The Grand Duchess Escape

Finally, the long-awaited call had come.

 

Philip’s impatient face finally lit up. He immediately opened the door to the drawing-room and called Ryzen.

 

“My daughter is ready to meet you.”

 

“Is that so?”

 

“Yes, she is. However, she would like to see you in her room.”

 

Ryzen raised an eyebrow, and Philip smiled awkwardly.

 

“She’s usually a healthy child, but today she doesn’t seem to be feeling well.”

 

“It’s all right. I’ll go.”

 

“I’ve made you come all the way. I hope you will understand.”

 

Ryzen stood up without a reply. He had a good idea what kind of “preparation” the young lady had been doing.

 

At the behest of the lord, Calix Benvito, the information on Asella Chartus was reported in detail. Of course, the same goes for information on what was happening in Chartus household and her current social status. He knew very well where Asella Chartus stood, and what she was going through.

 

Regardless, Philip’s willingness to not be caught by the Grand Duke alone was worthy of praise.

 

“Follow me this way, please.”

 

Philip led Ryzen himself. As they climbed the central stairs, a spacious hallway followed. Ryzen narrowed his eyes behind Philip as he led the two of them. It was a completely different path from the one he knew.

 

The room where Asella Chartus was staying was not in the main building but a separate building.

 

It was in an abandoned and neglected area that was poorly maintained and difficult to use; the farthest corner of the property.

 

“That’s my daughter’s room. She had a hard time after my wife’s death, but I take care of her a lot.”

 

Philip pointed to the largest room in the main building, and Ryzen smiled.

 

‘Why were his true feelings so obvious from the beginning to end?’

 

“Your Excellency, Lord Cadan. You’re here.”

 

The aide who had spotted them bowed down, turned, and knocked on the door. It was to announce the arrival of Ryzen and Philip.

 

“My Lady, the Marquess and Lord Cadan are here.”

 

“One moment.”

 

Philip interrupted his aide and approached the door.

 

‘It looks good. Nothing bad yet.’

 

He was going to play the role of a kind father who cared for his daughter since he had brought Ryzen here anyway.

 

It was Philip who had fooled the Marquise when Adele was still alive. Though it had been a long time, it hadn’t been too difficult.

 

The corner of his mouth raised vulgarly.

 

“It’s me, Asella. May I come in?”

 

The voice he made was so gentle it gave her goosebumps.

 

“…”

 

But there was no answer. He knocked again, but the same thing happened.

 

‘Why isn’t she answering?’

 

Philip’s face twisted instantly.

 

“Is there a problem?”

 

“No, no.”

 

Philip quickly put his face in order and knocked on the door again. Ryzen watched Philip’s expression change with interest.

 

“Asella, aren’t you ready? It’s okay. Be honest.”

 

“… I’m ready.”

 

Eventually, a small answer came from inside.

 

Philip breathed an involuntary sigh of relief, then he looked at Ryzen.

 

‘Thank goodness.’

 

Given that Ryzen’s gaze was directed towards the door, he did not seem to have seen it, fortunately. Philip was relieved as he patted down his chest.

 

His efforts to appear to be a good father and daughter had almost come to naught.

 

‘When he leaves, I’ll have to educate her again. What did she do all of the sudden…?’

 

Philip thought silently while grinding his teeth.

 

“Then I’ll go in.”

 

“… Yes.”

 

Philip opened the heavy door with his own hands, revealing a lavishly decorated interior with expensive furniture and all kinds of ornaments.

 

As he entered the room, Philip mouthed to Asella.

 

‘Behave yourself.’

 

As if she understood, Asella bowed her head. Then, satisfied, Philip turned and spoke to Ryzen.

 

“This is the finest room in the house. I made it specially for her…”

 

But Ryzen ignored Philip’s words and walked quickly toward the feeble woman sitting on the sofa.

 

Philip’s eyes widened by his blatant disregard, He clenched his fists that trembled in anger.

 

‘I must endure it for now.’

 

He reigned like a king in the Marquise House, but in front of Calix Benvito, he was nothing but a subject. He had no choice but to bear with his feelings for the marriage.

 

“Young Lady, it is nice to meet you.”

 

As he walked in front of Asella, Ryzen lowered himself and fell down to one knee.

 

*****