Honouring An Agreement(2)

Richard had been to the imperial palace more than once, and everyone there recognised him. Even so, he was rather surprised at the complete lack of obstacles on his way to Nyris’s residence.

The door opened the moment he knocked on it, Nyris himself popping out and bellowing, “I ALREADY SAID I DON’T WANT TO EAT… Oh, Richard.”

Richard immediately noticed the bloodshot eyes of the Fourth Prince, ringed by swollen circles and a pale face that seemed to be devoid of blood. He also noticed the extreme stiffness and bewilderment. It took a moment for his own surprise to fade away, but then he acted as though nothing had happened and asked, “I’m not allowed in?”

Nyris gritted his teeth, but he made way. The two of them entered the lobby and sat opposite each other, but the prince quickly turned to look out the window and remained silent. He absolutely refused to make eye contact.

“What happened?” Richard...