“Stella.” Richard attempted to intervene in Stella’s innocent chatter, but Damien dismissed his efforts with a casual shake of his head.
“Yes, these are certainly challenging times for merchants. However, given the current political atmosphere, the stringent measures taken by those in power are primarily to curb the influence of the Duchy of Carter. The situation is bound to shift.”
In contrast to Chloe’s sense that she was navigating a treacherous path, the conversation seemed to flow with ease.
“Well, the state of our own nation is so unstable that it hardly seems fitting for us to critique the affairs of others,” Richard retorted, piling his plate high with the bounty of food on the table. “At least the King of Swanton was faithful to his wife, wasn’t he? He managed to steer clear of any scandal that might shake the nation. It is regrettable that he is widowed, but he is young. He will find a new queen soon enough.”
