Chapter 18
Lucian stared at the young woman standing before him.
What in the world was she wearing?
The gown was simple yet elegant with some pants, nothing like the extravagant dresses Aurora usually wore to attract attention. There were no excessive ribbons, jewels, or decorations. The outfit showing her curves, the men around staring at her.
For some reason, that irritated him even more.
And now this chaos. A reported murder. An injured Duchess. A locked estate.
What exactly was Aurora planning?
Seeing Aurora's confused expression, Charles decided to speak before Lucian's patience ran out.
"Lady Aurora, we were informed that a murder had been committed at the estate. The Sheriff and several knights were dispatched, and we came with them."
Aurora's brows furrowed slightly. Before she could reply.
Lucian stepped forward. "Care to explain how the Duchess was injured?"
His voice remained calm, but there was a sharp edge to it.
"And why was a murder reported when apparently no one has been murdered?" Isaac added impatiently.
For several moments, Aurora remained silent. The tension in the air grew heavier.
Finally, she spoke, "I apologize for the inconvenience, but my mother requires immediate attention."
Her voice was composed and controlled. Not flustered. Not apologetic. Simply matter of fact.
She turned toward Philip, "Philip."
"Yes, My Lady."
"Please ensure all guests leave the estate, with the exception of the Sheriff. The gates locked, no one leaves or enters without my permission."
The Sheriff cleared his throat, "Lady Aurora, if there has been no murder, I am afraid I cannot remain. As I previously explained, I will return in a few days regarding the theft investigation."
Aurora's gaze immediately shifted to him. Her expression hardened. "Who said there was no murder and what about the Duchess attack. Are you saying the kingdom refuses to investigate and protect us?"
Silence.
The words landed like a stone thrown into still water. Several knights exchanged uneasy glances. Even the Sheriff looked startled.
Aurora continued, "If you choose not to investigate and help us, that is your final decision."
The calmness in her voice somehow made the statement more threatening. For the first time, the Sheriff felt uncomfortable under the gaze of a fifteen-year-old girl.
Aurora turned away from him and looked toward Brian, "Duke Brian Vale."
Brian straightened.
"If the kingdom's finest law officer is unwilling to assist, would you be willing to remain behind and help us investigate?"
A flicker of interest crossed Brian's face, "Of course."
"Thank you.", Aurora inclined her head respectfully.
Without waiting for another response, she turned and headed toward the manor.
Her pace was quick but not rushed. She had more important matters to deal with than bruised egos.
As she disappeared through the entrance, Sir Turner stepped forward, "Knights."
The Ambrose guards immediately stood at attention.
"Increase patrols around the estate. Search every building, every corridor, and every section of the grounds. Any suspicious activity is to be reported directly to me."
"Yes, Sir Turner!" , The guards dispersed at once.
Turner then faced the Crown Prince, the young dukes, the Sheriff, and the royal knights. Bowing slightly, he spoke respectfully.
"On behalf of the Grand Emberforge Duchy, I apologize for the inconvenience caused today."
His expression became firm.
"If you would kindly leave, we will be securing the estate."
The Sheriff looked relieved to escape the increasingly awkward situation. Several royal knights began turning toward the gates.
Before anyone else could speak, Lucian's voice cut through the air, "You may leave."
The royal knights immediately obeyed. The Sheriff hesitated before bowing and following them out.
Isaac looked between Lucian and the manor, "You aren't seriously staying, are you?"
Lucian's eyes remained fixed on the entrance Aurora had disappeared through.
Something felt wrong. Very wrong. A theft investigation. A possible murder. An injured Duchess. Locked gates. And Aurora acting like an entirely different person.
He needed answers. Without another word, he walked toward the manor.
Brian smirked, "Well, this is getting interesting."
Charles sighed before following, "I had a feeling this wasn't over."
Isaac groaned dramatically, "I knew I should have stayed in bed today."
Anton looked at the estate and followed his friends.
Meanwhile, Sir Turner watched them enter and pinched the bridge of his nose.
A headache was already forming.
Lady Aurora was investigating.
The Crown Prince was refusing to leave.
The Sheriff was offended.
The Duchess was injured.
The day was rapidly spiralling out of control.
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