Chapter 128:

When I yawned without realizing it in the carriage, my father stared at me.

"Are you tired?''

"Oh, no! It's all right." Dad said, sighing softly to my answer.

"Are you going to watch the game with your friends, including the princess?"

"Oh, are you uncomfortable?" I've been spending time with my dad for safety reasons today. When I asked if he was uncomfortable to join my friends, my father shook his head.

''No, just because your friends might find me uncomfortable."

I said with a smile at my dad's reply...

"You don't know how much my friends adore Daddy?" My Dad narrowed his eyes and opened his mouth.

"You admire me? Why? I'm not even a prosecutor..." I sighed as I looked at my dad, whose eyes were narrowed, as if he couldn't understand.

'Because you don't realize you're handsome, you're really a fraudulent character.'

How long has it been? As I saw greenery outside the window, I let out an exclamation.

"Wow, is it really big?" My dad nodded and answered my question.

"Because the predecessors said they liked hunting." Is it due to the blood of the dragon, the highest predator? Certainly, I wondered if it was the reason that Max had talent in the sword.

'By the way, I made a rant that he would win today...'

It was when I was worried that something might happen to Max.

"The Crown Prince has nothing to worry about. Except for me, there will be no one in this empire who can win against him..." I said with a big smile.

"You're right." If Beatrice had awakened her talent for magic, would she not know, because she knew nothing right now. I thought, swallowing the back words.

'Maybe it's a good thing.'

In the original work, the reason she awakened to magic was from terrible loneliness and despair of being alone. I thought that if magic was born out of such hardships, it might be better to live without knowing.

'Yes, come forward and Max can protect Liche.'

It was when I was making that determination.

"It would be nice if he can surpass over me." At the words that came out in a low voice, I stared at Dad.

'Usually, there are many teachers who are jealous of their students, but my dad has a good heart.'

At that time, it felt like the carriage stopped. Dad reached out to me.

"It's our arrival." I took that hand and stared at the scenery outside the carriage. Outside the building that looked like an amphitheater, long lined wagons, barracks built in several places, and the knights of each family were ready to enter with flags.

'It's too many even though they put restrictions on being more than a count...'

In fact, it wasn't for eating or against hunting, so I wasn't happy with so many people. It was a pain when I thought that many animals would die for an entertainment.

'I can't help it. Because it's an imperial order.'

Still, because of public sentiment, it was comforting to say that the meat of animals hunted in the hunting grounds would be distributed to the slums.

"Jubel, let's go." It was when I entered the building holding my father's hand calling my name.

"The players from the Duke of Floyen are entering!" As I turned to the field at the stiff stance, I saw Geraldine stepping in with a stiff face.

'Well... I think he was conscious of Duke Elios because of what I said.'

There wasn't a single beat, but I had a gut feeling for the actions they took. That my knights are paying attention to the crowd's attention right now.

"Don't forget, how heavy your sword is. Who our master is." I was convinced by Geraldine's words, which came out by holding the weight differently.

'Somehow, it seems that he's a little more pretentious than usual because he got some attention...'

It was when I was thinking so. I took a breath as the knights pulled their swords at once and gathered them together.

'What, why do you do what you usually don't do?'

It would have been okay if unknown people had done that, but the problem was that their reality was that they were a heavy salary lupine.

'It's strange to pretend to be such a stern knight who usually only works on my screen, but now!'

"For the glory of Floyen!"

The slogan made me feel unbearable shame and humiliation.

'Oh, it's cringe-worthy.'

When I turned away without knowing it, my father said in a low voice.

"I've always told you not to run away... I'll have to supervise the training myself in order to correct the discipline sooner or later." At that, I sighed.

'It wasn't that I wanted to beat the Duke Elios in defeating at the start... Geraldine was an idiot.'

Dad saw me sighing and held my hand tight.

"Go ahead and sit down." When I was told to be seated, I looked around and laughed when I found Liche sitting in a private seat.

'Oh, you were here too.'

I was very pleased, but in the midst of other people's eyes, I couldn't treat her without willingness. So I told Todd, who was supposed to be my escort.

"Todd, could you ask Her Imperial Highness the Princess and my friends, the young lady of each family, if it is okay to join us?" Todd answered my question with a bowed head.

"Of course, my lady." In response, I felt my hands shrivel. Like Geraldine, it seems that the bad thing of the name bluff entered my knights.

* * *

Beatrice stared at the knight of the Duke of Floyen and asked.

"Sharing a seat?" Beatrice turned his head a little and looked at the Juvelian in the distance. Wearing a bonnet decorated with flowers and lace, the Jubelian was like a ceramic doll. Soon after, Beatrice blushed.

'You offered me a table first, you were bold and pretty.'

Soon Beatrice said in a haughty voice.

"Okay. Guide me." Todd smiled at the answer and shook his dog.

"Yes, follow me." It was when she was moving.

"The players from the Marquis of Hessen are entering!"

Frighteningly to say that, the knights of the Marquis of Hessen entered the stadium. And Beatrice, staring at the person at the forefront, narrowed her eyes.

'Mikhail...'

It was when Beatrice was staring at Mikhail. As he was looking around, he fixed his gaze on her, and Beatrice was dazzled.

'What the hell, those nasty look...!'

At that moment, someone touched the her shoulder.

"Your Imperial Highness the Princess, is everything all right?" A pure voice, white skin like snow, the very face Beatrice had just wanted to see.

"Oh, it's nothing..." Beatrice rolled her eyes slightly and stared at Mikhail. She frowned at the sight of him turning his back.

'What the hell are you plotting?'

Obviously, the eyes that Mikhail just sent her were so dark and horrifying that it made her feel cold.

'You say affection? Sounds like that.'

It was when Beatrice was clenching her fist.

"Liche, are you okay?" In a small whispering voice, Beatrice stared at Jubelian. There was something flashing on her head.

'Wait, I think you looked at me when Juvelian appeared?'

Before long, Beatrice gazed at Juvelian, looking at her with anxious eyes. As she was looking at her worrisome jewel-like eyes, she was courageous to see what it was like.

'Don't worry, I won't let that kind of guy mess with you.'

***

Mikhail blushed as he stared at Jubelian in her blue dress.

'My Juvelian, you're beautiful today.'

Staring blankly at Jubelian for a moment, as she moved, Mikhail looked around frantically.

'Where the hell is she going?'

He was excited for a moment, but when Jubelian came back into view, Mikhail shone with relief and bloodshot eyes.

'If it's mine, I'd better break that leg first. Do not run away again.'

Recalling such a dangerous hesitation, Mikhail confirmed the other party Jubelian met. Before long, Mikhail frowned.

'The Princess, were you looking at me?'

Mikhail raised the tail of his mouth in the bloody eyes of the princess, who were precisely pointing at him.

'If you say that you are from an imperial family, you're nothing but a haughty and helpless girl.'

Then, someone secretly approached Mikhail.

"His Imperial Majesty is calling." At that, Mikhail turned his head and clenched his fist.

'If I propose to marry in front of all the nobles today, she won't be able to refuse even that impudent girl?'

Arsenic smeared on Mikhail's face.

***

'Everyone is here except Liche.'

As the seats were delivered in close order, Liche became the last one.

'It's right to deliver her at the end because you have the highest status.'

As the final boss appeared at the end, aristocratic manners here were the same. It's a virtue in a society where it's a virtue to show up late so that people can talk comfortably. Rose, who had an excited face, whispered to me.

"Thanks to Juvelian-nim, I can see it in a special seat." Certainly it was a privilege if it was a privilege. The Duchy is at the apex of the nobility, because of that, the seats we sat in were separated from the others.

'Well, it's a nobility's amusement facility, but it's comfortable for either seat...'

I inadvertently stared into the central box seat where the emperor would sit.

Unlike other seats, the gorgeous chair looked comfortable to anyone. And the mysterious silver flowers adorning the royal family seats seemed to be rare flowers that could not be easily seen in the islands.

'Let's look at it, but it's too extravagant*...'

(the word here isn't extravagant, it's 돌지랄 (dul/ji/ral) which literally means "spend money in a crazy way")

When I thought so, I saw Liche standing in white, not far away.

'Why are you doing that?'

Dad asked as I got up.

"Where are you going?" To him, I pointed to where Liche was.

"I'm going to meet my friend." It's not a long distance, and it's very close, so my dad turned his head off and helped me.

"Yes, I'll be watching you, so don't worry." Feeling reassured by that remark, I headed to Liche.

"Your Imperial Highness the Princess, is everything all right?" Even in my words she only had a stiff face instead of an answer. When I asked Liche several times if she was okay with it, she answered.

''Oh, well, I was strangely nervous." I said, holding her hand.

"Don't worry. You have me." She replied with a grin.

"Yes." So we arrived at our seats with Liche, where everyone was.

"Welcome, Your Imperial Highness." It was only my father, who was on par with the royal family, who gave a light salute while everyone bowed their heads. Liche was the first to receive a father's greeting.

"Duke Floen, thank you for offering me a seat." Then Dad's gaze turned to me. His expression was loose, not like he was usually blunt.

"I am just grateful for you getting along with my daughter." Liche responded with a bright smile.

