Chapter 87
Nox welcomed Cedric back far more eagerly than expected. He couldn’t help it. He was deeply worried about Sia, who had cried while holding him in his animal form.
The image of her silently shedding tears was still vivid in his mind. He hadn’t realized she’d been in such pain. His own ignorance about humans had left him feeling utterly powerless. He had sworn then and there that from now on, he would fill even the smallest gaps for her.
He accepted the box Cedric handed him.
“There won’t be a more dependable retainer than you.”
“It’s an honor, Milord. And, well… getting to see those usually arrogant mages practically begging was quite a sight.”
“Hmph, that ‘catnip’ herb really is something.”
Nox’s eyes glinted, remembering how much he’d enjoyed it in his feline form.
Cedric’s throat bobbed hard.
“Ah… Milord.”
“What is it?”
“Might I… request a small reward?”
Nox was surprised. Cedric had never once asked for compensation before. But this time, he felt he’d grant whatever request came, so he asked readily.
“What is it? Tell me, and I’ll grant it.”
“Well, um…”
Cedric glanced at Nox and carefully pulled a handkerchief from the inside of his jacket. As he unfolded it layer by layer, a small amount of catnip appeared inside.
“There was no need to hand over every bit to the mages, so I kept what was left. It’s precious, and I thought to return it to the Madam, but…”
Cedric swallowed, unable to hide his longing. Nox understood, because that plant truly was dangerous stuff. What on earth was it, to make one feel good just by smelling it?
But Nox couldn’t bring himself to casually approve giving it away.
“…It isn’t mine. You’d better ask Sia directly.”
“Ah, right.”
“……”
He wanted to say he would ask on Cedric’s behalf, but Sia right now was like an untamed wild horse, her mood swinging from good to bad every few hours.
“Then perhaps, Milord, you could—”
Cedric began hopefully, but Nox cut him off.
“I just remembered. I have a meeting with the aide in charge of imports.”
“…Ah, I see.”
Nox patted Cedric’s shoulder lightly, with a mix of apology and gratitude.
“You have my permission to ask her yourself.”
“……”
Leaving only that, Nox slipped away quickly. Cedric looked faintly betrayed, but didn’t give up. He still wanted to bring home some of that curious herb and brew tea for his wife.
With a determined face, Cedric folded the handkerchief back up neatly and set off toward Sia’s room together with Nox.
* * *
“I’m glad you managed to get it.”
“Yes, Milord. There isn’t much, but I acquired the finest quality. The kind used by noble ladies of the Wolf Tribe.”
Nox looked with satisfaction at the wooden box placed on the table, clearly pleased. The aide felt uneasy being alone with the Duke but couldn’t help feeling proud to see his lord so happy.
“She might need this regularly from now on.”
“Yes, I hinted that we’d continue to purchase more.”
“Very good.”
After praising the aide, Nox quickly ended the conversation and took up the wooden box. Determined not to repeat his previous mistakes, he intended to call for Marie first.
He stopped in front of Sia’s door, face tense, just about to knock, but the door opened first.
“Thank you so much, Madam! I’ll never forget this kindness!”
It was Cedric’s voice, pitched higher than usual. At that same moment, Nox met Marie’s eyes as she came out.
“Milo—”
Before Marie could speak, Nox quickly pressed a finger to his lips. She understood immediately and closed her mouth. With a glance, he beckoned her into the hallway.
Before Cedric emerged, Nox gave Marie a brief, fast explanation and handed her the wooden box. Then, keeping his expression calm and composed, he strode confidently into the room.
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