obsession chapter 25

The House of Rubelot, rulers of Lubenshire, a land stretching across the northwestern part of the kingdom, were renowned not only for their superhuman strength, said to be derived from the protection of the Red Dragon, but also for their abundant gold, diamond, and mana stone mines. Once dismissed as a wasteland of barren canyons and desolate plains, a cursed land fit only for exile, Lubenshire had, with every acre tilled, yielded a bounty of precious minerals. 

The discovery of mana stones, a resource the kingdom had previously relied on imports for, was a particularly significant turning point in its history. This newfound wealth transformed Lubenshire into a land as prosperous as the royal capital, despite its precarious location bordering the monstrous Setora mountain range. 

Such prosperity inevitably bred envy within the royal family, an envy that quickly festered into resentment. Their initial subtle hints, veiled under the guise of concern for national progress and the well-being of the kingdom’s citizens, were met with the Duke’s unapologetic declaration: “We intend to utilize our resources fully, while diligently paying our taxes.” Unsurprisingly, the royal family’s attempts at persuasion soon escalated into outright pressure. They accused the Duke, “We granted you military autonomy due to the treacherous terrain, and now you monopolize the resources? At this rate, you’ll be seeking complete autonomy and declaring independence!” 

Even the House of Rubelot couldn’t respond with a flippant “Maybe we will.” Instead, they countered with a strategic maneuver, “Very well. In that case, we’ll also assume responsibility for controlling the monster population in the Setora Mountains and responding to any emergencies.” 

As if waiting for this very proposition, the royal family eagerly bundled a host of burdens and thrust them upon the Duke. “Here you are: the Setora subjugation progress report, the Knight Order’s operational costs for the past five years, and the national defense and security budget. Oh, and by the way, if we fall, the capital is next.” Finally, a negotiation was reached. The Duke agreed to adjust tax rates and grant the royal family preferential treatment in distribution and supply.

“It was the Young Duke who accomplished this remarkable feat!”

Shariette clapped emotionlessly. After dinner, during a brief family discussion, she was entrusted to the care of the head butler for a tour of the mansion. The butler, distinguished by his impressive mustache, ceaselessly extolled the virtues of the “great Ducal House” and the “illustrious Young Duke” throughout their tour. Shariette listened with half an ear, her mind elsewhere. That king must really hate him, she thought. Perhaps that’s why he’d arranged for her to be entangled with Argen, as some sort of cruel test. She idly pondered this as she memorized the layout of the mansion.

“The room prepared for you, Miss Shariette, is one specifically chosen by the Young Duke. It’s spacious and filled with sunlight; I’m sure you’ll find it to your liking.”

“I appreciate the thought, but I prefer a dimly lit apothecary.”

“Haha, I’m referring to your living quarters, Miss Shariette, not the apothecary.”

Living quarters besides the apothecary? Shariette tilted her head, puzzled. She couldn’t conceive of residing anywhere else. The butler’s face mirrored her confusion. He had no way of knowing that for the past twelve years, she had considered a makeshift bed tucked away in a corner of the apothecary her home.

“Let’s see the apothecary first.”

The butler, slightly disappointed, led her downstairs. Waiting for them in the apothecary was, surprisingly, a familiar face.

Shariette gasped, a familiar pressure constricting her chest like a vise. She drew a sharp breath, convinced the food she’d just eaten had disagreed with her.

“Master Eden, you’re here.”

“Yes, you’re the one they mentioned…?”

“This is Miss Shariette Verdett. Miss Shariette, this is Master Eden Evans, assistant to the current Ducal physician, Master Heron. Master Heron is currently accompanying His Grace on an estate visit, so Master Eden will be your guide for the time being.”

Shariette rubbed her sternum, her heart pounding. The unfamiliar fork etiquette must have caused severe indigestion. Why is he here?

“Master Matthias, here is the report for the past week.”

“Good work. How is Sasha?”

“The vital signs have significantly weakened since the eleventh trial. You ordered me to keep her alive, so I’ve halted the process for now.”