"Since I haven't been in the social world, I learn a lot from the Princess. I think I will continue to have a good relationship with the Princess." My father stared at me at the voice of Liche's elegant yet polite voice. For some reason, his eyes looked proud, so my face was hot. When I was unintentionally rolling my gaze, the center box seat came into my eyes again.

'Oh, the emperor is here.'

It was when I was frowning upon the Emperor's appearance.

"Come on and sit down." Liche sat down at his father's suggestion. I was also about to sit down.

'Wait, that flower, silver?'

I got up from my seat and said, holding Liche's hand.

"Your Imperial Highness, would you please come with me somewhere?" Surprised by my sudden request, she nodded, blushing.

***

When Mikhail arrived at the emperor's exclusive grandstand, the emperor, who wore a cloak made of ivy fur, welcomed him with a big smile.

"Welcome. How are you feeling today?"

"Thanks to your thoughts, it is very pleasant." The Emperor nodded with a pleased look at Mikhail's polite answer.

"Yes, sooner or later we will be a family, but of course I have to think about you." Even the fluttering emperor said, Mikhail did not reveal his innermost thoughts. He just bowed his head as if he was embarrassed.

"I am just worried about Your Imperial Majesty as I will be because my skills are insufficient."

"No, but Maximilian likes to run so wild that it takes a little bit."

Crown Prince Maximilian.

He knew that he was excellent, but it was not possible at any stage.

'Well, even so, if the emperor was on my side, would I be more advantageous?'

When the first beasts were brought in, the emperor marked a map on the map where the high-scoring beasts were hidden so that Mikhail could win.

'While the Crown Prince is searching through the woods to die, it will be much easier because I can hunt the beasts that are bound.'

It was when Mikhail was thinking that and laughing.

"Oh, and the beasts, they won't be on the map I gave you before." At the emperor's words, Mikhail crippled his eyes and stared at the emperor, then relaxed his eyes and laughed.

"Do you mean something?"

"Of course." He wanted to hold onto his heart and urge him to said it quickly, but Mikhail said with patience.

"I'm curious what you mean." Then the emperor turned his gaze and stared at another place and pointed at somewhere with his finger.

"Can you see the special seat of the Duke of Floyen over there?" It couldn't not be seen. At this very moment, Juvelian and Beatrice were going out.

'Where are you going?'

Maybe give someone a handkerchief? When Mikhail had such worries, a smooth face ran across her head.

'Since it is a competition that includes mercenaries, it is highly possible that Juvelian's lowly lover also participated as a mercenary of Duke Floyen.'

That was when Mikhail's molar was firmly gripped.

"Isn't it perfect today because the Princess is with Regis' daughter?" When Jubelian was mentioned, flames soared in the midst of it. But Mikhail answered calmly, calming down the fire.

"I am so foolish that I do not understand the deep meaning of Your Majesty." The Emperor laughed at Mikhail's reply.

"Your victory and putting firewood into Maximilian's feelings for Regis' daughter."

Then Mikhail said, who hardened his face.

* * *

I came down to the field and stared at the emperor talking with Mikhail.

'It's too suspicious to call it a coincidence.'

According to the original story, the beast was normal only when Max brought him. Maybe Max couldn't bring the beast, so I thought it would just pass peacefully. However, unfortunately, there was a silver flower where the emperor would see it.

'I don't know if the color of the flower that controls the beast in the original is silver...'

I opened my mouth staring at Liche.

"Liche, that flower over there. Can you bring it?" When I pointed at the flower in the middle box seat, she stared at me in wonder.

"Why are you asking me to bring that silver flower?"

How should I explain?

What if I say that maybe the emperor is behind this contest, and that silver flower is a poisonous plant that can paralyze the wolf for a moment?

Of course you won't believe it.

Maybe you'll treat me like a weirdo.

I swallowed dry saliva and exclaimed it out.

"That's because... It's pretty." At my words, Liche opened his eyes wide, then slightly narrowed.

'Are you angry? Well, that's understandable. It's ridiculous for me, too.'

It was when I moistened my dry lips with my tongue.

"Yes, you wanted that flower so badly." I nodded at her staring at me with a bright smile.

"Oh, yes." She said, stroking my cheek slowly.

"If you want to have it, of course I have to bring it. My cute Juvelian."

I swept my heart at the sight of her giving me permission more than I thought.

'As expected, Liche is very kind to her people.'

It was when I was thinking that. Liche said.

"Wait here with Victor gently. I'll be right back.''

"Oh, Liche, wait a minute...'' I called her urgently, but it seemed that she couldn't hear ne because my voice was so low. I opened my mouth as I stared at Sir Victor as Liche was heading for the emperor's box seat with a proud step. "I'm fine, please protect Liche."

"Yes. But..." So I looked around a lot of people.

"There are so many people, can there be anything wrong?" Even with my answer, Sir Victor was still confused. At that, I pointed my finger at the audience. "And over there, my father keeps looking at this place." In response, Sir Victor nodded with a pale face.

"Okay." I said all in a hurry, looking at him turning his back.

"Oh, and! Please tell Her Imperial Highness the Princess to secretly bring the flowers." Then Sir Victor answered with a bright smile.

"Okay. Stay here!" As I watched Sir Victor chasing after Liche for a while, I watched the waiting knights.

'Everyone is full of energy.'

Then I found Max in black armor. And the sword he has in his hand.

'You hung the handkerchief I gave you in the sword bag.'

A laugh came out of it.

'I want to hide it, but can't I?'

At that moment, when someone touched my shoulder, I was surprised.

'What, what is it?'

As I turned my head, a familiar face came into my eyes.

"What are you doing here?"

"Ah, Prince Elios. Hello." He said with a sigh in my reply.

"What are you doing in the field?''

'Because this is not the place where the emperor's eyes are on.'

When you look at the central box in the stands, you can't answer frankly that you came down to see the emperor from a field a little away from the emperor's view.

"Oh, I came down to see you." As I looked around thoughtlessly, he said, stiffening his face.

"You're full of excitement, and you have to realize it's dangerous. Especially, there are knights practicing archery." Oh, I didn't think for sure, but it was a thoughtless remark.

"I'm sorry. I didn't think I'd get in the way." He sighed at my answer and smiled.

"I didn't mean that, but I was afraid you'd get hurt." I was offended by an unexpectedly friendly remark.

'Well, I don't think he's as bad as I thought.'

It was when I was thinking that.

"Jubelian!"

After calling my name in an angry voice, someone stepped in between me and Prince Elios.

* * *

As the audience for the emperor approached, Beatrice took a deep breath.

'You must bring it. It's the flower that Jubelian wants.'

Her heart ached when she remembered the humidity of the Jubelian, which had been hesitating all the time.

'If I wanted to have flowers, would I have looked at them with imploring eyes?'

Soon Beatrice said to Victor, who followed her.

"Stand by here." Victor nodded and looked at the back of the Princess.

'No matter how angelic Princess Floyen is, it's a request from a Princess...'

Beatrice took a deep breath, and then informed the guards guarding the entrance to the Emperor's exclusive grandstand.

"I am here to see my father, so step back." However, rather than retreating, the knight said calmly.

"That's right now, His Imperial Majesty is having an important conversation with a VIP." Beatrice's corner of her mouth soared at the word of VIP.

'Do you dare weigh me with the son of a marquis right now?'

It was when Beatrice was glaring at the knight who was clenching her teeth. The day is ripe for some reason.

'That guy is...'

"The princess came? Let her in." With the permission of the emperor, Beatrice glanced at the guard knight and sharpened her eyes.

'That guy, the one who tried to kidnap me last time.'

With that thought, she will one day get revenge, Beatrice entered the emperor's barracks.

"Come on. What happened?" At the Emperor's question, Beatrice opened her mouth, suppressing her soaring anger.

"Oh, it's nice to see my father on the other side." At those words, the emperor kept a happy smile.

"Yes, you were with Princess Floyen today?" Beatrice replied softly in a whimpering remark.

"Ah, it will be helpful to me because it is a meal of the Duke family." When the daughter's answer came out slightly cold, the emperor said with a bloody smile.

"Yes, that strategy aren't bad either." It's a compliment she would have liked before, but Beatrice's mood was very uncomfortable now.

'I'm not doing it with her for profit.'

But she couldn't reveal her innermost thoughts, and Beatrice smiled and headed to the railing. Then she hid the silver flowers in her sleeve and said...

"Of course my strategies are for my father." Then, the emperor raised one corner of his mouth.

"You're brilliant, Beatrice." Did she get caught? It was when she was swallowing her dryness with such worries. "If you think of me so much, pray to Lord Mikhail for victory. It's the young man I'm rooting for." Beatrice bit her lips slightly and soon lifted the corners of her mouth.

"I hope you win today." Then Mikhail said, raising the corner of his mouth.

"Of course, I will do my best for the honor of the Emperor and Her Royal Highness." Soon Beatrice bowed quickly to the image of Mikhail trying to hold his hand.

"I think the game is going to start soon, so I'll get going, Father." The Emperor said, nodding his head.

"Yes, take care of yourself."

The emperor glanced at the special seat. Regis looking somewhere with a cold stiff face was strange.

'Son of a bitch you are not bothered...'

The emperor raised one corner of his mouth and stared at the ring on his finger.

***

While preparing for the hunt, Max was spying on the Jubelian.

'You're so pretty today.'

