Duty-Bound: Chapter 30
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Even though he already knew about her journey, he still listened to what she said to Elder Souma. After agreeing to stay in the palace, she told him what she had gone through. He was glad that she had found some sort of happiness from the people she met. His heart ached when she told him this as he wasn't there with her.
By midday, she finished her story.
"I must say that was an interesting journey, Princess," Elder Souma commented and took a sip of his tea.
She, too, took her cup and enjoyed the tea slowly. When both put down their cups, they stared at each other for a little while.
Elder Souma was the one who broke their eye contact and moved to where he put his important scrolls and archives. After finding what she needed, he returned to his seat and purposely placed several archives in front of her. "This is what I know. However, it won't be enough to find the culprit."
Surprised, she looked up at Elder Souma. "You knew."
"Princess, after hearing your story, I'm quite aware that you could run away from here easily if you wanted to."
A small laugh escaped her lips. "When I was a child, you were the only one who knew my way of thinking."
Elder Souma smiled. "Now, tell me what you really want from me, Princess."
As expected, the elder knew she had other objectives. Despite his old age, the man was sharp. He was glad that the man was on their side.
"I wish to know if there is a way for me to be free."
A moment later the man inquired, "Princess, why do you wish to resign?"
Before she could reply, the man continued, "It is not easy to obtain real happiness."