The Duchess and the Devil - Chapter 68.1

Half a day later Judith woke up. Although the couple often secluded themselves and had intimacy, for the first time it lasted two days, during which the Duchess could not even breathe calmly or rest. Of course, all this happened because of the aphrodisiac. When the climax came, the excitement disappeared, leaving only terrible fatigue and exhaustion.

Having washed herself with the help of the maid, Judith sat down at the dressing table and looked in the mirror. Only after the effect of the aphrodisiac had completely worn off did my thoughts begin to clear up. That terrible night flashed before my eyes like a kaleidoscope.

— I think I should take a walk.

The hand that was drying the Duchess’s wet hair suddenly relaxed and stopped, causing Judith to open her eyes. Derrick appeared in front of her.

“Mister,” the maid bowed and took a step back.

The demon extended his hand, taking the maid’s towel, after which he clumsily began to dry his wife’s silver hair.

– Why do you have such a serious face? You slept well and just got up.

Judith took a deep breath and said:

“I just think about many important things.”

– About what?

“After all, the person I married no longer seems like the person everyone knew.”

In fact, Derrick really spent all this time next to the Emperor, having been friends since childhood. But now it turned out that all this was only thanks to Killard’s strange hobbies and the Duke’s desire to support them. Moreover, Derrick was going to give his own wife in exchange for power and fortune.

And although the castle was built as beautifully as possible from the outside, the foundation was the blood and flesh of innocent people. Because of this, the landscape of beauty was erased, becoming too blurry. And although the relationship with Derrick had always been terrible, after knowing about his past it became too strange and even creepy. The Duke could give his wife to be torn to pieces by the Emperor, without thinking that this was something terrible and vile.

“Now I know why His Majesty reacted the way he did.” It’s not because he’s Hannibal.

– Yes, he is not Hannibal.

And although it was obvious, something strange appeared in Judith’s eyes. It was as if she felt helpless, although the person opposite did not even have magical powers. Derrick confirmed every word.

“The Emperor will not remember that night.” We have taken action,” Derrick put his hand around the Duchess’s chin, causing her to straighten up and look at him.

The demon just kissed her forehead: lightly, as if only the wind had touched her skin. Although Derrick claimed that the Emperor would not remember anything, his soul was uneasy. After all, then Judith could not imagine what would happen to her and her husband. Remembering the man’s murderous gaze, the Duchess was ready to cry.

– For what?

But Derrick didn’t answer, he just kissed her softly and smiled casually, as if the couple had nothing to worry about. The demon’s face was full of confidence. It was today that he got used to his human appearance, strength and role. And if someone asks him: would he repeat the same thing, then Derrick would definitely nod in the affirmative. Judith, sensing the impending changes, just closed her eyes.

***

A letter has arrived announcing a hunting competition held by Countess Tiren. However, the date was postponed by two months. And all the nobles of the capital knew the reason: the Emperor was overtaken by bandits and enemies at the banquet. Although Killard did not die, rumors spread throughout the capital, which is why it was decided to postpone all holidays and competitions. Everyone wanted to stabilize the Emperor’s condition.

But he needed treatment. After all, the attacker is a demon, and not an ordinary hooligan and bandit. And now everyone in the capital was worried about his health. But, as Derrick said, Killard will not be able to have any more children. And this problem is, in fact, fatal. The imperial family always cares about the heirs and successors of the country. Killard was still single and childless. And now the Imperial Family, trying to find the culprit, suffered in every way.

And although everyone wanted to cancel the hunting tournament due to the current circumstances, it was decided not to do this, only moving the date. After all, then even more rumors will spread throughout the capital.

Fortunately, the Duchess was not seen that day and did not arouse any suspicion. This was evidence that the Emperor and the servants remembered absolutely nothing except Judith herself and Derrick.