Dangerous Fiancee

Chapter 61

"What is your name?"

"My name is Barton," he replied, his hands trembling violently.

"Aha, Barton. Okay. You came out for this journey for a happy event, so the emperor will forgive you this time, but you shouldn't make the same mistake."

"Yes, madame! This will never happen again!"

"As you have made efforts for me, I've begged the emperor for your mercy. But I can't save you from any punishment to save his face," she said in a soft and firm tone.

Barton lay face down again and replied, "I'll accept whatever punishment you give me. Just save my life. I have a wife and children. They would starve without me. Please..."

"Oh, you have a child. Is it a daughter or a son?"

"I've got one son and one daughter."

Hearing his words, she bit her lip gently as if she was thinking of something.

"Good. Then let's do this way."

She raised herself upright as she made a decision. Her red diamond on the neck shined brighter in the sunset.

"Barton and his son shall work for three years in the stables of the Elior Mansion. Barton's wife and daughter shall help the Elior kitchen for three years."

Her order was an overly benevolent command than punishment. He would not be beaten or punished at all, but he and his family members would be working at the Elior Mansion for only three years. Although they are supposed to work for free, they would be provided with room and board, just like other staff at the mansion.

In the end, her order was like giving him a new job and cutting his salary for three years.

Too generous a mercy, those around him began to whisper. Even Barton shook his head as if he couldn't believe his ears. The marquise frowned after covering her face with a fan while Beatrice had a happy smile on her face.

Marianne just looked at the emperor quietly, folding her fingers as if she were waiting for his approval.

"..."

Eckart looked at the men around him with a firm expression. Though he was casual amid their attention, he had no choice but to be conscious of her order to Barton.

Eventually, he let out a short sigh and nodded lightly.

"Oh, madame!"

Barton repeatedly bowed to her as he was overjoyed. Her shoulders, stiffened when she was tense, drooped. Eckart handed the sword back to Grand Duke Christopher. In any case, the matter was solved satisfactorily, and the knights and men were pleased with Marianne's mercy. If she became the empress, there might be people who could depend on her for her mercy. For them, the more generous their master, the better.

"My hat is off to you for your generous decision. By the way, Your Majesty, don't you think you need a new wagon as her wagon was broken?"

As if she didn't like the peaceful atmosphere, Mrs. Chester stepped forward and said, "I wonder if Marianne can sit next to me as I have a vacant seat in my wagon?"

Stepping aside a bit, she pointed to her gorgeous carriage. In fact, there was no extra carriage, but they had to travel further. Even if they found another way to get to the destination after arriving at a local official residence, Marianne's taking the vacant seat in Mrs. Chester's carriage right now was the most efficient way.

Marianne knew it well. But she couldn't answer quickly. She didn't want to travel with her uncomfortably.

"As you have two maids in your carriage, I think my wagon might be a better choice because I didn't bring any maid."