With the addition of the three major families, even if the Koken family defeated Leo and took over the Seven Stars Sword Sect, they would not be able to enjoy the spoils alone.
“Miss Maniwa, the three major families have set their sights on that Atraria boy.”
“They already know he possesses the Yin-Yang Mystic Art, and that martial arts sect is an excellent place for cultivation.”
“Yes, Lord Byron, I thought this was the opportunity for our Koken family to rise. In the end, we still have to compete with these families,” Maniwa’s voice carried a hint of reluctance.
As they spoke, Yuriko Yamaguchi approached in a kimono and wooden clogs.
“Miss Maniwa, Lord Byron, I just received news that the Western Modock Family, led by a prince, is heading to Atraria with a group of Werewolf elites.”
“Their destination is likely Langstel.”
Yuriko Yamaguchi spoke respectfully to the two.
“What? The Modock Family’s Werewolves are coming too?” Maniwa’s delicate eyebrows furrowed immediately.
“Since the Modock Family’s Werewolves were driven out of Atraria by that boy last time, they have been silent for a long time.”
“This time, a prince is leading them to Atraria. Clearly, they are here for revenge.”
A look of seriousness appeared on Maniwa’s pretty face.
A prince of the Wolf Tribe was equivalent to a powerful Heaven Ninja.
The Koken family’s Heaven Ninja had already come out of seclusion and would be heading to Atraria in the next few days.
“Miss Maniwa, another wolf has come to share the spoils.” Byron’s small eyes flashed with cold light, his expression somewhat grim.
“Yes, and it’s a powerful wolf,” Maniwa nodded.
The situation in Langstel was becoming increasingly complicated. It was hard to say how much benefit the Koken family could gain.
“Additionally, Miss Maniwa, Lord Byron, the Mason family has sent an invitation, inviting us to meet at Hot Springs Valley Gardens,” Yuriko Yamaguchi handed an invitation to Maniwa.
“An invitation?” Maniwa raised an eyebrow and opened it. “Samson, that effeminate man’s invitation?”
A look of disgust appeared on Maniwa’s pretty face.
Clearly, she did not like this person named Samson.
“Miss Maniwa, why would Samson send an invitation at this time?” Byron pondered.
“Samson is always scheming. He probably didn’t just send us an invitation; he likely sent one to the Tanner family and the Hojo Clan as well,” Maniwa said.
If Samson had only invited her, there would be no need for an invitation; a phone call would suffice.
“As for the purpose, it should be to discuss how to divide the benefits,” Maniwa added.
“Maniwa, should we accept the invitation?” Byron asked.
“Of course we should go. If we don’t, and those three families reach some agreement, the benefits that originally belonged to our Koken family might be given to them,” Maniwa said directly.
Hot Springs Valley Gardens was located in a remote suburban area of Langstel City. It was a private Japanese-style garden, sparsely populated and quite secluded.
The true owner of Hot Springs Valley Gardens was the Mason family.
Inside Hot Springs Valley Gardens, red maple leaves fell into a clear lake.
In the lake, a group of red koi swam freely, occasionally surfacing, creating a unique scenery with the falling red leaves.
A red bridge spanned the lake, with clean cobblestone paths at both ends.
Japanese stone lanterns lined the cobblestone paths, leading to a wooden pavilion.
The octagonal pavilion had long strings connecting it to surrounding maple trees.
On these strings hung beautifully folded paper cranes and wind chimes between them.
A gentle breeze caused the paper cranes to sway lightly and the wind chimes to produce melodious sounds.
At this moment, someone stood in the pavilion.
This person wore a bright red kimono adorned with exquisitely embroidered cranes.
The person had a slender figure and long black hair that cascaded down over the red kimono.
Their skin was fair, and their face was adorned with delicate makeup.
Red lips and well-defined eyebrows made for a pretty appearance, with a constant soft smile on their lips and holding a round fan in hand.
At first glance, one might mistake this person for a beautiful woman.
Upon closer inspection, it became clear this was a man; his slightly protruding Adam’s apple gave it away.
Maniwa, Byron, and Yuriko Yamaguchi followed a maid to this pavilion.
“Maniwa, long time no see. I didn’t expect you to be the first to arrive.”
The person in the red kimono brightened upon seeing Maniwa and smiled warmly. Their voice was somewhat high-pitched.
Hearing Samson’s voice made Maniwa’s skin crawl slightly, her expression somewhat unnatural.
However, Maniwa dared not underestimate this person before her.
The Mason family was one of Orientia’s three major families and was no less powerful than their Koken family.
Moreover, Samson was known for his deep scheming.
Previously, an important subordinate family of the Mason family grew strong and wanted to break away. Within just ten days, Samson had them completely dismantled.
Additionally, Samson was a ninjutsu genius. Although no one had seen him in action, Maniwa knew he had reached the Human Ninja level three years ago.
Apart from being effeminate, Samson was nearly perfect in other aspects.
“Maniwa, why are you standing? Come sit and try this West Lake Dragon Well tea from Atraria.”
Samson’s red lips curved into a smile as if meeting an old friend.
On the wooden table before Samson was a set of exquisite tea utensils.
Samson’s fingers were long and slender, his tea-making skills very refined.
Warm water poured into delicate porcelain cups released a faint tea fragrance that spread immediately.
Maniwa nodded and sat down, picking up a porcelain cup and taking a sip.
The faint tea fragrance blossomed on her tongue and spread throughout her body.
“Maniwa, you’re in luck. If those two families don’t arrive soon, they won’t get any of this freshly brewed Dragon Well tea.”
Samson smiled softly at Maniwa.
Maniwa smiled lightly but inwardly cursed Samson a thousand times over for being so effeminate.
As they sipped tea, a maid led two people towards them.
One of them wore white clothes and had a fairly handsome face with an arrogant expression. He held a folding fan in his hand as if trying to appear cultured.