Nothing came of the daytime talks, which was only natural. Since it was a negotiation, they would have to haggle back and forth for several days.
That evening, however, Duke Piero took the initiative to visit Liszt. Liszt happened to be drinking tea and chatting with Leewilliam, so he had him shown into the study.
The study in Thorn Castle was enormous, crammed with all manner of books. It possessed an antique elegance and was filled with an artistic air.
It was said that the room that best reflected a man's cultivation was his study. Liszt's study was a portrait of the gentle and refined gentleman within his inner world.
"Duke Piero, in a few days you will regain your freedom. What brings you to see me at this time?" Liszt gestured for him to take a seat.
Piero did not stand on ceremony and plopped down into a chair.
Taking the green tea offered by a servant, he gulped down half the cup in one go. "You two must be laughing at me in your hearts. As a sinner who lost his dragon, even if I return, my time as duke will likely be at an end."
He was right.
Liszt truly was laughing at him inwardly, but there was no need to say such things aloud. "There are always winners and losers in war. It is regrettable that Duke Piero took part in such an unwise dragon-slaying war. In truth, my original targets were Alex White Cast Iron or Alonso Cyclamen."
"I truly chose the wrong opponent. You took Gray King from me; I accept that." Duke Piero nodded and spoke calmly. "The change from ruler of a nation to captive prisoner has made me see many things clearly. To be honest, if not for the Eagle royal