It was when he was laughing in the helmet.

"Princess Floyen. Isn't she really as beautiful as an angel?" It was a faint voice that no one else could have heard, but it was clearly heard by Max, whose senses are far superior compared to others.

'It's a problem that these fly flies are constantly twisting because she's so pretty...'

If he become an emperor in the future, there will a law be enacted so that they can't see the empress's face? It was when Max was sharpening his teeth with such a dangerous imagination.

"Ha, it would be great if a beauty like Princess Floyen gave me a handkerchief."

"Aren't you breaking your dream? Isn't an imperial knight, would a critic of a noble family like us be enough?" Max, who was listening to the words, smiled with blood as he looked at the handkerchief hung on his sword.

'Yes, I have what you can't get even if you die.'

It was when he was so triumphant. I heard a crying voice behind the barracks.

"You still don't know? I heard that her lover is a commoner..."

"Hey, there is hope for us as well, as long as it fits well with the common people." It was when Max was getting more and more excited.

"Your Imperial Highness, what are you doing here?" At Dennis' question, Max sharpened his teeth and stared at the direction the voice had come from. The brown flag with the crest of the family was waving in the wind.

'Count Pyrex.'

Max's corner of his mouth soared.

"Ah, it would be fun to hit a hound."

(hound=pyrex)

'Hound? In this hunting competition, wouldn't it be banned to use a hunting dog?'

It was when Dennis was squeezing her eyebrows at the words of unknown origin. He heard the voice of the Crown prince who seemed to have more horns than usual.

"So why are you calling?" At the words of the Crown Prince, Dennis spoke to what he had just reported.

"Oh, I was just about to let you know that we've finished checking our weapons and exploring other camps."

"Continue."

"Yes, Duke Elios has put a professional hunter on the list for today as a explorer. And the Marquis Hessen..." Dennis stared at the Crown Prince without speaking. His eyes were elsewhere, so he seemed to be not listening to the report now.

'Where are you looking?'

''Your Highness?'' As Dennis called, Max stared at him with annoying eyes and said.

"I almost missed it because of you." After talking, Max just glared at the place where Jubelian was. Then, it came to his eyes that the Teacher was staring at him.

'That human may be watching, but he can't be called an ally...'

Max again fixed his eyes to where Jubelian was. Holding hands with Beatrice was irritating.

'Holding hands in front of others, what I can't do either...!'

It was when Max, who was filled with jealousy, frowned.

'Why is it only Jubelian on the field?'

Scooping, who witnessed an unexpected situation, stared at Victor with frowns.

'And why is Victor going after Beatrice instead of staying with the Jubelian?'

Of course, there was no fear of injuries because the use of weapons was prohibited in the safe area and field as well. But the problem was that Jubelian was too pretty.

"Is that Princess Floyen?"

"Coming down to the field, who are you going to give a handkerchief?" He was worried that the fly might get twisted by Jubelian.

'I won't let anyone approach her.'

And how long has it been? Max, who was watching Jubelian, widened his eyes.

'That damn fox!'

As Frederick approached the Jubelian, Max felt his mind rising. But...

<Max, we should pretend to not know each other in the hunting contest. All right?>

If he approach her now, their efforts will be in vain.

'Damn it, but I'm going to go crazy right now. How can I hold it in!'

Max took a step forward.

'Yes, I can't take it anymore.'

Dennis noticed Max's anomaly and tried to stop him.

"You, Your Imperial Highness? You, ca, calm down!" But Max, whose eyes were turned upside down, couldn't hear him.

'I'm going to beat that motherfucker today.'

It was a time when Max approached the comfort zone with a cheerful thought. Someone rushing into the safe area came into Max's sight.

'The Count...?'

Dennis turned pale and dissuaded the prince when he stopped walking.

"Your Imperial Highness, please fix it! It's hard to go to her like this..!" Then Max murmured, lifting up his lip.

"Yes, the fox has to be driven by the hound."

* * *

"What the hell are you doing here?'' I sighed and answered Geraldine. Then he turned his head toward me and glared at me. ''Why did you come down to the field?''

'Isn't talking down to me outside too much?*'

(*talking informally at her)

I'd have had a rough time at home, but I couldn't. Because we couldn't get his face down, the knight of our family.

"Sir Geraldine, now..." I tried to tell Geraldine that I was about to return. But unfortunately, someone hit the player first.

"I don't know what's the case, Sir Ronnel." Geraldine replied, raising one corner of his mouth...

"Prince Elios, why are you flirting with our lady?" Geraldine's sharp words were as good as openly arguing.

'Of course I told you to win, but what if you show it like this?'

It was when I tried to dissuade Geraldine.

"Hey, because she's the person I love." Amazed at the low-pitched bass, I looked at Prince Elios. He smiled as he looked at me. "I'll be sure to win, and I will give you the 'Flowers of the Underground Goddess' as a gift. Please support me."

"No, I'm..." That was when I was about to say that I'd never do that.

"Awaken your dreams. As Floyen's sword, I don't have any thoughts of seeing you win." At Geraldine's words, Prince Elios lifted one of the corners of his mouth.

"Well, I heard that the lord's skills are great, but I don't know if it's possible to hold me back as he thought." It was obvious that it was provocative, but Geraldine had a proud laugh.

"All of our family's knights are similar to me, but have the Prince ever swung a sword?" I always thought he was a good dresser like a mask. But now Prince Elios' eyes were bloody.

"You'll have to wait and see, Geraldine Samuel Ronnel." When his full name was called, Geraldine's eyes became hot as if it was exploding. I started to think that there might be a fight. Normally, Geraldine was on the side of arguing first because of his nasty personality, but there were no problems in the meantime. He would be like that, because he is my cousin, a vassal of our family.

However, the problem was that the opponent he was struggling with was the successor of a duke who is equal to our family.

'This time, I'm not a person who can do something with a back.'

I grabbed Geraldine's arm and held him back.

"Sir Geraldine, stop now."

"The Elios family has been openly disregarding our family. This insult cannot be passed on." For a moment, I replied, twisting my forehead, watching the gruff and grinning.

''I know.''

"You know me, but you want me to bear it now?''

"Yes.'' Geraldine frowned at my positivity.

"For the honor of the Duke and the Lady..." I said indignantly, cutting off his heated words.

"So I'll have to deal with it myself." I stared at Prince Ellios, and Geraldine, who looked silly.

"Princess, what I just said..."

"No." He had been talking to me as if he was going to apologize when I stepped forward, but I didn't mean to accept that apology.

'No matter how much salary lupin he is, how dare you ignore my knights?'

Although they were usually the ones who followed me around, they were family who had seen me for years. It couldn't have been pleasant for someone else to ignore them.

"I just heard Prince ignored the knights of our family."

"Not ignoring..." I saw him trying to make some lame excuses, but I cut it off again because I was already angry.

"You're right." When I cut off his horse one after another, Prince frowned. I continued to stare at the figure. "But what do we do with this? I think our knights will do better than your knights."

"Phew, you seem excited, but hold on a second..." I threw off my gloves at him before he could finish. Not only Prince Elios but also Geraldine stared at me with strange expressions for a duel request or insulting act. But I said coldly without worrying about it.

"Look at it. My family's knights will surely beat your family. And the winner is..."

<More than anything else, I'd like to give the winning prize as a gift for your coming of age.>

I raised the tail of my mouth, recalling Max's face.

"The person I support will do it. Surely." In my words, Prince Elios said with a smile.

"I don't agree with that. But I'm still taking this." He turned his back on the gloves that I threw to pick up a quarrel. I frowned at the back.

'I can't ask you to give it up in shape, and I shouldn't have thrown it.'

I felt sorry again. Then, Geraldine's voice was heard.

"Jubel, do you want me to win?" I shook my head as Geraldine looked at me with trembling eyes.

"No, that's not it. I want to break the nose of Prince Elios..." But Geraldine seemed to be deaf to my words. He glistened his eyes, holding my hand together.

"Yes, the Duke's orders are precious, but since you say so, I will do my best to win for you who support me."

'No, it's not that... I'm rooting for Max...'

But I couldn't tell Geraldine the truth. So I hurriedly said.

"I like it if my oppa can only beat the Prince Elios. So you're not..." It was a time to say that it's okay to do it in moderation without being overwhelmed.

"Jubelian, did you wait a long time?" I was forced to turn my head at her when Liche was talking. Then, I heard Geraldine's voice.

"Now I'll go to get ready to participate. Come back to your seat with Her Imperial Highness." At those words, Liche nodded.

"That's right. Let's go back." I had to take steps without telling Geraldine to be modest.

Chapter 131

On my way back to my seat, I asked, looking at Liche.

"Liche, did you bring the flowers?" She took the damaged flowers out of her coat sleeves and showed them to me.

'Finally, two flowers, this should be enough.'

It was when I was looking at the flowers with satisfaction.

"The flower was ruined, I couldn't help it. If I didn't do this, I couldn't sneak it." I must have been so pretty that she was determined that I wanted it. I shook my head with a smile at the excuse.

"No, thank you very much for doing me a favor. Liche."

"If you have anything you want to have, let me know. I'll save you." You know I'm dating your brother*? Her attitude really seemed to treat her family.

