"Where are Valerie and Ruan?"
"They haven't returned yet, master"
"As soon as they return, explain the situation in detail. They're clever, so they'll know to be careful with their every move.
"Yes, I understand," Den answered, respectfully.
The second question was directed at Cain.
"What about the escorts?"
"We've relocated them around her room and tripled the amount of people."
"Focus on the escorts for the time being. Countess Irene infiltrated the Kingdom of Heideland and brought the child over after killing off the soldiers there. They must be eager to find the child."
"Yes."
"Don't let the fact that we've hidden a child here leak out. I know we can't keep it secret forever, but we still need to be as careful as possible until the situation improves."
"We will keep that in mind."
Den and Cain bowed respectfully to their lord. Everyone's eyes gleamed with a firm resolve.
"My lord, I've brought the meal."
One by one, two maids appeared with trays. Dante had them prepared because Ivanna didn't get to eat after the incident earlier.
Den promptly knocked on the door.
"How can I help-oh my gosh."
After carefully opening the door, Alaine immediately burst into laughter the moment she saw the food trays carried by the maids.
One maid held a tray filled with all kinds of bread, while the other carried a tray full of colorful juices.
"She couldn't possibly eat this much."
Aside from the bread, she estimated that there were at least 10 different kinds of juices prepared on the tray. She could see just how much the Duke truly loved his daughter.
"The child needs to be slowly fed. We need to pay attention to her likes and dislikes as well."
"My lord, the lady's name is Ivanna."
Dante had not even once called his daughter's name, since he found out about her existence.
Ivanna. What a beautiful name.
Alaine felt a bit sorry because of that, so she decided to mention Ivanna's name.
Luckily, Dante replied positively.
"I'll call that name for the first time ever in front of my child."
Unable to hide their surprise, Alaine and Cain widened their eyes when they heard the Duke's words, which were filled with affection for his daughter.
Ten, the boldest out of them all, was the only one who dared to burst out into laughter.
The strong feelings that the Duke held for Ivanna was a good sign.
"Go in and take care of the child. Let me know If there are any problems as soon as possible."
"Should I leave the door open?"
"Close it."
For the child's sake. Those unspoken words were heard loud and clear. Alaine smiled as she closed the door and turned around.
"Well, miss the meal..."
Her laughter stopped as her voice trailed off.
Ivanna, who had been sitting on a soft sofa, quickly fled to the darkest corner of the room. As if she was nothing more than a speck of dust.
