DSMBL Chapter 87

Chapter 87

Count Solovis useless?
No matter what great crimes he committed, Count Solovis would definitely be freed. And in some way, he would be sent to the capital to face the Emperor’s punishment.

If Count Solovis could say even one more word to the Emperor, he might completely separate the North from the capital.

If, in the face of public scorn and neglect from the capital, Istheria appears as a savior, even small achievements would look grand.

A faint light shining through hardship always looks bigger than it really is.

But the problem was Cassius, who never did as Janice wanted.

“The Duke of Istheria’s reaction is stronger than expected.”

Janice bit her lip hard.

The Cassius she knew was not like this, but he kept making situations Janice didn’t understand.

“That damn Cassius ruined everything.”

Everything was messed up because of Charlotte.

If not for Charlotte, Theo would have died as planned, and Lorencia would have been the only comfort for Cassius, which was Janice’s plan.

Crazy Charlotte wouldn’t have been a rival to Lorencia, and they had even planned to punish Charlotte and drive her away for causing trouble.

Since all this failed, Janice needed a new move to turn the game around.

She picked up her purse. It was time to find out the secret behind the Duke of Istheria. For her and Lorencia.

***

Lorencia pouted.

Janice said she would handle everything, but in the end, nothing had been achieved. Lorencia was left to only deal with the kids and had to obey Charlotte’s orders quietly.

She needed a way to fix her situation.

So she put on her prettiest clothes, wore thick makeup, sharp and fancy shoes, and jewelry. She felt more confident and beautiful.

She walked with a confident, proud step.

Lorencia knocked on the office door.

“It’s Lorencia. I have something to say, Your Grace.”

The door opened. Inside were Cassius and his assistants. Lorencia entered boldly, receiving their attention.

“What brings you here?”

“I’m concerned about the Duke’s household, Your Grace.”

Cassius slowly brushed his hair back.

“That’s nothing for you to worry about. Just focus on teaching the kids.”

Lorencia’s pride was hurt, but she smiled politely.

“I’m still concerned, especially since the Duchess collapsed.”

Her expression turned sad and graceful.

“I came to offer my help to the Duchess, Your Grace.”

“You?”

“Yes. I thought if I helped the Duchess and eased her burden, it might help her.”

“There are already two assistants for the Duchess. No need for you.”

Lorencia tightened her stance, not used to being treated like that.

What is Istheria anyway?

Cassius stood firm, and Lorencia smiled again, trying to look as lovely as possible.

“Maybe I could help nurse her?”

Though she disliked Charlotte, Lorencia knew staying close to the Duchess would mean meeting Cassius more often.

With her sparkling eyes, Lorencia smiled sweetly.

How could he resist someone as beautiful as her?

Cassius sighed softly.

“I’ve told you before. Charlotte is being well cared for by the maids. You just focus on the children.”

Cassius was patient but growing tired. First Janice, now Lorencia, both crossing the lines he set.

He thought Janice must be removed soon. But she cleverly left no evidence, but she couldn’t hide forever.

When that moment comes, Lorencia would be sent away too.

“Please don’t misunderstand me. I’m committed to the children’s education. I only came out of concern for the Duchess.”

Lorencia smiled as beautifully as she could, tilting her head to show her best angle.

Cassius stared coldly. Lorencia’s pride cracked, but she kept her trembling lips steady.

“Now leave. Don’t waste my time.”

The cold dismissal made Lorencia bow and leave.

This route was a dead end. She would try Charlotte instead.

If she could use the children’s care as an excuse, maybe she could find a way.

The assistants glanced at Lorencia as she left, whispering:

“Why does she twist around like a snake?”

“Ugh. Maybe she’s sick.”

Cassius chuckled quietly.

***

Lorencia put her plan into action immediately.

When the body weakens, the mind also weakens. This might be the best chance.

She asked Charlotte for a meeting about the children.

Two days had passed, but Charlotte still looked pale and weak.

‘Not fine at all. She’s dying. I hope she just dies soon.’

Lorencia pouted but spoke softly.

“Madam, I apologize for the trouble caused by the children’s education.”

Charlotte glanced at Lorencia.

“Speak if you have something to say.”

“I think the class hours should be extended. Also, there’s a new trend in the capital—parent participation classes. It’s said to help children’s emotional growth and knowledge. I want to try it for Stephanie and Theo.”

Lorencia smiled sweetly, acting innocent.

“Is that really necessary? I don’t want to increase class time.”

Charlotte answered coldly. She had argued with Lorencia before and didn’t want to reduce children’s playtime.

To Charlotte, play was the most important part of learning for young Theo and Stephanie.

She wanted them to be happy, not robbed of their joy.

“Because the kids lack social experience, Madam. Especially Stephanie, her speech is not good. It will become more noticeable as they grow.”

Charlotte sighed tiredly.

“Then maybe try a different way. Instead of parents, invite other children to join. Luckily, northern children are eager to learn.”

Lorencia’s lips twitched in surprise. She hadn’t expected that.

“Of course, northern mothers would be enthusiastic too. I’ll cover all the costs.”

Her lips trembled.

More children?

Her goal was Cassius, not to gain more money from extra fees.

“Recently, fathers have also been encouraged to participate.”

“That can be discussed too.”

Lorencia gritted her teeth. She needed to give up here, but had to get something.

Damn that cunning woman! She cursed inside.