(juvel's term here is 오빠 (o/ppa) not 오라버니 (o/ra/beo/ni) which made me giggle... because oppa is informal one while orabeoni is the formal one... the informal one is always used if you are close or you're intimate with your brother, ! meanwhile, orabeoni is used if you highly respect your brother or you aren't close with each other... both oppa and orabeoni is used only by girls as they refer to their oldee brothers)

"Thank you. Let me know whenever you need my help, too." She said, blushing with a humble nod.

"Uh-huh." Sneaking at the emperor's box seat, Mikhail, looking down at us, caught my eye.

'No way, were you looking at us?'

For a while, I had an ominous thought for some reason, and I held it as if wrapping a flower in my hand.

'It's all right. I'll stop the beast if I have this flower.'

I said, holding Liche's hand.

"Let's go back."

* * *

Mikhail, who was watching Jubelian and the princess, frowned slightly.

'It's annoying.'

Obviously, it's something to tempt, but seeing the Princess hanging around like that with Jubelian made him feel upset.

'For someone other than me, with a big smile...'

The emperor opened his mouth when Mikhail clenched his fist.

"The princess is together with Regis' daughter, so it must be uncomfortable for you." Mikhail stared at the emperor.

'Are you trying to sound me out*?'

(sound me out=To find out someone's thought by stealth.)

On the surface, Mikhail is a poor victim whom Princess Floyen's unilateral obsession had associated with. However, if you were a clever emperor, you could have noticed the strangeness and tried to float. As usual, Mikhail wore a mask and opened his mouth softly.

"It's a relationship that's already ended, but what would be uncomfortable? Besides, if it's a work of Floyen, I'm not afraid because Your Imperial Majesty is here." The emperor snarled and laughed loudly.

"Yes! This is why I like you." He was listening to his laughter for a moment, and Mikhail recalled that he had just not heard the details from the former emperor.

"By the way, the conversation was cut off just because Her Imperial Highness came." The emperor stopped laughing at that.

"Yes, you asked me earlier. The victory aside, how will the Crown Prince bring up the feelings he has for Regis' daughter?"

"Yes, I did." The Emperor opened his mouth with his eyes shining.

"Simple. While those who participated in the hunting contest are chasing the beasts, you'll have to deal with the beasts invading the Duke of Floyen's special seat."

"Do you mean the Dire Wolf you mentioned before?"

"Yes."

"But how can the beast attack the Duke of Floyen?" The emperor, who heard Mikhail's question, raised his lip.

"Oh, it's simple. I made a chair cushion out of the leather of the snow rabbit that the beast loves. Regis, even if he's too sensitive, he'll just think it's a comfortable chair." While admiring the Emperor's slow answer, Mikhail felt angry.

'This bastard is going to keep putting my Juvelian in crisis?'

The emperor laughed.

"Looking at that cheeky look, I see you really like my daughter." Only then did Mikhail realize that he couldn't control his expression.

'How did I get the emperor's confidence, but I can't collapse here!'

Mikhail kneeled on one knee and lowered his head.

"I've been rude to His Imperial Majesty. But I was worried that it might not be controlled due to the nature of the beast..." Was there some silence? The emperor, who thought he would get angry, burst into laughter.

"I doubted the sincerity of your heart towards my daughter because there wasn't a change in your usual facial expressions, but I'm relieved to your reveal your inner feelings like this." At that, Mikhail stared at the emperor. The emperor smiled and went to the railing. "Your heart will be rewarded today." Mikhail lifted the tail of his mouth as the emperor looked completely over.

'I'm so lucky. Because I aam the first.'

Then, he hands Mikhail what the emperor is holding. It was a silver flower decorating the box seat railing.

"This is..?" The emperor raised the corners of his mouth to Mikhail's voice, which was filled with wonder.

"Take it." Mikhail took the flowers, as he couldn't resist the emperor. Soon the emperor opened his mouth. "That's how to control the beast. Even with it, the beast can't give up."

"It's an unexpected harvest." Mikhail raised the corners of his mouth and bowed his head at the same time. "I will surely repay your Majesty's grace." At Mikhail's words, the emperor looked satisfied and opened his mouth.

"That's right!" Mikhail slowly raised his head. There was a question that was not yet revealed.

"By the way, how does the Crown Prince..." Mikhail said, the emperor nodded and revealed his plans.

"Ah, the beast. I'm thinking of solving it when the Crown Prince returns."

"But then, if others even join forces..."

"Though Maximilian is said to be a first-class swordsman, wouldn't it be unreasonable to defeat the beast alone?"

Since it is the realm of talent that you can use mana even if you touch a sword for a lifetime, the number was small. Currently, the first-class prosecutors possessed by the empire were less than twenty, including the Marquis of Hessen, the Count of Pyrex, and Maximilian. Some of them were absent from this event. The emperor tore his mouth and laugh.

"And I'll let the Crown Prince get around him so he can catch the beast quickly, and he'll be there soon. Think about it! Isn't it crazy if the woman you liked in an uncontrollable situation is in danger?" For a while, convinced of the ensuing emperor's words, Mikhail brought to his mouth a variable that could overturn all those assumptions.

"But if it's the Duke of Floyen, he might be able to hunt beasts alone." At that, the emperor smiled while fiddling with the ring on his left hand.

"If it's the Duke of Floyen, don't worry. I'm going to give him a special mission. So, you just have to do not worry about anything and defeat the evil beast." For a while, he was stunned by the word special mission, and Mikhail glared at the flower in his hand.

'If I give this flower to Juvelian, she will be safe, right? But...'

If so, it would be impossible to hunt for beasts, and he would not be able to make any credit. Mikhail clenched his fist and packed everything.

'Yes, she can throw away what I give, so I'd rather save her from the crisis. And maybe...'

He know it's a mean idea, but he wanted to impress her with the fact that he was the only savior. The emperor said, pointing to Mikhail's shoulders, who were left blank.

"The competition will start soon, so come on and get ready."

***

It was when I and Liche returned to our seats.

"Jubelian nim, we've been waiting!"

It was when I was puzzled to see my friends, including Rose, making a fuss. Veronica lifted the corners of her mouth and said...

"Jubelian nim, we saw it all before.''

"What?''

"You talked to Prince Elios!''

"Oh, that's...'' I tried to stop talking and shut up.

'I'm sure you'll be disappointed.'

It couldn't be said that we had asked for a duel against the man who was filled with fantasy about Prince Elios. When I answered them with a cloud of words, they asked, glaringly, whether it was more fishy.

"You look pretty intimate, what's the relationship?" Pretty intimate, we were just talking, but it seemed that they misunderstood because they were far away.

"It's not in any relationship." Catherine pouted at my answer.

"It's the first time he showed such interest." Rose said, cutting Catherine off.

"Oh, I think the competition is about to start! Let's stand up!" I could see the knights lined up to see if the competition was about to begin.

'Are you finally starting the opening ceremony?'

I smiled at Max and the knights far away from the stadium.

'I hope you'll do a good job today...'

At that time, Rose's voice was heard.

"Jubelian nim, you don't think you're going to stand up and watch, do you?" I blushed when I realized that I had been standing all this time.

'Oh, I didn't know because I was focusing on Max.'

I turned my head to Liche and said, as I was holding her hand.

"Your Imperial Highness, come and sit down."

"Okay." I sat in the seat next to my dad, while Liche sat right next to me. Sitting in a chair, the fluffy sensation was excellent. Because it was a special seat, the chairs were much better than the regular seats.

'I also like the taste of power.'

When I was thinking that way, I saw my dad sitting next to me staring at me.

"Why's wrong?" Dad sighed and answered my question.

"It certainly doesn't look like anybody." In a sudden word, I guessed the meaning.

'Well, is that the level of the knights now?'

Certainly, even in a wide and crowded empire, my father is the only transcendental person, so it is worth it. I replied with a smile.

"Of course, there can't be anyone as strong as my Daddy."

"Do you really think so?" I smiled and nodded at him as he asked back in harmony.

"Yes! Dad's the best!" Then my father smiled brightly to see if he felt better. Then he stroked my head wearing a bonnet and said.

"I'm glad you said that." Was the compliment that he was the best in swordsmanship so good? I thought I had been indifferent to my dad for a while to see how he looks like he really likes.

'I have to praise you every day from now on.'

That was when I was making up my mind. The sound of the horn rang loudly.

"His Imperial Majesty the Emperor is entering!" Soon after, the emperor, who appeared on the field, rose to a circular platform in the center of the stadium. I stared at Max with anxiety.

'Are you gonna be okay?'

According to the original work, the beast is strong enough to be impossible to kill alone unless he has reached the level of transcendental and sword master. If the emperor who brought the beast as I thought was the emperor, I don't know which side he will attack.

'Maybe he's trying to deal with Max and other nobles who are against his opinion. If you hit the back while you're in the hunt, you'll get stuck.'

For a while while making myself uneasy, I touched the silver flower in my coat pocket. Strangely, the touch of flowers on my fingers was cool.

'It may be tiring. But...'

From the sudden confession of Prince Elios to the victory of Max. The content and flow of the original work have changed a lot. In addition, Max is in a state where the forces of support have rapidly increased due tohisi victory. He may try to get rid of the greedy emperor's sexuality, Max.

'I can't put it like that.'

