"I really don't know now. I wouldn't dare to judge your relationship with Lady Marianne. If you really trust each other, I will be more than happy. I have always hoped for you to have a happy family. You know that, right?"
"… Yeah, I know."
"Damn it. I've never thought I'd have to say this…"
Jed grabbed his red hair roughly and crumpled it as if he was frustrated. After hesitating a bit, he looked straight into the emperor's eyes as if he made up his mind. He straightened his body and swallowed dry saliva once.
"But Your Majesty. This is about treason. You should never forget that until the investigation is completely done."
Jed's voice was serious and low, unlike how it was before. There was a mixture of concern and responsibility, apologeticness and compassion in his dark brown eyes.
Eckart breathed out slowly, his jaw tight. Meanwhile, Jed knelt without hesitation and put his hand on his left chest, asking for his forgiveness.