Chapter 127

Chapter 127

As soon as Leroy was granted permission, Saskia collapsed into the sofa, bursting into hearty laughter.

Erichs scowling gaze seemed to go unnoticed as she laughed nearly to the point of tears.

Unable to bear it any longer, Erich clenched his teeth and said,

Please, maintain some decorum, Captain.

Ah, ha... Its just that Im genuinely moved by your sentiment.

Captain!

At Erichs raised voice, Saskia finally caught her breath and straightened up.

She hastily wiped away the tears that had welled up in her eyes and attempted to rectify the situation.

Oh, well. It seems our Erich felt quite sorry when the Duke actually decided to leave. Its alright, Iona, right? The Duke understands, doesnt he?

Of course.

Leroy smiled politely and sat back down.

Iona, who had been inwardly flustered by Erichs impulsive behavior, relaxed her expression after hearing Saskias explanation.

Erich, who had initially been intent on ousting Leroy with principles, seemed belatedly regretful as the situation took an unexpected turn.

Regardless of the process, it was fortunate that Leroy was able to hear the story himself. This saved them the trouble of having to pass the message later.

So, what exactly is this confidential matter you claim to be of such importance?

Leroy prodded Erich with a look of innocent curiosity.

Erich, still harboring some dissatisfaction, did not resist this time.

He sighed softly and began with a serious face,

Have you heard about how Count Modrov died?

Iona nodded in response.

I heard. He hung himself using his clothing from the bed frame.

Thats correct. His death is estimated to have occurred around midnight. The body was first discovered by a servant delivering breakfast in the morning.

Thats quite a delayed discovery.

It was nighttime, after all. According to the knight on duty, he thought the Count was simply asleep and did not look too closely. So, thats the official stance, at least.

Erich casually dismissed the external circumstances with a tone suggesting he found them unconvincing.

Then, staring intently at Iona, he tapped the tip of his nose with his index finger.

There was a mark on Count Modrovs face. It looked like a friction burn from the fabric.

...

If he had hung himself voluntarily, there wouldnt be any reason for such abrasions to appear. On the other hand, if someone tried to force it on him and failed, causing friction, then it would make sense.

Erich made a motion, sliding a hand holding fabric from his neck up to his face.

Iona could easily imagine Hayden struggling to free himself, the noose becoming undone in the process.

Saskia, who had been listening to Erichs explanation, interjected at just the right moment.

And there were handprints on his knees.

It paints a picture, doesnt it? One person holding him down so he couldnt struggle, while another strangled him.

Ive had my rounds with the Count and Nils, you see. Those marks werent there yesterday.

Saskia added, causing Erich to pause, about to continue but then hesitated.

A misstep could alert the Empress to their movements and lead her to act first.

If one does not wish to be framed for suicide like Hayden, a more cautious approach is needed regarding the Empress.

Iona decided to focus on what she could and should do for now.

I understand what youre saying. Ill ensure the information stays between us.

Upon Ionas assurance, Erich and Saskia visibly relaxed.

Evidently, they were inwardly worried about the ramifications of sharing the truth with Iona, given the involvement of someone influential.

With a noticeably lighter tone, Erich suggested,

Would you like to go and confirm the body of your father?

No.

She had no desire to see Haydens final state.

Having left nothing but bad memories in life, looking at the disgraceful sight of her deceased father would only upset her stomach.

Iona had not hurriedly entered the palace to gaze upon Haydens lifeless body.

Looking at Saskia, Iona said,

Id like to meet Nils first.

***

Originally, all visits to Hayden and Nils were prohibited, but perhaps due to the exceptional circumstance of mourning, permission was granted relatively easily.

After speaking with Saskia, it didnt take long for Iona to be led to the room where Nils was being held.

Surveying the modest interior fitting for a prisoner, Iona turned to the knight who had opened the door.

Could you allow us to have a conversation in private? It will only be for a moment.

Ill wait outside then.

The knight vacated the spot more readily than expected.

Apparently, unlike his father, Nils wasnt considered a threat by the Empress.

After all, that must be why hes still alive and breathing to this day.

I heard youve been refusing to make any statements.

Iona began as she walked slowly into the room.

She dragged a chair noisily across the floor to sit down, but Nils showed no reaction.

He was just lying on the bed as silent as a mouse.

Considering it was still nearly daytime, it seemed he was not really asleep but intentionally ignoring her.

Irritated by his insolent attitude, Iona decided to exercise a bit of patience.

After all, Nils would have no choice but to hang on her every word from now on.

Staring at Nilss back, Iona abruptly said,

Nils, abandon your father.

The blanket-covered body of Nils twitched weakly.

--- End Of The Chapter ----

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