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Chapter 11 - Chapter 11: Shadows of Danger

As the carriage rumbled along the path towards the market, Rose's heart danced with anticipation. This was the moment she had been looking forward to—a chance to spend time with Karl in a setting outside the confines of their mansion. Her excitement was palpable, and a small smile graced her lips as she looked out at the passing scenery.

But the tranquility of the moment was abruptly shattered as the carriage came to an abrupt halt. Rose's eyes widened in alarm as Karl's voice cut through the sudden stillness. "Stay inside the carriage, Rose."

Fear gripped her heart as Karl rushed out of the carriage to confront an unexpected threat. From the confines of the carriage, Rose could hear the sounds of a struggle, the clash of steel against steel, and the harsh exchange of words. Her breath caught in her throat, uncertainty washing over her.

Outside, the confrontation escalated into a fierce fight. Masked assailants surrounded Karl, their intent clear and dangerous. Rose felt a surge of panic, torn between her desire to stay hidden and her fear for Karl's safety. She watched with bated breath as Karl's sword skills were put to the test, his movements precise and lethal.

Her heart pounded as the battle raged on just outside her view. It was a scene of chaos and danger that she had never anticipated, and she found herself paralyzed by fear and uncertainty.

Finally, the sounds of battle subsided, and Karl returned to the carriage. His gaze met hers, concern etched into his features. "Rose, are you all right?" he asked, his voice holding a rare note of urgency.

Rose nodded, her voice trembling slightly as she responded, "I'm... I'm fine."

Karl's expression softened, his concern evident. "We need to go back to the mansion. The trip to the market will have to wait."

Upon their return to the mansion, Duke Karl's demeanor shifted from one of concern to one of determination. With a firm resolve, he instructed Tina and Irises to remain by Rose's side, ensuring her safety and offering her comfort. Irises was then summoned to deliver a message to Calos, the contents of which carried a sense of urgency and seriousness.

Karl's voice was composed, yet laced with an underlying edge as he addressed Irises. "Tell Calos to meet me in my work room immediately."

Irises wasted no time in carrying out her master's orders. She left to find Calos, her steps quick and purposeful. In the work room, Karl awaited Calos's arrival, his features etched with a mix of anger and concern.

As Calos entered the room, Karl's gaze met his with intensity. He began to explain the events that had transpired, his voice holding a hint of frustration. "We were attacked on our way to the market. Several masked men ambushed us."

Calos's brows furrowed in response, his expression mirroring Karl's seriousness. "Who do you think was behind the attack?" he inquired.

Karl's jaw tightened as he spoke, his words measured. "I don't know yet. But it's clear that Lady Rose's safety is at risk."

With a determined nod, Calos understood the gravity of the situation. "What would you like me to do?"

Karl's gaze bore into Calos's, his instructions firm and direct. "Take the Shadow Knights and investigate. Find out who orchestrated the attack and why. We cannot afford to let Lady Rose's safety be compromised."

Calos's stance grew resolute as he accepted the mission. "I will assemble the best knights for the task. We'll get to the bottom of this."

Karl's expression softened slightly, his appreciation evident. "And Calos, make sure Lady Rose has a protective detail at all times. Her safety is our top priority."

As Calos left to carry out his orders, Karl's thoughts remained on the events that had unfolded. The attack had shattered the illusion of safety that the mansion had provided. It was a stark reminder of the dangers

In the dimly lit work room, Calos stood before Duke Karl Reinhard Heydrich Rontenia, his gaze steady as he began to deliver the results of his investigation. The tension in the room was palpable, as both Karl and Calos knew that the revelations to come would have far-reaching implications.

Calos took a deep breath, his voice measured as he started to recount his findings. "My lord, I have gathered information about the individuals responsible for the attack. It appears that the orchestrator behind this event is none other than Prince Karen, your step younger brother and the heir to the throne."

Karl's reaction was a storm of emotions—shock, anger, and betrayal surged within him. His jaw clenched, and his fists tightened as he absorbed the gravity of Calos's words. The brother he had once shared a bond with had turned against him, seeking to harm not only him but also the woman he had vowed to protect.

The air in the room grew heavy as Karl struggled to contain his anger. "Prince Karen," he muttered, the name dripping with bitterness. "Why would he do this?"

Calos's gaze remained steady, his tone solemn. "It seems that he harbors a deep-seated resentment toward you, my lord. The jealousy and rivalry that have festered between you two over the years have driven him to this point."

Karl's fists unclenched as he absorbed the information. The wounds of the past resurfaced, the betrayal cutting deeper than he had anticipated. His voice was a mixture of anger and disbelief. "He would risk Lady Rose's life for his own vendetta?"

Calos's nod was solemn, his expression mirroring Karl's frustration. "It appears so, my lord. His actions have endangered not only your life but also Lady Rose's."

As Karl's thoughts raced, he realized the gravity of the situation. His responsibilities as both a protector and a husband were now intertwined in a dangerous web of deceit and betrayal. The once-close bond between brothers had been shattered, replaced by animosity and a thirst for power.

Karl's expression hardened, a determined glint in his eyes. "We must take action. Prince Karen's actions cannot go unpunished."

Calos nodded in agreement. "Indeed, my lord. I have already taken the liberty of increasing the security measures to ensure Lady Rose's safety."