16 Fief Inspection Squad (1/2)

”My lady, it's late. You should go to bed.”

Chalice looked up from the reports in her hands. It was the last of the accounts that she had to read. She made sure she took sufficient notes for the things that needed to be changed and improved.

She couldn't help but commend the system that her father and Luke had implemented in the territory. The wealth of the Amaranth House was entirely seperated from the funds of the fief collected from the taxes of the people, as opposed to the other feudalist territories. Because of this the citizens relatively paid less taxes and enjoyed prosperous lives.

It must be noted that the House of Amaranth owns the largest gemstone mine in Idalia, it was their main source of income. They are entirely unreliant to the taxes given by the people due to their monopoly of the gem trade. Chalice was overjoyed with this since she had studied mineralogy in her previous life. She was quite proficient when it comes to gems and jewelry.

It was also quite amazing that the territory makes use of the double entry system of accounts. Chalice was a bit shocked when she found out that it was Luke who had introduced it. Exceptional seems to fit him quite well. She generously praised him because it made it easier for her to read those mountains of accounts. It also gave her a clear picture of the money flow of the territory and the duchy.

”Give me a moment. I'm almost done.”

She answered Luke who strode in.

”I'll make you some tea for now then.”

Luke went straight to the trolley in the corner while Chalice returned to reading. After writing down a few more notes, she closed the reports and slumped into her chair.

”Finally done? Here, I've kept it hot.”

Chalice smiled gratefully at Luke and took the tea. She felt the fatigue catching up to her but she felt more alive than ever.

”It is quite gratifying to see how well you have managed the fief these years, Luke. I feel like you have given me a huge leeway.”

She said while reclining lazily on her chair. Luke smiled lightly at her before answering.

”The previous dukes as well as your father provided a solid foundation, my lady. I cannot take all of the credit. Besides, it's only right that I do my best since it is your House who took us in.”

Chalice stared thoughtfully at him. Seriously, it would be good if this guy loosens up a bit. He was similar to Lucy that way. Sometimes she feels like formality was ingrained in their bones already.

”Really, you could just say thank you for the compliment instead of refuting me. Tsk. I need to fix that stiff personality of yours.”

She chided him which the man returned with a pointed look.

”By the way, have you chosen the other members of our fief inspection squad? I'm already finished with the accounts. It would be best if we leave soon.”

Luke's brow raised up at her words.

”Fief inspection squad?”

Chalice chuckled at his question. It was something that she had dubbed their little party. She thought it was quite fitting.

”Yes. We are team who is going to inspect the fief. Appropriate, no?”

The corner of his lips turned upward at her antics.

”I refuse to comment, my lady. And to answer your question, I have already chosen the other two. Rye and Ward. They are two of the most skillful amongst the knights here.”