804 Chapter 803

Jenkins hesitated after hearing the question. It took her a long moment to respond.

“I don’t know. She’s insane. There’s no way to predict where she might strike next,” she said, then turned to Keira. “But if you can help me return home, I’ll bring my entire company under your wing.”

Keira raised an eyebrow. “And how exactly am I supposed to do that?”

Jenkins pressed her lips together. “It’s actually straightforward.”

“How?”

Jenkins leaned in slightly. “Country A is a constitutional monarchy—you know that, right? The king still holds considerable power. One word from him can change everything. Historically, they’ve looked down on merchants. To them, we’re beneath farmers and scholars. The point is, if we can win over the king, we can neutralize any influence in Country A—including Clownfish.”

Keira’s expression shifted. “How do you propose we win over the king?”

Jenkins coughed lightly. “Well, this particular king is exceptional. He’s a visionary who’s built the country into what it is today. When he took the throne at fifteen, he didn’t waste time. One of his first acts was waging war against a neighboring state to establish dominance. Everyone thought he was reckless, but that victory brought the country over a decade of peace. He’s both brilliant and ruthless.”

The praise piqued Keira’s interest. Erin nodded. “I’ve heard of him, too. Thirty now, right? Known for his sharp looks and sharper mind. But is the South family afraid of him?”

Jenkins chuckled. “Afraid? Not quite. They’re allied with him. The king owes his throne to the South family, so they maintain a special relationship. When Clownfish moved into Country A, it was with his approval. I even went to him for help, hoping he’d block Clownfish’s entry. But he declined, citing neutrality in the South family’s internal conflicts.”

“So why are you bringing this up?” Erin asked bluntly.

Jenkins sighed. “Because neutrality is just an excuse. If I had proven myself worthy of his trust, he would’ve helped me. But I didn’t.”

Keira understood now. In Country A, the monarchy reigned supreme. The king’s word carried far more weight than any merchant’s influence. Even someone like Jenkins, who had built a thriving business empire, couldn’t outmatch a royal decree.

“So you want us to help you win him over?” Keira asked.

Jenkins nodded. “Exactly. If we can convince him to back you, he’ll order Clownfish out. I’ll get my company back and pledge my resources to you.”

Keira frowned. “So, once again, it boils down to playing politics?” She felt a wave of frustration. Back in Crera, she had to maintain ties with the five major families just to stay afloat. Now, solving the Country A issue would require yet another alliance?

Erin smirked. “You’ve been in Country A for years and couldn’t win him over. What makes you think Keira can?”

Jenkins let out a heavy breath. “The king isn’t easily impressed. I built my company on a modest budget, which barely registered in his eyes.”

Keira tapped her fingers on the table. “Cut to the chase. What’s his weakness?”

Jenkins hesitated before answering. “Children.”

“Children?” Keira repeated, her brow furrowing.

“The king has been on the throne for over a decade and still has no heirs,” Jenkins explained. “He married over a dozen women, but none of them have managed to conceive.”

“Low sperm count?” Erin quipped.

“Not exactly,” Jenkins replied with a wry smile. “His medical reports are pristine. It’s a mystery. When he was younger, he wasn’t concerned. But now that he’s thirty, he’s getting desperate.”

“So, what?” Keira folded her arms. “You expect me to help him produce an heir? I’m not a miracle worker.”

Erin laughed. “If anyone should try, it’s me. At least I’m a doctor.”

“You’re a toxicologist,” Jenkins pointed out.

“Close enough,” Erin shot back with a grin. “Good with poisons, better with cures.”

Jenkins rolled her eyes. “Fine, then help regulate his health or something. If we can get one of his wives pregnant, we solve the Country A problem.”

Keira rubbed her temples. “Fantastic. Now we’re playing matchmaker for a king.”