Chapter 37
Ian looked more cheerful than ever at the mention of an early death. But within seconds, the smile faded and the corners of his eyes drooped.
“…If only I hadn’t known. But now that I do, death from overwork is just another form of suicide. A sin.”
“Right. So don’t even think about dying from overwork. Just get some sleep at night.”
“I can’t let myself grow complacent in comfort and overlook the threat of enemies.”
“You’re impossible. Completely impossible.”
One hurdle after another. What was I supposed to do with him?
In the end, there was only one way.
The moment my gaze dropped below his collarbone, Ian hastily stepped back and covered his chest with both arms.
Tsk. Quick little b*st*rd.
As I clicked my tongue in disappointment, a servant approached.
“The new tutor has arrived.”
Tutoring time had come, and the issue was left unresolved. Ian left the building before me for the first time, radiating a clear determination never to let his n*****s be pinched again.
***
Today’s lesson wasn’t in the usual classroom, but at the riding arena.
Normally, we’d be seated at a desk, but today was a bit special.
The subject this time was noble etiquette on horseback. Since the Luxus Academy curriculum included equestrian classes, mastering the basics before admission was absolutely necessary.
I’d never even seen a horse properly before, so if I ended up stumbling around the riding grounds and drew attention to myself, it would seriously disrupt our plans.
At school, standing out too much could spark unnecessary suspicion.
To find the traitor, we needed to avoid doing anything that would expose us, and instead quietly blend into our surroundings.
I looked around the wide riding arena. Beneath the blue sky stretched an expansive track, surrounded by a neatly maintained fence. It looked like money was poured into it.
The ground, so clean that not a speck of dust stirred, made it clear this was no mere training field but a place to showcase noble dignity.
All around, elegant horses stood in line, their postures upright. Each bridle and saddle was adorned with finely crafted decorations. The horses’ coats gleamed, a testament to meticulous care.
On one side of the riding arena, a luxurious canopy stood ready for rest at any time, while attendants bustled about, grooming the horses and inspecting the tack.
Noble riding was not simply about learning how to ride. This space seemed to quietly declare that it was about learning grace and etiquette through the process.
I couldn’t help but worry whether Ian would be able to adjust to this environment. He was the furthest thing from noble manners. Could he really handle a riding lesson?
“Please, just behave yourself this time.”
No sooner had I finished speaking than Ian stepped in front of me. His broad back blocked my view, so I couldn’t tell what expression he was wearing.
But the tension radiating from his body was undeniable.
Faced with yet another all-too-familiar scene, I let out a sigh.
In the distance, someone came riding in fast.
The sound of hooves thundered across the ground, growing closer and closer.
The rider charged in, kicking up a cloud of dust. The horse moved sleekly, gracefully.
The figure atop it rode with perfect posture and complete control.
“State your identity.”
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