Hubert hummed as he unfolded his papers and went about his business in his office. The sun was shining bright and warm outside, and the air in the office was relaxed. Outside the window, birds were chirping, flowers were dancing and the wind was blowing.
…What a great feeling…
“Would you please come with us, Duke Minusle?”
…But the day turned out not to be so great.
Hubert looked up from his papers and saw… six black-clad, expressionless watchmen surrounding him—they had entered the room without a sound. In their hands were magic wands. If he were to resist, it was clear that they intended to attack him.
Hubert cowered helplessly and held up his hands as if to explain that he had nothing in his hands.
“…It surprised me that I have guests coming without prior announcement. So? What can I do for you?”
""
“We suspect you of plotting treason. We, therefore, ask you to be taken with us.”
“Oh, no! What a terrible suspicion to cast on an innocent, ordinary, common civil servant! My grandfather, Rufus Minusle, a former royal prince, would have been mortified! How dare you question the loyalty of a man who has done so much for the royal family!” Hubert lamented with an exaggerated gesture.
However, the officers were still pointing their wands at Hubert with the same blank expression.
…There was definitely a murderous intent in their eyes. But Hubert ducked aloof and sighed ostentatiously.
“Alas! For three generations, the members of the House of Minusle have worked like horses for His Majesty the King, and for all this country, with all their heart and soul, and now this is what happens. Oh dear, we’ve been wronged…”
“…”
“Ah, well. It can’t be helped. If I’m ever under suspicion, I’m sure I’ll die without being able to explain myself. I cannot even complain. However, I am aware that I have done enough to be suspected of treason, haven’t I?”
“!”
“Well… For the sake of my son, it’s a given that I’d be willing to do something a little outrageous, right? Don’t you think so? That’s true for your master too, I suppose?”
“…”
“I hate it when you’re silent. Just what do I do with you.” Hubert chuckled.
“…Oh, by the way, I’ve got one question for you… Where is my lovely son and my not-so-lovely adopted son?”
The officers were silent on the question. They were not silent because they did not know; they were silent because they clearly knew where they were.