I turned my head and stared at Sir Victor standing behind Liche. When I made eye contact, I tried to beckon, but I saw him hurriedly avoiding my eyes.

'What? Why is he doing that?'

I called his name for a moment when I was puzzled.

''Sir Victor, would you please come over here for a moment?'' He came to me with a stiff face at my words.

"What did you call me for?'' I soon felt weird with a voice that seemed to be frightened out of nowhere.

'What, are you afraid of my rumors? I've been living a decent life these days...'

After sighing for a while, I was conscious of Liche looking at me with a puzzled face.

'If you give Max the flower that she brought you hard, it will hurt her.'

As he stood next to me, I took out a silver flower and gave it to him so that no one could see it.

"This is..." He stared at me in the sense of putting it in his pocket, but he opened his mouth after he had a pupil quake without hesitation.

"Well, I can't get this!" When everyone's attention was focused on us, I frowned.

'You're too slow to notice.'

Fortunately, we can't see what we've exchanged at this angle.

'Can I trust this person?'

If Max is entrusted with Liche's escort, he's a trustworthy person, and he wouldn't know the situation at all, but I don't know why I was mistaken for giving this flower to him. I ignored his words and opened my mouth.

"Can you go to my family's carriage and get me some extra gloves? I was uncomfortable because I only had one pair of gloves." Soon I whispered quickly for only him to hear. ''The flower, give it to your master.''

* * *

Count Pyrex stared fiercely at the emperor on the platform.

<Today you'll have to chase Maximilian and make it easier for him to catch a beast. Then drive the beasts away so that no one else can return to the field.>

Although he was the one who sacrificed his life, Count Pyrex was left out of the plan.

'You're going to make Mikhail the winner using the spell I've caught? You're so mean.'

He have never been so loyal to the Emperor that he was beaten or ignored. This was the first time he was so angry. No matter how ignored he may be, he was the closest aide to the emperor. The resentment that had been raging toward the emperor turned into hatred the moment he saw Mikhail's face.

'This is all Mikhail's fault, because of him!'

It was when Count Pyrex was gritting at Mikhail and grating his teeth. The emperor opened his mouth.

"As you all know, today's competition sets scores according to the level of difficulty of captured beast. The more dangerous the more rare the higher the score."

Participants lined up in each camp at the emperor's words brightened their eyes. They dreamed of making a prize for winning, recalling rare animals such as wild beasts such as leopards and bears, and swift silver foxes. This was because it was possible to receive a great reward from the head of the family if they made a merit.

'It will be this treasure...'

With everyone's attention being focused, the emperor beckoned to the chief servant, and he stood next to the emperor holding a cushion made of red satin covered with black cloth. Soon the emperor lifted the tail of his mouth and removed the cloth.

At that moment, in the multicolored radiant light that was revealed, everyone lost their words and stared at the beautiful necklace. It was seen in red, blue, and gold. The story that the necklace, which was made of any kind of minerals, was made more beautiful than any flower for a companion who misses the earth by the god of the underworld, deserves a story. The emperor lifted the tail of his mouth while looking at the lost people.

"This necklace is a precious treasure of the empire that the first emperor received as a gift from his father, a dragon. I hope you all do your best to capture this beautiful underground flower."

A national treasure-class jewel whose value cannot dare to be measured, everyone was shining in the desire to occupy it. It was not long before I heard the sound of horns. It was a sign that we were going to start hunting soon, so get ready. While everyone was getting ready to start, someone rushed to the crown prince.

"Your Imperial Highness!" As Victor suddenly appeared on the field, Max crumpled his face.

'I'm busy for a while, but now...!'

He thought he didn't notice, but he didn't know it was this much. It was the time when Max, who had soared irritation, was tempered by Victor.

"It is a gift from Handkerchief Lady." The words that Victor spoke urgently were immediately irritable. Max laughed as he accepted what Victor had handed over.

'It's Lunariel, did you know?'

A silver flower that is as beautiful as the moonlight. It was a symbol of good luck among the northern people, and it was a flower with a false superstition of defeating something special. Max put the flower in his pocket, then lifted the corner of his mouth.

'Maybe you wished me luck.'

He turned his head to the special seat of Duke of Floyen, where Jubelian was, and Jubelian was staring at him with a smile.

'Oh, why are you so pretty?'

She was so lovely that Max was caught in a ticklish mood not only inside his chest but also all over his body. He wanted to kiss the red lips thickly after saying that this pretty thing was his in front of everyone. But...

<Max, we should pretend to not know each other in the hunting contest. All right?>

As Juvelian said that, he have to put up with it. Max turned his head hard and got on the horse. Then, the heated cheering sound from each family was clearly heard.

"Be sure to win!"

"I will trust only you!"

Everyone seemed to have their eyes turned on the Flowers of the Underground Goddess. Suddenly, Max imagined that the Flowers of the Underground Goddess that he had seen before was caught in Juvelian's white neck.

'I'm sure I know why I'm giving you this jewelry as a present.'

The idea in Max's head was that a necklace was replaced by a kiss mark.

As the blue diamond cuff button of the Jubelian was rumored, giving expensive jewelry was either a sign of love because the owner and source were known.

'I've got a gift too, must I bring victory to my lady?'

Soon he heard the start signal, the horn, and Max ran quickly.

***

Dagadak, dagadak.

I sighed as I watched the loudly departing horses.

'I hope nothing happens...'

When I was thinking that. Sir Victor came in with a look of exhaustion.

"Here you are, gloves.''

"Thank you.'' I smiled as I accepted the gloves.

'Now I don't have to worry about Max being attacked by the beast.'

Then he hurriedly lean from me and said.

"I hope you don't let me run these private errands in the future." You hate me so much, but it was natural that he had a bad feeling about me. When I was about to say yes, Liche called out Sir Victor in a clear voice.

"Sir Victor!" Sir Victor rushed to Liche.

"Your Imperial Highness, what's the matter?" It was time for me to open my eyes in amazement at the way he sounded a little bad. Liche asked Sir Victor with a suspicious look.

"Why did you go to the field?" When asked by Liche, Sir Victor looked at me once, and then stared at Liche.

"I came to cheer the Lord for a moment. Is there a problem?" Unlike when dealing with me, it was a tone that felt like a little bit of prevention.

'No, it's the famous princess, but that's what I mean...'

It was when I was about to say a word to Sir Victor.

"The question is solved, so you can return to the mission." At Liche's words, Sir Victor again stood behind her. Seeing the roaring form, it seemed like he didn't want to do it. I looked at it as if it were absurd, then sighed.

'What happened today, I have to tell Max about it.'

***

The wind rattled his cheeks. Like the lineage of a great horse, Max's horse was running fast.

'Okay, it looks like there are a lot of animals here.'

Max, looking for the beast, shouted at the men who followed him.

"It's around here!"

His men stopped at his words. Dennis, who looked at the Crown Prince's back all the time, raised the corners of his mouth.

'Finally, you announced.'

The Crown Prince's order led the lieutenants to hunt in the nearby forest.

'In fact, His Imperial Highness' win is our win too.'

When guarding the northern border, soldiers who were unable to adapt to the cold and stark weather had been hunted to boost morale. Among them, the Crown Prince's hunting skills were by far the best.

'He's so sensitive to foreboding that he soon noticed the lurking animals. Maybe this time, too.'

It was when Dennis was staring at the Crown Prince's back with such faith.

Wskkk

When the bushes were heard shaking, Max signalled at the archer. Then the archer hung an arrow on the bow and pulled the rope tight. It was when everyone was so breathless waiting for the beast to show up.

Kkyuuu

A round body like a ball of round eyes, a large ear that rises above it, and round blue eyes. Although it was a cute appearance, it was just delicious food to the eyes of skilled hunters. There are quite a few in the north, but near here it was a rare sight of snow rabbits.

'It's a pity that it's a herbivore, but it's still a rare animal, so it's not a low score.'

It was when Dennis was trying to signal the archer.

"Stop!" At the voice of the imprisoning Crown Prince, the archers pulled out arrows and put down their bows. It must have been caught, but Dennis didn't understand what the Crown Prince was doing.

"Your Imperial Highness, why are you doing that?" Despite Dennis' question, the Crown Prince was staring at the direction where the snow rabbit had disappeared, with his mouth closed. Before long, the prince answered silently.

"It resemble her." Dennis distorted his face when he heard that.

'What do you mean a resemblance between the Princess Floyen and a beast like that...'

Objectively, the snow rabbit is a cute animal with an outer sheep, but it was not enough to compare it with one of the most beautiful women in the country.

'More than anything else, it's not a good analogy...'

It was when Dennis was struggling to make a testimony for the successful relationship of the master. Max took the archer's bow. Then he pointed an arrow at Dennis.

'Why are you...!'

Even before his thoughts were over, the arrow swam out of the protest. It was when Dennis was looking at the arrows flying towards him with the eyes that he couldn't believe it. At that moment, an arrow struck Dennis' cheek and passed narrowly.

Fook!

At the same time as the arrow hit something, a sharp cry echoed.

Kyaang!

Dennis, in fear, turned to the rear. Not long ago, a huge cat and a beast were struggling with the pain that had pierced their head.

'Fire lake? How is that here...?'

A beast called the king of animals in the south. However, it was a wild beast that was never seen in the central part of this place without jungle. The fact that a ferocious beast that could not be seen here was attacking was highly likely to have been deliberately released by someone.

