The Trial

"Lord Howard, my daughter works in your court, and I am grateful for your care towards her," the village chief said. 

Howard replied, "What are you saying? When I first arrived in Yami Village as a mere knight, didn't you help me just the same? I remember when I was destitute and arrived here without even a cotton coat to my name. It was you, the kind-hearted village chief, who gave me one. I still remember that to this day. Thank you, village chief."

The chief's face, lined with wrinkles, conveyed his years of wisdom. 

He expressed his hope that his daughter would take on more significant roles in Howard's court. 

While the library was a fine place, it lacked authority. 

His aim was to have Boshni handle more specialized tasks to hone her skills.

Howard had a hunch, sensing an underlying message in the village chief's words, as if he was hinting at nurturing Boshni into becoming a new vassal.