The next morning, as Colin walked into the restaurant with Vera, he found that Duke St. Hilde was already having breakfast.
Next to him was Scholar Doan.
"Your Grace!"
"Father!"
"Hmm, sit."
The two took their seats as told, and the half-elf maid Kathy immediately served a breakfast that had already been prepared.
Charcoal-grilled steak, fried eggs, chickpeas, cream strawberries, as well as milk and spirits.
No one spoke during the entire meal, the only sound being the clinking of cutlery and plates.
After breakfast, Duke St. Hilde spoke, "Colin, you go and prepare for the wedding. Scholar Doan is here to help. Vera, walk with me."
"Yes." Colin gave Vera a reassuring look, then got up and left the restaurant with Scholar Doan.
Vera looked down at the silver candlestick on the table, without a word.
An awkward atmosphere hung between the father and daughter.
After quite some time, it was Duke St. Hilde who broke the silence.
