Chapter 22

It has been revealed that Duke Belkline is teaching the forbidden class of poison magic to Gil with the intention of assassinating me, but we have not taken any particular action.

This is because, at this point, it is still in the realm of speculation.

Duke Belkline, one of the four great nobles, holds significant power second only to the royal family, and his influence is strong. To securely detain him, even Prince Eric would need solid evidence.

In this situation, the most we can do is mention Gil's infidelity to prevent him from poisoning me preemptively.

"Then, how about detaining and interrogating Lord Gil? And then have him testify about Duke Belkline's plot. There's no need for Lady Lea to risk herself—"

"No, Gil Westria seems to be quite devoted to Duke Belkline. If he is about to be detained, he might poison himself to commit suicide. He would likely give such an instruction."

Gil, who is emotionally tied to Duke Belkline, has a significant chance of committing suicide if cornered. It's not unreasonable to think that he would rather die than cause trouble for the person he loves.

"But, if that's the case, wouldn't it be the same to catch Lord Gil in the act of trying to kill Lady Lea? Objective evidence that he tried to kill Lady Lea on Duke Belkline's orders. Without that, we can't do anything."

Johan is concerned that even if Gil is caught in the act of trying to kill me, he will ultimately commit suicide, and Duke Belkline cannot be held accountable. This concern is valid, and that's why Belkline chose this method.

However—

"But that's not the case. Duke Belkline will receive his due punishment. ... For now, we'll set the stage for them. Like this."

"Philip Gilbert's engagement announcement party. This is..."

"Without any doubt, I... Lea... will attend. I suggested to Duke Gilbert that his son should host a party to show sincerity to his fiancée. Of course, I also made sure that Duke Belkline received an invitation."

Instead of waiting for an attack, Eric chose to lure them out. My ex-fiancé, now Gil's fiancé, Philip, is the heir of a ducal family. Eric ordered Duke Gilbert, one of the four great nobles and Philip's father, to have his son host an engagement announcement party to show sincerity to his fiancée.

Under normal circumstances, even if it's the Crown Prince's request, it might seem unnecessary or unnatural.

However, after breaking off his engagement with me, Philip engaged Gil, then broke it off again—only to propose to me in front of Eric and get scolded, and then re-engaged Gil.

This is quite a spectacle, and the second engagement to Gil is an attempt by Duke Gilbert to show Eric that his son is acting with sincerity. Therefore, Eric's suggestion to host an engagement announcement party is a natural progression.

"This is an opportunity for me, Lord Eric, and Gil and Duke Belkline to gather in the same place. It's a standing reception with food and drinks, which is perfect for poisoning."

"Lady Lea... you..."

"Gil will definitely make contact with me. To poison me... That's when we'll make our move."

The moment Gil approaches me with the intent to kill is the greatest and only chance. Here, we will uncover Duke Belkline's plot.

While it's not certain whether Duke Belkline will accept the invitation, psychologically, he will likely want to confirm my death himself rather than wait for Gil's report.

Thus, the battlefield between us and Duke Belkline will be at the party hosted by Philip—.