Standing behind Arlo, Callum, seeing that the former was clearly irritated, said, "If you're not used to this place, governor, I could book a five-star hotel. The three elders already went to the basement—it's just me keeping watch over the rest."

Arlo shook his head and said quietly, "Her Lordship told me that I am to oversee the entire plan without allowing anything to go amiss. If anything happens and I'm away, I won't be able to survive Her Lordship's wrath."

Callum hung his head fearfully in turn, quickly apologizing, "Sorry, sir. It seems that I haven't been prudent…"

"Forget it," Arlo sighed, waving him off. "I can stay here for a couple of days, but it's going to be a real trial if I have to stay any longer. Heaven knows if her lordship's unknown adversary would ever show up, or when."

"Even Her Lordship doesn't know who they are or where they could be," Callum sighed. "If all we do is wait, who knows if we'll end up waiting for weeks, months, or even years…"

"Indeed, but