The Hidden Extra: The Lazy Prince Refuses to Ascend The Throne
Chapter 61: Arriving at the Destination

Chapter 61: Arriving at the Destination

The southern region is the second largest after the eastern region, covering an area of approximately one hundred and twenty thousand square kilometers.

Rich in mountains, forests, and fertile land, it rightfully earned its reputation as the wealthiest and most prosperous region.

Although it is officially governed by the Duke of Malvain’s family, several areas lie beyond their control—territories belonging to three marquis families.

These families are Marquis Caltheron, Marquis Vandelar, and Marquis Valemont.

Among them, Marquis Caltheron controls the largest and most prosperous territory.

His family oversees the two most thriving cities in the southern region: Valmiris and Lunaris.

These cities, known as twin cities due to their close proximity, are expansive and vibrant.

They serve as major commercial hubs, attracting merchants from across the land, and boast a strong, flourishing economy.

The citizens enjoy a high standard of living, with average incomes surpassing those of other cities in the Great Velmora Empire.

The twin cities are fortified by towering walls nearly fifty meters high.

In the event of war, they would be well-protected and capable of withstanding enemy attacks.

Furthermore, as a marquis-level family, Caltheron has the right to maintain a private army, ensuring the cities’ security.

At that moment, a horse-drawn carriage entered Valmiris City through its wide, open gates without obstruction.

The soldiers stationed at the gate stood in neat formation, bowing their heads respectfully as the carriage passed.

It wasn’t just the soldiers—pedestrians also stepped aside at once, creating a clear path.

They placed their right hands over their left chests and bowed their heads in unison.

The carriage displayed the emblem of a golden eagle in flight—the crest of the Marquis Caltheron family.

***

"Is this the city of Valmiris? How grand and marvelous! It’s not even inferior to the capital."

Inside the carriage, Nolan gazed out the window with admiration.

Tall buildings lined the streets—hotels, inns, and other establishments—yet the city’s layout remained clean and orderly.

The roads were wide enough to let two carriages pass each other from opposite directions without difficulty.

On either side, clean pedestrian paths stretched along the streets, free from any litter.

To the right, a calm, crystal-clear river flowed gently.

Nolan could even spot fish occasionally breaking the surface—a clear sign of a thriving ecosystem.

Seated across from him, Orlan offered a faint smile. A compliment from someone like Nolan carried significant weight.

After all, Valmiris and Lunaris were his fiefdoms—territories he had overseen with dedication and care.

He had always looked after the welfare of his people and took pride in the results of his years of service.

"Thank you for the compliment, Prince Nolan. But comparing it to the capital is too generous. Valmiris still falls short," Orlan replied humbly.

Nolan drew the carriage window shade down and chuckled quietly.

"You don’t need to be so modest, Marquis Orlan. Your work is excellent. You deserve to be rewarded by the Emperor," he said seriously. "Don’t worry, I’ll mention it to my father."

Orlan stayed calm, but he couldn’t hide the quiet joy rising inside him.

Well, he had to admit that guarding and prospering the two cities was his duty—he didn’t expect any rewards or honors.

But if an offer came his way, why refuse?

With a gentle smile, he inclined his head toward Nolan and said, "Thank you, Prince Nolan."

Nolan simply nodded with a smile, then took a sip of his tea, his eyes wandering back to the scenery outside.

To someone from the modern world, the cities of the Great Velmora Empire felt like stepping back into the medieval era.

The difference was the empire’s scientific progress—and the mages who eased daily life with their incredible inventions.

That’s why he liked visiting the capital for leisure, either with Elina or by himself.

If not for the sudden outbreak of the battle for the throne, he could have traveled the world freely.

But that was impossible now. So instead, he was determined to help Elina win the battle for the throne—and then pursue his dreams.

The carriage rolled deeper into Valmiris.

At the city’s edge lay a large, distinctive estate, crowned by a grand mansion.

This was the Caltheron family’s residence—and their destination.

Fifteen minutes later, they arrived at a towering, imposing black gate.

The guards opened it without delay, allowing the carriage to pass inside.

Along the way, Nolan noticed the mansion’s expansive and luxurious grounds.

Many lush, well-manicured trees filtered the sunlight, creating a cool and cozy atmosphere.

After a short while, they arrived at the mansion’s spacious and grand lobby.

Tall white pillars adorned with intricate carvings stood on either side, supporting the high platform above.

As they stepped down, a middle-aged servant greeted them.

Although his appearance was unremarkable, his presence radiated strength, as if his outward look belied the power within.

"Welcome back, my lord," he said respectfully to Orlan.

Then, bowing again, he turned to Nolan and added, "Welcome to the Caltheron household, Prince Nolan. Your arrival is a great blessing to us."

Nolan smiled and gave a slight nod in response.

"Thank you for taking care of things in my absence, Alex," Orlan said gently.

"You’re welcome, my lord. You must be tired after the journey from the capital. The servants and I have prepared everything for you and Prince Nolan inside," Alex replied warmly.

"Very well." Orlan nodded slightly and turned to Nolan. "Please, come in, Prince Nolan."

Nolan didn’t hesitate and stepped immediately into the mansion.

As he took in the interior, he felt a mix of amazement and quiet admiration.

The design was luxurious yet tasteful, maintaining a perfect balance of elegance and restraint.

Beautiful paintings adorned the walls on either side, while expertly carved statues stood gracefully in the room’s corners.

Two silver spiral staircases occupied the center, their stunning design captivating and graceful.

Suddenly...

"Hmm?" Nolan’s eyebrows lifted as he came to an abrupt halt.

His gaze sharpened, first resting on a decorative lamp mounted on the left wall, then shifting to a snow-capped mountain painting beneath it, and finally to a statue of a woman standing in the corner.

"Heh..." A knowing smile tugged at his lips. "So that’s it, I see. Quite impressive..."

As he lingered on the thought, Orlan’s curious voice broke the silence from ahead.

"Why did you stop, Prince Nolan? Are you feeling uncomfortable?"

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