A great shock spread throughout the dining hall of the Inanis Family when both Lord Asher and Lily came down together.

Baron Hugh didn’t know if he wanted to cry out of joy and sadness.

‘My daughter… she’s growing up so fast. I know I told her that she should find a way to become closer to Lord Asher, but she has quickly done so. She takes so much after me and her mother. Hah, this is good, Hugh. This is just the beginning and so many things might happen. Calm down. Do not panic.’ The Baron thought. ‘Things are going all according to plan.’

‘Is… is this my son’s way of showing interest now? He hasn’t said a word but is speaking through actions.’ Countess Lita thought privately to herself. ‘I… I do not mind this, but there are far more suitable partners for my son. He’s handsome, intelligent and amazing enough to even win the hand of a princess. But ah, if this is what my son wants, then I am happy with this arrangement. It is possible to elevate Baron Hugh’s family from their current standing. As what will happen with Lady Alessa and Lieutenant John shall be the case here as well.’

‘Hmm, he has pursued Baron Hugh’s daughter. Although, at this point, it is difficult to identify who actually pursued who. Miss Lily possesses a certain ability to chase after what she wants and reminds me… of Lita when she was younger.’ Count Gabriel thought with a hint of fondness. ‘If my son is truly happy with this arrangement then I can see a wedding, but perhaps I am thinking too hastily. A lot can happen.’

Kiana who stood at the side, wore a neutral expression that was more akin to a frown.

Unlike the rest of the people within the dining hall, Kiana couldn’t help but try to look at Lord Asher’s expression.

‘I… It’s a little hard. I still think I know Asher well enough, but I have a feeling that he does not really like the woman but is only tolerating her because she has thrown herself at him.’ Kiana thought with mild disgust. ‘B-but, I could be wrong and if that is the case well… it’s up to me to let him know about how dangerous it might be? Yes, I must speak with him in confidence later.’

Benjamin who had been sipping his water and just enjoying a pocket book he brought along wheezed at the sight of Lily hugging Lord Asher’s arm.

‘I… I thought that Lily’s personality would have repulsed, Lord Asher. Did he fall for the charms of my sister as well? No, no, how can my sister be charming. Maybe Lord Asher has peculiar tastes in women… er, I should let him know more about my sister, just in case. I do not wish for him to get with my sister without truly knowing what is there.’

Viscountess Blackshield kept a cool face. She was expressionless like the Baroness, and actually drank water instead of the Humble Blaze this time.

‘I… I need to sober up, since I need to actually find it within me to leave this comfortable place. But it feels hard to stay sober. It’s… a sanctuary. Hah, but I need to get up and leave. I’ve overstayed my welcome and it seems Lord Asher will be entertaining the two children of Baron Hugh. What kind of woman shall I be if I keep running away from problems? The young ones like Lord Asher, they are still full of life and hope, I should copy them.’

Normally at this point, Baron Hugh would have laughed and make a joke that teased Lord Asher, but he couldn’t do it when it was his daughter’s arm hugging Lord Asher’s.

“Ah, Lord Asher! We were almost afraid that you’d miss the celebration.” Baron Hugh managed to say.

“How could I forget? It is a celebratory period, is it not?” Lucius chuckled. “I am most grateful for our agreement, not only with the mercenaries, but to several things. We have much to celebrate for.”

“Ahem, if I could speak as well,” Viscountess Blackshield suddenly spoke.

“Viscountess Blackshield?” Lucius turned to the woman and then smiled. “What is it that you wish to say?”

‘Hah, I’ve really become much more sentimental. This is quite embarrassing. I should have remained silent but I’ve really grown much softer around here than I expected.’ Viscountess Blackshield thought as her gaze softened slightly.

“Well, I think it is also a good night to celebrate my soon departure as well.” Viscountess Blackshield said.

‘Now that I have said it, I cannot do anything but just go with it right? I have sealed my fate and shall be finally leaving. I cannot take back my own words. Which is good.’ Viscountess Blackshield thought.

“Then it truly is a night for celebrations. Ahem,” Baron Hugh shook his head when he realized what he said and how it could be taken the wrong way.

“There is much celebration tonight, but it seems that it is also of departures.” Lord Asher said as he came forward with Lily and assisted her by offering her a chair. 

Lily blushed at the gesture as she sat down. Her eyes were on him and him alone.

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Viscountess Blackshield listened to the young Lord’s speech and couldn’t help but laugh.

It was clear and rang through the dining hall, which surprised the Baron and his family alongside of that of the Count and Countess.

“Haha! I’m about to leave, but you wish to make us all drink Humble Blaze once more, Lord Asher?” Viscountess Blackshield chuckled. 

“Yes, let us all drink and be merry!”