Chapter 20

Episode 20

News of the events in Baron Gerard’s territory spread throughout the Dukedom within days.

The Lucius Inspection Unit’s first mission was a resounding success.

Those involved in human trafficking and other illegal activities were either executed or imprisoned.

However, Baron Roman was spared.

Thanks to his last-minute pledge of allegiance to Lady Lucia, the Inspection Unit had intervened on his behalf.

He was only charged with negligence in managing his territory. He received a stern warning, a hefty fine, and was ordered to prioritize the welfare of the poor.

The people praised Duke Kalisto’s fairness and Lady Lucia’s mercy. They were particularly impressed by her compassion, considering she wasn’t even vying for the succession.

The Inspection Unit, once perceived as the Lady’s little hobby, had solidified its position as an official organization within the Dukedom.

And the officials’ perception of O’Brien Walker, the inaugural Inspector, had changed completely. Invitations to social gatherings and banquets poured in from all corners of society.

“Sir Dietrich, do you know Sir O’Brien well? I’d like to invite him to my banquet, but I’m hesitant.”

“Don’t even bother. He declined my invitation, as well as Sir James’ and Sir Paulman’s.”

“Oh my, really?”

“Being an Inspector is a demanding job. I imagine he has to be careful about his social interactions to avoid any misunderstandings.”

While some were impressed by his dedication, others were filled with dread. Those who had been engaging in corrupt practices decided to lay low for a while.

But the impact of the incident didn’t end there.

The idea of righting wrongs, especially those committed by the powerful, resonated with the people.

The changes initiated in the Kalisto Dukedom eventually reached the Imperial Capital, catching the attention of the nobles and even the Emperor himself.

The Emperor sent a personal letter to Duke Kalisto.

“A letter from my dear old comrade? How heartwarming.”

Duke Kalisto’s face was beaming as he read the letter. He reread it several times.

“My dear old comrade… old comrade.”

Duke, the war hero.

He might be an old man now, his hair white with age, but he was once a legendary Sword Master, fighting alongside the current Emperor, achieving countless victories.

House Kalisto had a long and illustrious history of producing war heroes. The ‘Kalisto Swordsmanship’, passed down through generations, was said to have reached its peak under Duke Kalisto’s leadership.

He had mastered the Kalisto Swordsmanship, becoming one of the greatest Sword Masters in history.

And yet, a simple letter was enough to bring a smile to his face.

“It’s been a while since I received a letter from His Majesty. Not since the border dispute… It brings back memories. We were so young back then.”

“You’re still young at heart, Father. I’m glad you’re happy.”

“It’s all thanks to you, Lucia. You’re always doing such wonderful things. Hahaha.”

The Duke’s family was gathered in the room.

They all praised and encouraged Lucia, but one person’s expression remained somber.

Hylix, the eldest son.

“I apologize to my brother. I feel like I caused him trouble. I hope he’ll forgive the Inspection Unit.”

“Don’t be silly, Lucia. Doing the right thing often comes at a cost. You did well. This incident will serve as a warning to our vassals and all the officials in the empire.”

“That’s reassuring.”

“Hahaha, our little Lucia was worried about me. You know I love you more than anything.”

“I love you too, brother.”

Duke Kalisto smiled, pleased by their exchange.

“Seeing my children getting along so well… I could die a happy man. Hylix, you’re the eldest. You have a duty to look after your siblings.”

“I’ll keep that in mind, Father.”

“I’ll follow my brother’s lead and dedicate my life to our family.”

Romero, the second son, also pledged his loyalty. But despite the seemingly harmonious atmosphere, the relationship between the two brothers was strained.

Hylix didn’t see his brother as a threat, but Romero hadn’t given up on the succession.

And Hylix wasn’t exactly known for his generosity. He simply didn’t see his brother as a worthy opponent.

“I hear you’ve been receiving gifts from Baron Roman, Hylix.”

The Duke’s question was casual, but his tone was laced with authority.

“It was just a token of his loyalty, Father. I won’t accept anything inappropriate in the future. I apologize for causing you concern.”

“It’s not wrong for a vassal to express their loyalty. But they should be careful not to violate territorial or imperial law.”

“I’ll keep that in mind, Father.”

