Chapter 44

I have been writing novels, looking forward to (rather, eager to read) your impressions, but due to circumstances, I will be closing the comment section for a while. However, I will reopen it eventually. I apologize for the inconvenience.

While Gunter, who was supposed to be discussing swords, suddenly spoke to Sir Cedric.

"Sir Cedric, Lady Asher is getting bored."

"Oh, is that so? I got carried away with the talk of swords."

"No, I found it very interesting."

Then Prince Conrad approached me with a smile on his beautiful face.

"How about a dance, Lady Asher? Could you dance one song with Gunter? Cedric only danced with Beatrice and ignored Gunter. Isn't that a bit harsh, considering he invited him? Lady Asher, you dance very well. I had the pleasure of watching you. Gunter, how about you?"

"I'm passable."

"Then it's settled. Lady Asher, please dance with Gunter, who has come from another country."

"Yes, Your Highness."

Prince Conrad was considerate. It's no wonder he's the eldest son, always mindful of others. However, his consideration was unnecessary at the moment. I replied with a smile, "Yes," but my facial muscles were in full distress as I stood up.

"My dancing is at a rather embarrassing level, but please be kind, Lord Baar."

"I'm not used to such elegant occasions either. Let's do our best."

Gunter and I started walking together, but when we left the room, I turned my head back. Jeffrey's face was written with worry. He was probably worried about something else, but from the perspective of a husband infatuated with his wife, it might pass.

Gunter and I walked silently to the venue. During this time, I checked if Gunter had any peculiarities in his walk. He didn't.

I had never heard of the name Gunter Baar. If we had met before, it would have been during my operative days. I never forget the names of my targets. So, Gunter's name is not among my targets.

He must have changed his name, or I simply encountered him near someone I interacted with.

However, I rarely forget the people very close to my targets.

So, who is this man?

"Where are you from, Anna?"

"I'm from the duchy. As you may know, I was a commoner before marriage."

"Hmm. So you were adopted by Viscount Asher after falling in love with him."

I didn't say "Yes" but smiled shyly and looked down.

We eventually arrived at the venue, and a man in a splendid uniform opened the large door for us. The music played by the orchestra and the laughter of the guests flooded in.

"Lady Asher, please."

"Yes, thank you."

Gunter, who didn't admit to being a poor dancer, led me skillfully. I danced, imagining myself as a woman from the countryside who was not used to dancing in such elegant settings.

The song was almost over, but I had nothing to show for it. At least my act wasn't seen through.

"Could we have another dance? You're a very easy partner to dance with."

"Um, yes."

We took each other's hands and started dancing to the next song. Midway through, Gunter added a complex step. He smiled at me, asking, "Can you do it?" I can, but I won't. A woman from the countryside who was a commoner wouldn't usually perform such difficult steps in a gathering of high-ranking nobles.

"I can't perform such difficult steps. I'm sorry."

"It's fine. Don't worry about it. You're a very easy partner to dance with. It reminds me of when my dance instructor adjusted to my level when I first started learning."

"You're too kind, Lord Baar."

"Hahaha."

A conversation that felt like probing. I relaxed, took deep breaths, and imagined peaceful scenes, Nonna sleeping, and Jeffrey laughing.

"His Highness and the others are probably still engrossed in their talk of swords. How about we have a drink while we wait after the dance?"

"Yes. I can't return to that room, so it would be helpful."

"Good. I was prepared to be a wallflower tonight."

"Oh, Lord Baar, you wouldn't be."

From there, Gunter asked me various questions about the duchy. I had only been there for a short time, so I decided to deflect the detailed questions before I slipped up.

"Where did you grow up in the Kingdom of Randall?" "What did you do for fun as a child?" "What are the specialties of your family's estate?" I asked with feigned interest.

Gunter answered without hesitation. As the second song ended, someone called out.

"Anna, you seem to be having a lively conversation."

"Lord Edward. Jeffrey is still talking with His Highness and the Duke."

"That's what it looks like. They're probably talking about swords again."

I introduced Gunter to Lord Edward and Lady Blythe, who was standing behind him. Lord Edward started a pleasant conversation with Gunter.

I was impressed by Lord Edward's social skills. He spoke smoothly with a gentle smile.

"His Highness Cedric has a strong interest in martial arts. Are you also knowledgeable in martial arts, Lord Baar? So, you were trained by your father. When did you come to Ashbury? It's a good season. Where are you staying? Oh, at the Duke's residence? That's impressive. Is it because of your personality? Oh, really?"

Lord Edward continued the conversation pleasantly and quickly found out when Gunter came to Ashbury, where he was staying, whether he came alone or with attendants, and where he met His Highness Cedric. His questions were natural and not intrusive.

According to him, Gunter was accosted by some people in the city, defeated three of them with a stick, and was noticed by the Duke, who was on an inspection tour. Incidentally, he brought one attendant.

I had heard from Jeffrey that "my brother is good at socializing," but his conversational skills were remarkable. Despite being of a much higher rank and older, he didn't give off any sense of superiority or intimidation. His intelligence was evident just from this conversation.

As I listened in admiration, Jeffrey's voice came from behind.

"Anna, I kept you waiting. The sweets over there are apparently the castle chef's new creations. Would you like to try them?"

"Yes, I would. I'm looking forward to it."

"Then, brother, I'll take Anna."

"Ah, I see."

We walked to the corner where light refreshments were lined up, and Jeffrey pointed out several dishes. He had the serving staff load up two plates with food and sweets, more than I could eat.

We sat down on nearby chairs with the plates.

"So, how did it go? That Gunter guy, is he suspicious?"

"Jeff, why do you think so?"

"We've been living together for almost six years. I can tell when you're being cautious."

That's the kind of man he is. He seems rough but is actually very perceptive. That's part of Jeffrey's charm. But that wasn't the issue right now.

"I recognize that man. But his name wasn't Gunter Baar. I met him a long time ago, during my active days. But he's not a target. We should contact Mike, shouldn't we?"

"Yes, you're right. Let's go to Chester's house on the way back."

"Yes, that would be helpful."

We enjoyed the castle's cuisine, entertained the nobles who approached us, and finally left the castle.

Jeffrey instructed the driver to go to the house where Miles used to live. It shouldn't be a problem even at this late hour, as Chester, the current resident, serves as the liaison between the Third Knight Regiment and me.