Chapter 99 - How On Earth… (1) (1/2)
Ch.99 How On Earth… (1)
‘What does it mean that Kuhn’s whereabouts are unknown?’
Because Elena was sitting right next to Carlisle, she unintentionally overheard the words Zenard whispered. Kuhn’s expressionless features floated into her mind.
‘Was he doing something dangerous?’
Elena’s expression hardened. However, Carlisle’s even more terrifying aura was more than enough to make an opponent shrink.
Mirabelle, unaware was what happening, ventured forward cautiously.
“Is there something wrong, brother-in-law?”
“…It’s nothing. Just like I said, go see the palace with you sister and watch the puppet play. I’ll have someone show you around, and if there’s any inconvenience, just let me know.”
“Ah, yes.”
“I have an urgent matter to attend to, so I’ll take my leave first. Please enjoy yourself.”
Although he swiftly concealed any trace of darkness, his face was still like stone. Elena watched Carlisle rise from his seat and wondered what happened, but she couldn’t ask in front of Mirabelle.
The sisters watched as Carlisle quickly left the room along with Zenard, then Mirabelle turned to Elena with an excited voice.
“Heheh, I think he’s the best! I didn’t think I could send my sister to just anyone, but the more I see him, the more I feel relieved.”
Mirabelle helped herself to the cookies and hot chocolate on the table. Her love was reassuring to Elena, but on the other hand, Carlisle’s sharp terse was stuck on her mind.
Elena immediately shook her head and dismissed any unnecessary worries. She came here to visit the palace grounds with Mirabelle. If she couldn’t help in any way, it was better to focus what was right in front of her.
“Wow. Imperial Palace cookies are so different. It’s so delicious. Go ahead and try it.”
“Yes, I’ll eat plenty. If we run out, let’s ask for more.”
“Should we?”
As Elena saw Mirabelle smile and laugh, the unease in Elena’s mind gradually faded away.
*
*
*
Carlisle seemed to have made many arrangements for their visit. Elena and Mirabelle were free to roam around the grounds, and they saw many species of rare flowers and trees, rippling manmade lakes, and portraits of long-ago emperors.
That was just the beginning. Inside one of the palaces was a kind of museum that held all kinds of rare artwork. There were also offerings from other kingdoms and a collection of unusual items not found in the Ruford Empire. There were also many buildings on the grounds, and they appreciated the variety of architecture and beautifully decorated gardens.
Elena and Mirabelle were having a pleasant conversation as they arrived in front of another splendid palace. The servant, who had been silently guiding their path, stood to block their way.
“Ah, you cannot go in here.”
Mirabelle gave him a questioning look.
“Why? What kind of palace is this?”
“This is where Her Majesty the Empress lives, and you cannot enter without permission.”
“Ah, really?”
She looked up at the palace in curiosity.
Deudeudeudeu.