Shards

Chapter 66 - Allegations Part 1

Now, for the day's second agenda. A matter that had to be handled delicately or it could end badly for House Zhai. It concerned the Dark Sect and one of the Shards currently protecting his daughter.

Unfortunately, it had to be addressed immediately as the foolish Lord Yuan had made a rather public complaint, one that was gaining momentum. Better to take the initiative, retain control and deal with the situation quickly before the gossip spread further. He would let the idiot make his case, sentence Ghost quickly to prison out of sight and be done with the matter. Then he would talk with the hired Shard privately. Their contract would be over in three days time and they would be released from service. Hopefully he'd not need to ever see either one ever again.

The Ruling Lord's already low regard for his future son-in law was deteriorating with every stunt he pulled.

Lord Zhai cleared his throat. "Now that that's settled, I bring your attention to another serious matter. Lord Yuan?"

After the smug noble stepped forward Captain Chiang motioned to Ghost, "Ghost, bodyguard of Lady Shuang, please come forward to defend yourself."

"What? Defend himself?" Lady Shuang echoed in alarm. "What did he do?"

Amidst the curious stares, the bodyguard stepped forward as instructed. Lord Zhai motioned to his waiting Captain. Immediately fully armed Elites filed noisily into the chamber surrounding everyone present. A smaller unit detached itself to position themselves loosely around Lord Yuan and Ghost.

"What's the meaning of this?!" asked Lord Xu feeling threatened. Armed Elites was a danger to all the nobles present. They were unarmed and without their own guards. The Ruling Lord's sudden show of power was unnerving.

"What's going on?"

"Lord Zhai, please explain yourself! We are here on good terms at your request!"

The outbursts from several Lords and Ladies hinting at their sudden fear somehow made Lord Zhai feel better, much better. He was the Ruling Lord and they were literally in his territory. By the apprehensive looks on their faces, they were forcibly reminded of their dangerous proximity to the veteran soldier. He could end them all with just a word to his loyal Captain. It was good to remind them of his position and power over them.

He stalled a moment longer to enjoy their agitation before speaking.

"It's just a precaution. My Elites are here to protect us from Ghost. He is a capable bodyguard for my beloved daughter but I must ensure our safety if he become violent."

Ghost? Violent? Lady Shuang's anticipation and happiness drained away only to be replaced with apprehension and a sinking feeling. She sensed Key tensing too.

"Father! Whats going on? I'm sure Ghost did nothing wrong. Why, he ..."

"Quiet! You are part of the problem!" growled Lord Zhai.

"Me?" she asked shocked into silence. Lord Yuan! He's the cause of all this! She glanced at him angrily. If he hurt Ghost, she'll never forgive him.

"We thank the Heads of Houses for their presence as witnesses to this crime," started Captain Chiang. "Lord Yuan, please tell them what you told us."

Lord Yuan nodded, turned to bow to the Ruling Lord and gave Ghost a nasty smirk before turning to face everyone with a grave face.

"Everyone, I seek justice. I've presented Lord Zhai with my case and he has graciously allowed me to investigate the matter," he begun. "Lords and Ladies, as you all know, I'm now engaged to the beautiful Lady Shuang."

There was a murmur of assent.

"But Ghost here, a mere bodyguard, a commoner, has tried to seduce my future wife!!"