'The emperor caught a beast...'

As Dennis was hardening his face, Max raised the tail of his mouth.

"Thanks to that, we can get a good score." Max pulled out his sword and approached the flames struggling with pain. Before long, his sword broke the flames. Max, who had lost his smile, said to the knights who were looking at him. "Don't be vigilant at all."

* * *

The stadium where the knights left was over. But at least it wasn't boring.

<Don't go somewhere for a while.>

This is because, after my father was away for a while, this place has been transformed into a gossip area.

"Well, not long ago, Lord Rowayne from Count Rowayne sent me a letter asking if you can give me a handkerchief because I'm offering the flower of the underground goddess?" Marie frowned at Rose's words that seemed amazing.

"Yes? But I did get that letter too?" At Marie's words, Rose flinched and frowned.

"You, no way handkerchief to Count Rowain, isn't it?" Marie couldn't answer, and bowed her head.

'I guess they gave the embroided handkerchief to Lord Rowayne.'

As everyone was drooling, Rose shook her head as she touch her forehead.

"Ah, no. Marien! If he is that person, I know that he have already received handkerchiefs from several people!" At that, I frowned.

'The rumor was true.'

I knew the rumors of Lord Rowayne were bad, but I also tried not to pass it over, perhaps because I suffered from the rumors. But I guess that's true! At that time, someone responded as if they were amazing.

"Wow, that's a motherfucker." Suddenly, I gazed at him with trembling eyes, confused by Sir Victor's admiration.

'No, you're so blatantly swearing...'

I think I heard him. Sir Victor was originally a mercenary, but he became an official knight thanks to his excellent skills.

'Is that why you're talking so rough?'

It was when I was thinking that.

"Oh, my God, what am I going to do?" Marien's face, muttering small, was white as a sheet. Catherine, who was beside her, breathed a sigh, patting her shoulder.

"You are not a dullard to rumors, and you have made this mistake..." Marien blushed and opened her mouth, as if it was still unbelievable.

"It can't be that way. He surely said he liked you?" Rose shook her head in a voice that came out with a gloomy look.

"Get your mind, Marien! The Lord of Count Rowain, is the best playboy in the social world!" Then someone shook her head.

"No, unfortunately, it's not the best." Everyone stared at Veronica with a puzzled look at her at her injustice. Soon Veronica opened her mouth.

"Did you know that the head of the Treasury Department, Marquis Perdal, has a second son?"

"Yes, of course. Didn't you say he's in care because he's weak?"

"That's actually...." Everyone listened to Veronica's voice. She would be like that, because the Marquis of Perdal was so savvy that he seldom made it to the gossip.

"Cough cough!" At that time, someone coughed badly.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I have a cold nowadays, so please keep talking." We looked at Sir Victor, sighed and continued the conversation.

"What is actually?"

"Actually, you know that the second son is a high-flying man that no one can stop?"

"Yeah?" You mean the decent treasury chief's son is a playboy? Veronica frowned as I looked so surprised that she couldn't believe it.

"Unfortunately, it was said that he seduced an innocent lady before he reached adulthood." Then Sir Victor intervened with an absurd face.

"What? Is that really?" Veronica replied, nodding her head.

"Yes, yes, and he abandoned the lady." Sir Victor, who was still listening to the words, frowned and muttered, as if he were stunned.

"Who abandons who? Ha, that's really absurd." I thought, looking at his annoyed face.

'It's surprising? I thought he was snobbish, but ge'd be angry at the injustice towards Lady.'

It was when I was admiring his knightly side. Veronica's voice was heard.

"He have been playing with debauchery ever since, but you know that the Marquis sent someone to clean up at the temple as a prelude?" Terrified to the end, Sir Victor shut his mouth and began to laugh. "Why are you laughing?" At Veronica's point, Sir Victor said, shook his head.

"Ah, it's because the words Lady says are so exciting." He stood next to Veronica and looked down. Then he said with a drowsy smile. "So, is there any other story about the second son?" It looked stupid earlier, but it looked pretty good. He is as handsome as the Young Lord of Count Rowayne, who is mentioned as a playboy. Veronica also blushed and replied to see if there was any lump on her face.

"Well, they said his face was pretty smooth." At that, Sir Victor laughed and nodded.

"Of course, he's the most promiscuous man in the Empire, and he should be ugly!" Rose laughed with her mouth shut, as if the words were funny. Before long Victor approached Marien and said, looking closely at her.

"Lady, that's really good." At that, Marien's eyebrows seemed displeased as if she thought she was trying to make fun of her.

"Good thing, what do you mean?"

"Isn't it a good thing you got to know this before your heart for such rubbish gets deeper? It's obvious that there is a guardian angel who helps the Lady!" When the unexpected words came out to Victor, Marien smiled unknowingly.

''Hahahaha, certainly not wrong." Then Victor said, standing when he smiled.

"So don't be depressed by such trash. You came out to play with your friends, but you don't have enough time to have fun?" Oh, that's definitely sympathy.

'Was it because you were a mercenary? You're unstoppable, but it's attractive.'

Rose and our friends laughed as if I'm not the only one who thought that. After a while, Marien opened her mouth, looking at Victor with hazy eyes.

"If you were a knight directly under His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince, you would have had many opportunities to participate in the banquet, but I've never seen you before." At that, Sir Victor laughed.

"Ah, at every banquet, His Imperial Highness gave me a secret mission, so I've never been in the banquet for a long time."

"Mission? What is it?" Marien asked, staring at him. Then Victor smiled and opened his mouth.

"It's a secret." If you say it's a secret, it makes you more curious. Marien asked, shining her eyes.

"I'm curious what the mission is, can't you tell me? I'll keep it a secret."

"Woohoo, you could get hurt if you know." At that time, Liche, who was quiet, said sharply.

"Because the mission came out, my escort will be my mission now? Isn't it a negligent of mission to flirt with our conversation?" Then Victor flinched and replied.

"Ay, isn't your guard doing well?" Liche sighed as she glared at him at the brazen answer. I thought for a moment that I was smiling at the sight, looking at the empty seat next to me.

'By the way, Dad's later than I thought.'

* * *

The Duke of Floyen frowned at the base of the stadium, where people usually do not walk.

'I'm sure you've felt it at this point. Where are they at?'

The exotic energy he felt throughout the stadium, more like a wild animal running wild than a human being. Of course, he would have left it alone if it were normal, but he couldn't help but pay attention to it because it was a meeting with his daughter.

'With Jubel, I can't leave that dangerous energy alone.'

Regis once again concentrated his mind and read the spirit. It was very fine, but he could find the point where the flesh was flowing.

'Is that a cage over there?'

Originally, it was used as a dumping ground, so they had a huge beast in the basement of the stadium. Regis approached the cage. It was not long before the astonishment of his eyes.

'Dire Wolf Beast. What the...'

He was also reminded of the person who brought the beast here for a moment, and Regis reminded himself that he should take precedence right now.

'I'll have to kill it.'

It's no match for a transcendent man, but it's self-evident that it's very dangerous for others. As soon as Regis pulled out the sword, a clear blue glow came into the sword. It was the sword, the symbol of the early moon. He looked with compassionate gaze at the beast surrounded by silver flowers and gave leaves without strength, and then grasped the sword sack.

'I'm sorry if it wasn't what you wanted.'

When he tried to cut down Dire Wolf's body with iron spears, Regis, who felt something, turned his head.

'This energy is obvious, the Emperor.'

It was a time when Regis was trying to escape from the red aura peculiar to the Imperial family. But his body didn't move.

'Damn it! Did you wear that damn ring?'

When Regis was hardened, the Dire Wolf grunted slightly. The emperor, who appeared before long, curled his eyes.

"You're obviously sensitive because you're a bunch of bastards." The ring on the emperor's left hand was shining an ominous red light.

***

Different animals were feared by different regions. If there was a fierce, sleek flame lake in the southern part of the empire, there lived a cleverer leopard in the wetter western highlands.

"Leave!" An arrow that broke through the wind and escaped the protest rushing toward the target. However, a beast who had already figured out the trajectory set his nails and struck the arrow.

'I expected this much.'

In the original fight against beasts, it is more advantageous to attack from a distance rather than a full-scale battle. But when the arrow didn't go through, Denis shouted sharply.

"Come on spear...!" But before Dennis' orders were over, the spear was already flying toward the beast. The beast dodged tactfully, but one was stuck in his back.

Keuaaaaaang!

Then, someone ordered.

"Take the shield and surround the high leopard to keep him from getting out!" Dennis gritted his teeth at the sight of Frederick speaking in a relaxed voice.

'Prince Elios, I never thought I'd run into you!'

The two camps encountered each other while searching for game were trying to go in different directions. But at that timing, the beast attacked, and as a result, the situation like it is now.

'I'm going to take the game away from them!'

Dennis was rolling his head and looking for a way to gain the upper hand in the hunt.

"Stupid assholes." Someone jumped over the knights holding a shield and entered the siege.

"Well, if it's black armor, Cro, Crown Prince?" The eyes of the Knights of the Elios camp were amazed at the reckless appearance of the Crown Prince who entered the siege.

'What the hell are you going to do?'

