"Don't worry, this Life Essence is only temporarily lent out. We will retrieve it in a few years. Although it's precious, it's not impossible to obtain. After all, not every noble family is as prosperous as ours, and there are always some extras to go around," the baroness said, trying to sound composed in an attempt to soothe her son's worries.
However, the slight frown on her face betrayed her inner unease. Yes, if one is willing to pay the price, Life Essence can always be acquired. But the timing is uncertain. In noble circles, a strategic resource like Life Essence isn't just about profit; it also involves personal relationships.
Always sensitive, Lesur picked up on the hidden worry in his mother's words, and his expression darkened further. "Return it in a few years..." His heart tightened. How many "a few years" are there in a lifetime? By the time the Life Essence is returned, his two younger brothers will likely be of age. As for himself, perhaps the family will have already given up on him.
At this thought, Lesur's hatred for Hudson surged once more. In his eyes, all of this was Hudson's fault. If not for Hudson's provocation, he wouldn't have swapped the Life Essence, and he wouldn't be in his current predicament, becoming the laughingstock of others.
"Revenge, I must have revenge!" Hatred clouded Lesur's mind, leaving only one thought—killing Hudson. But he also knew it wouldn't be easy. A direct challenge was out of the question. Although Hudson was a newly knighted warrior, he was no ordinary opponent; not even ten or eight strong men could take him down, let alone Lesur.
The thought of poisoning or assassination crossed his mind but was quickly dismissed by reason. No one would be willing to take on such a risky task. Even hinting at such a thing could lead to immediate betrayal by those around him. Even the baroness in front of him wouldn't support him in taking such a risk. After all, that eyesore Hudson would soon leave, and perhaps he would meet his demise while adventuring.
"Mother, wait!" Lesur suddenly called out, urgency in his voice, stopping the baroness as she was about to leave. "Is there going to be another war?" he asked, excitement creeping into his tone.
The baroness hesitated for a moment, then nodded slightly. From the moment the mobilization order was issued, it was no longer a secret. Baron Redman hadn't slept all night, and as his wife, how could she rest easily? Now, she was worried not only about her son but also about her husband.
War is always full of uncertainties. If Baron Redman were to meet an untimely end on the battlefield, their lives would be anything but peaceful. Even if they weren't thrown out on the streets, a drastic drop in status was inevitable. Though her stepson might outwardly show respect for her, treating her kindly for the sake of family honor, her own sons' futures would be bleak. Half-brothers are a far cry from one's own father.
"Let father take Hudson with him," a ruthless glint flashed in Lesur's eyes. "He's already a knight; it's time for him to go to war. The battlefield is unpredictable, and accidents can happen at any moment. All it would take is bribing a few people, and success is guaranteed."
This was the only feasible plan Lesur could come up with.
The baroness pondered for a moment but then shook her head. "No, even if someone were willing to do it, they are loyal to the Coslow family. They won't be easily bribed. And even if someone dared to act, doing so under your father's watchful eye would surely leave traces. Moreover, Hudson is now a knight; a few strong men wouldn't be able to harm him. If the snake isn't killed and clues are left behind, the consequences would be unimaginable. If your father suspects us, this matter will not end well."
Lesur's heart sank. The plan he had been so confident in was just dismissed by his mother. He felt deeply frustrated, thinking his mother was being overly cautious. If she had been more decisive, Hudson would have died long ago. In those legendary tales, heroes often rise after being persecuted, but even though he now played the role of the villain, Lesur was certain that Hudson could never be the protagonist. Hudson had no extraordinary talents, no legendary experiences; how could he possibly be the protagonist?
As Lesur wallowed in self-pity, the baroness mused aloud, "Though we can't act directly, that brat Hudson volunteered to go to the battlefield last night, seeking to win favor, but your father refused him."
"Let him go!" A cold light flickered in Lesur's eyes. "At all costs, we must get him to the battlefield! It's a place full of uncertainty, and anything can happen. As long as Hudson dies on the battlefield, even if father has suspicions, there will be no evidence."
The more Lesur spoke, the more excited he became, as if he could already see the light of victory. His plan was to first orchestrate Hudson's death, then use the same tactics to eliminate his other two brothers, allowing him to naturally become the family's primary heir.
The baroness, however, still had concerns. "But Lesur, the battlefield is too unpredictable. If the plan fails and Hudson ends up gaining merit, wouldn't that be a great loss for us?"
It was clear that Baron Redman hadn't shared Hudson's "slacking plan" with her; otherwise, her attitude might have been different.
"Mother, you overestimate Hudson. Father may encourage every departing son, but those are just words of formality. We both know Hudson's abilities. He has no experience leading troops; it would be a miracle if he doesn't fall apart on the battlefield. Gaining merit? That's pure fantasy! The other nobles aren't fools; if there were benefits to be had, they'd have taken them long ago. Hudson stands no chance. In the end, he'll just become cannon fodder."
Lesur's analysis was clear and logical, as if at this moment, a mysterious force had endowed him with unparalleled wisdom.