Chapter 74

Today, the office was tinged with a palpable tension, more so than usual.

"Lord Logan, this way."

To ensure a smooth start to tomorrow's work, Oscar handed a parchment to Logan, who was organizing documents. The paper contained information about a disease that had recently begun to spread within the territory.

"Red Death... I've never heard of it before."

"It seems to be a disease from abroad, and there are significant casualties in the capital."

Oscar continued with a serious expression.

"Although the number of confirmed patients in our territory is still small, it would be wise to take precautions."

"Hmm..."

After carefully examining the document, Logan spoke.

"First, send a letter to the medical team asking them to consider preventive measures and treatments. Also, to inform the people, please arrange for announcements and distributions at the town square and the church."

"Understood."

Oscar bowed respectfully.

"I hope it doesn't become a serious issue..."

After saying this, Logan sighed deeply.

After a while, Oscar spoke again.

"Changing the subject... Lord Logan, you've been looking rather troubled lately?"

"Despite reducing my workload recently, I should be in good spirits."

"Perhaps it's something other than fatigue... a worry about Lady Amelia, perhaps?"

Logan's eyebrow twitched.

"Indeed, you noticed."

"Given our long association."

Oscar chuckled elegantly.

Sinking deeper into his chair and taking a deep breath, Logan began to speak.

"I proposed something to Amelia. I suggested that she use her alchemical skills for some purpose."

"Ah, finally."

Oscar narrowed his eyes, a mix of surprise and anticipation in his gaze.

"Considering how quick you usually are to make decisions, this took some time, didn't it?"

"I would like to blame my busy schedule, but... the main reason was that I couldn't sort out my thoughts and feelings."

"That's understandable."

Oscar bowed his head and shook it.

"Lady Amelia possesses an extraordinary ability that doesn't fit her circumstances. Her power could potentially affect the entire country, so it's crucial to handle it with great care."

"Indeed."

"What did Amelia say?"

"She wants to think about it."

"I see."

Resting his chin in his hand, Oscar murmured, "Hmm..."

"First, Amelia needs to accept her own abilities. She probably wasn't even aware of them."

"Her lack of awareness was refreshingly clear. It's quite daunting, really."

Logan continued.

"Proposing a path might have been a bit premature. However, I also wanted to make use of Amelia's abilities sooner. She is not the type to settle for being just a duchess's wife."

"You're right."

"But the most important thing is that Amelia should do what she wants to do. I prioritize her wishes above all. I have no intention of using her abilities for any ulterior motives. However..."

Furrowing his brow, Logan said,

"Perhaps that makes it even harder for her."

"Yes, that's true..."

Resting his chin in his hand, Oscar pondered and then said,

"This is just a guess, but it seems Amelia finds it difficult to make decisions on her own. Given her past family environment, it might have been easier for her to follow others' instructions."

"That's undoubtedly true. So, I feel very guilty thinking that my unnecessary concern might be causing her distress."

Letting out a deep sigh, Logan looked uneasy, and Oscar squinted his eyes at him.

Then, he whispered softly,

"...She really has grown into such a kind person."

"Did you say something?"

"No, nothing."

Oscar shook his head slightly, still wearing a faint smile.

"However, I don't think you need to worry about Lady Amelia."

"What makes you so sure?"

"Indeed, Lady Amelia may lack assertiveness and find it difficult to decide her own future, but... she has a strong core that no one can match."

"A strong core."

"Yes."

Glancing at his much-improved waist, Oscar said,

"A wonderful core that wants to help others."

"......I see."

Oscar's words resonated deeply in Logan's heart.

It is well known that Amelia is a kind person who would not hesitate to sacrifice herself for others.

Indeed, in this aspect, Amelia's beliefs are consistent.

At that moment, a knock echoed through the room.