The sharp fangs and claws of the tall leopard were notorious for tearing the crocodile skin, which was said to be hard and was like iron.

Kyaoong!

How to bite a cat when a mouse is in trouble. The beast's nerves, surrounded by a solid shield, were very sharp, and it couldn't miss the defenseless prey in front of him.

"Come on, protect His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince!" Frederick, embarrassed by an unexpected situation, shouted, but the already high leopard was leaping toward the prince.

'If the Crown Prince gets hurt, he may hold our family accountable.'

Of course, the Crown Prince was injured while flying, and since it was an unexpected situation, he will be taken into account. However, there was a very high possibility that the Flower of the Underground Goddess promised to Juvelian would fly away.

'It's really annoying.'

When Frederick was feeling annoyed by the sudden change. The Crown Prince's sword drew a red curve. Even though he only swung it once, Frederick looked at it as if he was possessed.

Thud!

With a loud sound, the beast's body became screaming, and a shout broke out from the Crown Prince's knights.

"As expected of His Imperial Highness!''

"Great, great!'' Frederick, who was staring at it, frowned. He don't like the behavior of Crown Prince, who is radical and doesn't think about the future, but it was true that he purely admired his tremendous demeanor.

That's weird.

It's just a childish provocation.

Why is he so angry?

It was when Frederick was clenching his fists out of an unknown anger.

"Frederick Lionel Elios." The prince, who had approached so far, whispered quietly. "This is the only time I'm letting you go, so keep that in mind. If you don't know the subject and try to covet mine, I'll tear you up and kill you."

When Frederick heard the low-key warning, instead of being depressed, Frederick glared at the Crown Prince. But the Crown Prince was turning his head to the other side.

"I finally found it." What? Frederick tried to ask, but the prince had already turned his back. "Don't mind my game." Frederick's men burst into anger as the prince and his men disappeared from sight.

"No matter how much the prince is, isn't it tyranny?"

"That's right. It's a topic where we've built a siege, so it's easy to catch high leopards..." But Frederick didn't respond to them. It was because of a question that just came to mind.

'He definitely said it again.'

Before long, Frederick recalled his first collision with the Crown Prince.

<Princess Floen, let's dance with me.>

When the Crown Prince applied for dance for the first time, he was upset because he was just interested in a moment.

'No way, were you serious?'

For a moment, Frederick frowned after clenching his fists at the appearance of an unexpected competitor.

'Wait a minute, when I think about it, a high leopard is an animal that doesn't live around here, ah!'

Only then could he understand what the Crown Prince said.

'Is it possible that someone is deliberately solving dangerous predators to harm the Crown Prince?'

Surely, if they used predators during the hunting competition, they would be able to kill the Crown Prince without being suspected. Frederick looked in the direction of the disappearance of the Crown Prince without realizing it, and raised the corners of his mouth.

'It's none of my business, but maybe you'll get a high score.'

* * *

It's been quite a while, but the seat next to me was still empty.

'Why isn't my Daddy coming?'

I'm sure he left quickly, but now that he hasn't been here for so long, I'm starting to worry.

'Nothing's going on, is it?'

Liche asked, staring at me as I sighed with frustration.

"Jubelian, what is it?" I gulped down my saliva in a sudden silence. Before I knew it, everyone was staring at me with a worried look.

"Oh, well, my father hasn't come back yet..." When I clouded the end of my words, Sir Todd, who had been standing there with no presence, opened his mouth.

"I haven't heard his destination either. But I'm afraid he'll be back soon. Isn't it the other person you should worry about?"

(if regis had a battle, isn't it the other person she must be worried about because regis is very good at swordmanship)

Lord Victor nodded, too.

"That's right. Anyone else would know, your father is the most powerful man in the Imperial Swordsmanship! Who would touch him if he didn't go out of his mind?" I nodded and suppressed the lining of the fire.

'Yes, it must be a rainstorm. Sir Victor also said, but my dad is a very strong person.'

Then, someone took my hand and said.

"If you're worried about Jubelian right now, don't talk about it." I felt like I was getting hollowed out at the sight of Liche talking with a serious face. I smiled quietly.

'I'm afraid it's a delightful and refreshed feeling machine, so it's cool to me.'

Then, Liche asked, gazing at me with her red eyes.

"Jubelian, if you're really worried, let's go find your father together." Of course, I was worried about my dad, but I didn't know what would happen if I moved for nothing.

"Oh, no, I can't do that because of me..." But Liche was determined.

"You keep looking at the seat next to you, so I am bothered." Rose nodded at her words.

"That's right." Our other friends were nodding their heads, too. Liche said with a smile.

"It was boring to be here at last. It wouldn't be bad to take a walk around here. There are guards at the stadium, so it's safe."

"But,..." Frankly speaking, it was true that I was so worried about my dad that I fell for her words. But what if something happens to us who are taking a walk? I kept thinking of such an ominous family, so I couldn't answer. Then, said Riche.

"Victor, how good are you?" Sir Victor replied confidently, stroking his chin.

"Well. Wouldn't it be at least in the top 5 of the Imperial Swordsmanship?" It's an obvious bluff, but Liche said, looking at me.

"You hear that? What's the concern when we have such a talented man guarding us? Let's go, let's go." Now I was embarrassed by what she said. "Don't worry. Nothing's going to happen." I sighed and replied to her voice whispering so quietly that only I could hear it.

"Yes."

***

Mikhail was waiting near the stadium, as the emperor said.

'Is the Crown Prince still?'

It hasn't been a long time, but it was a bit painful to wait still.

'What is Jubelian doing right now?'

He felt like he was hunting, and he wanted to kidnap her and take her. However, as long as the Duke of Floyen was attached to her, even that was a vain fantasy.

'How on earth would the emperor control the duke?'

<This is the last warning. Don't touch my daughter anymore. I'm not going to end it with your house next time.>

On that day, Mikhail's sighting of the Duke of Floyen was far beyond human. Maybe it's more dangerous than the beast in many ways. However, the emperor was strangely relaxed whenever the story of the Duke of Floyen came out.

'What kind of confidence is it?'

It was when Mikhail had doubts about the emperor.

"... you know?"

'Pretend to be popular?'

Mikhail slowly walked to the place where the voice could be heard.

'This is definitely a place with an entrance to the basement of the stadium...'

At that moment, Mikhail opened his mouth to the incredible sight in front of him.

"Okay, Your Imperial Majesty." Duke Floyen, who is on one knee, and the emperor looking down at him seemed more like a master-slave relationship than a military-god relationship. At that time, Dragon Knight, the emperor's bodyguard, approached the emperor.

"Your Majesty, I have something to report."

"What?"

"Well, right now, Her Imperial Highness has left the special seat..."

At that remark, the emperor crumpled his forehead. She must be in the special seat so that the demon will attack Beatrice and Regis' daughter.

"If so, then the Princess (Beatrice) is..." It was when the emperor was trying to ask for the princess' position.

Fwak!

When firecrackers erupted in the sky, the emperor swears.

"Fuck, it's a sign that Maximilian is coming back! Go find the Princess (Beatrice)!"

***

Max looked back with fierce eyes.

'I warned you not to mind my game, you damned fox, you dare follow me?'

Although it wasn't difficult to bully him, there weren't one or two things he really didn't like.

'I want to show you the power gap.'

As Max was repressing his uplifting impulse, Dennis called him quietly.

"Your Imperial Highness." In response, Max silently stared at the sight in front of him.

"It's a hunting competition, and you have to follow the Crown Prince..."

"What can I do? If it's our situation, it's better." The warlords guarding the huge front of us, and the sound of their chatter.

'The group finally found a bastard to release the beast.'

Max laughed bitterly as he stared at the sentence of Count Pyrex.

"Your Imperial Highness, what should I do? Shall we attack?" At Dennis' question, Max shook his head.

"No, I have an interesting idea."

"What thought..."

"First of all, take off my armor." At the words of the Crown Prince, Dennis opened his eyes wide.

''Your Imperial Highness, why do you want to take off your armor?''

"Oh, I'm going to attack them disguised as an unidentified man.''

"What? Why? Wouldn't it be better to just attack?" When Dennis questioned, seemingly absurd, Max said, frowning.

"Count Pyrex is an emperor's dog. If you attack him, you'll only give them a hint." It was when Dennis was swallowing swelling at the right words. Max took off his helmet and said. "But Count Pyrex is one of the few nobles who know my face."

"No way..." Max smiled as he saw Dennis unable to repeat the words.

"If there is no justification to attack, wouldn't that be all if I got it?"

* * *

Of the four beasts, one was struck and two were captured by the Crown Prince's hand. Now, with the last beast left behind, Count Pyrex, who was drinking alcohol in a canteen, stared in the direction of the stadium without his knowledge.

'What the hell am I doing here for?'

At first, he tried to think that the emperor would also praise him if he followed the order. However, the more he thought about it, the more he felt regret and resentment.

'There's no way His Imperial Majesty will recognize this! Damn it! This is all because of the damn Hessen young man!'

Even briefly swallowing swearing is a short time, and it is unclear what will be the reprimands for failure to work. Count Pyrex raised his voice and ordered.

"Get ready to let the beast go!" How long has it been? After a while, the knight's warning was heard.

"Who is it! I will attack you if you come near!" Count Pyrex curled his brows and drank alcohol.

