Chapter 28

"Is the Grand Duke Ihar still in Neutral Territory?" Count Garion inquired, taking a sip of quality wine. "It's not like him to stay away from the capital for this long."

Claude sat across from the count and replied with a slight smile. "The empire falls if the North falls. Father only moves when it's absolutely necessary."

"I suppose you're right. But my daughter will be engaged soon. We were thinking of having the wedding after Princess Rosina and Lord Kieran's announcement…"

The purpose of the dinner was clear: he wanted to invite the grand duke to his daughter's wedding.

Claude looked at the young lady, who was no more than thirteen years old, attempting to move her fork as elegantly as possible. Feeling the young duke's gaze, she blushed and swept back her hair.

Thirteen. That was how old Camellius had been when he came to Corsor, although Lius had looked much younger and smaller at that age.