The Swordswoman's Revenge Story after Rebirth

Chapter 14 Not in This Life

In Argentum, an hour later, Harlan brought in the soldier.

“Your Grace, Duke of Blackmoor! The soldier bowed deeply, his nervousness plain.

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Geoffrey regarded him with a steady, measured gaze. No need for alarm,” he said, his tone calm. “I have a few questions. What is your name?”

“Hannibal, Your Grace, the soldier replied, standing rigely

Geoffrey inclined his head slightly, his expression kind though his eyes sharpened. “You were at the city gate today. Tell me–what did you see?”

Hannibal hesitated, his unease growing. “Your Grace… I didn’t see anything unusual.”

“Speak freely.” Geoffrey said, motioning to a chair. He poured a goblet of wine and placed it before him. “I assure you, no harm will come of it.”

Hannibal remained standing, his hands trembling. After a moment, he stammered, “Forgive me, Your Grace. I saw… the Lady Blackmoor leaving the tity. She was with a man, leaning on his arm.”

Geoffrey’s expression darkened, though his voice stayed measured. “And how can you be certain it was my daughter?”

Your Grace. I accompanied Marshal Blackwell to your manor once, Hannibal answered quickly. “I saw the Third Lady then and recognized her.”

Geoffrey let out a quiet hum, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Ah, so you’ve seen her before. Then you must have been mistaken, for my daughter remains in the manor and has not left.”

Hannibal froze, realization dawning. He dropped into a deep bow. “Yes, of course! It must have been my mistake. Please forgive me, Your Grace,”

Geoffrey’s smile held. “Ignorance is no crime.” With a wave of his hand, Harlan stepped forward and pressed a folded note into the soldier’s hand.

Hannibal’s eyes widened as he unfolded the note–1,000 thalers

“Take it,” Geoffrey said with easy warmth. “A gift for you and your comrades–have a drink on me. But remember: after drinking, keep your tongue in check. Some things must remain beyond question.”

clutched the note tightly, bowing again. “Yes, Your Grace!

with a nod. “You may

deeply before

to find Geoffrey’s expression transformed, his calm façade cracking to

Harlan began hesitantly, “the rumors have already spread. There were

saw and heard”

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Not in This Life

go–bring that ungrateful girl back to me.”

Harlan bowed and left

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his eyes against the anger roiling within him.

words from that day rang unbidden in

There had been no sign. Or perhaps… she has

to the manor. Matilda me him at the door, tears streaming down her face. “Your Grace, she wept, “this is my failing as well. I should have seen it coming…

he turned to her, his voice like ice. “Do you even consider her your daughter? If

come to paSA,

sobbed, wringing her hands. “It’s my fault, my lord.

me nothing? I thought her quiet and obedient–how could I

only fanning the flames of his anger. With a loud crack, he slammed his palm against the table. “What did

faltered as shame crept into her tone. “She said Isolde met the scholar late last year. They tell in love at first sight, pledged themselves to each other in secret… and… they… consummated the union long ago.” Her

yet he accepted the betrothal to the marquess’s family? His years

maid here!” he barked,

gave the order to Anne, and before long. Helein was dragged into the room. She was barely conscious, her face battered and fingers swollen–proof of the interrogation

voice sharp. “Duke has questions. Speak plainly or

face. Her swollen lips

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yanked Helena’s hair. “Did you forget my warning? Speak truthfully

unable to contain herself. “It was my fault… I pushed her to leave with the scholar. She didn’t want to go… she

cruelty flashed in Anne’s eyes, but Matilda gestured subtly for

He kicked Helena hard in the stomach, sending her sprawling on the floor, gasping for air. Finally, she whispered, trembling, Kill me, my lord… just kill