An Unexpected Proposal

November 2, 2020

"It’s been a while, my lady. Last time, I didn’t get the chance to greet you properly."

"Sir Cloud."

"I’m glad you’re safe."

Gajev offered a slight smile. Alicia hesitated for a moment before lowering her head. Seeing a familiar face again was comforting, but guilt weighed on her more than anything else.

"…I’m sorry."

"For what?"

"Lady Morco. Is she…?"

Alicia’s voice trailed off. Given the circumstances, she doubted they had kept Lady Morco alive. Still, a part of her couldn’t let go of the possibility. If Veloa—who was presumed dead—had survived, then maybe Lady Morco had as well.

"My aunt preferred liquor over flowers."@@novelbin@@

"Ah…"

"She could finish a whole bottle of Zille on her own. If you plan to visit her, I recommend bringing a good one."

"…So she really is gone."

A hollow breath escaped through Alicia’s teeth.

"We scattered her ashes on Mount Penjan. She always said that when she died, she wanted her remains spread over the highest mountain in Schwarhan. She joked that even in death, she would still meddle in Schwarhan’s affairs."

"…"

"Typical of her, isn’t it?"

Gajev gave a light chuckle before glancing at Alicia. Her head was bowed, so he couldn’t see her expression, but he could tell—her body trembled ever so slightly. She was crying.

After hesitating, Gajev spoke cautiously.

"My lady… it’s alright to cry aloud."

Alicia shook her head, biting her lip hard.

Lady Morco had died protecting her.

She had no right to mourn her.

"My lady, this wasn’t your fault."