The Adventures of an Overpowered Knight in Another World Chapter 635- A Shadow Lurking Near Eleanor (2)

Eleanor spoke, recalling the events that transpired at this very same spot, around this very table.

Reinhardt offered a shake of his head. "It is all due to your diligent efforts. I merely placed my trust in your inherent talent."

The dinner progressed, with conversations weaving through a tapestry of politics, art, and underlying, subtle flirtations exchanged between Reinhardt, Melissa, and Eleanor.

Boulevard contributed to the political discourse, his thoughts preoccupied with his duties and the specific mission assigned to him by the royal family.

While he held forth with his tales, the other three exchanged knowing glances, subtle touches, and words laden with meanings he remained oblivious to.

Throughout the meal, Melissa remained aware of a persistent, warm sensation. It served as a constant reminder of the intimate connection she had shared with Reinhardt earlier.

Later, as they prepared to part ways, Boulevard addressed Melissa directly.

"Melissa, I must depart early tomorrow. Her Majesty has entrusted me with several other assignments. I shall leave you here, under Lord Reinhardt’s care. I was concerned you might feel sorrow after your father's recent passing. However, it appears you are... happier. I suppose my worries were unfounded."

Melissa offered a gentle smile. "Indeed, dear. My life here is quite fulfilling."

Marquis Boulevard nodded in acknowledgment. "Excellent. It seems my decision to send you here was indeed a sound one."

With that, he turned to Reinhardt. "Thank you for your gracious hospitality, Viscount Reinhardt. And for looking after Melissa."

He departed shortly thereafter, leaving with a sense of ease.

.

The following morning, as the nascent sun cast a pale luminescence over Snowpoint City, Marquis Boulevard made preparations for his departure.

His carriage stood waiting, and he stood outdoors, inhaling the crisp morning air. Despite the early hour of 5 o’clock, the city was already stirring with activity.

Distantly, the rhythmic sounds of knights undertaking their morning runs could be discerned.

"This city has undergone such a profound transformation since Reinhardt assumed its governorship. Reflecting on its prior state under Baron Chetak’s administration, I cannot help but sigh."

Boulevard himself had visited this city previously, during the time it was managed by Baron Chetak. However, at that juncture, the city's condition, if one could even call it that, was dire.

Widespread destitution, a stark division between the affluent and the impoverished, and prevalent diseases were commonplace occurrences.

Yet, all of that changed once the city fell under the governance of Reinhardt Arcknight.

Now, the city had broken free from those constraints and was on a trajectory to become one of Solaris's most significant metropolises.

Boulevard’s gaze drifted towards the colossal tree in the distance, a landmark that had become synonymous with the city.

From the intelligence he possessed, he understood this tree to be known as the World Tree. Viscount Reinhardt, the commander of the Temple of Light, had invested considerable effort in its cultivation.

It was anticipated that the World Tree's presence would be integral to the upcoming expedition into the Tainted Lands.

Contemplating the city's metamorphosis brought to mind the transformation his wife had undergone.

Ever since her arrival here, Melissa had become a different person. Not only did she appear happier, but she seemed entirely renewed. Her self-assurance had blossomed remarkably.

She carried herself with a novel elegance, an innate allure that was previously absent from her presence. Her eyes sparkled with an inner fire, enhancing her beauty.

She radiated a captivating health and vitality. Her demeanor became more assertive, more… alluring.

He recalled the evening he had invited Reinhardt to share drinks with him. Although his recollection of that night was hazy due to his intoxication, he distinctly remembered the evident happiness on his wife's face as she conversed with Reinhardt.

The relaxed attire she wore that day, her body subtly trembling from continuous laughter. In some intangible way, she appeared content.

All these changes had become apparent in her since her relocation to Snowpoint City.

Boulevard could not help but perceive it as an improvement, much like the city's revitalized appearance.

With this thought, he entered his carriage. The arrangement for Melissa to serve Reinhardt had originated from the Queen's decree. However, on this particular day, he recognized the wisdom in leaving her in his care.

Not only had she seemingly overcome the distress of her father's death and her family's downfall, but she was also evidently thriving in this environment. Her beauty and confidence had flourished.

Boulevard found himself inclined to believe in the efficacy of such an arrangement. Nevertheless, a memory from their encounter at the theatre surfaced.

Melissa's flushed complexion, her rapidly rising chest, the telltale damp stain on her gown. While the explanation of spilled wine seemed plausible, a faint, persistent doubt lingered at the periphery of his consciousness.

The manner in which she had regarded Reinhardt… the palpable tension in the room… the indistinct sounds he had registered but disregarded…

A subtle undercurrent of anxiety stirred within him, for reasons he could not quite articulate.

At that precise moment, the driver snapped the reins, and the carriage began its journey, leaving Snowpoint City behind.

With that, Boulevard consciously pushed aside all his lingering doubts.

Melissa was his wife, devoted to her responsibilities. Reinhardt was a formidable knight whom he held in the highest regard.

While Marquis Boulevard was preoccupied with his thoughts within Reinhardt’s abode. Melissa was lying on the bed in his private chamber, stark naked save for a thin comforter draped over her alluring form.

The remnants of the previous night’s indulgence were evident on her skin – love bites, hand imprints, and even the dried residue of passion… The woman slumbered deeply, lost in sleep.

She was finally catching up on much-needed rest after a night devoid of it. Meanwhile, the man who had shared her bed was already out in the training grounds, diligently instructing his knights.

Reinhardt positioned himself at the center of a formation, with Zerina and the other senior knights forming a ring around him. Each of them clutched practice swords, their bodies encased in complete training armor.

Facing the Commander in a spar demanded such a level of readiness, even from a seasoned Level 8 Holy Knight like Zerina.

The day had commenced in its customary fashion. Yet, even at that precise moment, Reinhardt remained oblivious to the sinister presence stealthily approaching his estate.