Stepping back, Cassius looked at the three people and organized the relationships in his mind.

“So, whether it’s through magic or the Duke’s attitude, it seems that Balter has the bloodline of Lexion. I don’t know if he knows about the pregnancy, but the Duke must have a grudge against Balter, as he made a move on Madam.”

Cassius felt the need to correct his expression. The term “grudge” seemed too mild.

Judging from their current expressions, if Balter made a move on Edit, it seemed like he would do anything to keep her safe. He had a predatory gaze, ready to trample anyone lightly, even if it meant dealing with a predator who posed a threat.

On the other hand, the Duke appeared to be regretting the actions he had taken in the past few days.

“Yeah, even the Duke… it’s not easy for things to get tangled up like this.”

Cassius had seen the expression that Lexion Duke was making now when he was at the Portrion Mansion.

It was like the disappointed face of an old employee who approached his grandchildren with snacks but was rejected because the kids weren’t interested. The Duke, who was said to be bloodless with no tears, seemed less indifferent in front of the bloodline.

Watching the Duke’s frustration somewhat relieved Cassius.

“As he’s currently in a struggle over the succession right with Hwangbi, Balter probably knows that having him in the family would be helpful.”

To get a guy like Balter, the Duke seemed to have to roll a bit more.

“…Then excuse me. If you ever feel like having tea since you miss it, feel free to stop by anytime.”

The Duke left the place, becoming a wilted old man. Guilt was thickly written all over his face.

Edit and Balter did not even glance at the departing Lexion Duke. However, the Emperor and Helen observed the series of events from a distance.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen the Duke make such an awkward face.”

The Emperor observed Edit with interest, but when the Duke’s reason for his emotions was unclear, he shifted his gaze to the guards who were shedding regrets.

“How many days has it been in the capital just to get this piece of parchment?”

As he said so, Helen held the document certified by the Emperor dearly. Normally, local lords would go to nearby nobles to get certified, so the nearby lords might not have seen such a thing.

The individuals on the carriage were as excited as Edit, who had now officially become the Portrion Duke in documents.

“Congratulations, Lady Helen Portrion.”

“Thank you all for your help so far.”

“Surely you’re not trying to end the struggles you faced in the capital with just one word?”

“I wouldn’t do that. Did you see the kitchen staff carrying the meat dumplings yesterday? I also ordered several bottles of Sabi wine.”

Until they arrived at the Portrion Mansion, lively conversations continued in the carriage.

However, just as it seemed like the lively voices would continue until the dinner, someone’s shout abruptly cut them off.
“Who’s lying here among the bushes?”

“What did you say?”

Upon hearing about someone collapsing, Edit instinctively turned her gaze.

A small and frail body. Upon closer inspection of the familiar impression, it turned out to be the thin magician boy she had seen not long ago, now lying unconscious.

Surprised, Edit quickly checked the boy’s pulse and examined his complexion. Fortunately, he wasn’t breathless, but there were many signs of struggle.

“There are traces of a gag in his mouth, and his wrists seem to be tied. It looks like he was imprisoned somewhere.”

Considering the completely lost state of the boy, it didn’t seem like the enemy had left him here to set a trap. In that case, it was right to find out what had happened and who was responsible.

“I know him. Please bring him inside the mansion.”

She had Theo moved to the guest room and instructed him to change into cleaner clothes.

“Balter, can you come in for a moment? Just in case, we might be able to prevent something bad from happening, considering the possibility of threats.”

While following Edit into the room, Balter sneered.

“With that skinny body, even if he rushes in, Madam alone could easily subdue him.”

“Don’t tease a person who has collapsed, Balter.”

“He won’t have any strength to wrestle anyway. Looks like he overused his magic and got exhausted.”

Balter, having forcibly polished his magic in an attempt to bring Edit back from the mansion, had experienced exhaustion several times. The residue of the tingling magic he felt then was now sensed from the boy.

“It’s strange. I said I wouldn’t take any more requests for a while.”

As she ordered to prepare a light soup, the boy groaned.

“Ugh…”

“Theos. Are you awake?”

“Madam!”

As soon as he opened his eyes and saw Edit’s face looking down at him, the boy’s face turned red.

“My, my clothes—.”

Did Madam see him because he was too thin from not eating? Theos felt like his vision was spinning.

Thinking he might be embarrassed because of puberty, Edit kindly explained.

“The one who changed your clothes is our housekeeper. You can rest easy.”