Episode 8

At the top of the hill, with a privileged view of the movement in the port, Tabitha was accompanied by Ethan. She spotted the boats and felt her heart race.

”It seems the rescue has finally arrived,” — Ethan remarked, his eyes fixed on the approaching boats.

Tabitha nervously clutched the fabric of her dress, unable to contain the mix of relief and anxiety. ”My grandfather... do you think he came?” — She asked, almost as if speaking to herself.

Ethan, perceptive, noticed the nervousness in her voice and took her hand. ”He would never stop searching for you, Tabitha. He's a man who deeply values those he loves. “Don’t worry, my dear. I’ll be by your side.”

Tabitha hesitated for a moment but finally nodded.

“Let's go to the mansion. They should be there soon.”

On the beach, Captain Scott disembarked first, determined to gather information. He approached a fisherman who was watching the group of newcomers. ” Good morning, sir. I am Captain Scott, sent by the Count of Devonshire. Do you happen to know if any survivors from a recent shipwreck have come ashore?”

The fisherman, a robust-looking man, nodded. “They found two, yes, sir. A man and a young woman. They are staying at Lord Granger’s mansion, up on the hill. The names... — he paused to recall — Lord Devereux and Lady Tabitha.”

Captain Scott thanked him and turned to the Count. “My Lord, they confirmed that your granddaughter and Lord Devereux are alive and were taken in at Lord Granger's mansion.”

Relief crossed the Count’s face, softening his austere expression for a moment. ” Let’s go to the mansion immediately.

Lord Granger’s mansion was a stark building of light stone, standing out against the scenery with its well-kept gardens and solid appearance. Inside, Lord Granger was in his study, reviewing some documents, when the doorbell echoed through the corridors. Soon after, Smith, the butler, entered hastily.

“My Lord, the Azures' party has arrived. They are at the entrance, led by Captain Scott and the Count of Devonshire. There is also an envoy from Parliament with them.”

Granger adjusted his waistcoat with precision before responding.

“Let them in, Smith, and inform Lady Granger. Take them to the sitting room. This is an important day.”

At the main entrance, Captain Scott, Mr. Caldwell, and the Count of Devonshire led the party. Behind them, some sailors carried small chests with provisions and blankets. Despite the evident fatigue, the Count maintained his impeccable posture. Lord Granger came out to greet them personally, nodding his head in deference.

”Lord Devonshire, Captain Scott, Mr. Caldwell, welcome to my home.”

The Count took a step forward, leaning lightly on his cane. “Lord Granger, I should be the one thanking you. I heard you took in my granddaughter and Lord Devereux after their misfortune, and knowing they were under your care brings me indescribable relief.”

Granger responded with a warm smile. “Your granddaughter is a remarkable young woman, My Lord. It has been both a pleasure and a responsibility to house her here. She and Lord Devereux have been exemplary guests, despite the difficult circumstances. But let us go to the sitting room; we can talk there, seated, with a good brandy, while my wife fetches your granddaughter and Lord Devereux.”

Captain Scott, who had been observing silently, intervened. ”If I may, I would like to ensure preparations for their return are underway. Lord Granger, your assistance in accommodating the survivors has been vital. I sincerely thank you.” — He looked at the Count, who nodded.

”Do what is necessary, Captain.”

Scott withdrew with the sailors, and Mr. Caldwell followed him, leaving the Count and Granger to proceed to the sitting room.

The sitting room was cosy, with a lit fireplace and leather armchairs arranged around a low table. Granger indicated a chair for the Count, while a servant brought a tray with tea and drinks.
”I hope the journey was not too exhausting,” — Granger said, pouring a glass of brandy for the Count.

Devonshire accepted, holding the glass firmly. ”The journey was long, but the reward is worth every moment of exhaustion. Seeing my granddaughter safe is all that matters now.”

Granger sat down, resting his elbows on the arms of the chair. ”Lady Tabitha is resilient, My Lord. Despite the hardships she faced, she remained strong. She and Lord Devereux worked together to overcome the challenges.”

The count leaned slightly forward, curious. ”And what about Devereux? I know he is a man of principles, but I’m relieved to hear he behaved as expected.

Granger nodded. ”Undoubtedly, My Lord. He showed leadership and care. It was clear that his priority was your granddaughter’s safety. A young man of great character. Devonshire sighed, looking relieved.

”He has been my ward for many years. I’ve always seen great potential in Ethan, although life has not always been kind to him. I’m glad he repaid the trust I placed in him.

Granger smiled. ”It seems he was shaped by your guidance, My Lord, and your granddaughter is a remarkable young woman. “