Ralph and Alan were convinced that Konrad would soon be promoted and were resolved to suck up to him while they still could.

　　"Hahaha, the first time I saw you I knew you were bound to distinguish yourself. At first glance, it's clear that you're an outstanding young man endowed with countless skills and great abilities."

　　Konrad clearly remembered Ralph saying that his days in the inner court would be full of hards.h.i.+ps.

　　"Well said, Ralph. It is clear that Konrad is a sharp, witty guy capable of fulfilling great tasks. To be able to spot such a talent so quickly, hehe, the Holy Consort's eyesight is truly extraordinary!"

　　Didn't Alan call him a "dullard" just three days ago?

　　Good sycophants. It almost seemed like they had been trained in "How to suck up like a boss 101, 201 and 301" in their mothers' bellies!

　　"In the future, you must take good care of us?"

　　Konrad almost vomited.

　　"Who is going to take care of you? Son of a b.i.t.c.h, your daddy Konrad only takes care of beauties!"

　　He wanted to say but kept those words within his mind. Instead, he adopted the lofty stance of an expert and graced them with a confident smile.

　　"That is natural. We're after all brothers who entered the palace together. If we don't take care of each other, who will?"

　　"I can even give you an opportunity to make some contribution!"

　　Immediately, their eyes lit up. Although they were human beings from low backgrounds with no cultivation, if they could make some contribution for the Holy Consort, they were sure to have a bright future within the inner court!

　　In theory, the Holy Empress had the highest official rank after the Empress Dowager, but just like there was only one empress, there was also only one Holy Consort.

　　The Holy Consort's status was for all intents and purposes, equal to the Empress'. Better yet, she was much more adept at political intrigues and controlled more than half of the inner court and concubines. Meanwhile, the empress rarely appeared and often didn't meddle in such machinations.

　　"What is it that we're supposed to do?"

　　"Nothing special. Just give me detailed information on Iliana."

　　"The head palace maid?"

　　"Yes!"

　　Unlike the previous body's owner who only did his work, those two had upon arrival began building a solid network and ingratiating themselves with their superiors to make their lives easier. They were quick and efficient and gathered a lot of information on the surrounding departments to be aware of how and who to please and not offend.

　　They would be excellent goons.

　　"Well, there is a lot to say actually. Head Maid Iliana is a rather special case among the head palace maids. She's the illegitimate daughter of an Uradel count and should belong to ancient n.o.bility. But because of her illegitimate status, she was sent into the palace at the age of sixteen."