Chapter 45

Episode 45

I had confirmed McLellan’s sincerity during our earlier conversation, using ‘Mind’s Eye’. They had indeed come here chasing monsters.

That meant creating a romantic connection between him and the Lady wouldn’t be difficult.

Why a romantic connection, you ask?

The Inspection Unit’s third mission was to escort the Lady to the Imperial Capital. But my personal goal was to prevent her marriage.

I intended to use Lord McLellan for this purpose, even if it meant using him.

I would exploit the nature of rumors.

Rumors had a tendency to become embellished with each retelling.

The Lady had been attacked by monsters, and the third son of House Caribe had come to her rescue.

This objective truth could be spun into any narrative.

With a little embellishment, it could become a tale of a heroic rescue, of a blossoming romance between the Lady and Lord McLellan.

A jealous prince might act rashly.

All of this would work in our favor. That’s why I had asked for temporary lodging.

“I’m troubled that you experienced such an unpleasant incident in our territory. We have accommodations, but I’d like to speak with the Lady directly.”

“This way, please.”

I stood by the carriage door and informed the Lady that Lord McLellan wished to speak with her.

The door opened, and she emerged.

She was like the moon emerging from behind the clouds, her beauty radiating a soft, ethereal glow.

McLellan was momentarily stunned.

It was an understandable reaction. Any young, healthy man would be captivated by her beauty.

“Lord McLellan, you must be the third son of House Caribe. My father has spoken highly of you.”

She bowed her head gracefully.

Normally, McLellan should have been the one to initiate the greeting, considering their difference in status.

“Lord McLellan?”

“Ah, my apologies. I was momentarily mesmerized by your beauty, my Lady. Please forgive me. I am McLellan de Caribe, the third son of House Caribe, as you said. And a knight of House Caribe.”

He was the third son, so he must have held a position within the knight order. But he didn’t mention it, suggesting he wasn’t interested in boasting.

Family name and rank were incredibly important in this world.

Even those who weren’t boastful were expected to state their position.

His omission suggested that he wanted to make a good impression on the Lady.

“I met your father briefly when he visited our territory. It’s reassuring to know that you’ve come to our aid. I’ll be sure to thank him personally when I return to the capital.”

“It’s nothing, my Lady. We were simply pursuing monsters. We wanted to help, but we arrived too late.”

“Your presence is reassuring nonetheless. You’ve helped our knights.”

She glanced at the Caribe medics, who were diligently administering potions.

I kept my eyes on McLellan.

His gaze was fixed on Lady Lucia. He was smitten.

This was going well.

My plan was working better than expected.

“Sir O’Brien requested lodging. He believes it’s too dangerous to continue your journey to the capital. I agree. We have a villa nearby. Would you be willing to stay there? Your wounded need treatment.”

“I wouldn’t want to impose on House Caribe.”

“Not at all! I’ve already sent a messenger to my father. He’ll send reinforcements.”

She nodded. McLellan seemed eager to continue the conversation, but he turned away and began giving orders to his knights.

“Divide the troops! First squad, follow me! Second squad, support the Azure Dragon Knights! We’re heading to Lawrence!”

The Caribe Knights led the way, and we followed, surrounded by a heavy escort.

It took less than an hour to reach Lawrence. We emerged from the forest and saw a breathtaking view of a lake nestled amidst towering mountains. The villa was located on the lakeshore.

It was more like a mansion than a villa. There were five buildings, including outbuildings. It was a testament to House Caribe’s wealth.

The villa staff, including the caretaker, maids, and guards, were well-prepared for our arrival.

The Azure Dragon Knights were more focused on security than rest. They seemed to consider the battle a defeat.

They set up camp around the villa and built a bonfire.

“My Lady, are you sure we shouldn’t inform the main castle?”

I asked after confirming that her room was safe and secure.

“If my father finds out, he’ll bring the entire knight order. It’ll cause a stir in the Imperial Capital. There’s no need to escalate the situation.”

“The Azure Dragon Knights will feel pressured.”

“I’m not saying we’ll keep it a secret forever. I’ll tell him when we return to the capital. You can explain the situation to the knights, Sir Aubrey. And make sure the families of the deceased soldiers are compensated generously.”

“As you wish.”

I waited until she retired to her chambers before cleaning myself up. I changed into a fresh uniform, checked my equipment, and went outside.

Sir Darius and his adjutants were guarding the villa entrance. They were more vigilant than relaxed.

“The Lady has retired to her chambers. You should rest.”

“No, sir. One mistake is enough.”

“It wasn’t a mistake it was an accident. We couldn’t have predicted the monster attack.”

“The casualties were too high.”

Four soldiers had died.

