Chapter 223: Westphalia 13

The assassination attempt on Chancellor Richelieu of France only further exacerbated the already ominous atmosphere surrounding the threat against Hestia’s group.

“What is the meaning of this? An assassination attempt! How could such a thing occur here, with envoys from every nation on the continent gathered?”

“My…my apologies. We should have been more vigilant…”

“Apologies will not suffice! What if the Chancellor had met with misfortune? Do you not realize that could have reignited war?”

The Duke of Westphalia repeatedly bowed in apology over the distressing incident.

However, observing the outraged nobles, I spoke in a composed tone:

“Please, do not be so quick to condemn. This seems rather excessive to blame solely on the Duke’s failings.”

“Lord Santana, what do you mean?”

“Is the Duke of Westphalia not the one responsible for security here? Then is it not his fault by default?”

The envoys expressed doubt at my words.

Toward them, I spoke gravely, addressing the lingering threat to Wallenstein’s group as well:

“Of course, if we are assigning blame, that would be accurate. However, as you all know, most of you have brought along your nations’ finest as escorts. Against such formidable individuals, could an outsider truly cause an incident?”

“Hmm…”

“Well…I suppose…”

Deploying barrier fields periodically, it was virtually impossible for an outside infiltrator to attempt an assassination.

Moreover, with my orders to enhance security due to the Hestia situation, such an occurrence was even more implausible.

And the implication was clear…

“In conclusion, I believe the culprit behind this assassination attempt is not an outside intruder, but someone among us here.”

“What…No, that cannot be…”

“You mean one of the envoys representing their nations conspired this despicable act?”

“Preposterous…this is outrageous…”

The notion that one among them had hatched such a vile plot was disturbing enough to hear.

Yet they could not outright refute the claim itself.

They too believed in the capabilities of their escorts, rendering outside infiltration highly unlikely.

Moreover, all present aimed to maximize their national interests through this conference, making attempts to upset the proceedings unsurprising.

“For now, we must further reinforce security to prevent any repeats. That seems the best course at present.”

“Hmm…”

“I understand your meaning…”

The nobles grudgingly agreed with my words.

However, there was one aspect I had yet to disclose – a potentially crucial clue to identifying the culprit, depending on the circumstances.

But carelessly revealing it could endanger our side, so I had concluded mentioning it after resolving this matter internally.

‘One way or another, the ones targeting Hestia’s group are undoubtedly from the Dragonian Empire. Which means…’

“No, of course not. It would defy all reason for me not to have informed Lord Santana of such a matter.”

“Hmm…Indeed, I suppose so…”

Cazerios responded firmly without the slightest hesitation to my query.

Having expected as much when asking, I could only nod in acknowledgment.

“Then might you happen to know anything related? I hear Lady Hestia hails from the Dragonian Empire. Have you perhaps heard any information concerning her?”

“Hmm…Well, her area of operations was the Roseingrath District, not Sophia where I resided. While I may have heard her name in passing, I know no details.”

“I see…as I thought.”

“Shall I inquire with my mother or His Majesty? They would likely know something, whatever the case may be.”

“I would appreciate that. Please do so when you can.”

Cazerios’s unhelpful response automatically left me feeling somewhat disappointed.

Of course, inquiring with the Duchess or Emperor would yield answers, but that would take considerable time.

By then, circumstances could escalate prematurely, based on current indications.

Then, having overheard our exchange, Polena spoke up in a composed tone:

“My lord, if I may offer my perspective?”

I nodded for her to proceed.

Polena continued gravely:

“This is merely my personal view, but I do not believe this incident is closely linked to Lady Hestia’s situation.”

“Oh? Why is that?”

“First and foremost, the target was the Kingdom of France, not General Wallenstein’s group. And crucially, the method diverges significantly from Lord Santana’s account.”

“Hmm…”

Indeed, unlike the alleged assassin who had infiltrated the crowded conference undetected to make an attempt, Richelieu’s assailant had failed after striking from the shadows.

Moreover, there was little reason for an assassin targeting Wallenstein’s group to randomly attack France as well.

“While uncertain, those who ambushed France likely had another motive. Perhaps to sow chaos and gain an advantageous position at the conference.”

Polena’s reasoning held merit, so I nodded in agreement, concluding we needed to investigate further.

Then…

-Knock! Knock! Knock!-

“Hm?”

An urgent knocking came at the door.

Puzzled, Polena slowly opened it to reveal a group of soldiers.

Somewhat taken aback, I questioned them:

“What is the matter?”

“Pardon the intrusion, Lord Santana. We have come regarding the assassination attempt to conduct an investigation. May we have your cooperation?”

“Cooperation?”

Their demeanor seemed rather unusual, so I asked warily.

Yet they maintained courteous composure as they elaborated:

“Yes, we examined the crime scene with the assistance of the Grade 12 mage Lady Athena and discovered traces of witchcraft used exclusively by the Dragonian Empire.”

“Witchcraft? And this information is reliable?”

“Coming from a Grade 12 mage, we have no choice but to believe it. Thus, we request an investigation into the ‘witch of Dragonian origin’ said to be present here.”

The soldier spoke deferentially yet firmly.

I sensed the situation taking an unsettling turn.

‘As Polena said…there is undoubtedly more to this incident. Are they trying to implicate us due to our Dragonian connections?’

The outline of their political maneuvering started to emerge.

That the investigator was Athena of the disgruntled Kalmar Union raised particular suspicions in itself.

However, since they had made the first move, it was only proper to respond for now.

Reaching that conclusion, I turned to the one beside me and said:

“If that is the case…please excuse us for a moment, Pradie.”

“…Hm?”