Chapter 421: Kiev’s Unexpected Visit
After the day of the duel, the mansion had returned to its usual calm. No arguments echoed through the halls, and there was no more commotion. Yet, a solemn atmosphere hung over the peaceful surroundings.
The knights continued their duties as usual. Noah, who had settled into the married couple’s quarters with his wife Emily, had been quiet since the argument.
He distanced himself from the other knights, offering only cold shoulders when they sought his forgiveness. Gloom and disappointment lingered in his eyes, and despite Emily’s efforts to encourage reconciliation, he remained a recluse.
The knight performed his tasks, communicating only as needed and avoiding the other knights, especially Eric. This behaviour raised concerns among the others; their guilt weighed heavily as they realised how much Noah had suffered over the years due to the accusation.
"I can’t keep going like this, Sir Skyler," Damon said one night as the knights gathered in the courtyard. Garin, Luke, and Eli were present. "Not settling this matter gnaws at my conscience. I feel like I owe him so much."
"Me too! When he gave me that cold look, my guilt just grew," Eli interjected with frustration. "This is worse than being stabbed!"
"Haa... it’s only been two days since he’s been ignoring us, and you can’t handle it?" Luke teased the young knight.
"Just kill me already!" Eli said gloomily. "I didn’t know the pain of being ignored could hurt this much!"
"We disbelieved and ignored him for two years. What he experienced was far worse than anything we’ve felt. Not to mention the humiliation and punishment he endured. It’s only fair if he doesn’t want to accept our apologies," Garin said.
"You’re more lenient toward him. You’ve spoken to him casually from time to time," Luke remarked to Garin.
The third-in-command knight shook his head in disagreement.