The Impact of the Author’s Intervention on a Blank Page - Chapter 56

Similton Company. This company, never mentioned in the original work, had been one of the triggers for a worldwide economic depression in the previous cycle. Briefly mentioned as an incident that bankrupted numerous investors and companies due to fatal flaws in their raw materials and track safety issues after attracting many investors. The world’s destruction wasn’t just about war or cults – various social issues had played simultaneous roles.

‘But he should have memories of the previous cycle and know about this. Yet he still proposed this to my brother?’

It was probably intended to squander my brother’s fortune and cause his downfall. Initially, at least. But that won’t be easy while I’m here. Ja-hyun made a proposal the prince couldn’t easily dismiss.

“When you return to the Imperial Capital, I recommend testing the Litrel engine on large machinery rather than small household devices.”

“…”

“And having Silveron’s Magic Towers research methods for removing Litrel impurities would be a good approach.”

The prince gave no response. But Ja-hyun wasn’t worried. That chatty fellow going quiet was actually a good sign. His mind must be racing with thoughts right now.

If he intended to stick close to my brother, the prince would ultimately end up contributing to making my brother and Izatrix more prosperous.

About a week later, a letter arrived from the Imperial Capital.

[Dear Lord Raijin. I am deeply grateful for your advice during our last meeting. I’ve enclosed a small gift from the Capital. I hope you’ll like it. I look forward to meeting again soon to share our friendship.]

[‘Plot Development’ has been activated.]

[Checking future timeline for character ‘Ezekiel B. Viestra’…]

[Character ‘Ezekiel B. Viestra’ will be purged by Crown Prince ‘Elai J. Viestra’, heir to the Viestra Empire. (Probability: 65%)]

[Character ‘Ezekiel B. Viestra’ will achieve great business success, renounce his succession rights, and become more renowned as a businessman. (Probability: 35%)]

[Character development for ‘Ezekiel B. Viestra’ has been modified.]

[▷ Reward will be issued.]

[▷ Reward: 500 points]

***

The heavy snowfall that had been so fierce during the prince’s last visit to the Grand Duke’s mansion had notably weakened. Two servants barely managed to open the thick, heavy doors of the mansion. Outside was completely white, and the cold air, previously blocked by the mansion’s walls and heating magic, now stung at the nose.

The temperature difference created a rush of air outward. Even while still inside, Ezekiel watched his white breath disperse before his face.

“Travel safely.”

Turning back, he saw the pale, thin, young man who had come to see him off. His bloodless skin, as if afflicted with pneumonia, matched the color of the snow. Though he appeared so sickly that even standing seemed precarious, his impeccably straight posture drew attention.

“Yes. As I enjoyed our time together, I hope it remains a pleasant memory for you as well. Let’s meet again.”

The recipient of these words, Raijin el Izatrix, responded with a silent smile, his tired eyes crinkling.

Ezekiel paused briefly, studying his face.

The owner of the Dark Dragon, raised in seclusion by the Grand Duke. An illegitimate child turned terminal due to inability to handle that potential. They say the Grand Duke is forcibly keeping him alive only to extract the dragon’s power before his death. This was the secret of House Izatrix that Ezekiel had learned through his position as prince.

But the real Raijin differed from the rumors. His sickly pallor emphasized his cool impression rather than making him appear weak. If he gained some weight and health, he would surely be a striking beauty in social circles.

More surprising was his unexpected level of knowledge. Despite likely never having attended formal education, his insights and suggestions were quite compelling even to Ezekiel. Finding someone he could properly converse with, Ezekiel had excitedly engaged in lengthy discussion.

However, one thing matched the rumors – his almost naive dependence on his brother. The prince inwardly clicked his tongue at how Raijin would nestle close to his brother, hiding his face shyly and burrowing deeper, unaware that the cunning Grand Duke coveted his heart. Even if told the truth later, his attitude suggested he might deny reality rather than accept it.