Chapter 12: Audrey's Beauty

On Thursday morning, Hobert accompanied Barton in the law firm's carriage to the residence of Earl Hall.

In the carriage, Barton explained, "Earl Hall is a nobleman with far-reaching vision and a wise mind. While most lords are still relying on their lands and inheritance to live off, Earl Hall has actively invested in banking and emerging industries."

Hobert nodded. Wasn't this "Justice" Audrey's father? He had some impression of him.

Barton sighed, "The reforms in the Loen Kingdom in recent years have been like a sieve. Some nobles took the opportunity to gain more wealth and political power, but most have fallen into decline.

"However, nobles value their dignity. Even when there are disputes between them, they first think of resolving it privately. If it goes to court, it means both sides have completely torn off their masks and are willing to sacrifice their dignity as nobles for the sake of wealth and assets."

Earl Hall had deep trust in Barton. Whenever the Earl had an important deal or cooperation, he would ask Barton to review the contract. If there were any economic disputes, he would also seek Barton's advice.

Hobert had previously seen Earl Hall's mansion from a distance and hadn't thought much of it from the outside. But once inside, he realized it was much larger than he had imagined.

Upon entering, there was a huge garden with sculptures, fountains, a vast lawn, and meticulously trimmed ornamental trees.

In this era, lawns were a symbol of nobility. Ordinary households wouldn't plant grass because it yielded no income and required effort to maintain.

Only nobles, who didn't rely on the land for their livelihood, would choose to plant grass.

Gradually, lawns became a symbol of nobility and wealth.

Hobert and Barton took the carriage to a three-story European-style building that looked very imposing. Earl Hall's butler was already waiting outside.

The butler politely exchanged a few words with Barton, not forgetting to praise Hobert's handsome appearance.

Then Barton and Hobert were led inside by the butler. The entrance opened into a grand hall, with many works of art hanging on the walls, and the furnishings were mostly priceless antiques.

Earl Hall was waiting by the door of a reception room. Although time had left its marks on the Earl, he was still very handsome. One could imagine that he must have been a nobleman who captured the hearts of many young ladies in his youth.

"Barton, you always look so well," Earl Hall smiled. "Is this your new assistant?"

"Your complexion is as warm as the morning sun," Barton replied, engaging in pleasantries. "Yes, Earl, he's a top graduate from Backlund University, a very promising young man."

Earl Hall observed Hobert, noting his black hair, deep eyes, and handsome features, especially his sunny, cheerful smile, which made him seem like a friendly young man from next door.

"Seeing such outstanding young people makes me realize how old I am," Earl Hall sighed. "Please, come in."

"Father!" A clear voice called out, stopping the three men in their tracks. They turned toward the voice.

Hobert saw an absolutely stunning young lady walking gracefully toward them. She had blonde hair and blue eyes, her hair shining like gold, with a pure and elegant demeanor. Her emerald-green eyes were as pure as the finest gemstones.

Hobert couldn't help but stare; this was the most beautiful lady he had seen in both his lives.

Barton cleared his throat to snap Hobert out of it, and Hobert, slightly embarrassed, said, "My apologies, Earl, and to this beautiful lady as well. Your beauty is truly overwhelming."

Earl Hall smiled, "No need to apologize. Appreciation of beauty is a gentleman's virtue."

This incomparably beautiful young lady was, of course, "Justice" Audrey.

Hobert mused that no wonder "Klein" had been a bit flustered the first time he saw Audrey, even suspecting she might be a "witch." Her beauty was indeed almost excessive.

Earl Hall asked Audrey as she approached, "My beautiful daughter, what brings you to me?"

"Good day, Mr. Barton," Audrey's good manners prompted her to greet Barton warmly, not forgetting to flash a gentle smile at Hobert.

Then she turned to Earl Hall, "Father, once you've finished your business, may I ask Mr. Barton a few questions in private?"

"Of course," Earl Hall replied dotingly.

Barton added, "It would be my honor, Miss Audrey."

He continued, "Allow me to introduce my assistant, Hobert. He's a law student from Backlund University. If you have legal questions, perhaps Hobart can assist you."

Earl Hall smiled, "It seems you have high expectations for this young man."

Barton nodded, "Indeed."

Hearing their conversation, Hobert was slightly surprised. He realized that Barton was recommending him to the Earl's next generation.

In the Loen legal profession, it was common for senior lawyers to recommend promising students or assistants to their main clients or their heirs. It was somewhat like being accepted as a "personal disciple."

But the problem was, Hobert thought, if he successfully digested the potion, he might leave the firm. Why was Barton nurturing him like this?

However, now wasn't the time to ponder such things. Hobert gave Audrey a slight bow and said, "At your service."

Audrey seemed somewhat skeptical of Hobert but, out of respect for Barton, said, "Very well, Mr. Hobert, please follow me."

Watching the two young people leave, Earl Hall smiled, "I should also consider finding a young assistant."

He sighed, "Youth is wonderful, always so full of energy. I feel invigorated just being around them."

Barton smiled, "Shall we get to work?"

They chatted as they entered the reception room.

Meanwhile, Audrey led Hobert to the garden, where even the most beautiful flowers seemed dull compared to her.

As she walked ahead, Audrey asked, "Mr. Hobert, have you handled any criminal cases?"

Hobert hesitated. He couldn't exactly say he'd only handled one case so far. "I've studied many relevant cases and can help analyze and provide suggestions. If it needs to go to court, Mr. Barton can represent you."

Audrey frowned slightly before continuing, "I have a friend who, during a conflict, accidentally caused her opponent to be crippled..."

Hobert thought to himself, "Miss 'Justice,' could that friend be Xio?"

(End of Chapter)

50 Power stones = Extra Chapter