Reborn as a Mind-Reading Empress
Chapter 950: Another Spy

Chapter 950: Chapter 950: Another Spy

Time quickly flew by as they were speaking with the locals.

The Marquess led them to a spacious banquet hall.

The table was set with Sibruh cuisine, but still had ample space.

The Marquess had been warned that most food would be prepared in the palace, but it was clear they still prepared as much as they could so as not to embarrass their family.

Alwin then teleported Alfredo, and he served food to the table like it was coming out of thin air.

[Amazing! They use magic even in matters like this?! I would have never believed it if I hadn’t been seeing magicians these past weeks!]

The Marquess and his family watched in awe.

"Let’s begin the banquet, everyone," Arabella said, and the Marquess picked up his knife and forked first.

To show that none of the Sibruh cuisine they had prepared was poisoned, the Marquess had a taste of all of it and also drank a sip of wine.

Nothing happened to the Marquess, so it was fine to proceed.

Blanca still tested all the food from Sibruh that Arabella ate, though.

Thankfully, none were poisoned, so everyone gradually relaxed and ate in peace.

Ivan was rather excited to be able to eat meals prepared by Alfredo and palace chefs again, so he enjoyed himself.

As for the other researchers, they were also having their meal made by Imperial Palace Chefs in the dining area for researchers.

"Ivan, you look like you haven’t been sleeping well... Is the research difficult even for you?" Nadia inquired.

"Yes, there’s something I could not crack no matter how hard I try. I have been redoing the same experiment over and over again to see if anything will change, but nothing has happened so far," Ivan sighed.

"I heard you are the one who discovered the latest development... It’s such a great achievement. It’s also amazing that you are so good at so many things," Odette praised Ivan, so he won’t feel depressed.

"Not really, I’m just doing what I can. I’m currently stuck with no further developments," Ivan said humbly.

[Ah, so he’s the researcher who discovered something was wrong with the pests. Should I kill him in case he discovers more? He doesn’t seem to be a magician, though, so it’s unlikely he would find more. There are too many people here, though. I know his face now. I’ll wait until he’s alone...]

’!!!’

Arabella was alarmed when she heard that thought!

She looked around and found that the butler who had just entered was the source of the thought.

The butler was eyeing Ivan with a neutral expression, but he was planning to kill him once he got the chance.

{Alwin! The butler who just entered. I think he’s a spy! He’s planning to kill Ivan once he’s alone! Try to imprison him too, without anyone noticing.}

Arabella immediately informed Alwin but pretended to continue eating calmly.

[Or should I target the Empress instead? I hadn’t been able to leave since they put up barriers around the entire territory. Knights and magicians are going around, too. If I am eventually caught, then should I target her instead? It’s impossible to target the Emperor who’s sensitive with malice.]

The butler pondered over the benefits of killing Arabella or Ivan, who was contributing to the research.

In the end, the butler concluded to kill Ivan first and try targeting Arabella as well in case

’Bastard! Let’s see what you can do!’

Arabella was sure Alwin would be able to catch him anyway.

{Are there more in this hall?} Alwin asked calmly.

{No. It’s just him.}

{Alright. I’ll catch him once he exits this room and no one is looking at him. Continue eating like you did not notice him.}

Arabella did as Alwin said and entrusted this to him.

Now it was understandable why the situation here was the worst.

Aside from spies in the castle, instigators are pretending to be among the common folk as well.

{Oh, and please warn those who are in charge of guarding Ivan. Increase his guards if possible. There might be others like the butler.} Arabella added.

{Yes, I have already informed the others.} Alwin was quick.

Thankfully, Arabella did not hear any more spies.

It was just one of the butlers. The priority was to catch him first and explain to the Marquess and his family once they could investigate.

{I caught him.}

Before the banquet was over, Alwin informed her that he had caught the butler and imprisoned him securely.

{Thank you!}

Arabella was relieved that the immediate danger had been caught.

She won’t allow Ivan to be killed because of whoever these schemers were.

Meanwhile, Ivan had a good meal, not knowing someone had planned to kill him.

Thankfully, it was resolved before an attempt was made.

Everyone had a light chat after the meal.

Once everyone was sated and had ample rest, it was time for the serious talk.

"Marquess, can you guide us to a conference hall? I’d like to have a meeting about what we will discuss with the people tomorrow."

Arabella knew they had to speak to the Marquess about it first, so a meeting was necessary.

The construction was fine since they were sure to gladly accept it, since it was as clear as day that it was necessary. Likewise, it was a suggestion from Ferdinand, and he would see it implemented even if the local lord refused. Especially when it comes to the higher walls and watchtowers.

However, for the other activities, they needed to consult with the Marquess as the local lord.

The Marquess may also be able to help them since they have information about Sibruh.

"Of course, Your Majesty, please follow me," Marques Sibruh said.

They were led to a neat and spacious room, which was clearly prepared to look its best for her visit.

All the family members who had a say in ruling Sibruh joined them while the others stayed to watch over the feast.

The Elder came here with them since he wanted to know what they had in store for Sibruh.

It was also to ensure that his family would not make mistakes that could lead to trouble again.