Chapter 280

"How can it be...?"

Kaywhin, upon noticing where Yelena's gaze landed, blushed ever so slightly.

"There's still a bit of time before the banquet begins."

Thanks to the efficient maids, the preparations were completed sooner than anticipated.

Yelena, silently appreciating the maids' craftsmanship, took Kaywhin's wrist and led him into a nearby room.

A short while later, the tightly closed door opened, and the couple emerged.

Kaywhin's lips were notably reddened, while Yelena appeared more relaxed than she had been before.

"Let's go," she beckoned with a cheery tone, guiding Kaywhin forward. He followed without resistance, wiping away the rouge that had smeared his lips with his thumb.

The grand banquet hall was alive with activity.

Nobles filled the space, gathering in groups to exchange greetings, share laughter, and engage in conversation.

"It's been so long, Lady Rose."

"Countess, you look exceptionally beautiful today."

"Lady Viscountess, you are radiant as well."

"Duke, you remain ever so distinguished. How fares your son?"

"I've heard you're planning to remarry. Is it true she's a daughter of a rural lord?"

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement.

Nearly two months had passed since the demon invasion. Most of the nobles hadn't enjoyed proper leisure, being preoccupied with their lands, family affairs, and businesses. A few, accustomed to indulgence, felt particularly deprived.

And then came the invitation to the grand banquet—a most welcomed piece of news for many.

"By the way, have you heard the latest gossip?"

Such events invariably featured alcohol, food, music, and of course, rumors. All attention turned to the individual who introduced the new topic.

"What are you referring to?"

"Something from Lord Pernel's estate..."

"Oh, the tale about Duke Mayhard slaying the Demon King?"

A snide chuckle emanated from a young man, arms crossed, clearly amused by the story.

"Is that even a credible story?"

"The Duke Mayhard, a descendant of the hero?"

"If that's true, then I might as well be a descendant of the gods."

A rotund middle-aged noble snickered, sparking laughter among his peers.

"However, it might not be a mere baseless rumor... Many claim to have witnessed it, after all."

"You seem uninformed, my lady. Rumors have a way of getting blown out of proportion."

The young man who had earlier scoffed at the duke's accomplishments spoke as if enlightening her.

"A single witness becomes two, then three, and before you know it, it multiplies to a hundred. Isn't that the very nature of rumors?"

"You're not wrong."

"For anyone to claim that Duke Mayhard, of all people, is the descendant of a hero seems a bit much..."

"If he were truly a descendant of the hero, why would he be born with such a terrible mark on his face? It's as if not receiving a birth blessing wasn't enough, he has a curse?"

"It indeed doesn't add up."

"But who spread this rumor in the first place?"

Someone immediately offered a theory.

"Could it have been Duke Mayhard himself?"

"Ha! Surely you jest!"

"Didn't the rumor originate from Lord Pernel's castle?"

"The Marquess had visited Lord Pernel's castle. What if he had bribed someone during his stay? It's not entirely outside the realm of possibility."

"No way!"

"If this is true, it's truly disgraceful!"

Several individuals erupted in laughter.

However, it wasn't out of genuine amusement. Their laughter was an exaggerated attempt to mask underlying unease and apprehension.

'Duke Mayhard defeated the Demon King? He's a descendant of the hero? No, that can't be.'

It simply couldn't be true.

They had consistently ostracized and berated Kaywhin due to rumors of his demonic curse.

And now, to hear he had vanquished the Demon King?

Saved the world from peril?

It was inconceivable. It just couldn't stand.

'It has to be a baseless rumor.'

An elderly noblewoman, with a tone of finality, clicked her tongue and remarked,

"Considering the casualties we've faced, for someone to exploit the situation by spreading such rumors to bolster their own reputation... His intentions are truly vile."

"And perhaps that's why his appearance is as unsavory as his character," chimed in a man beside her.

"Exactly. That hideous face one would dread to see at night!"

"If one has an unattractive face, they should at least have a pleasant heart!"