Lucian’s morning was once again interrupted—this time by his newly appointed militia captain, Elaine Stormcrest, a former knight with a no-nonsense attitude.

"My lord, we’ve caught a spy."

Lucian rubbed his temples. "Of course we have."

The man in chains before him looked terrified. "I-I’m just a humble merchant!"

Elaine crossed her arms. "Then explain why you were sneaking around government records at midnight."

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Lucian sighed. "Just let him go."

Elaine frowned. "You’re… releasing him?"

"If he’s an actual spy, he’ll report that we’re incompetent and not worth the trouble. If he’s just a merchant, well, he’ll sell something. Either way, less paperwork for me."

Elaine narrowed her eyes. "So you’re letting him go?"

Lucian nodded. "Exactly. It’s a win-win."

The man stared at him for a long moment before nodding vigorously. "Yes, of course! Your wisdom is unmatched, my lord!" He scurried out of the room.

Meanwhile, the so-called spy ran off—convinced he had just encountered the most dangerous mind in the empire.