Lucian led Lord Hadrian Vale through the bustling streets of Duskwatch, doing his best to exude confidence while frantically hoping nothing would go wrong. Dorian shadowed him, whispering nervous updates while Elaine trailed behind, suppressing her smirk.

  "As you can see," Lucian said, gesturing grandly at the marketplace, "Duskwatch operates with remarkable efficiency."

  Hadrian observed as a baker haggled furiously with a customer, two merchants yelled about stolen goods, and a street performer somehow turned a minor accident into an impromptu comedy act that had the crowd roaring with laughter.

  "Remarkable," Hadrian murmured. "And you say this… runs itself?"

  Lucian nodded sagely. "Indeed. My philosophy is to empower the people to govern their own affairs."

  Dorian nearly choked. That’s because you refuse to do any work!

  They passed the militia barracks, where a group of recruits was sparring under the watchful eye of a veteran knight. Hadrian narrowed his eyes. "Your militia is well-trained. Were they all conscripted?"

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  Elaine grinned. "Oh no, they volunteered. The people protect themselves because Lord Veilwood fosters a spirit of self-reliance."

  Lucian coughed. "Naturally. A disciplined force that defends its own home will always be more effective than one forced into service."

  Dorian’s eye twitched. That was just an excuse to avoid drafting soldiers!

  As they continued, a group of children ran up to Lucian, handing him freshly baked pastries and cheering. "Thank you for making our town safe, Lord Veilwood!"

  Lucian accepted the treats with a smile. "All part of the plan, of course."

  Hadrian watched everything with an unreadable expression. "I must admit, this is not what I expected. I have seen nobles rule through fear, through bureaucracy, through military might—but never through… whatever this is."

  Lucian chuckled. "Leadership comes in many forms."

  Dorian covered his face. He still thinks this is all planned!

  Hadrian folded his hands behind his back. "The Emperor will be very interested in my report. I must stay a few more days to observe more closely."

  Lucian froze. "Stay? As in… stay here?"

  Hadrian gave a thin smile. "Of course. This system of yours is most… unconventional. I would be remiss not to study it further."

  Lucian forced a laugh. "Ahaha… of course! Make yourself at home. We run an open and transparent governance here!"

  Elaine patted his back. "Good luck with that."

  Dorian whispered, "We’re doomed."

  Lucian sighed. Why does this keep happening to me?