Chapter 66: The Most Noble and Impoverished (2)
After that, when Dereck returned to the Duplain mansion—nearly fifteen days later—the place had changed dramatically. To be precise, it looked even more pitiful.
There was no way they could have fully restored a half-ruined mansion in such a short time. They hurriedly covered broken roofs with tarps and tents, and the completely collapsed west wing had been left untouched or used to store items that could withstand the rain.
The charred garden was now crowded with external laborers and servants, who had set up camp equipment to stay there. The relatively intact rooms were being used to house critically injured or unconscious patients.
Overall, the mansion looked like a patched-up old garment. That was Dereck’s impression.
“It seems the Beltus family has no reason to help the Duplains… So I decided to allocate some funds myself to maintain the mansion. It’s not much, but… considering the bond we forged in the Rose Hall, I can at least help with that.”
“In a way, it might be a chance to show my charitable side to the public, don’t you think? Generously assisting Lady Diella’s family, who used to scold me… Deep down, it’s a victory for me. Heh heh.”
Denise, arms crossed and smiling proudly, spoke about doing good while clearly enjoying it. Still, she seemed sincere in wanting to help. She asked Dereck to offer help to the Duplains if they came asking—so long as it didn’t interfere too much with his own life.
“It’s a bit chaotic, isn’t it? If you cross the garden and go to the mansion’s backyard, it’s a bit calmer.”
Aiselin, who had entered the foyer alongside Dereck, spoke awkwardly.