Chapter 361
A moment to let the reality of the circumstances traverse through Elenaide’s and Theressa’s bewildered senses. Eventually being the Duchess the one to respond on behalf of the two.
"... When it comes to the Crown Prince I differ on such allegations... If you have felt insulted... I offer my apologies."
"Fuh... Duchess. Who said... it is I you insulted?" — Mocking Elenaide’s naive comments, Zeleskiaz scoffed at her in disbelief, continuing to demonstrate his disgust while exposing her ignorance. Indifferent to the pale expression enhancing on both women. — "Don’t you know? Has your noble education been so lacking that you ignore the Ninth is by far more important than the current Royalty, even the Emperor?"
"Such is–!... Theressa, what are you doing."
"Mother..." — Placing her hand on her mother’s arm as she saw how Elenaide was about to jump into more dangerous retorts, the youngest of Sylfinnier glared at her Mother while also appearing soft in concerned expression. — "Please, it is obvious there has been a misunderstanding on both our parts."
"No. The misunderstanding is solely on your part. I have clearly heard and seen... miss."
"... Yes. It is our mistake." — To the quick correction of the threatening and imposing Crown Prince, Theressa granted, much more conscious than her Mother that continuing to contradict the man would be useless and on the contrary more damaging. — "I do not wish for His Highness to continue feeling displeased because of this. As you have suggested, an apology will be offered to my sister."
"... Hah... girl. It’s not a suggestion."
"....."
*Ahooong*... The sound of the horns sealing the start of the hunt resounded in the green surroundings. Making everyone aware of its official beginning... Nonetheless, the deathly glare of the Prince remained challenging those of the hesitant Theressa, demonstrating the hostility he had for her with the pulsating flare of red about to disrupt his attempt to restrain his violence.
"It’s time. Thank you, women. At least, this anger you provoked will serve positively on my day of hunt." — With an ominous lift of his corners, Zeleskiaz conveyed the fact that the seeking journey would be with them in thought... for with every creature killed his rage would search satisfaction while picturing each of them, as he had held the reigns of sanity solely for the compromise he had with the fair beloved.
Without farewell he walked away, aloof to those eyes that had witnessed the exchange and that as soon he had departed, went to the women to inquire on the events.