, the previously silent council hall erupted into a frenzy.

Courtiers murmured among themselves, concern and unease written across every face.

Why would Yelude, a knight commander, concern himself with investigating natural disasters?

Master Eldritch furrowed his brow.

"Disaster investigation? That's not like him at all."

"With his personality, he wouldn't spare a thought for the people's suffering. There's definitely a scheme behind this."

Master Roland stroked his beard thoughtfully, his eyes gleaming.

"If you ask me, there must be an ulterior motive here."

"He might be planning to use these disasters as leverage—to manipulate public opinion or pursue some dark political agenda."

"Your Majesty, we cannot afford to take this lightly!"

"That's right! There's no way Yelude is acting out of kindness!"

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"Your Majesty must be on high alert!"

The crowd nodded in agreement, and the atmosphere in the chamber grew heavier by the second.

Queen Yevna sat in silence, listening to the debates. Her slender, pale fingers tapped rhythmically on the armrest of her throne, the sound echoing like a war drum. She was deep in thought, calculating the best course of action.

"Commander Andre," she finally said, her voice calm but decisive, "issue a decree. I want full surveillance on both the Thunder Knight Commander and the Soul Pontificate."

"Every move, every whisper—must be under our watchful eye."

"If there is even the slightest disturbance, I want to be informed at once. Not a single mistake is allowed."

"By your command, Your Majesty!"

Andre knelt once more, his voice resolute. "I will carry out your orders with unwavering loyalty!"

He rose, saluted with the utmost knightly decorum, and departed swiftly. His silhouette vanished in the glow of the teleportation magic array.

Yevna watched his departure in silence, letting out a faint sigh.

She turned to the council members.

"Gentlemen, the current situation is grave. We must prepare for all eventualities."

"Master Eldritch, your breakthrough holds the key to the empire's future. I hope you can enter seclusion and advance to the Legendary Rank as soon as possible."

Eldritch nodded solemnly.

"Rest assured, Your Majesty. I will do everything in my power. However, breaking through to Legendary Rank will take some time. I urge Your Majesty to remain cautious during this period."

Yevna nodded in return, then led the group toward the Eternal Palace.

She intended to accompany Elena in continuing the hunt for spellbeast cubs.

Inside the Eternal Palace

Elena held her wand tightly, eyes focused as she cast spells against a low-level wind-element spellbeast.

Thanks to her Elemental Affinity Bloodline, she had made astounding progress in just two days—transforming from a novice with no magical knowledge into a full-fledged Tier-3 Mage.

Her unprecedented talent and rapid advancement left everyone in the palace astounded.

Even Master Eldritch and the other court mages were stunned.

If merely hunting low-level spellbeasts could yield such fast results... what would happen if she faced real magical beasts or trained with powerful opponents?

"Elena, that's enough for today. It's getting late. Go get some rest. Your mother still has government matters to handle."

Yevna walked over and gently stroked Elena's head, her gaze soft with maternal affection.

Her own quarters had now been relocated to the Eternal Palace—not only to care for Elena and savor the joys of motherhood, but more importantly, to protect this extraordinary child.

"Okay, Mother. But you mustn't overwork yourself either."

Elena looked up with a sweet, innocent smile and obediently tucked away her wand before following her maids to her room.

Yevna watched the girl's retreating figure, emotions swirling in her chest.

Such a child, with a tragic past and incredible strength...

She couldn't help but wonder about her own biological daughter.

Where was she now?

Inside Elena's Room

"Father... Even though Mom Yevna treats me really well, and the old grandpas are all so nice to me, I still miss home."

"But I can't go back just yet. I need to borrow Mom Yevna's power to help me find the woman who abandoned us!"

"When I find her… I'll bring Mom Yevna home with me too. I'll give you the best surprise ever."

"Oh, and guess what—I'm already a Tier-3 Mage! You'd be so proud, right?"

After being away from home for so long, Elena's playful spirit had started to fade. This was, after all, her first time away from her father.

The homesickness slowly crept in.

She reminisced about all the moments she had shared with her father—the laughter, the warmth, the safety.

Gradually, she drifted off to sleep.

The magical lights dimmed, and the room was enveloped in darkness.

Meanwhile...

In another distant place...

Owen paced excitedly back and forth across the room.

The magic coursing through his body surged like a rising tide. His power was growing by the second.

The sensation of strengthening filled him with uncontrollable excitement—he couldn't sleep at all!

"System, did you see that?! My darling Elena is already a Tier-3 Mage!"

"And I've just advanced to a Level 4 Mage myself!"

"She really is my daughter—look at that magical talent! Her growth speed is insane!"

"Hahahaha! This is incredible!"

Owen burst into laughter, waving his magic staff through the air. Arcane light danced in response, illuminating the room with radiant brilliance.

His strength had clearly taken a leap. Magic control felt easier and more intuitive than ever. His bloodline power had also strengthened significantly.

Where he used to struggle just to cast a Tier-2 spell once, now he could cast three in a row with ease—and with even greater force.

This... this was the joy of becoming stronger!

[Host, please remain calm. While your advancement is significant, do not let it cloud your judgment.]

The system's cold, mechanical voice rang out in Owen's mind.