บท 58: Chapter 58

As the council members gradually stood up from the table, their expressions reflected a mixture of contentment and fatigue. A polite applause rippled through the room, acknowledging the productive session we had just concluded. "That marks the end of the meeting," I announced, my voice resonating with a sense of accomplishment.

The council members exchanged parting pleasantries, expressing well wishes and safe travels. The counts swiftly departed, their minds likely already occupied with the matters awaiting them in their respective territories. The duke, too, made his exit, no doubt preoccupied with his own concerns and responsibilities.

Turning to Lady Calliope, my mentor "I hear we were heading to the southern border," I mentioned, curiosity tingeing my voice. "It could be valuable to experience firsthand the realities of life on the border."

Lady Calliope's lips curled into a small smirk, a glint of amusement in her eyes. "I had planned to inform you after the council meeting, but it seems you are already aware," she responded, her tone hinting at approval.

Just as I was about to delve into a conversation with Lady Calliope, my attention was drawn to Marquis Corvus, who approached us with purposeful strides. He extended a courteous greeting, his handshake firm and confidence. "Lady Calliope, Lord Lucas," he addressed us, a genial smile adorning his face.

"I hope you don't mind if I join you for a stroll. I have a few matters I would like to discuss." He added

"Of course, Marquis Corvus. We welcome your company," I replied, gesturing for him to walk alongside us.

As we strolled through the grand hallways of the estate, I couldn't help but address Marquis Corvus's commendable preparation during the first council meeting. "Marquis Corvus, I must say, you surprised me with your level of readiness for the council meeting," I remarked, genuinely impressed.

A hint of pride graced his voice as he replied, "I have always had a knack for numbers, Lord Lucas. It's a skill that I developed from a young age. Perhaps that's why you entrusted me with the task of negotiating with the other regions?"

Chuckling softly, I nodded in agreement. "Indeed, you guessed correctly. Like you, I too possess a proficiency for numbers. It was refreshing to encounter someone with a similar aptitude among the council members."

"I do have a question Lord Lucas why do you want to move such a huge amount of soldiers towards the southern border? Such costly endeavor is going to hurt us" Marquis Corvus questioned

Marquis Corvus's question lingered in the air as we walked through the elegant corridors. His concern about the substantial troop movement toward the southern border was palpable. I turned to face him, a curious expression on my face.

"If you had reservations about the idea, Marquis, you should have voiced them during the vote," I responded. "The purpose of this council is not for everyone to simply agree with me. I established it to foster genuine discourse and diverse viewpoints. If everyone is hesitant to disagree with me, then what is the point of having a council?"

Marquis Corvus quickly clarified, "Lord Lucas, please understand that I did not mean to imply blind agreement. I simply wished for further clarification regarding your reasoning."

My master, Calliope, interjected. "We cannot afford to grow complacent when it comes to demons. They are our mortal enemies, and their intentions can shift swiftly. It is wise to remain vigilant rather than risk underestimating their capabilities."

Marquis Corvus countered, "But there is no concrete evidence of an imminent attack. Our scouts have not reported any significant troop movements or gatherings."

Leaning against the entrance of the garden, I pondered his words before responding, "Perhaps the demons are intentionally concealing their true intentions, or they are biding their time to catch us off guard. Regardless, given their history, we cannot afford to take any chances."

Entering the garden, I scanned the surroundings, spotting the gardener and a few maids going about their tasks.

"Marquis Corvus, I still obje--" he began to voice his objection, but I swiftly interrupted him.

"Be careful with your words. We may be within the range of eavesdropping ears," I whispered to both my master and Marquis Corvus, urging caution. They looked at me with perplexed expressions but followed me as we continued walking.

"Take a look around and tell me what you see," I instructed them.

"I see some servants and workers tending to the plants," my master replied, her senses heightened, sensing that something was amiss.

"Look at the maid watering the plants to our left," I pointed out. They turned their gaze towards her, and then back to me. "She has been sneakily glancing at us since we arrived."

"And what about the boy standing to our right?" Marquis Corvus inquired, his confusion evident.

"Yes, why is a young child here? It doesn't seem to be 'bring your child to work' day," I mused. "Notice how he averts his gaze whenever we look his way, subtly tilting his head in our direction."

"Both of them are spies, likely hired by the chancellor," I said, turning towards Marquis Corvus. "I advise caution with your words within your estate as well. There may be ears listening there too."

Marquis Corvus appeared lost in thought for a moment. "It's getting quite late. I think it's time for me to take my leave," he said, offering a smile before making his way out of the garden.

Turning to face me, my master placed her hand on my shoulder with a smile. "Get ready to leave in two days. You can bring your friend, Ezekiel if you'd like," she said.

I couldn't help but return her smile. "That is very generous of you, Master," I replied gratefully.

"I'll take care of the spies," she assured me, releasing her hold on my shoulder and heading out of the garden.

As I surveyed the garden, I noticed another figure. A short, young maid who had been frequently traversing my surroundings since my arrival in Silverglade. She had even followed me at times.

Approaching her, I reached out and gently grasped her shoulder, leaning down to whisper into her ear. "Inform Duke Vigar that he doesn't need to spy on me. If he wishes to know what I am doing, all he needs to do is ask." Tapping her shoulder, I released my grip and stood upright, leaving her in the garden.