Audrey asked, "Including my father?" Her voice was extremely cold.
"Yes, including your father," Mr. Hyde responded.
Ivan had never imagined that there was such a peculiar relationship between Audrey and Mr. Hyde.
"Oh, this hallucinogenic powder seems to be an extremely dangerous thing. Ivan, you better keep it safe, or you'll get into big trouble," Fis said.
"Yes, I will immediately destroy these dreadful things," Ivan promised.
"No, absolutely not," Mr. Hyde intervened. "Lavash taught you how to make this potion for a reason. Although hallucinogenic powder is extremely dangerous, it is indeed a quite useful tool. In this plan, we may need this substance. You can't imagine how easy it is to control someone with hallucinogenic powder. Almost one in a hundred people can escape control. Moreover, using a little bit of hallucinogenic powder can provide you with any information you need. Hallucinogenic powder is the best tool to loosen tightly sealed lips. And in case of injury, the solvent of hallucinogenic powder is the best painkiller, almost instant relief. Having some on hand will definitely be beneficial."
"But didn't you say that it's highly addictive and easy to get hooked on?" Ivan was a bit confused.
"Yes, that's why you have to dilute it significantly. You can try it on a goat. The right dosage can make the goat extremely excited, jumping and running wildly. But if you overdose, the goat will collapse," Mr. Hyde explained.
"Wouldn't that prevent addiction?" Ivan asked.
"No, it will still be addictive, but the addiction won't be deep. It may only flare up once or twice a month. When the addiction flares up, just take a cold shower to manage it, without it being fatal," Hyde said. "Well, you can experiment with these things on your own, Ivan. Sit down, we need to discuss something important."
Upon hearing that it was about serious matters, Ivan didn't dare delay and sat down in the vacant seat.
"Audrey, tell Ivan everything you know again," Mr. Hyde said.
"Alright," Audrey agreed. "Ivan, you should remember that steward."
"I remember, what about him?"
"That steward almost died. The suit of armor he always wore saved his life. However, he is quite scared. He told us that he would never publicly come forward to correct things. Ivan is the true heir to the lordship, and now this guy is being protected in a safe place by us. But don't expect this guy to be of any help to us anymore. Almost everyone else besides the steward has died, including the mercenaries guarding the mansion and their captain, as well as the servants, cooks, all killed clean. At the scene, they left behind a body, the body of a child dressed in noble attire. Do you know what that means?" Audrey asked.
"Such ruthless methods. So, what about our plan?" Ivan asked. "It's clear that they have cut off all our contact with Seath Castle. The body of that child will surely be mistaken for the body of Ivan Baindite."
"Their plan is obviously like that. Fortunately, we were prepared in advance," Mr. Hyde said. "I had the steward inform the priest of Seath Castle two months ago that the real Ivan was under my secret care. Only a few of us know about this. However, to calm people's minds and prevent the situation from deteriorating further, Ivan, it's time for you to step up. You have no more time for preparation."
"So, you mean we have to set off soon, right?" Ivan asked.
"Not soon, but immediately. Mr. Hyde and I have already discussed it, and tomorrow will be the day we set off," Audrey added. "Although it's a bit rushed, I know you are almost ready. You are already well-versed in everything about Seath Castle and Ivan Baindite."
"By the way, when we go to Seath Castle tomorrow, we will definitely pass by Pidun. You can greet Baron Longa there. If they also plan to go to Seath Castle, I welcome them to join us," Mr. Hyde said slowly.
"That's not necessary," Ivan said.
In fact, he didn't want to be involved with the baron's daughter, Fanny. The charming Miss Fanny had clearly set her sights on him, the grandson of a title without substance. However, he had been deceiving her and her two kind parents from the beginning.
This deception weighed heavily on Ivan's heart.
In recent times, whenever he thought about it, he felt a deep moral condemnation.
Perhaps, he was still not suited to be a deceiver.
Because even conscientious thieves and con artists like Mr. Hyde and Audrey would not care about these meaningless emotions and morals, but he couldn't do it, not at all.
