Chapter 227: Let's Meet

Ashley frowned, pondering the king's intentions. Three thousand soldiers, even with three heads and six arms apiece, were no match for the Zloimond army. Their inactivity, sending troops only to the city—the Royal Court's troops—was peculiar. Failure to attack would suggest weakness; an attack would confirm rebellion.

"The King… the troop commander is Isolde," a guard announced.

Kamari was stunned. "Isolde?"

"Yes. Isolde, Geoffrey's daughter, was granted the title of County Princess. She was betrothed to Prince William of Marquis Eldermere's estate, but the marriage was broken off. She then married Oliver, who died. Now, she's a marquis's daughter-in-law."

Kamari bristled. "A woman dares lead an army to attack?"

Ashley, after a moment's thought, said, "The King sent a woman commander with only 3,000 men. They shouldn't be attacking, suggesting ulterior motives. Since we have Isolde Langley, let me speak with her. A general would be difficult, but even the most tight-lipped woman can be persuaded. I can pry open her mouth and find out."

Kamari, acknowledging her capabilities, agreed. "Very well. Negotiate."

Ashley clasped her hands. "I'm ready. I'll go immediately."

Kamari coldly ordered, "If they attack, mobilize our troops, surround them, kill Isolde Langley first, annihilate the 3,000, and attack the capital."

Ashley's expression hardened. If the King intended an attack, battle was unavoidable. Though not ideal, she braced herself.

Isolde, arriving at the bridgehead, announced that the King, having learned of Zloimond's impending storm and calamity through the imperial preceptor's investigations of celestial secrets, had sent troops to evacuate coastal residents.

Doug and Garrett, meanwhile, spread rumors that Kamari was ambitious and intended to rebel, neglecting the people's safety by refusing to allow soldiers into the city during the impending calamity. They urged people to flee.

Kamari, enraged by these rumors, countered with announcements that Zloimond held no disloyalty, that the rumors were demonic lies meant to incite panic, and that there would be no flood.

The people, skeptical of a flood given the prolonged drought, considered rain a blessing, not a divine punishment. Kamari's announcements further eased their fears. There were actually no civilian evacuations along the water.

Isolde sent 1,000 men to reinforce the sandbags; only two days remained. She ordered Lucas to send messengers to the capital to fetch Aveline and prepare food and clothing for Zloimond. She'd already informed Sadie and Aveline, ensuring their swift departure upon receiving the order.

After these instructions, Isolde discussed the post-flood aftermath with Garrett and Doug. Anthony entered, announcing, "Marshal, Kamari's people have arrived. They say they've brought your old friends for coffee and conversation."

Isolde's eyes flashed coldly, then returned to calm. "Very well, I shall personally welcome our friends."

Doug cautioned, "Be careful. We don't know who they are."

"It's a woman," Anthony added.

Isolde smiled. "I know her. Ashley."

Doug looked at her suspiciously. "How do you know her?"

"I've been in Zloimond for two days, Mr. Becker. Don't you remember?" Isolde smiled.

Doug retorted, "I've been here a month and don't know this Ashley. Who is she?"

Isolde smiled. "You two leave. Your presence hinders my conversation with her. She's very clever."

Isolde walked out confidently. The weather was exceptionally fine—a scorching sun beat down on the cloudless sky, a stark contrast to the predicted storm.

Ashley, in a simple green dress and high bun, possessed a dignified grace, though not conventionally beautiful. Isolde observed her, thinking, She is truly capable. With the right appearance, she could achieve great things. Unfortunately… Isolde recalled her previous life's disastrous palace incident.

Ashley arrived with over ten people, including a carriage containing the bound Vincenzo, Hattie, and Hazel. They appeared unharmed and relatively well-treated, reflecting Kamari's cautious approach. He had experts in his mansion and didn't need to risk them escaping. Isolde had instructed Vincenzo in a letter to cooperate and preserve his life.

Ashley approached Isolde, the sun creating a halo-like effect.

"County Princess?" Ashley asked warmly.

Isolde smiled. "Ms. Charlie."

Ashley, surprised, asked, "You know me?"

Isolde replied, "I've heard much about you." She gestured. "Please, let's speak in the tent."

Ashley readily dismissed her companions and followed Isolde into the simple tent. They sat on the ground.

"We're short on refreshments," Isolde apologized.

Ashley smiled. "County Princess, please don't apologize. While I came for coffee, I won't insist."

Ashley scrutinized Isolde, who avoided her gaze. Isolde, while uninvolved in her past life's events, knew much from Sophia, giving her insight into Ashley's character and tactics.

Ashley bluntly asked, "County Princess, why did you station your troops here, outside the city?"

Isolde shook her head. "Bringing troops into the city is taboo. I don't want the King to overthink."

Ashley feigned ignorance. "Oh? Why would the King overthink?"