Chapter: 284

“Okay. They can go back home.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.”

Joy spread across Astelle’s pale face.

Seeing Astelle’s happy face gave Kaizen a bitter feeling.

He forced his gaze away.

“I should have given you permission earlier, but I needlessly insisted .”

“Don’t worry about it, I do not resent Your Majesty. I’m going to go home with Theor and my grandfather anyway.”

Astelle’s voice was extremely soft.

It sounded like she had nothing to worry about anymore, as Kaizen had granted her wish.

‘Are you going to return after your work in the capital is over?’

Kaizen wanted to ask that question.

However, it was such a stupid question that he could not speak out.

‘Of course, you will return.’

Without Theor and the Marquis, Astelle had no reason to stay in the capital.

As soon as the work of the Empress Dowager’s will is finished, she will return without hesitation.

Kaizen had no reason to be with Astelle. He felt sadness at that bitter reality.

She turned around again, ignoring him, and started looking for herbs.

Kaizen, who was watching her, slowly approached.

“I’ll help you find the herbs too.”

It was then that he heard a strange noise.

There was a very faint rustling of footsteps.

The sound was coming from behind Astelle.

Over her shoulders, birch trees were towering high in the sky.

It was dark because the leaves blocked the light.

No one can see who was hiding a few steps behind.