If he was an excellent magician, he might accurately determine which family’s magical power flowed through his body.

Isajel added a brief remark to her joy.

“Oh, and my father’s job offer is valid anytime, so if you need it, you can send someone or come yourself. I plan to stay in that mansion for a long time to learn music.”

“Really? That’s great news!”
The news that Isajel had stepped out of the cage and started walking the path she had longed for also gave a subtle resonance to Edith.

Isajel didn’t want to miss the chance to make her happy, just like any other day.

“Speaking of the job at the upper ranks, even if I get married and have a child later on, it would be manageable. My parents raised me, and they provided good welfare for the employees who raised children while working at the upper ranks.”

When Isajel mentioned that he would generously provide tuition and living expenses for a child born to him, Edith couldn’t help but admire. If she could find such a decent job, wouldn’t it be great to raise a child alone?

“At the upper ranks, many mothers raising children alone have hired several nannies to take care of the employees’ children. So, if you need… ”

Isajel couldn’t continue his words due to the chilling aura that once again struck.

For some reason, Valter didn’t seem to like the job offer, and he stared at Isajel with a face that clearly showed his displeasure.

Edith, who was pregnant and couldn’t properly enjoy alcohol or food, didn’t dislike the impression given by the banquet. The music played on the spot, the sound of people laughing, and especially Valter, who had to stick close to her as a bodyguard. Watching him stare at her alone without any reaction while receiving the attention of the ladies made her feel like her lungs were filling with heat.

‘But…’

Even when young maidens stole glances at him during the peak of their awakening senses, it didn’t compare to the mid-aged noblewomen’s gaze that scrutinized him from head to toe.

Recently separated from her much older husband, the Countess, with a sticky gaze, kept stealing glances at Valter and approached with a determined look. Edith quickly said,

“Valter. Swap with Cassius.”

“Swap?”

“Right now.”

Edith was pleading again with her command. Though Valter didn’t want to leave her side, Cassius, who appeared just in time, whispered something to him.

“I’ve prepared as you said.”

“…”

“I’ll take care of the madam’s escort, so go.”

When Cassius gestured with his eyes, Valter, who had been staring at the Countess with the intention of attacking, turned around and left her side.

Only after confirming Cassius’ arrival, Edith could smile again.

‘If only it weren’t for the Lexion Duke’s mansion, it would have been a bit more comfortable.’

Knowing that this was a banquet at the Lexion Duke’s mansion, there was plenty to see, but it was hard to shake off the tension, thinking that a threat might come at any moment.

The only relief was that people didn’t pay much attention to her, the former Duchess of the Sedae family.

“Well then, Lady Sedae, we will soon send our condolences to your family.”

“If you do that, it would be an honor.”

Most of those gathered here were supporters of the Lexion Duke’s succession to the throne, rather than the influence of the Hwangbi faction.
It means that most of the leaders with political power have pledged their fortunes to the side of the winning leader. In other words, they were loyal to Agnas XIV, who was considered the most outstanding among the emperors in history.

“Mrs. Gray said that. Duke Lexion held various important positions under the current emperor for ten years.”

However, when the lord of a local family called Portrion received an imperial order, followed by an invitation to the Duke Lexion’s banquet, the keen nobles quickly made a connection, thinking, “There must be something to the rural lord.” Thanks to this, Helen was pleased, stacking up good news to share with the local residents.

As Edith, appreciating the sincerity behind her thoughts for the local residents, smiled along, suddenly people’s attention shifted behind her.

“Madam Edith Portrion.”

With a courteous yet heavy voice that exuded considerable intimidation, Cassius closely stuck to Edith at the sound.

“I am Vain, a vassal of the Duke Lexion. The duke wishes to see Madam Portrion for a moment.”

People were surprised and buzzed at Vain’s words. It was the duke who never showed his face even when hosting the annual banquet.

Today, Franz Lexion’s three daughters were expected to appear late at the banquet, leaving the host’s seat vacant for a long time. Amidst such expectations, Vain’s words had a significant impact.

“Nice to meet you, Mr. Vain. Did the duke personally request to meet Madam?”

Helen, who realized that Edith’s face had drained of color, asked with a gleeful smile.

The judgment that it would be difficult to refuse, especially with the Duke’s right-hand man arriving in person, including Cassius and the guards, played a significant role. Of course, there was also the consideration that if Edith were put in a difficult situation, Valter might stab a knife in her back.

“Yes, Madam. Since Duke Franz Lexion personally sent me, if you feel awkward, you can accompany Lady Portrion.”

In practice, there was no way for Helen or Edith to refuse. Edith nodded helplessly. Seeing Edith in a difficult situation, Helen quickly intervened to accompany her.

“Well, it’s a rare opportunity. We should express our thanks to the duke for inviting us to this splendid banquet.”

“Then, you two, this way.”

The casual escort was a clear indication not to bring guards. Edith and Helen exchanged a fleeting gaze of anxiety before following Vain.

He was guiding the two towards the Duke Lexion’s study, and as Edith absentmindedly gazed at the paintings on the wall, she momentarily stopped walking.

“Mrs. Lea?”

The reason for her pause was that the person smiling brightly in the frame was someone she knew.