Raul wasn’t a native of Rutania.
Even within the Duke’s household, no one knew where he’d come from. He’d simply appeared one day, earning the Duke’s trust and securing a title that placed him in charge of the household’s most critical affairs.

At first, the longstanding vassals of the Duke’s house protested fiercely. Those who spoke out, however, disappeared without a trace.

— “Ever since that devil set foot in the Duke’s estate, His Grace has changed.”

Whispers circulated, but none dared to act. The Duke himself seemed unconcerned, granting Raul full authority over the duchy’s operations.

Raul’s knowledge …