To The Eternal Knight (2 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 103

“As one gets older, there are times when thirst suddenly hits so hard it becomes unbearable. I believe I need some water—please excuse me for a moment, Your Grace.”

No sooner had he stepped into the courtyard than Count Illautzer gave a dry cough and quickly slipped back indoors, moving faster than the nearby maid could fetch him water.

Nerea gestured subtly to the flustered maid and followed behind the Grand Duke. A look of relief briefly crossed the Grand Duke’s face—he had been watching to see if she too would return inside.

“The garden is truly lovely. It must have taken great effort to arrange it so beautifully.”

This was the first remark the Grand Duke offered after walking in silence. Amid the fresh blossoms of the courtyard, Edward spoke with a stiff expression, then glanced sideways to check Nerea’s reaction.

Nerea, who had been gazing at the modestly sized flowers, gave a slight smile. It seemed she had chosen her opening topic well…

“I heard Count Rosa arranged it himself.”

…Or so it seemed not to be the case. Edward involuntarily cleared his throat and swiftly changed the subject.

“Ahem—Yes, that makes sense. Of course. This is Count Rosa’s residence, after all. For a moment, I mistook it for Count Esteban’s manor, thinking the Count would be here.”

That wasn’t right at all.

Meeting Nerea’s calm, steady gaze, Edward desperately wished he could sew his mouth shut. At the same time, his confidence plummeted sharply.

“Isn’t this the first time Your Grace has abruptly left a private audience with Her Imperial Majesty? Count Esteban still needs Your Grace’s support!”

It was a feeble excuse—painstakingly concocted with Count Illautzer after the trial, though long overdue—meant to win back Count Esteban’s favor.

He had rushed out mid-audience with the Empress for the first time in his life solely to attend the Count’s trial. Surely that alone should be reason enough for her not to give up on him.

“This is troubling. I’ve staked myself entirely on this gamble, yet Your Grace remains the dutiful son as ever.”

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