Chapter 102

Clack, clack.

Isabel walked in slowly, dressed head to toe in black mourning clothes. A black veil covered even her face, lending her an almost eerie air.

It was as if she had come to protest Duke Rodwell's death, right to Jan's face.

"It's been a long time, sister-in-law."

Jan greeted her quickly, but she walked straight past him toward Maurice.

"Father Maurice, I presume. It's an honor to meet you."

Maurice rose from his seat as well and bowed politely.

"My condolences on the Duke's passing. I offer my sympathies."

"Not at all. I'm deeply grateful just to be allowed out of the house I was confined to, thanks to you."

It was a jab at the soldiers the Emperor had posted around the Rodwell estate.

"Confined? That's absurd!"

The Empress bristled, but Isabel ignored her words as well.

"If there's anything I can do to help, however small,…