Chapter 83

Therefore, the second and third sons of aristocratic families who did not become heirs usually became military officers. Of course, there were a very small number of people who were accepted through their skills, but… Honestly, if their number among all the cadets was so small to be counted, they were practically non-existent.

Due to the status of its enrollees, the military academy was, naturally, an exclusive world, similar in some ways to the aristocratic society. Even if someone with a lowly status was lucky enough to get in through hefty sponsorships, if they failed to catch the eye of the powers, their life would be decided before they even graduated.

If the Marquis graduated from the military academy and became an officer, even a high ranking one with his records off-limits, then he must have a pretty interesting backer.

While Liv was unable to control her burning curiosity, she heard Camille’s question in her ear.

“You’re very interested in the Marquis. Were you interested in him from the start?”

That put to rest the curiosity that had been running wild. After trying to compose herself, Liv replied in a calm tone.

“I guess seeing him from afar at Millian’s birthday party the other day imprinted deep impressions on my mind.”

“Oh, I see.”

Camille seemed to not believe it at all. However, he didn’t ask further. That rather made Liv uncomfortable. Maybe it was because she held a secret. She felt nervous around Camille for no reason.

Liv fiddled with her clasped hands and finally parted her lips, unable to resist the silence.

“Clearly, it’s you who knows a lot. It’s hard to believe you are just a regular art teacher.”

“These are things you can pick up on with a little listening.”

Camille’s reaction was, as usual, mild. However, Liv was no longer buying into his rhetoric.

“Seeking out information yourself is a much more proactive action than simply picking it up through words, isn’t it?”

Camille was the one who said with his own mouth that he looked into if the Marquis was a former military officer. He raised an eyebrow as Liv pointed it out. Realizing that he made a tongue slip, he drew an ambiguous smile.

“… Oh, you are sharp.”

He rubbed the nape of his neck awkwardly, then parted his lips as if to say something more. But before that could happen, Liv spoke up.

“I know my request may have been annoying, and I appreciate your willingness to talk about it.”

People who were strolling by the backyard entrance were entering the mansion one by one.

Upon seeing them, Liv felt compelled to go inside as well, but Camille stopped her from behind.

“Miss Rhodes.”

Camille frowned slightly, then flashed a vague smile. He pursed his lips for a moment, as if contemplating something, then spoke somewhat cautiously.

“Please don’t be too interested in the Marquis.”

His tone was so different from the casual, playful, and sometimes witty tone he had always used. Liv realized he was being very serious with his advice.

Looking at Camille with a puzzled expression, Liv tilted her head.

“Why?”

Camille furrowed his brow a little more, as if he was thinking about Liv’s question. He then replied, averting his eyes for no reason.

“Erm, because I think you are a good person.”

“Sorry?”

What on earth is that supposed to mean?

Liv, not understanding his point, asked back, but instead of explaining, Camille rubbed his forehead and sighed.

“I wonder if this is how it feels to see an acquaintance who is about to go down a bad path.”

“What do you mean by that…”

“Let me know anytime if there’s anything I can do to help. I know you can’t believe me right now, but who knows, maybe I’ll have an answer for you when you are pressed for time.”

Something shapeless and unnerving came through in his vague words. But then again, it didn’t seem like Camille was trying to say anything bad to Liv.

Unsure of how to make sense of his unexplained goodwill, Liv ultimately chose to take a step back.

“I’m grateful for your kind words.”

Camille nodded without showing any sign of reluctance.

“We wasted a lot of time, didn’t we? I think we should go back.”

***

She left the Vendons estate later than she had planned. Liv wasted no time and headed for the street where the shared carriages were gathered.

Even though the Barony was on the main street of Buerno, the streets were quite deserted as darkness had truly fallen. That alone was enough to set Liv’s mind on edge.

Liv pulled the shawl around her shoulders a little tighter, trying to ward off the unnecessarily chilly night air. She moved her steps quickly.

And just as she was about to reach the roadside.

Neigh!

A horse’s whinnying sound came from the corner of a dark alley. It was followed by the sound of hooves pounding on the ground.