How the Villainous Consort Avoids His Death Ending

“When they set sail, we were informed by the Grand Duchy, but we could not ascertain exactly where they were traveling. From what I have glimpsed, it seems they are returning safely without incident.”

“Without incident?”

Liander’s voice trembled faintly, as if in disbelief. Her beautiful face reflected utter incomprehension.

“They are a frail Omega and a five-year-old child. How could they endure such a long voyage every time without mishap?”

“The people of Hezekia are extremely diligent in their protection.”

“Do you think I am asking because I do not know? Enough. Was there no other news from the Grand Duchy?”

“Yes. Each time they set sail, we requested to accompany His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince, but it seems they caught wind of it and declined each time.”

“They seem useless. They have earned suspicion by accident.”

Liander clicked her tongue and set her teacup firmly on the table. Scarlett flinched and bowed even deeper.

After a long moment, Liander spoke again in a subdued voice.

“…Very well. In any case, you have done well.”

Liander moved her long fingers and dropped a pouch of gold coins into Scarlett’s hand. Scarlett’s expression brightened briefly but quickly returned to neutrality. A private pang of self-reproach lingered within her.

It was frustrating and humiliating to be grateful for a few coins from a harbor prostitute. All of this was because that ungrateful Omega had abandoned the Elsworth family’s favor and returned to the side of the Grand Duke.

The Elsworth family’s assets, amassed through wheat trade, had been heavily spent to support the foundation of Second Prince Everett. Even after such dedication, the Elsworth family’s position these days was precarious, like walking on thin ice.

Who could have guessed that a lowly, zealous Omega would interfere so thoroughly with the path of Prince Everett? Moreover, it was Viscount Elsworth who had personally sent that Omega into Hezekia. For Liander, it was fortunate she had not been driven from Seren Hall.

In the process, the Elsworth family’s wealth had been nearly exhausted. But had they not humbled themselves this way, they might not have survived to the present day.

After all, a low-born zealous Omega bearing the Elsworth name had successfully insulted Prince Everett.

“I will speak with the Prince. You may leave now.”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

Scarlett bowed and departed. Liander quietly observed the spot where she had left.

“Those who bear the Elsworth name are completely useless. I must remove them all soon.”

Everett, who had been quietly sipping tea, smiled calmly at his mother’s complaint. His relaxed voice carried through the reception room.

“When my base of support was minimal, the assistance of the Elsworths was a great help. If I push them away now, no one will trust or follow me.”

“What nonsense. No noble would care about a mere viscount. Or could it be…”

Liander’s long eyes narrowed. She studied the face of her son, who resembled her closely, with sharp, piercing scrutiny.

“Do you still harbor any attachment to that Omega of the Elsworths? You seem strangely protective.”

“It is not attachment… It is simply that their actions are interesting.”

“That Omega has given their heart entirely to the Grand Duke. The news is remarkable. Fortunately, they are almost infertile, or Hezekia might already have an heir. They switch allegiance in an instant — like some lowly prostitute.”

Everett’s brow twitched briefly, but it was only momentary. By the time Liander turned to look at him, her composed smile had returned.

“That ‘prostitute’ seems quite clever. I hear the revenue they have brought to Hezekia is already substantial. They have even secured trade rights with the Sarr Empire. From here on, their success will be unstoppable.”

“…Stop it!”

Liander’s hand trembled slightly as she set down the teacup she had been sipping. She was unsettled by how this situation was not unfolding according to her plans.