The marriage between the Farnese Count and Medici Baron families was celebrated with grandeur.

    In true noble fashion, they rented the cathedral in Florence, where thousands of guests arrived, dressed to the nines and feasting on luxurious delicacies, while costumed performers added to the spectacle.

    It felt less like a wedding and more like a massive local festival.

    "No wonder this cost a fortune," I thought.

    To the guests and onlookers, this was what set nobles apart. But it was all just wasteful extravagance.

    Lost in my thoughts, I suddenly noticed the groom and bride approaching my seat. The ceremony must be over, and now it was time for the reception.

    “Fabio, thank you for attending the wedding. I hope you, too, find a wonderful wife and settle down soon,” my brother Albert said, giving me a tight hug.

    He looked like he was about to nuzzle his cheek against mine. Was he trying to put on a show of brotherly affection for the crowd?

    Or did he think he needed to act this way?

    Lady Farnese, now my sister-in-law and the Baroness Medici, smiled as she watched us.

    “You two seem very close. It’s lovely to see.”

    “I’m glad you think so, sister-in-law, though I must admit, it’s a little embarrassing.”

    My father and I have a relatively close relationship, but Albert and I? We’re just blood-related household mates.

    “I hope we can all get along well from now on, young master.”

    The Farnese family clearly values their connection to the Medici barony, and it seems they’re just as eager to maintain ties with me.

    It’s not like I want to strain relations with Count Farnese, either.

    “Now that we’re family, I’m sure we’ll get along splendidly.”

    “Please visit us often.”

    “If I have the chance, I will visit without hesitation.”

    Even if the Baroness holds some affection for me, my brother Albert doesn’t care much for me. There’s no need to stir up trouble by visiting too frequently.

    After exchanging pleasantries, Count Farnese himself approached me.

    I had assumed he’d be busy hobnobbing with the higher-ranking nobles, far more important than myself.

    But he took the time to find me?

    There had to be a political motive.

    “So, you’re Fabio. I’ve heard about you from the Duke several times.”

    “It’s an honor, Count.”

    “I heard you covered a substantial portion of the wedding expenses. That must have been quite a burden.”

    Every time I think of the thousands of gold coins I forked over, it still stings.

    Why should I have to spend a fortune on my brother’s wedding?

    It’s an injustice that I can’t even openly complain about.

    “Though I’ve branched out, I am still part of the Medici family. I simply did what was necessary.”

    “This is infuriating.”

    Thankfully, I’d anticipated this and already planned out ways to get my money back, beyond simply confronting him or filing a lawsuit that would turn our family into a public spectacle.

    “If he keeps dragging this out, we won’t have a choice. Sebastian, did you find people who can spread the word?”

    “Yes, I’ve gathered some well-connected individuals.”

    In the 21st century, politicians are constantly embroiled in lawsuits and scandals, shrugging off rumors as part of the game.

    But here, in this world where honor is more important than life itself, any noble who hears a rumor tarnishing their reputation would rather challenge the source to a duel or negotiate to clear their name.

    Only when the opponent is weaker do they resort to other means, but that’s not a concern right now.

    “With the IOU secured, I don’t necessarily need to be repaid in cash.”

    I’m not a billionaire, but I have enough money to start diversifying.

    I need to secure resources beyond money—my factory, connections with different social classes, and even more accomplishments.

    To reach the next level, I can’t just chase wealth blindly.

    “Spread a rumor that, in lieu of repaying the debt, the Baron will grant me part of his estate.”

    While it’s not common in the Toscana Empire, benevolent lords sometimes carve off parts of their lands for younger siblings.

    A village or two, or even more.

    In light of the money I lent him, it’s only natural that Albert might grant me some land.

    After all, he’s practically penniless from the lavish wedding.

    Paying me back in cash would be difficult, wouldn’t it?

    “And let it be known that I’m supporting the Medici Barony’s financial recovery.”

    With Albert as Baron, it’s practically impossible for me to demand repayment directly.

    But conversely, it’s only natural for me to lend a helping hand.

    Family is a shared fate, and a capable younger brother helping his older sibling is the way of things.

    It’s why nobles arrange marriages for political reasons—to seek aid from one’s in-laws or patrons when their family is in peril.

    “An excellent idea. But if I may ask one thing?”

    “What is it?”

    Sebastian leaned in, his voice cautious.

    “Are you considering taking over the Medici Barony entirely? If so, I’d gladly support you.”

    With my abilities, I could reach the baronial rank by taking a roundabout route.

    But there’s no need to invite scandal by seizing my brother’s title.

    As a modern man, I’m willing to endure criticism for money and power.

    But I’m not about to set myself up for a trap that could bind me later.

    “Let’s just say I have my sights set on one of the Baron’s other assets—his smuggling operations. I might take a shot at that in due time.”

    Smuggling—in 21st-century terms, they called it “trade for the public good.”

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    TL note:

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