Chapter 98

And so, once again, Ortenzia made her way to the evening gathering hosted by Duke Linié.

(No matter what they say, I mustn't be flustered. I need to smile and show a face that says, "I know everything"...!)

As a lady, one must never forget to be graceful at any time.

With Annabelle's teachings etched in her heart, Ortenzia exchanged greetings with a pleasant demeanor, observing the people around her with a completely different expression.

(Are all these people supporters of Duke Linié? Are there any who worship the demon god...?)

The masked group that once kidnapped Ortenzia.

They were supposed to have been destroyed thanks to the efforts of Gérard and others, but perhaps some of their survivors are mixed in here.

Thinking about that time still makes her skin crawl.

But without showing any sign of fear, Ortenzia continued to smile gracefully.

Soon, Duke Linié appeared at the edge of her vision.

Without haste or anxiety, she subtly followed his movements with her eyes.

As he approached, Ortenzia steeled herself.

(He's coming...!)

She took a gentle breath and smiled at Duke Linié, who had arrived.

"Good evening, Your Grace. I am grateful to be invited again tonight."

"Ah, Lady of Verité. It is an honor to have you here once more. Are you enjoying tonight's gathering?"

"Yes, very much. ...Everyone here is so erudite. I have the opportunity to hear valuable stories that I rarely encounter at other gatherings, which broadens my knowledge."

With that, Ortenzia smiled meaningfully, as if to say, "I agree with your thoughts."

"Hmm, that's wonderful..."

Duke Linié narrowed his eyes with a sly smile at Ortenzia's compliant attitude.

(Good, it's going well...!)

She had considered the possibility of being rebuffed, but from the looks of it, it seemed safe to push a bit further.

"If possible, I would like to have the opportunity to speak with Your Grace... But it's difficult, isn't it? Your Grace is so busy, and everyone is waiting for you."

By showing a slightly reserved attitude, Ortenzia's plan worked, and Duke Linié took a step closer.

"I apologize for the inconvenience. However, there's no need for you to be hesitant, Lady of Verité. I also wish to speak with you."

With a pleasant smile, Duke Linié leaned in and whispered in Ortenzia's ear.

"I will show you to a private room. Please, follow me."

He was giving her the choice to decide.

(It's okay... Tirol is here with me...!)

Swallowing hard, Ortenzia followed Duke Linié, trying to hide the trembling of her limbs.

Exiting the grand hall, she quietly walked down the corridor carpeted with fine rugs.

The palace, once a royal retreat, still exuded a majestic atmosphere.

But this only heightened Ortenzia's tension.

Eventually, they arrived at a room with a large door, on which the royal crest was engraved. Ortenzia clenched her fingers tightly.

"Please, this way."

With a pleasant smile, Duke Linié slowly opened the door.

For a moment, Ortenzia braced herself, fearing that the masked group that once tormented her might be waiting inside.

But the room was empty.

Beyond the door was a high-quality, serene reception room.

"Please, come in."

Duke Linié gestured for Ortenzia to take a seat.

She glanced around the room to confirm that no one else was there, then quietly sat down on the sofa.

"It is an honor to meet you, Lady of Verité."

Duke Linié also sat down across from her, smiling calmly.

"I am relieved to see that you are as intelligent as rumored. There are many high-ranking nobles who boast and spread exaggerated tales far from the truth."

"Oh..."

Ortenzia smiled wryly, unsure of what to say.

She had heard enough of the rumors about her fluency in several languages, her beauty that could make people faint at first sight, and her musical talent that was unmatched in the country.

While she was aware that she was overrated, it seemed best to remain silent in front of Duke Linié.

With a face that said, "I am tired of such trends," Ortenzia smiled gracefully.

"I assume you are already aware, but those who gather here are all intelligent and skilled at reading the times. You are one of them, are you not?"

Ortenzia neither confirmed nor denied, but continued to smile quietly.

It seemed to be enough.

"We desire companions with exceptional abilities, like yourself."

"To judge the false king and restore the true king— for that purpose?"

Recalling the information she had obtained through Tirol, Ortenzia spoke calmly.

Duke Linié smiled slyly in response.