Chapter 55: Servant Cedric (21). Claudia’s Goal
One week.
After Cedric’s departure, everyone had to work harder to fill the void he left behind.
The kitchen staff had to begin preparing meals a little earlier, the maids had to move a little faster, and the guards had to stay a bit more alert while monitoring the surroundings.
In other words, with just a bit of extra effort from everyone, Cedric’s absence could be compensated for.
Because he had his hands in so many areas, Cedric’s role in any single department wasn’t as overwhelming as one might expect. It was also due to Cedric himself, who had carefully moderated his involvement to prevent people from becoming overly dependent on him.
Some even marveled at how flawless his departure had been. But Claudia, the one who had benefited the most, felt conflicted.
She had known—had sensed—that Cedric was preparing for “after he left.” But knowing it in theory and experiencing the reality of it were two entirely different things.
Of course, just because his absence was manageable didn’t mean his influence had been small.
“Dorve, Lufopo, and the Paras territories have successfully integrated the blood beasts. Regardless of whether it’s petty thieves or major criminals, people are too wary of the blood beasts to act up. The acting lords of each region are expressing great satisfaction, saying public order has never been this stable.”
“By stationing blood beasts along the roads connecting Eched to allied territories, detecting and dealing with monsters and bandits has become surprisingly easy. Mid- and small-sized merchants, who can’t afford large escorts, are especially pleased.”
“Territories with ties to Young Master Armin remain silent, but those connected to Young Master Ervin and Lady Mira seem eager to align with us. Some have already reached out quietly.”
“The empty lands scattered throughout Eched are rapidly filling with migrants. Since all land remains under domain ownership and is only leased out—with the option to buy at a low price after cultivating it for a certain period—response has been very positive.”