Audrey certainly knew Ivan's reaction very well. She said, "Ivan, do you think the initial trial was just about finding a target to test how much you had learned? No, it was more than that. You were deliberately arranged to meet those people. In front of those fallen nobles, you have proven how outstanding you are. This way, no one will think you are a poor imitation. Ivan, you haven't forgotten who was invited to that banquet, have you? More than half of them have deep connections with Count Medin. You will need their support, and now, being accepted by the nobles of Seath Castle will undoubtedly be much easier, right?" Audrey's lips curved into a slight smile.
"Yes, your trial was definitely a success. Mr. Hyde originally wanted me to promote you at Seath Castle, but that's unnecessary. Many people are willing to do that for me, especially the lasting impression you left on those ladies. Now, I'm sure all the girls at Seath Castle are eagerly awaiting your appearance. You know, their circle is not one I could easily blend into. Your achievements are truly remarkable," Fis also said with a smile.
Upon hearing their half-truths and half-lies, Ivan did not feel happy or proud because he could not accept the practice of using people and events for one's own gain.
Mr. Hyde clearly understood Ivan's feelings and said, "Ivan, if you feel that someone has been hurt in this matter, you should try to make amends as much as possible. But avoiding the issue won't solve the problem. You will always have to face this dilemma. The only thing you need to consider is how you plan to resolve it. That's the essence, rather than thinking about how to solve things. If the purpose is unclear, the process will be extremely long and full of risks of failure."
"Alright, I won't let these unnecessary things affect my work," Ivan said.
"No, I don't mean that emotions are unnecessary. Hey, one day you will understand this. But for now, it's a bit early for you. As you said, go work," Mr. Hyde said.
Upon Mr. Hyde's instructions, Ivan stood up from his seat and walked towards the door.
As he reached the door, Mr. Hyde seemed to remember something and said, "Ivan, tell the steward to quickly buy a few live goats. Your experiments will need these goats. As you said, having more hallucinogenic powder will be useful, but you must keep it in a safe place. And you must learn when to use these dangerous potions. Ivan, remember, those potions are much more dangerous than the crossbow in your hands."
"I will be careful," Ivan replied.
Exiting the study, Ivan gently closed the door. He pondered whether to make some more hallucinogenic powder since there were plenty of materials left. In eight hours, by lunchtime, he should be able to successfully refine it.
However, as Mr. Hyde had mentioned, he needed to first understand the characteristics of the hallucinogenic powder. It seemed like some test samples were necessary.
With that in mind, Ivan headed towards the steward's room downstairs.
In the study, Mr. Hyde sat there, his eyes fixed on the door for a long while before sighing and muttering to himself, "It seems my words didn't have the desired effect."
"Why do you think that?" Fis asked, not noticing anything abnormal.
"Back then, Lavash also repeatedly warned us like this. Our reaction at that time was not much different from Ivan's, but the tragedy still occurred. The most terrifying aspect of this potion is that initially, it doesn't show significant harm. On the contrary, its benefits are countless. However, after excessive use, it can make people lose their vigilance against the terrible dangers it poses. Danger often arises in such situations," Mr. Hyde explained.
"It truly is a very humane potion," Audrey mocked.
Although it was unclear whether after all this time, this matter was still as bad for Audrey, everyone understood that it was not a good topic.
"Audrey, how are your arrangements going?" Mr. Hyde asked.
"Everything is fine. Ivan is the most outstanding student I have ever seen. Because of this, he memorized most of what he needed to know in his mind in just one week. Combined with the deep connections he had already established during the previous trials, getting the nobles of Seath Castle to accept his identity won't be difficult. The only challenge is that aunt," Audrey said.
"Yes, I am also very troubled by this matter. There seems to be no way to handle that old lady," Fis said with a furrowed brow.
"But she is the most important figure. We must firmly secure the cooperation of that lady. Without her help, Ivan will never be able to establish himself at Seath Castle," Mr. Hyde said. "However, this incident may not necessarily be a bad thing for us. The mercenaries were the most unreliable part of the entire plan. I was worried about how we would deal with them once Ivan was recognized. But now, someone has taken care of this matter for us, which has actually saved us from trouble."
