The Duke's Daughter

Chapter 17 - It all starts now

Chapter 17 - It all starts now

I need to formulate a strategic plan in light of recent events. It has been several days since my conversation with Rabiyah, and with each passing day, my anxiety has only intensified. The disconcerting realization that he is present within the confines of my abode is truly unsettling. The mystery deepens as to how he managed to infiltrate the tightly guarded dukedom, renowned for its stringent security measures enforced by vigilant knights.

The tranquility of my thoughts is momentarily interrupted as Rose discreetly informs me of Lady Evelyn's unexpected presence for a visit. Her sudden appearance catches me off guard, prompting me to gaze at her in contemplation before offering a subtle nod of acknowledgment. With graceful efficiency, Rose guides her in, announcing Lady Evelyn's arrival with a sense of reverence.

As Lady Evelyn's servant announces her presence, a sense of incredulity washes over me. I cannot help but wonder if she anticipates a formal greeting, perhaps expecting me to rise and receive her with due decorum.

I heard her servant clear her throat. Ah, it seems she does expect me to take action, the boldness of this audacious woman! "Evelyn, what brings you to my chambers? Do you have something to convey?" I inquire, my expression a mask of nonchalance and indifference. Despite my facade, however, I can't help but find amusement in the perplexed and irritated look on her face. "Shouldn't it be you who has something to address with me? Sister, I understand that you were poisoned and require time to recuperate, but that shouldn't excuse you from offering an apology for your transgressions against me," she asserts. Her words cause me to arch an eyebrow in response, maintaining my intense stare.

Rising to my feet, I approach her with deliberate steps. As I draw near, she appears to shrink back in trepidation; being slightly taller than her, I loom over her in a somewhat imposing manner, intensifying her apprehension. "Need I remind you of the incident that left me bedridden and weak for days? It was the tea, personally prepared by you, that caused that ordeal." As I recall the moment, I can practically visualize how you trembled in my presence. It amuses me to know that I still possess such influence over individuals, even though there are instances when I do not take pride in it.

"Evelyn, I shall overlook that transgression for now, considering there is no concrete proof of who poisoned me. However, do not misconstrue my leniency as a sign of weakness. Should you be found responsible, rest assured, there will be consequences. Have I made myself perfectly clear?" With a menacing display of my mana, I sought to instill fear in her. The pallor that overcame everyone, especially Evelyn, affirmed that she would not be causing any trouble anytime soon.

Silently and hastily, they departed from my chambers, leaving me to reflect. I couldn't help but remark to myself, "Well, that certainly escalated quickly." As I returned to my tasks, a nagging thought lingered in my mind: Why did Evelyn come here? Was her visit just to offer an apology? I sensed there was more to her presence than what met the eye.

Pausing my work, I decided to scan my room for anything unusual. And there it was, something so insignificantly tiny that it had escaped my notice. "Laever," I called out. It squirmed in my grasp, eventually revealing its true form.

Before me stood a little boy, his face contorted with pain and discomfort. Realizing I still held him by the neck, he pleaded, "Please, show mercy on me. It wasn't my intention to harm anyone. I am only following the orders of my keeper." I remained silent, gazing into his tear-filled eyes filled with genuine fear. Taking precautions, I placed an enchanted collar around his neck before releasing him, ensuring safety for all.

I will provide you with the opportunity to speak, but it is imperative that you only speak the truth, do you understand clearly?" I adjusted the chain around his neck, tightening it slightly before loosening it. I understand that this may be intimidating for him, but this method is necessary in order to elicit the truth.

"Why have you come for me?" I inquired.

"The Master desires your removal, you are an obstacle," the spirit replied. I scoffed at his response. "What do you mean by saying that I'm in her way? What exactly am I obstructing?" I pressed further. He hesitated, prompting me to tighten the rope once more. "He claims that you impede everything! That's all I know, please spare me, I beg of you!"

He?

So, this spirit did not belong to Eve but to another entity. And I have a strong suspicion regarding their identity. I pulled the boy closer, peering into his eyes as they revealed a shift in color, reflecting the aura of my mana.

"From this moment onward, you are bound to me as my spirit. You must obey my every command or face my retribution." A mark manifested on his forehead, signaling a transformation in his essence.

He gracefully bowed his head and knelt down with one leg as he solemnly made an oath of loyalty. "I, Zion, the spirit of the west, pledge to heed your every command from this day forth. My life is now yours." The bond between us strengthened, filling me with joy. It was time to devise a strategy to rid the kingdom of those who wished it harm.

"Kokoro," I called to my newly named spirit. "What is your name?" Surprise flashed in his eyes as he lowered his head in embarrassment. "I was once called Mist by my former master, a cruel reminder of my perceived faults." A single tear slipped from his eye and I gently lifted his chin to meet my gaze. "You are not a mistake. Your new name is Kokoro." His face lit up with happiness upon receiving his new identity.

With new alliances formed, we also faced new threats and enemies. Doubt crept in as I struggled to discern friend from foe. How does one combat an adversary who has taken my life innumerable times across multiple lifetimes?

"Help! Help! Lady Cassandra has fainted, somebody call the Duke!" That was the last thing I heard before succumbing to darkness.

UNKNOWN'S POV

The plan is being executed well, master," a wide grin spread across my face upon receiving the news. "Good, now we carry on with the next plan." Upon hearing my command, he left hastily. Remembering something, I snapped my fingers. "Yes, master?" One of my lower servants appeared. "Where's that little spirit I sent?" I inquired, but received only silence in response.

I turned and stared at him, swiftly grabbing him by the throat. "I will give you one more chance to tell me where he is, so you better speak quickly before I take drastic action." He trembled and shook in my grasp, attempting to utter words in my tight grip.

"We, we don't know, master... We don't know!" he cries out, his voice filled with desperation. I release him from my grip, and as he slumps down, gasping for air, I can see the fear etched on his face.

How could that possibly happen? I have never experienced a disconnection like this with any of my pets before, not once. Unless...

A sudden realization hits me, and I burst into laughter. "She has him," I announce, the pieces falling into place. "She has him!" Chuckling to myself, I instruct those around me to be vigilant and keep a close watch on the little lady from now on.

I never imagined that I could feel fear creeping in again, but here I am, trembling inwardly as I contemplate my next move.

Author's Note:

Hello hello my dearest readers, I'm back yet again with another update (⁠≧⁠▽⁠≦⁠)

SooOoOOooO have y'all seen all the clues? Cuz at this point it's become pretty obvious isn't it? That's why I've been wracking my brains out what to write next so comment what you think I should write, feel free to comment it and tell me what you think about this chapter!!!

re-reading this chapter I saw that I didn't explain Kokoro's title, Zion. Zion in this world meant something, every spirit has a specific title for each specialty they have and the range of their powers. about kokoro's case, that is for another chapter hehehehe

That is all,

Love lots,

Han 🐝❤️