Saved By The Mad Duke

"Very well," Sarith stretched his lips into another subtle smile, accepting the Duke’s proposal, "A few hours of rest will be fine. My visit, after all, was nothing but a rude intrusion, I admit."

"I am glad you understand, Your Reverence."

Tillian turned around and nodded at Bella,

"Bella, please prepare the tower for the gentlemen. Ahspid will be in the guest room for now. I’m afraid the tower is the only place that can fit this many guests at once." Turning back to the guests, he paused for a moment before adding, "I apologize if the rooms feel uncomfortable, Your Reverence, but it is the best we can do on such short notice."

"Thank you, you are very generous, Your Grace."

"Alright, please follow the head maid inside; someone will come to fetch you for dinner later tonight."

Following Bella’s lead as instructed, the visitors went inside the castle, leaving the Valentine couple and the mage standing outside, completely quiet. At last, after several long minutes of silence, the Duke faced Ahspid and said,

"There is nothing to do at this point; they are already here. Let us all go to my study for now."

***