To The Eternal Knight (2 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 71

Johann shouted fiercely. But Gabe deliberately ignored him and climbed into the carriage.

Because of this, Johann—who until just moments ago had looked utterly devastated, as if betrayed—now wore a cold smile, as though he’d expected exactly this. Gabe had no idea.

* * *

“So, have you found Nerea Esteban?”

“I deeply apologize, Your Majesty.”

Looking down at the Acting Count, who bowed his head as if guilty of a capital offense, the Emperor’s eyes grew increasingly cold.

A long silence pressed heavily upon the Emperor’s office. Under the suffocating tension, Gabe conjured up tens of thousands of excuses.

Surely someone was aiding Nerea, yet he’d failed to identify that person; but even so, since he currently controlled the Count’s finances, he could soon quell the rumors by spending lavishly—among other things.

But the moment the Emperor parted his lips, all those excuses evaporated instantly.

“Do you know about the rumors circulating in the streets?”

Startled, Gabe raised his head. He’d assumed the Emperor knew, but hadn’t expected such a direct jab. Observing Gabe’s stricken expression, the Emperor spoke slowly.

“They say Acting Count Gabe Esteban has found the best possible way to keep his beloved daughter firmly in her rightful place. What does the Acting Count think of that?”

Acting Count and rightful place.

The rightful place was the title of Count itself—and soon after, Marquess.

“T-That is utterly unfounded, Your Majesty! How could I possibly—!”

Read full content of this chapter on r e d c a t t y . c o m