Tales walked out of Anke's interrogation cell with a numb expression, his mind in a daze.
Yet before Raphael and Nobu, he instinctively maintained the dignity and bearing of the Duke of Star Lake. Every movement was elegant and composed—he still remembered everything that had happened in the interrogation room, remembered how every word and action of his had been influenced not by its actual content, but by his power and status, giving them far-reaching effects and consequences that were difficult to undo.
That was his fortune, and even more so, his curse.
But when the two members of the Secret Section approached and asked him respectfully—though their doubts clearly remained—"What did he say to you, Your Highness?"...
"Nothing," Tales only remembered that his voice had been calm and steady, as always:
"He was simply unwilling to accept his fate and begged for his life."
Neither Raphael nor Nobu said anything.
However, the Aridbone man's gaze lingered on him a little longer.
Nobu also examined his surroundings more seriously.
But none of that mattered anymore.
[The carriage is about to scatter. What will you do, my lord?]
[Hold on to your sword.]
Anke's dying words, torn from his throat with the last of his strength, clung to Tales like a bone-deep itch. They echoed in his mind again and again, deafening him.
"Please come with me, Your Highness. The exit is this way."
Before the distracted Tales, Nobu bowed respectfully, humble and reserved:
"According to the rules, we cannot return by the way we came."
But Raphael appeared in front of him and Tales, giving Nobu an indifferent glance:
"I'll see him out."
Nobu nodded with a smile and did not argue. Behind him, Gomez looked back and forth between the two of them, occasionally sneaking a glance at Tales.