"But the Emperor didn't reward you." Aaron smiled with squinted eyes. "And if you're not afraid, then why did you leave the capital and come to the south?"
Marvey's face, already flushed from drinking, seemed even redder as he argued, "His Majesty obviously can't reward me; after all, he still has to rule over those commoners. But in his heart, His Majesty surely appreciates me!"
Aaron's smile grew broader. "Then why did you escape the capital? Aren't you already famous there?"
Marvey's breath hitched, and he leaned his head against his hand in a dejected manner, letting out a sigh. "The reason I fled is similar to why His Majesty executed Grand Duke Karl. Although His Majesty doesn't want me dead, there are... too many fools in the capital who wish to curry favor with him using my blood... Ah..."
Aaron burst out laughing, nearly falling off his chair.
Marvey picked up another cup of wine and silently drank, his tears mixing with the alcohol. The wine no longer seemed so sweet.
