Nathaniel’s mansion was huge. It was more like a maze than a home.
Even with a detailed layout, Dustin had to stay sharp as he moved through the grounds. After all, blueprints never quite captured the twists and turns of the actual place.
Led by a maid, he followed a winding path through the corridors for nearly ten minutes before finally arriving at a guesthouse with a garden.
The place was spacious and quiet, filled with birdsong and blooming flowers. It was a secluded spot that was ideal for privacy.
“Mr. Rhys, you can stay here. If you need anything, just let me know,” the maid said. Her gaze was warm with a hint of admiration.
She had watched Dustin’s performance in the training ground earlier and knew he was an important guest brought in by Nathaniel. If she could catch his attention, it could completely turn her life around.
He waved her off and said, “Okay. You can go now. I don’t need anyone to attend to me.”
“Uh… but…” The maid hesitated.
“Don’t worry. I’ll explain it to Prince Nathaniel. You won’t be in any trouble,” Dustin reassured her.
“Mr. Rhys, please rest well. I’ll take my leave now,” she said.
Her voice was tinged with regret as she reluctantly turned to leave. She considered herself quite attractive. No matter who she interacted with, they always took a second glance at her.
At times, Nathaniel even relied on her beauty to win over influential officials. But today, she couldn’t help but notice that her charm seemed to have no effect on Dustin. He hadn’t even looked her way.
It made her wonder if she had grown older or if her once-bright radiance had faded.
After the maid left, Dustin went into his room. He closed the door and pulled out the blueprints he kept with him at all times.
Even though he was already familiar with the floor plans, he chose to review them again. He wanted to be thorough and double-check against what he had observed earlier.
“Mr. Rhys…”
A sudden, clear voice from outside his room broke through his focus.
Dustin frowned. He had told the maid to leave earlier, so who was it this time?
He stood and opened the door to find a woman, dressed in a pastel pink dress, standing in front of him.
She was graceful, with fair skin and eyes that gleamed with sharp intelligence. Her beauty was undeniable.
It was Felicia Thorns, who was ranked eighth in the Beauty Ranking.
“Mr. Rhys, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I’m Felicia Thorns. I’ve heard so much about you and couldn’t resist paying a visit. If I’ve been too forward, I hope you’ll forgive me,” she said. Her smile was soft, like spring sunlight-disarming, but measured.
“The pleasure is mine, Ms. Thorns. Please come in,” Dustin said. He smiled politely and gestured for her to enter.
The room had a light floral scent. Now, it mixed with her subtle perfume and gave the space a gentle and inviting charm.
“I’ve heard that you’re exceptionally skilled in martial arts. Seeing you in action today, it’s clear the rumors were true,” Felicia remarked.
She sat at the table and took a delicate sip of tea before continuing, “I don’t know much about martial arts, but I genuinely admire your skill and bravery.”
“You flatter me. My skills are just mediocre. But you’re different. You’re famous on the Beauty Ranking for your remarkable beauty and exceptional talents, “Dustin said with a smile.
Though he had never met her, he had heard of her reputation.
Felicia was a courtesan kept by Nathaniel.
She was known for her exceptional talents in music and art. Her beauty was said to be unmatched and a rare sight for most.
Whenever distinguished guests visited Nathaniel, he arranged for her to perform music to entertain them. But this was the first time he had ever sent her to someone. It seemed Nathaniel was willing to invest heavily this time.
“You flatter me, Mr. Rhys,” she said. “I’m just trying to get by and doing what I can to make a living with some basic skills. But you’ve accomplished so much at such a young age. I wonder how you usually spend your free time?” She covered her mouth and chuckled.
“I occasionally play chess. It’s a good way to clear my mind,” Dustin replied with a grin.
“What a coincidence. I enjoy chess too. It’s not every day I get to meet someone like you. Would you mind if I challenged you to a game?” she asked. Her gaze was warm and affectionate.
Felicia knew she was a woman Nathaniel had shaped for one purpose. Sooner or later, she’d be expected to play her part, whether she wanted to or not.
But compared to the portly, unattractive officials, she’d rather offer herself to someone as handsome and well-mannered as Dustin.
“Since you’re interested, I’d be happy to play,” he said with a nod.
Dustin couldn’t refuse outright. Otherwise, this would raise Nathaniel’s suspicion. If he wasn’t there for money, fame, or women, what else could he be after?
“Bring my chess set,” Felicia instructed the maid behind her.
The maid nodded and soon returned with an exquisitely crafted set. The black-and-white pieces glistened in the sunlight.
Dustin and Felicia sat down and began their game.
She took the white pieces and made the first move. Her actions were graceful and poised. At first glance, her strategy looked casual, but there was more to it than met the eye.
He remained calm and responded without revealing any emotion. His move was steady and precise without showing any sign of uncertainty.
“I’ve heard that Prince Nathaniel holds you in high regard. Have you considered joining him?” Felicia asked without looking up from the board.
She continued, “With your skill, joining forces with him would surely open up many opportunities for you here in Oakvale.”