"Moreover, I was concerned whether Ivan would be willing to work wholeheartedly for us. With Lavash supporting him from behind, I had no way to force him to do these things. But now, the situation is completely resolved. Ivan has always dreamed of adventure, and he has a sense of justice. The brutal methods of those people have actually helped us. Audrey, find a body double, someone with a similar build to the steward, and throw them into the sea. Let others think that the steward is dead to prevent anyone from worrying about him. But keep a close eye on that guy. If he is discovered running away, all our efforts will be in vain."
Upon hearing Mr. Hyde's instructions, Audrey nodded in agreement. "Yes, but for safety's sake, should we just make him disappear completely?"
"No, keeping him might still be useful. No one knows the Baindite couple better than him. Just keep an eye on him and ensure he remains hidden," Mr. Hyde said.
"That's easy. The steward is quite a cowardly fellow. He now stays inside the house all day and doesn't even dare go near the windows," Audrey said.
"Good. Fis, you should immediately return to Seath Castle. Find out who is most concerned about this tragedy. It seems someone is eager to take action," Mr. Hyde reiterated.
"Understood, boss."
"Herbert, you should be most familiar with the assassination. You have been to the scene. What did you find?" Mr. Hyde asked.
"Amateur level. It seems the perpetrators are just a bunch of thugs, otherwise, the steward wouldn't have been able to escape successfully. But these people are much better with swords than common thugs, indicating they have received specialized training. From the wounds on the bodies, it is clear that they were very efficient in their attacks," Herbert replied.
"What is your opinion then?" Audrey asked, although he already had some ideas in his mind, he still wanted to hear Herbert's thoughts.
"They are soldiers, more precisely knights, at least five knights, one of whom is left-handed," Herbert said.
"A left-handed knight? I might look into that," Fis nodded.
"Fis, you can investigate that as well, but don't invest too much effort into it. I suspect such a significant event must have been planned by an important figure. If that's the case, they may not necessarily use people from Seath Castle. Pam, I'll leave this matter to you. Send your scouts to gather information. I'll inform Mael as well. But make sure to warn your men in advance and keep an eye on their actions," Mr. Hyde said.
"Got it, boss. I'll have my men stop their usual business and focus on investigating this matter," Pam replied.
"By the way, Pam, how many men do you have now?" Audrey asked.
"We have fifty-three in Lai'er City, with Baz as their leader. Including the temporary scouts, we have a total of one hundred men. However, these scouts make a living in Lai'er and cannot be sent elsewhere. There are about ten people in the two towns around Lai'er, plus twenty scouts. In Pidun, there are twenty-one Goldfingers, but there are many scouts, totaling over two hundred. Pidun is poor, so they can only target passing merchants. Bart is not suitable for Goldfingers to make a living, but there are still over ten scouts there. In Seath Castle, we have thirty-seven Goldfingers and about sixty scouts. As for Nangang, the boss has always told me not to get involved there," Pam replied.
"Train soldiers for a thousand days to use them for a moment. Pam, it's time for your men to show their worth. Have the scouts closely monitor every stranger entering and leaving their hunting grounds. No one knows their city better than them. As for the Goldfingers, keep them prepared at all times. I may have tasks for them. In the recent days, the Goldfingers can tone down a bit. I don't want them all locked up in jail when I need their help," Mr. Hyde said.
"Understood."
"Herbert, you can go gather the men now. Since someone wants to play a dangerous game with us, we will play along until the end. As soon as Pam or Fis have any news, it might be your turn to take action," Hyde said with a cold, ruthless smile, at that moment, the old man truly looked like a leader of thieves.
"I will bring the Laybourne brothers back from West Bay, they are good helpers and absolutely reliable. The Sisfield gang can also be summoned if needed, I know they have been staying on Cassie Island for a while. If you can rescue the madman Pete from the dungeons of Seethorp, he would be a good ally. His ears are the sharpest in our line of work," Herbert said.
"Bring them all together, Fis, including that madman. Do you have any ideas?" Mr. Hyde asked.
