Training spot

After freeing herself from her arduous chores, Jannat might attempt to reclaim her former authority and poison my life once more. It was imperative to alert Lily, whom I had come to trust somewhat, about Jannat's suspicious behavior. However, the present location wasn't suitable for such discussions; even the walls seemed to have ears.

"Once night falls," I instructed Lily firmly, "you must come to my room. Urgent matters demand our attention." Lily, with a respectful demeanor, replied, "Yes, my lady, I will be there."

Despite my resolve, Lily's expressions betrayed her doubts regarding my recent hostility towards Jannat. However, there was no time to dwell on that now. After a satisfying repast and leisurely tea time, the noon hour had passed, and I dismissed all the servants, including Lily, who had been attending to me.

Dressed for the occasion, I ventured forth to my secluded training spot, nestled far from the main manor amidst mountainous terrain. This sanctuary was known only to me, providing the perfect refuge for my daily regimen of swordplay, agility exercises, and honing my elemental skills.

Choosing a spot where prying eyes would never intrude, I immersed myself in practice. The area boasted lush greenery, a babbling stream through wildflowers and tall grasses, and a breathtaking view that never failed to stir my excitement. Each day spent here felt like a precious secret, shared only with nature itself.

The cheerful symphony of birds chirping, water flowing in the stream, and the occasional rustle of small animals filled the air as I commenced my training. Well-versed in the ways of the wind element, I knew there was much to improve upon in mastering the fire element. With caution, I directed my fiery energy in a specific direction, mindful of not causing harm to the surrounding nature. But it was time to push myself further, to unleash the full potential of my fire elemental power.

Realizing the need for a safer space to practice my fire skills without endangering the environment, I made a mental note to seek out a more suitable location. Lost in concentration, I lost track of time; the sky darkened with the moon rising above, painting the heavens in hues of orange and purple. The birds had retreated to their nests, leaving behind only the soothing sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves, accompanied by a cool, chilling breeze.

As dusk settled in, I reluctantly concluded my training and made my way back to where my horse patiently awaited me. Speaking of my horse, she was a beauty, possessing both speed and strength. With a white mane that I had personally selected and named, she had an undeniable allure. From the moment we met, she displayed remarkable docility, endearing herself to me instantly. While her silver-white mane was indeed breathtaking, it was the soulful gaze in her blue eyes that truly captivated me. It felt as though, in that moment of connection, she was choosing me as much as I was choosing her. Hence, I bestowed upon her the name Lunel, a homage to her silver mane and our special bond-a silver-maned horse for the silver-haired master.

Returning to the manor, I proceeded directly to my room. After freshening up, I opted to dine in the comfort of my own chambers, dismissing the maids but instructing Lily to remain. With the weight of Jannat's schemes heavy on my mind, it was time to strategize.

Though I harbored lingering doubts about Lily's trustworthiness, I chose caution, opting not to reveal all my secrets to her. Seated at my desk, I beckoned Lily to stand nearby as I broached the topic.

"You must have observed Jannat today," I began, fixing her with a scrutinizing gaze. "What did you glean from your observations?"

Without hesitation, Lily spoke up, her voice firm and resolute. "My lady, Jannat, despite being just a maid, displayed no remorse for her actions. She showed little respect toward you and even dared to wear a disrespectful expression upon seeing you engrossed in a book on etiquette. Considering Jannat's humble origins and her long tenure in this manor since her youth, it begs the question of how she acquired the ability to read and write. In summary, I sense a palpable air of suspicion and a glaring lack of loyalty from maid Jannat."

Lily concluded her assessment with a stern countenance, her observations astutely noting details that had went unnoticed even by the real Helen during her long time interactions with Jannat.

"You are right," I acknowledged, meeting Lily's serious expression with my own. "I've harbored suspicions about Jannat for some time now. However, I don't think the moment is right to confront her. Now, I won't entertain any questions from you. What I require is absolute obedience. Are you willing?" Lily's expression remained solemn as she absorbed my words. Before I could react, Lily knelt before me, her hand placed solemnly over her heart as she made her vow. "I swear absolute loyalty and obedience, with no questions asked, as long as you protect my true master, Lusav." Lily's declaration carried a weight of unwavering commitment, rooted in the enduring promise she held towards the revered Ruperson magician family. She was prepared to go to any lengths to uphold her pledge.

