Chapter 44: I Tried Having My Tired Body Soothed.
After a long journey, I finally arrived back at my territory. When I alighted from the carriage, familiar faces were gathered at the entrance.
Maria, with her gentle smile.
Kanon, the Knights Commander.
Arnaud, the Butler.
Other Maids were also there to welcome me.
“Lord Serios, welcome back. You must be tired, aren’t you?”
“I’m back, Maria. I’m relieved to see everyone looks well.”
Next to her stood Kanon, whose sharp gaze and dignified demeanor were striking. As the Knights Commander of the territory, she was a reliable figure who protected its safety.
“I’m glad you’re safe. It seems the escorts were useful too.”
“Yes, thank you for your consideration.”
Kanon had dispatched Knights to escort me as I was about to enter the territory.
“It’s fine. Lord Serios, there are no particular problems within the territory, but I’ll report on the security situation later in your Office.”
“Yes, please do.”
And finally, the one who quietly stepped forward was Arnaud, the Butler who has supported this House for many years.
“Welcome back, Lord Serios. I will also explain the report on Territory Management in your Office.”
“Understood. Let me know when you’re ready.”
Liese, Faina, and Maria were going to move the luggage inside.
“Please leave it to us, Lord Serios. Liese, let’s help.”
When Maria spoke to Liese, Liese nodded, looking a little nervous.
“Yes, Mother. I’ll do my best too!”
Faina also joined in to help with a smile. Leaving it to them, I headed to the Office.
When I entered the Office, Kanon and Arnaud were already waiting.
“Sorry to bother you when you’re tired, but I’ll get the security report out of the way first.”
Kanon handed me the documents with a serious expression.
“There are no major issues in the territory. There were occasional sightings of bandits in the adjacent mountainous area, so I crushed them. Other than that, we’ve strengthened patrols, mainly with the Knights Order, but it’s probably best to remain cautious just in case.”
“Thanks. What’s the estimated size of any remaining bandits?”
“We haven’t grasped the full details yet, but it’s estimated to be from a few to about a dozen or so. There’s been no harm to the territory’s people, so it should be fine for now. However, we should probably take action soon.”
Kanon is a talented individual. Being able to scout her from a band of mercenaries was a big gain.
“Understood. Secure the necessary personnel and supplies. We’ll work out the specific countermeasures later.”
“Understood.”
Kanon bowed deeply and left the room.
Next, Arnaud quietly began to speak.
“This is the report on Territory Management. Firstly, regarding the crop harvest, we were blessed with good weather again this year, and it was more bountiful than usual. Therefore, we have secured sufficient food reserves.”
“That’s excellent. Anything else?”
“Regarding commerce, profits have increased due to revising the trade routes from the Royal Capital. To maintain this trend, we are considering deals with new merchants.”
“I see, that’s good judgment. Continue.”
While I was away from the territory, I had Arnaud focus on road maintenance. Bandits appear, and people avoid the frontier, all because the roads are bad.
As a remnant of my days of misrule, a considerable amount of assets are hoarded in the storehouses. In addition to that, having obtained the reward money from the Duel, my pockets are quite full.
If possible, I’d like to start some kind of independent business.
However, just as Arnaud’s report reached a stopping point, I looked up.
“Arnaud, there’s one more thing I’d like to ask of you.”
“What might that be?”
“I want you to investigate the situation of Claris von Everett.”
Arnaud showed a flicker of surprise for just a moment, but his expression quickly returned to its usual composure.
“Understood. Lady Claris should have returned to her Dukedom. I will promptly verify whether the rumors of her disownment are true.”
“Yes, please. I owe her for helping me at the academy. I can’t just stand by and watch if she’s being driven into a corner.”
Arnaud has probably heard the rumors too. It’s helpful that he’s quick to pick up information.
“Understood. I will begin the investigation immediately.”
Arnaud bowed quietly and left the room.
Left alone in the Office, I gazed out the window.
(Claris, don’t try to shoulder everything by yourself…)
I let out a soft sigh and began to think about what steps to take next.
♢
After finishing dinner, I could finally take a breather in my room.
During the journey, Liese and Faina kept talking to me, and I got a little tired. While I appreciate the affection they show me, I can’t help but hesitate when I remember they’re still children.
“Lord Serios, may I come in? It’s Maria.”
“Maria? Come in.”
“Thank you.”
When I opened the door, Maria was standing there, not in her Maid uniform, but in a negligee.
“Wh-what is it?”
“I was waiting for your return. May I speak with you?”
“Ah, come in.”
Seeing Maria like this made my heart pound, and I found myself thinking improper thoughts. I want to cherish her.
On top of that, Liese and Faina confessed their feelings, which I’m troubled about, and then there’s the Claris incident, so I’m exhausted.
“Excuse me.”
Maria entered the room, and as I sat on the sofa, she gently hugged me. Gently, as if to let me bury my face in her ample bosom. I was enveloped in a sweet fragrance.
“You seemed very tired, so I came hoping to offer even a little comfort.”
“Ah, thank you.”
“It seems you are taking good care of Liese. I heard about it in a letter from her.”
My heart skipped a beat, as if she had guessed something improper I was thinking.
“I’m not angry. It’s inevitable that Liese would be drawn to you, Lord Serios.”
“Eh?”
“However, even though I am her mother and older, I find myself jealous of Liese.”
“Jealous of Liese?”
“Yes. I envy Liese for being able to be by your side, Lord Serios.”
I, who had expected to be scolded, looked up at Maria’s words, and she gazed at me gently.
“It was a promise for just once, but… are you sure?”
“Of course. I deeply admire you, Lord Serios.”
Matters of the territory, matters of the academy, matters of love, and then, Claris’s situation.
My mind and body, weary from various things, were being soothed by Maria.
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Afterword
Hello, this is the author, Iko.
That’s all for today!
Mmm, writing lovey-dovey scenes is still difficult (^◇^;)