"Oh, I've heard of that madman. He was caught for exposing himself to a noblewoman, and the prison guards were eager to get rid of him. I don't think rescuing him will be difficult, but is it safe to involve such a madman in our operation?" Fis asked.
"Pete is indeed a madman, but a useful one. I can handle him, he will stay by my side like a normal person, and when I take action personally, the madman is the only one who can cooperate with me and help me," Herbert said.
"I understand, I will get that guy out, it's not difficult," Fis promised.
"Well, it seems the problem is solved. Let's go our separate ways and focus on our respective tasks, time is running out," Mr. Hyde said.
Upon hearing the final instructions, Audrey, Fis, and Pam quickly stood up, realizing there was much to arrange.
The following day was extremely busy for everyone at the estate.
Ivan was in his room, blending the castor oil with the purple crystals, not a simple task.
A new potion was being brewed in the crucible.
The butler had sent someone to the city to buy a goat, but it would at least be until the afternoon before the goat could be delivered to the estate.
As for Mr. Hyde, he was busy packing his belongings.
This time was crucial, and he had to personally take charge. He was somewhat concerned about leaving Audrey to handle things on her own.
Moreover, the local clergyman was acquainted with him.
Currently, the only person in Seethorp who knew that the deceased was not the real Ivan Baindite was this respected clergyman.
Because the steward of the Baindite Manor had informed this clergyman that Ivan Baindite had been secretly fostered in the estate of Lord Kewei Eley Edgar Hyde.
And all of this was arranged by him personally, as he had always been worried about such a situation arising.
In his long life, he had seen too many conspiracies and plots and had learned how to prevent them.
In Seethorp, this clergyman was the most suitable person to be informed of this secret.
Because the clergyman has no connections with any nobility or interest groups, in the eyes of others, he is the only person who can maintain fairness and neutrality.
Moreover, the clergyman has a noble character and is deeply respected in Seethorp, with significant influence.
Although the clergyman holds no official power, several influential nobles in Seethorp are his disciples, and he is also a close friend to most of the aristocratic families.
His words are heeded by all, and no one doubts his honesty.
When Ivan makes an appearance, it is more appropriate for the respected clergyman to introduce him rather than having the steward accompany him on stage.
Furthermore, the clergyman's words are backed by the presence of a dozen corpses, intensifying the impact of his speech.
Everyone takes it for granted.
For him, the deaths of the mercenaries are not a bad thing, as he was prepared for it.
Mr. Hyde is satisfied with his original arrangements.
The hidden adversary did not anticipate winning the first round so easily and joyfully.
The most important thing now is to turn the victory of the first round into a final triumph.
Every step must be flawless.
Despite being an immensely wealthy tycoon, Mr. Hyde's tumultuous past has left a lasting impression on him.
Some of his habits have remained unchanged for decades, such as personally organizing his travel luggage.
For a seasoned traveler, arranging his own luggage ensures that everything is in order.
After years of wandering, each item in his luggage has a specific place, understood only by him.
A seasoned traveler's luggage is not excessive but not overly simple, as thorough preparation sometimes means life.
Mr. Hyde retrieves two large trunks from under the bed.
Although he is one of the wealthiest tycoons in the southern region, these two travel trunks do not quite match his status.
The extremely old trunks appear worn and weathered.
Mr. Hyde has always used these trunks for travel, despite their unassuming appearance, they are sturdy, durable, and waterproof. These trunks once saved his life during a flood.
Mr. Hyde wipes the trunks clean, as they have gathered a thick layer of dust from disuse.
Clothing and travel essentials are neatly laid out on the bed.
Mr. Hyde systematically places them in their designated spots within the trunks.
In contrast, Audrey has no luggage to pack as he is occupied with numerous tasks.
Unlike Mr. Hyde, Audrey is not a frequent traveler.
If he needs to go out, he is unsure of what to prepare, but in a big city, money can buy everything.
Therefore, there is no need to pack luggage, just enough money will suffice.