Hylix, unaware that his beloved sister was the mastermind, simply believed he had been unlucky.

The bribes from Baron Roman were substantial, but not enough to influence the succession.

And the amount had been decreasing recently. He had planned to question the Baron about it at the banquet.

‘Perhaps it was a good thing I cut him off. I’m not sure. He wasn’t the type to surrender so easily.’

Hylix was one of the few people who knew Baron Roman’s true nature, his depravity and cruelty.

He couldn’t understand why the Baron had backed down so easily, even after being targeted by the Inspection Unit.

‘I should investigate.’

He composed himself, reminding himself that the succession wasn’t settled yet. He couldn’t afford to let his guard down.

“Father, if I may, I have something to add.”

“Go ahead, my dear.”

“According to the Inspection Unit’s report, the slums played a role in this incident. It seems every town has its slums.”

It was a sensitive topic for a lord. Duke Kalisto sighed.

“My dear, even His Majesty can’t eliminate poverty. Giving handouts to the lazy only encourages their idleness. You’re not suggesting we provide for them all, are you?”

“No, Father. I was just thinking that we should improve security in the slums to prevent crime.”

“Hmm, that’s a good idea. We can certainly do that. Hylix, summon the scribe and implement this immediately.”

“Yes, Father.”

Hylix met Lucia’s gaze. She smiled apologetically, as if she felt guilty for adding to his workload.

He would never know that she was the mastermind behind it all.

***

“Nothing happened?”

“I haven’t been able to discern Lord Hylix’s intentions, but there’s been no movement from Baroness Rosalyn or Baron Roman.”

Jericho had come to my estate to deliver his report in person. It seemed everything was quiet.

“Perhaps you’re being too cautious, Master.”

“Perhaps. But Lady Rosalyn’s words were too intriguing to ignore.”

“What did she say?”

“She called it a ‘land of opportunity’.”

She was referring to Baron Gerard’s territory.

“A land of opportunity… That’s a rather vague statement. If Lady Rosalyn said that, it’s probably related to social events. She’s quite influential in those circles.”

“We need to consider all possibilities. Keep a close eye on Baron Roman. He’s likely to betray us if given the opportunity.”

“Even if he betrays us, he’s already lost a fortune. He’ll be too busy licking his wounds to plot against us. He’ll be more interested in finding ways to exploit us.”

Baron Roman had sent Lady Lucia a collection of valuable artifacts as a token of his loyalty.

He had gifted her the priceless items and sold the rest, sending her the gold.

Jericho had a point.

“What about the Duke? Has he said anything?”

“Nothing, aside from implementing a new territorial law.”

“That’s disappointing. I thought he would at least send you a letter of commendation.”

“A reward for simply doing my job would be excessive.”

I set aside the documents Jericho had brought and stood up. I had something to do.

“Are you going out, Master?”

“I’m sparring with Lady Selendis today. I need to stay in shape.”

I had decided to grant Selendis’ request.

Of course, it wasn’t just for her benefit.

I had acquired new equipment from the Lucius Club, and I needed to test its capabilities in a realistic setting.

“Oh, a sparring match. Can I watch? I’ve always been curious about your skills.”

“Suit yourself.”

I gathered my equipment and headed towards Selendis’ quarters. She was meditating, sitting cross-legged on the floor.

Her aura felt different.

It used to be calm and steady, but now it felt like a raging torrent barely contained.

‘The elixir worked.’

The elixir I had given her a few days ago had exceeded my expectations. Her aura capacity had doubled.

Perhaps her natural talent had amplified its effects.

I wondered about her past, her origins.

As if sensing my thoughts, she opened her eyes.

“You’re here, Master.”

“Sorry to interrupt. It’s time.”

“I’ll be ready shortly.”

“Jericho will be observing. Prepare yourself.”

We went to the training grounds and warmed up. Jericho, having procured snacks and beer from somewhere, was already enjoying himself.

Selendis arrived, clad in full armor.

We faced each other in the small training ground, drawing our swords and saluting.

“Master, may I give it my all?”

“No.”

Her expression flickered with disappointment. But my next words would rekindle her fighting spirit.

“You’ll have to fight for your life. If you don’t want to get hurt.”