章 107: New beginning

I stand leaning against my cane, the familiar pain in my left leg now reduced to a dull ache, something I can tolerate after years of endurance. Each step down the stairs sends a reminder of my past injuries, but the ache no longer consumes me. Today, Count Raymond, my former master, has requested an audience. I had expected Noelle to join me, but he refused, muttering something about not trusting his reaction. I was irritated at first, but the more I think about it, the more the a low chuckle escapes my lips.