Throughout the whole day, he must get all the preparations done. Tomorrow will be the beginning of everything, but it could also be the end of everything. Whether it's Mr. Hyde or him, they have placed everything on the gambling table. In fact, for ordinary scams, planners like them do not need to show up and run onto the stage. However, this time is completely different. The plan is too grand, and minor characters cannot play a role. To succeed, they must step forward themselves. This is a high-stakes gamble. Once they lose, everything in Florance will be over for them. By then, they can only exile to Italy. As for him, he might choose Sibai or Inge, as there are too many things in Italy that he does not want to recall. In Mr. Hyde's manor, the most leisurely person is Herbert. Returning to his dark and gloomy room, Herbert releases several carrier pigeons from the window, completing all tasks. Several months later, those helpers will come to him on their own. Moreover, calling for helpers is his intention. For Herbert, except for lunatics, he does not need any helpers. Those people will only mess up his plans. However, he understands the intention of the leader. The leader must have many tasks for them to complete. For killers like Herbert, traveling does not require any luggage. As a skilled killer like him, the need for daily survival has been reduced to an unimaginable level for ordinary people. Luggage is meaningless to people like them. Everything a killer needs is carried on their person and within easy reach. As time passes by, Audrey is still arranging everything, and it seems like there will be no sleep tonight. As for Ivan, he is immersed in the joy of magical experiments. Although these so-called magical experiments are just playing with a few cold goats. The steward is quite diligent, buying seven or eight goats, both male and female. With so many test subjects, Ivan is naturally delighted. He spends the whole afternoon among the goats. These poor goats have brought fruitful results to Ivan. In terms of using hallucinogens, he can be considered an expert. Presumably, even his teacher, the magician Lavash, may not know as much about the use of these potions. For example, the absorption rates of hallucinogen solutions of different concentrations are completely different, which is very similar to the knowledge Herbert once taught him about poisons. Think about it, magicians study how to create unprecedented things, and they may not be interested in how to use them. Killers are a completely different kind of people. They must be extremely familiar with and even master all the tools in their hands. Although Ivan is a magic apprentice, he has never spent a day learning from Teacher Lavash. Instead, the influence of Herbert and Audrey on him is significant. Therefore, Ivan's way of thinking is inevitably more similar to theirs. An afternoon of research has brought him considerable results.
In his two water bottles that he carried with him, there were different concentrations of hallucinogenic powder solution. One of them only needed a small amount to be applied lightly, which could quickly paralyze a poor goat and make it collapse. The effect of this potion was so obvious and effective that it far exceeded the poison that Herbert had once taught him. Poison took some time to take effect, but the hallucinogenic powder solution almost worked instantly, causing the goat to collapse in an instant. With this substance, self-defense was definitely not a problem.
The other solution had a slightly longer duration of action. For some reason, no matter how concentrated or diluted it was, as long as there was a slight deviation in the ratio, the effect of the hallucinogenic powder solution could not be as rapid and effective as the first bottle, which made Ivan regretful. But this was an unchangeable fact. The other solution needed to be diluted much more and was used for pain relief, which Mr. Hyde had mentioned was very effective in this regard. For experimentation, Ivan even lightly cut a wound on his arm, and the potion was indeed quite effective, making him feel no pain at all. Moreover, that feeling, as Mr. Hyde had said, was very comfortable. Although Ivan was absolutely sure that he did not experience any hallucinations, his body felt extremely comfortable, and that feeling of happiness was indescribable.
In the past, Ivan had thought that a delicious meal was the ultimate enjoyment in life. But now he understood that with just a drop of hallucinogenic powder solution, you would forget any temptation of delicious food, because they were simply incomparable. Happy moments were always short-lived. When Ivan gradually regained consciousness, the first thought was to open the bottle cap and prepare to drop another drop of solution on his arm. Fortunately, Mr. Hyde's warning echoed in his mind. Ivan restrained his impulse, tightly closed the bottle cap, and suppressed his strong desire. Now, Ivan finally understood why Mr. Hyde had said that the hallucinogenic powder solution was an extremely dangerous drug, as it could easily destroy a person. That illusory feeling of happiness was undoubtedly filled with irresistible temptation for humanity. Fortunately, he had only made a small attempt, and fortunately, he had diluted the solution to a very low concentration. Otherwise...