A DEVIL YOU SEEK...

He said this so causally with a slow grin splitting his face.

Though in confusion on this new party, Magnus found himself stiffening.

The judge said with a frown "Young man if this is a joke i advise you to-"

"A joke you say? Ah I don't find disrespect and disregard to Theodore case a joke".

" just who do you think you are to try to disrespect my woman". The hall fell silent as every-ear in the perked up at his words.

His crystal blue eyes rested on the judge like a straight arrow pinning him to the spot. The gaze was heavy and unnerving.

The silence was interrupted by a scoffing sound from Magnus.

"Pff.. so you are the man claiming to be Lucinda partner?"

"I'm not claiming, i am. And i do not appreciate the tone you call her name with." Magnus should have stopped speaking then but alas he was too dense to see the warning.

Magnus turned to Lucinda. " This is the best you can do. He's a coward that can't even show his face. How unsightly is he?"

There was a few murmur of agreement though none would dare call him ugly. The presence he commanded didn't make them speak so flippant. Who on earth did the two faced witch bring as her backing.

Instead of responding she dismissed Magnus with a sigh and turned to the judge.

"Now that we're complete can we continue?"

The judge stammered some incoherent words. But Lucinda didn't wait for him to get his bearing.

"In relations to the accusations thrown on me, i believe my son Theodore would be in safe hands in a complete family like the court decree. And i do not engage in any activities that exposes my son to indecency."

The defendant of magnus and valerie on hearing her spoke up. "I object to the last statement. Lucinda just had a party the previous week pertaining to finding a suitor as the guests had confirmed. Her son was present in full participation that day".

Like a glove, a small helpless smile slipped on Lucinda's face.

"I will not say what he said is too far fetch my lord, but what do a mother do to find a suitable partner. He makes it sound like the men were crooks and un noble when I remembered correctly, men of high standing and caliber were invited for the ball and I don't think they will take to kindly to your dismissal of their status" The prideful men in the crowd gave their nod of approval for the status and respect Lucinda showed, agreeing to it.

"And it wasn't so bad was it? It indeed brought me to my lovely partner here with me today," For the view of the hall to see, Lucinda rested a hand on Silas own and squeezed and after a moment Silas joined their fingers and did the same. She turned the harmless smile back to the judge.

If its a docile calm woman they want she could play that game.

"And I cannot say i was irresponsible as my dear Theodore has taken a liking to his new father now and my dear has taken his role with great pride"

Lucinda said with a blissful smile curving her lips looking up at silas lovingly with him doing the same. Connor could not help but twist his lips at their display of affection quite amused the viscount went along so well.

"How can you just claim he's the father Lucinda. Aren't you being irresponsible to let Theodore to stay with this stranger he isn't well accustomed to." A vein was throbbing at Magnus temple in outrage.

Lucinda widened her eyes as if startled and gasped lightly with a hand over her lips. Before she could respond Silas spoke first

"Surely I'm not mistaken, you so speak of hypocrisy," Silas chuckled deeply "How can you so causally call me a stranger on such terms when you're far worse Duke" he said his title like an insult. "When was the last visit you had with young Theodore. Do you know anything about the child. His values and views-"

"He's a child he doesn't have those things-"

"But you're wrong. And yet you try to lecture me. At least i acknowledge there is a lot to learn from the little one. A seed of such vibrance and intelligence grows in him and if you cannot even acknowledge his value, you have already drawn your line in his life."

Lucinda lips gaped a little as she side eyed Silas . Was he just that good at acting? Or does he perhaps understand Theodore. She knows Theodore is quite taken with him and he's always attentive. On such short notice this gentleman has started to pick up on so much about Theodore. Before Lucinda could continue to over analyze she felt the soft pressure of his hand squeezing her snapping her out of her thoughts. Yes, She could not lose focus in enemy territory.

"I prefer not to waste much time on this, least i tend to get bored. And its not a good thing when I'm bored" he held a smile that border on charming and unsettling wrong.

The time tick away in straining silence. Till Lucinda cleared her throat.

"I believe all the evidence you need is with you judge"

She said referring to the documents spread out on his desk.

The judge old gruff face pinched. He was already told to perform the hearing on the Duke Magnus favour, but who knew this lady had such an intimidating man backing her.

Though intimidating this must all be a bluff. The man can't be as strong as the duke.

"In conclusion to the-"

"Before you so hastily make a decree Lord. I would like for you to check on one more important document your honor. This might quite... persuade you".

Magnus brows pinched "your honor-"

"I would like to see the document then".

The old man thought it would make him seem more innocent if he dismissed the document after checking it. At least they couldn't blame him for not giving them enough chance to provide their evidence".

Lord Silas nodded calmly with a slow smile. Frederick went up to the judge and pass the document then walked back to stand behind Silas.

The judge carefully unfolded the package and scan through the document, then froze.

Who had put a curse upon him.

For hold and behold, it was the Quilvet name, written boldly. The devil is indeed in their midst.

...The time is neigh.