?Chapter 585:


    After Frederick had found out, the gossip had spread among their group. Naturally, their captain had heard as well. Given recent events, he was aware of everything.


    “For real?” Josiah’s eyes lit up with a flicker of hope.


    Freya nodded. “Yes.”


    That one word seemed to lift a weight from Josiah’s shoulders, and he finally settled into the game.


    Although he didn’t have many pieces left, hested several dozen moves before Freya imed victory.


    “Let’s go another round,” Josiah said with a newfound cheeriness.


    Freya smiled and agreed without hesitation.


    In the past, ying with Josiah had demanded her full attention. But thatst game had been an easy win, given how distracted he’d been.


    Thankfully, in the second round, they both brought their focus, and over an hour passed before Josiah emerged as the victor.


    ying chess with elders was never about winning. Whether with Lionel or Josiah, Freya always aimed for an engaging match, sometimes even letting them win.


    When the game ended, Josiah nced at the clock. It was nearing eleven.


    He frowned slightly, wondering what had be of Ellis. It was almost noon, yet he still hadn’t shown up. Had those old coots roped him into another game of chess?


    The thought made Josiah want to go have a firm word with his friends.


    Today was too important for them to be this clueless.


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    “Josiah, do you have other ns today?” Freya asked, catching him checking the time repeatedly and worrying she was holding him up.


    “Not at all. I’m quite free,” Josiah replied, masking his thoughts. He added, half-truthfully, “Someone was supposed to visit today, but it’s gettingte. Maybe they won’t show.”


    “Would you like me to call and check for you?” Freya offered kindly, having no suspicion.


    She couldn’t have guessed Ellis might be nearby. She believed their meeting was scheduled for the following day.


    “No, no need.” Josiah waved it off and smoothly switched topics. “Let’s talk about you. Did youe here today for something else?” He’d noticed the bag she brought.


    Usually, when Freya visited just to y chess and keep himpany, she came empty-handed. So, something was definitely on her mind.


    Freya knew Josiah was sharp. Still, she hesitated.


    Bringing up her reason foring might dampen his good mood.


    “Just tell me what’s on your mind. There’s no need to hold back with me,” Josiah said, his voice warm with affection.


    Freya wavered. If it were Norah’s father, she’d have just handed over the documents and gotten straight to business. But with Josiah…


    Seeing her pause, Josiah guessed, “Do you need a favor from me?”


    “Kind of.”


    “Are you rmending someone for the military?”


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