“Would you believe they are blood relatives with that maid?”

I wrapped my shoulders with both hands and stared closely at the trembling Duchess.

The Duchess seemed calmer than when she first appeared, but she looked as terrified as someone who had just encountered a scary monster or ghost up close.

The Duchess, who until moments ago had acted like a madwoman, was now surprisingly demure. She was mumbling incoherent words to herself, but her eyes gradually began to sparkle with strong determination. It felt like something would explode soon.

Thud!

Just as I was about to tell Sasha, who had silently come to my side, that she needed to do something, Duke Vladimir commanded the maids with a gesture.

He conveyed, with an uncharacteristically stern face, to remove the Duchess from his sight immediately.

“I apologize, Your Highness.”

As the maids grabbed the rebellious Duchess’s arms and dragged her away, Duke Vladimir turned his back and looked at me.

“My wife has been mentally unstable for years and has committed an indiscretion. May I ask for your understanding?”

“It’s fine. Don’t worry about it.”

Strange. Recalling how clear the Duchess’s eyes had seemed, I felt a disconnect. Of course, she had acted wildly, but the last face I saw appeared perfectly sane, which was suspicious.

“I have kept you standing for a long time. I will promptly guide you to the drawing room.”

“Very well.”

I moved my steps; debating the issue seemed improper, given the circumstances.

‘Vladimir’s mansion rivals the palace in scale because of his privilege.’

The majesty of Vladimir’s mansion befit a noble family with strong support.

‘The energy feels unusually clean here.’

Yet, what puzzled me was the mansion’s indoor atmosphere.

Normally, places where people lived mixed various energies, and I had even sensed the energy of the dead from Duke Vladimir back in the palace.

This time, however, not even a faint trace appeared, making the place feel as pristine as a conservation area, which led me to suspect something.

“Please come in, Your Highness.”

But what could be done about any of it? Even if Duke Vladimir’s family were scheming something with the energy of the dead, my immediate options were limited.

Using my powers recklessly would reduce my lifespan, something I absolutely had to avoid.

“Fine.”

Regardless, I followed, putting on an indifferent face as I entered the drawing room.

Squeak.

Sitting in the seat I was guided to, my eyes delightfully rested on the glowing, fresh fruit and variety of pastries spread on the table.

The room was also filled with delicious scents, relaxing me as if a baby wolf with wagging tail had approached. My tension eased.

“The aroma is quite unique.”

As the maid poured tea and stepped back, I grabbed the handle of the cup, ready to take a sip, but the tea’s fragrance that hooked my olfactory senses was remarkable.

It had a sweet yet savory flavor that was subtly addictive.

“It’s regular black tea infused with honey and pear. Would you like a different tea?”

“No. I enjoy the unique aroma and taste. It’s to my liking.”

“Yes, I will pack some for you when you return to the palace.”

Refusing a free gift would be foolish. I gladly agreed and nodded my head, concluding that the drawing room was just a typical room.

The feeling was consistent with what I had sensed in the corridor earlier.

‘Whose was the aura of the dead I felt from the Duke seven years ago?’

The awful aura couldn’t have completely disappeared in a few years.

As I enjoyed my refreshments, I contemplated over and over again, deciding to check it out when an opportunity arises.
“After riding in the carriage for a long time, my stomach doesn’t feel well. I should briefly visit the restroom.”

“Yes, Your Highness. A servant waiting by the door will guide you.”

Without further ado, he put his decision into action, offering an appropriate excuse and exited the reception room.

“I’ll go to the restroom alone, so there’s no need for you to follow me.”

“Yes, Your Highness. I’ll just let you know the location.”

Creating an excuse that it would be embarrassing if someone stood at the door while he attended to his business, he arranged to wander alone.

“Poppy, stay here.”

Unnecessarily keeping Poppy by his side might cause her to cry loudly, risking detection. Poppy was to monitor those two in case they acted up while he was absent, hence he told her not to follow.

“Chirp…”

Unaware of his inner thoughts, Poppy looked shocked for a few seconds and soon whimpered mournfully. Not having the leisure, he turned his back on the dispirited Poppy.

‘I’ve stepped out, but no servants are visible in the corridor.’

If only the necessary personnel were placed, the Duke might be more frugal than he thought. Still, there might be traps somewhere, so he moved with caution, suppressing his footsteps.

“Huh? Why do I feel a strong energy from this room only?”

What could possibly be inside, emitting an aura like that of a battlefield? He wondered why he hadn’t noticed this room while passing by with Duke Vlady and Sasha.