Hacking the Game Didn't Go as Intended

CHAPTER 183: The Test of Loyalty

Daisuke casually popped a grape into his mouth, his eyes briefly scanning the maids who beamed at him like a gaggle of adoring fans. It wasn't lost on him how unusual it was for someone of noble blood to go out of their way to introduce their servants. Yet, it spoke volumes about the turmoil brewing not just within the royal court but within Lumielle's own heart. It was understandable then that she would seek comfort in fostering a connection with those who shared her personal space.

With as much grace as he could muster, Daisuke sliced into a sausage, the clink of his knife and fork breaking the silence. Just as he lifted the piece to his mouth, he paused, catching the unease etched across Lumielle's face. Her jade-green eyes were fixated on the food, quivering nervously as her lips pressed into a tight, uneasy line.

That's fair, Daisuke thought inwardly.

Given the current state of affairs, particularly the campaign between the siblings to succeed the throne, it was no wonder Lumielle appeared uneasy. Sure, she had put a lot of effort into building a strong rapport with her staff, but a carefully tailored threat by an outside source could easily tip the scales. After all, even the most devoted could be tempted or coerced if their family's safety or future hung in the balance.

"Arabelle," Daisuke said firmly, his tone sharp enough to draw surprised glances from both Lumielle and Lyndoria. "I want you to summon the entire staff here immediately. Every single one of them."

The girl blinked in surprise, her voice almost hesitant. "A-All of them?"

"That's correct," Daisuke replied smoothly, his calm demeanor underscored by unwavering authority.

Arabelle glanced at the princess for confirmation, and Lumielle gave a subtle nod. Within minutes, fewer than a dozen people gathered in the dining room, standing across from the large table where Daisuke and the princess were seated. Some shifted uneasily, their worries evident, and Daisuke's piercing, unyielding gaze only heightened their discomfort.

"There's no need to be nervous," he reassured calmly, his hands propped on the table, fingers interlocked. "I'm going to ask a simple question. The order in which you respond is irrelevant; all I require is that you maintain eye contact while you answer." His gaze sharpened. "Is that understood?"

Everyone exchanged confused glances, some sneaking looks at the princess, hoping for some hint of clarity. But in the end, they all gave reluctant nods, falling into line without a word.

Haxks Starfrost, Lyndoria frowned in annoyance. Just what exactly is that buffoon trying to accomplish?

Daisuke's golden eyes burned with intensity as his lips parted. "Does Princess Lumielle have your absolute loyalty?"

The staff were befuddled by the strange question, but instinctively, they understood that any hesitation would only raise suspicion. Without missing a beat, they answered, their eyes fixed on the source of the bewildering exchange.

DING!

[The Eye of Verity peeks beyond the veil. All recipients speak the truth.]

"Perfect. That will be all," Daisuke announced with cool authority. "Thank you for your cooperation and patience. From this point forward, each morning before you begin your duties, I expect everyone to report to me as a group to perform this same exercise. In return..." Daisuke gestured, summoning a platter with a sizzling, perfectly cooked cut of monstron. "After each session, I'll treat you to a rare foreign delicacy you've never had the pleasure of sampling before."

Every eye in the room widened in sheer astonishment—not just at a mere guest's audacious proposal to an aristocrat's personal staff, but also at the miraculous way she conjured food out of thin air like a magician.