The following day as soon as he wakes up he tells his close subordinate to find out some information about the lady who saved him yesterday as he feels to reward her in some way.
"Yes sir," declares Elzar Amadori, the first division commander-in-chief of the Astandra empire's army, Flavian's loyal and skilled investigator. With his sharp intellect and explicit attention to detail, he plays a crucial role in uncovering hidden information. Whether it was delving into the backgrounds of suspicious individuals or investigating complex scenarios.
Soon by the evening, Elzar brings all the information he finds about the lady and starts reading his notes, "The lady who saved you yesterday, is none other than the one and only princess of the Astandra empire and the first-born daughter of the current duke and duchess, Leesa Marlene is currently 15 years old, she has a little brother - Byrant Marlene and shares a close bond with her maid - Weinne Salinas. Due to her limited public appearances and her confinement within the walls of the duke's palace, she is regarded as an elusive figure among the nobles. She seems to enjoy practising with the tools she custom ordered for herself without the duke's notice, it seems to me that she wanted to keep it a secret. Additionally, she exhibits a fondness for exploring various culinary delicacies, showcasing her appreciation for diverse food experiences. That's all I have gathered till now sir."
"Leesa Marlene, huh? This much is good enough Elzar, good work."
Elzar departs, leaving Flavian alone in the office with the mountain of paperwork accompanying him. Engrossed in his work, he thought about how he can get closer to Ella in this lifetime. It seemed that thinking while working was the only way out for Flavian otherwise he would start supposing worthless thoughts and dwell on unnecessary things. Consequently, he resolves to undertake an official visit to the dukedom, intending to seize an opportunity to converse with Leesa. Through their conversation, Flavian anticipates gaining clarity on the next course of action he ought to pursue.
Flavian composed a formal letter, notifying his intention to visit the dukedom in precisely one week's duration, expressing his desire to conduct a comprehensive meeting discussing particular issues during his stay. After securely sealing the letter, he summoned the butler by ringing the bell. As the butler arrived, Flavian issued a directive, "Please deliver this letter to the dukedom of Marlene." Acknowledging the command, the butler responded, "Certainly, Your Highness," as he accepted the letter and vacated the room.
After three days, a carriage arrived at the esteemed residence of the duke. The dutiful butler conveyed the significant news of the royal carriage's arrival, causing the duke to promptly make his way outside to extend a warm welcome to none other than the crown prince himself.
"Greetings, Your Highness. I hope you had a pleasant and comfortable journey on your way here."
"Yes, Duke and thank you for accepting my letter on such short notice."
"Of course, Your Highness, how could I not? Please come in."
The magnificent Duke's residence exudes elegance, befitting its esteemed status as the second most authoritative entity in the empire, surpassed only by the imperial family. It boasted a grand entrance adorned with a majestic fountain, complemented by a splendid garden that emanated a delightful floral fragrance. There were a few steps to reach the main door of the palace which led to the main hall which connected various rooms, the dining hall and the kitchen. Beyond the main residence lay the servant quarters, while the expansive woodland behind the servant quarters served as a sanctuary for Leesa to hone and refine her combat skills.
Upon the duke's insistence, Flavian was escorted to the dining hall to partake in a light luncheon, providing him nourishment before retiring to the guest room designated for his stay. Stepping into the dining hall, Flavian was greeted by the presence of the duchess, Leesa, and Byrant, actively awaiting the arrival of the crown prince.
"Let me introduce you, this is my eldest daughter Leesa Marlene and my son Byrant Marlene."
"Nice to meet you, Your Highness," Leesa and Byrant bowed and greeted Falvian in sync.
"I am glad to have met you both too," Flavian brightened seeing Leesa.
Following a tranquil and light meal, Flavian bid farewell to the dining hall and was accompanied by the butler to his assigned room. During the escort, the butler informed Flavian about the scheduled private audience with the duke in the evening. Expressing his desire, Flavian politely requested that the audience be extended to include both the duke and the duchess, hoping for a joint discussion.
At the meeting, Flavian sat down and stared at both of them with a severe look on his face and both the duke and the duchess acknowledged his expression, recognizing that an important matter was to be addressed.
"I reached both of you because I am aware of the duchess's acquaintance with the empress of the Wraisan empire. I wish to know if either of you has received any information regarding significant changes or the possibility of an imminent attack from the Wraisan empire."
Both of them were shocked hearing this. "I have a close friendship with the empress of the Wraisan empire, Your Highness, and we often engage in talking via letters. But I have not sensed anything of a threat as such," said the Duchess.
"I understand why you must feel vary of the Wraisan empire, Your Highness, because of the sudden trade changes they have been making but, I too, have not got any information regarding the matter." replied the Duke.
"I see, but it is not just the trade policies I am observing, recently the emperor has abruptly pushed back the coronation ceremony of the crown prince without any particular reason and their military expense has increased."
"Oh, they are certainly the reasons to be sceptical," nods the Duke in agreement.
"If the military is involved then I shall try to dig out some information."
"Yes, thank you, Duchess. And I believe you both should look out for any uncertain changes that might affect us sooner or later."
"Certainly, Your Highness," said the Duke with the Duchess nodding in the background.