With a smile, I affirmed, "Yes, I will protect Lusav for as long as he desires it. That's my word. Now, let me tell you what you have to do." Assisting Lily to her feet and clearing my throat, I continued, "Lily, I cannot openly raise suspicions about Jannat's background, so I cannot openly denigrate or punish her unless I find a suitable reason. Additionally, I have no desire for Jannat to regain her former authority. What I need from you is to isolate Jannat and subtly manipulate her into making mistakes that cannot be overlooked. Are you confident in your ability to do so?"

Lily beamed brightly in response. "Yes, my lady, I am more than capable. I will garner the support of the servants and ensure Jannat's isolation. If you don't mind my asking, how exactly would isolating her benefit you?"

"Hmm," I mused, contemplating the implications of isolating Jannat. It would inevitably lead to those maids with no connections to her distancing themselves, once they observed her falling out of favor. Those who continued to associate with her would likely share a similar background or possess hidden ties. This strategic move would aid me in identifying potential traitors lurking within the manor.

However, I saw no need to elaborate on this rationale to Lily, as my trust in her was not absolute. Revealing the possibility of additional spies within the manor to a mere maid could pose risks in the future. With a firm tone, I responded, "Lily, I will not be answering that."

Without further questioning, Lily nodded with a smile, affirming, "My lady, I will fulfill the task you've given me with diligence." Satisfied with her response, I dismissed Lily and sank wearily onto my bed, exhaustion washing over me after a day filled with meetings and strategizing.

As I reclined, a sweet, melodious voice interrupted my thoughts. "Master... did you forget about me?" It was Custard, the adorable unicorn who presided over the mystical realm of knowledge and had recognized me as his master.

"Haah, how could I forget about you?" I sighed, turning my head towards Custard, who sat beside me with a playful pout adorning his features. He was so fluffy and adorable that I couldn't help but express my thoughts aloud. "If only you were larger, I could hug you to sleep.""

I could see Custard's cheeks flush as he spoke slowly in his adorable voice, "W-what do you mean, hug me to sleep? I'm a male, and my body is reserved for my mate. Hmph! I won't let you harass me, master." His childish protestations and innocent demeanor made me burst into laughter. "Hahaha, oh Custard, you're just too precious. What if I were to tie you up and hug you to sleep? What would you do then?"

Custard's face registered panic, his shock palpable as he stammered, "N-no, I'd jump out from the balcony! I'm saving myself for my mate." It was amusing how a spirit of knowledge could speak so earnestly about true love. I chuckled at the irony of Custard's belief in love, considering I, as a human, had never been fortunate enough to experience it. Perhaps I'd never had the luxury of time for love, always caught up in the struggle for survival, avoiding threats of violence and starvation.

As we continued our banter, or rather as I teased Custard about hugging him, a sudden knock on the door interrupted our playful exchange. I instructed Custard to return to the realm of knowledge and made my way to answer the door.

It was Lusav, his expression dark and gloomy as he stood at the door. "My lady, is there someone accompanying you at this time?" he inquired, his voice carrying a cold, chilling edge. Realizing that Lusav must have overheard my conversation with Custard and misunderstood, I smiled reassuringly and gestured for him to enter. "Ah, Lusav, why do you ask? Who would be with me at this hour?" I said calmly as I moved to sit on the bed. "Come in and close the door," I added, inviting him to join me. Lusav complied without hesitation, closing the door behind him.

"Ah, please, take a seat," I urged, motioning for Lusav to pull out a chair and join me. "Tell me, why are you here?"

Lusav complied, taking a seat with a solemn expression. "My lady, I know I am in no position to question you, but I hope you do not find yourself in any trouble," he began, his tone grave. "I am here to report on today's mall activities and the information we gathered."

"You don't have to worry, there was no one else in my room," I assured Lusav, noting his concern. "Now, you may begin your report."

Despite Lusav's evident worry, I chose to proceed without addressing his emotions that night, focusing instead on the task at hand.