But what truly bothered Sir Darius was the fact that they had needed help from House Caribe.

It was a blow to the Azure Dragon Knights’ pride.

“Sir Darius, how long will it take for the wounded to recover?”

“About four days.”

“We’ll depart in a week. Make sure they get plenty of rest.”

“Can we afford to wait that long?”

It wasn’t Lady Lucia’s order. I had calculated the time it would take for Selendis and Jericho to arrive.

I wanted to leave with them.

“It’s not a problem. We don’t have a fixed schedule. And the Lady is concerned about the knights’ well-being. She ordered them to rest.”

Sir Darius and the other knights were touched.

An ordinary noblewoman would have reprimanded them for their failure.

Her kindness was a blessing.

“You should rest as well, Inspector. We’ll handle security tonight.”

“Thank you, Sir Darius.”

The next day, guests arrived from the Caribe main estate. It was the three sons and two daughters of the Count. The Count himself was absent.

The sons’ behavior was particularly noteworthy.

Lady Lucia’s noble character and beauty were renowned throughout the continent. They were all eager to impress her, kissing her hand and showering her with compliments.

“We heard about the attack. Are you alright?”

“Are you injured?”

“We’re so relieved you’re safe. This area is teeming with monsters. But don’t worry, our knights will protect you.”

The eldest son, Eloan, was the one who offered to provide additional knights. He was subtly flaunting his power, showcasing his authority over his brothers.

He was handsome and capable.

But Lady Lucia wasn’t an ordinary woman. She was the ultimate mastermind. He wouldn’t impress her.

“Thank you for your concern. I’m overwhelmed by your kindness. I won’t forget this.”

“It’s our duty to help. We’re hosting a banquet in your honor tonight. Please stay and rest for a few days.”

“Thank you.”

I had expected her to decline, but she accepted the invitation.

Eloan suddenly looked at me.

He gave me a subtle signal, inviting me to step outside. I obliged.

He led me to a secluded spot.

“You’re Inspector O’Brien?”

“Yes, Lord Eloan.”

“I heard McLellan was a great help to Lady Lucia yesterday. What happened?”

I suppressed a chuckle. The bait had been taken.

Normally, he wouldn’t have asked for details. But his eyes were filled with jealousy and concern.

“The attack was quite dangerous. The monsters were organized and tried to lure us into a trap. Lord McLellan’s arrival prevented us from falling into their trap.”

“Is that so…”

“And his medics helped our wounded recover quickly. We’re grateful for his assistance.”

His reaction was lukewarm. I didn’t know the inner workings of House Caribe, but Eloan seemed to view McLellan as a rival.

“I heard you’re close to the Lady.”

“I’m just a servant.”

“I’d like to dance with her at the banquet tonight. Can you help me?”

“I’ll do my best.”

I lied. He grinned and patted my shoulder.

“I’ll reward you handsomely if this works out.”

The guests from the Caribe main estate departed. I met with Lady Lucia. Preparations for the banquet were underway.

“My Lady, I have a request. I’d like you to choose Lord McLellan as your dance partner at the banquet tonight.”

“Did he ask you to say that?”

“No, my Lady.”

It was the opposite.

Lord McLellan had been surprisingly reserved, avoiding any attempts to engage in conversation with the Lady.

“It’s related to the mission. Please grant my request.”

She smiled faintly.

And that night…

Lady Lucia entered the banquet hall, wearing a stunning dress.

She had brought her finest attire, knowing she would have to greet the Imperial Family. She was breathtaking.

I had seen her in formal attire many times during my time as an assistant, but her beauty seemed to deepen with each passing day.

The banquet was attended by members of House Caribe, including their vassals. The Count himself was present.

“Greetings, Your Excellency.”

She greeted the Count with impeccable manners. Count Suleiman of House Caribe welcomed her with a pleased expression.

“It seems like just yesterday that you visited our territory. Forget about yesterday’s incident and enjoy your stay.”

“Thank you for your hospitality.”

Exquisite food and wine were served. I didn’t touch anything, staying by her side.

The orchestra began to play.

Several couples took to the dance floor.

It was time for the Lady to fulfill my request. All the men, including Lord Eloan, were waiting for her to choose a partner.

Eloan looked confident, while McLellan sipped his wine, his expression melancholic.

“Who will the Lady choose?”

“Lord Eloan, of course. He’s so handsome! I’d give anything to dance with him.”

“In your dreams. He has high standards… Huh?”

“What’s going on?”

The atmosphere in the banquet hall shifted.

People started staring at me.

I looked towards the stage.

My heart skipped a beat.

Lady Lucia was looking at me, her hand outstretched, a gentle smile on her lips.

(TLN: aight imma be honest i didnt see that coming at all)