บท 102: We Shall Overcome

"Why again did you come with us to the Academy, Duchess?"

The Duchess didn't reply to Ísar's question at first, opting for hugging him tight and rubbing her cheek against his with a pout. Ísar glared at Sir Erik and Xinghua who were busy trying and failing to hide their laughter by looking away but their shaking shoulders gave them away.

They were standing in front of Ísar's room and he was suddenly very glad that he had the whole floor to himself.

"I am just worried, your majesty! You've been through so much!" the Duchess wailed, hugging him even tighter and Ísar was starting to lose his ability to breathe.

She finally pulled away but was holding on to Ísar's shoulders as she looked him dead in the eyes. Her sudden seriousness made Ísar a little uneasy.

"We can take you back to the castle if you think you are not ready. The Academy knows your circumstances, I am sure they will let you retake the year while you grieve."