'Why did he show up at this point?'

Currently, the hunting ground owned by the imperial family is controlled by civilians. In other words, it was said that the assailant who appeared now was one of those who participated in the hunting competition.

'I don't know which idiot he is, but I guess he's fallen behind or lost.'

The thought of asking him about the beasts in the cage all over again ran into his mind, but Count Pyrex felt at ease.

'If you're a mercenary, it's okay if you beat him out, and if you're a knight or a nobleman, you can make an excuse for capturing the beast in us and return it.'

However, at an unexpected scream, Count Pyrex woke up, frowning.

'Is it a raid? There is no fear of any kind of burial...'

The status of being the third person among the imperial prosecutors did not just come out. If it isn't the Duke of Floyen, he had confidence that he would not lose to anyone.

"What is it?" As ge went to the place where the turmoil occurred, several knights were surrounded by a hooded man. Count Pyrex frowned and drank alcohol.

'Pathetic things, you can't even defeat a one guy.'

The pail was a complete visa, Count Pyrex threw it.

Bang!

As everyone's attention was focused, Count Pyrex raised his voice.

"Get out of here, everybody! I'll deal with him!" As the knights retreated, Count Pyrex ran into the grotesque.

Chaeng!

The fricative sound of the sword and sword collision rang loudly. Count Pyrex glared at the unknown assailant who was facing him with his sword.

'It's obviously empowered, but you're stopping it.'

The two-handed sword, the Pastad, is dull and heavy, but it is so sturdy that it is close to a blunt sword that can destroy the opponent's weapon depending on the user. However, the unidentified man was trying to stop Pastad with a normal long sword.

'That's pretty good.'

While praising the other person for a while, Count Pyrex lifted his mouth.

'But you can't beat a sword that uses mana with only strength.'

Before long, a faint sword of opaque light flowed through Pastad's crude blade.

'I'll break your sword like this!'

The moment when Count Pyrex was cheering and trying to push down the sword of the assailant. The sword of the mysterious man, who was silver, began to glow red.

'Red Mana? Don't tell me...!'

The moment Count Pyrex tried to look into the face of the hood with astonished eyes, the monster flipped the hood with one free hand.

"It's not enough to free the beast at will, it's ridiculous to dare to attack me 'first' on the theme of an imperial dog." He didn't see his face often, but the owner of a beautiful appearance that he couldn't forget had a bloody smile.

'The Crown Prince?'

Confused, Count Pyrex missed the sword. Without missing the gap, Max aimed the tip of his sword against Count Pyrex's neck. Count Pyrex swallowed dry saliva, feeling the harsh touch of the tip of the sword pressing against his Adam's apple.

'Damn, did you ever trace us back? If something goes wrong with the plan like this...'

Count Pyrex rolled his head to escape the crisis.

"Let the Count!" Still, in the midst of the complex, the men were trying to aim their swords at Max at once. It was when Count Pyrex tried to stop his foolish men.

"You dare to put your sword on His Imperial Highness!" The knights of the Crown Prince who suddenly appeared, pointing their swords, surrounded the knights of Count Pyrex.

'Damn it was a trap!'

If he do something wrong, yheou could be accused of killing the Imperial family. Count Pyrex yelled.

"You idiots! What's rude to His Imperial Majesty the Crown Prince! Put down all the swords!" Eventually, the sword fell to the floor, and Max lifted one corner of his mouth.

"Well, I don't think you're going to blame your subordinates?" At Max's point, Count Pyrex replied, swallowing a dry saliva.

"I thought you were an intruder and committed rudeness. Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince, please forgive me with open heart."

"Yes, I was covering my face, so you might not have known." He saw Count Pyrex's face brightened as if he was thinking of going over it. However, Max caught the pod. "But for what purpose did your father order you to release that beast? And that, of all things, is near me."

"It is for His Imperial Majesty the Emperor's victory..."

"You gave such a dangerous gift without consulting me? Are you sure you want to say that my father wanted to kill me?"

"Oh, that's not..." Originally, He tried to look around in moderation, but the more he talk, the more he felt like he fell into a maze.

'Damn, I wasn't a resourceful in the first place..!'

He'd rather shut up, it was when Count Pyrex was thinking about that.

"By the way, I can't see Mikhail. Recently, there was a saying that my father fortune-telling with Beatrice's companion." The word Mikhail made his head hot.

'If it weren't for the bastard in the first place...'

When Count Pyrex was gnashing his teeth, he heard the Crown Prince's thunder.

"Even if you've hunted a lot of animals, the hounds are thrown away when they're useless." With those words, the situation in the future was drawn in Count Pyrex's mind.

<It's not enough to attack the Crown Prince, are you releasing such a dangerous animal and blaming me? Who the hell did you take orders from?>

Take all responsibility and become a discarded man and destroy his own future alone.

'How have I committed myself so far!'

It was when Count Pyrex, who was overwhelmed with resentment and resentment, clenched his fist. The sword that was pressing against his adam's apple fell slowly.

"But I can bury everything according to how you do it." Count Pyrex's eyes shook violently at the temptation.

'No, it's gambling. It's definitely a trap!'

At that time, the Crown Prince said as if he was sorry.

"You'd better think carefully. I'm giving you a chance because you're such a waste of talent to throw away.'' It was a skill that couldn't be overcome because it was blocked by the Duke of Floyen. However, as his skills were recognized by the Crown Prince, who had not even thought about it, it was sorrowful and hot. Count Pyrex's mouth was open, knowing that he should not be passed on to the Crown Prince.

"Actually..."

***

Meanwhile, Frederick was looking for traces of the Crown Prince.

'I think he's obviously nearby...'

Then, a loud voice came. Looking back, he saw the knights of the Duke of Floye driving a horse.

"Here you are!" It was when Frederick was frowning on Geraldine's proud face. Frederick's eyes wide open as the giant blue bear rests on the Duke Floyen's cart.

'Is that a blue bear called the North's beast?'

Geraldine raised one corner of his mouth.

"I think we're going to win today, right?" Frederick glared at him as he was arguing openly.

'You're a real pain in the ass.'

It was then.

Peong!

At the appearance of the firecrackers exploding in the air, Geraldine and Frederick headed in that direction, without first to mention. They soon found something, and they opened their eyes.

'Isn't that the famous red lion in the East?'

At that moment, a man in a black cloak drove a black horse and quickly passed Geraldine and Frederick. And Geraldine, who recognized the beautiful face, opened his eyes wide.

'That face is Juvelian's monster-like lover, right? How the hell did he...?'

Then, he saw a group of men running on horseback. They were the Crown Prince's Guard Captain Dennis and the Crown Prince's Guard Knights.

"Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince! Wait!" At that, Geraldine was frightened and stared at the direction Max disappeared.

'The man is the Crown Prince?'

At that time, Dennis shouted with a higher voice than just before.

"The beast is dangerous to catch alone!"

Beeat, with that word alone, they had a hunch that something was going on strangely. Geraldine and Frederick shouted at the same time.

"Everyone! Follow the Crown Prince!''

***

'Not here, either.'

I wandered around the stadium with my friends, including Liche, and Sir Victor, but I couldn't see my Dad.

'Where the hell have you been?'

When I was thinking so and sighing.

"Jubelian!" I turned my head to the sound of someone calling me, then frowned.

'Mikhail, why did that man come again?'

Chapter 136

Mikhail glistened like a madman, looking for a place where Jubelian might be.

'Where the hell did she go?'

Mikhail, who was overwhelmed with anxiety, gritted his teeth.

'Surely it was strange.'

Mikhail recalled the Duke of Floyen whom he had just seen.

<I'll follow orders.>

Eyes out of focus, and voice out of focus. It was quite different from the usual Duke of Floyen.

'Was the emperor's confidence derived from his ability to manipulate the Duke of Floyen?'

Now, if he use the Emperor well, you will be able to clean up the Duke of Floten. Mikhail was worried, though he deserved to be happy.

<Don't worry if it's the Duke of Floyen. I'm going to give that guy a special mission.>

'Somehow I'm nervous.'

The condition of Duke of Floyen is strange, and the safety of Jubelian cannot be guaranteed.

'Yes, for some reason, I think the Emperor would be up to something else without my knowledge.'

Jubelian may be injured for this reason only to stimulate the Crown Prince. That thought alone made Mikhail feel angry.

'You're trying to use mine as bait. I can never tolerate it.'

At that time, something came in after being thin in Mikhail's sight. At the look of the woman who was so wandering, he lifted the tail of his mouth.

'Yes, she's safe with me!'

Mikhail in raptures called her name.

''Jubelian!'' As soon as she turned her head, their eyes met. At that moment.

"Sir Mikhail?" A grimly frowned face, a scorn in a gemlike eye, and a voice that sounded annoying pierced the depths of Mikhail's lungs. But he soon regained consciousness and spoke of business.

"I have something to say, can you give me a moment?" Before long she replied with a sigh.

"I'm sorry, but I'm busy."

"I just need a minute..."

"Sir Mikhail, I really don't have time to deal with you." Was she feeling like this before? Mikhail's stubborn remarks that seemed not to allow it for a moment were overwhelming. But it was only a moment. That's why he was getting angry.

'I ran for you like this. Why are you pouring me like this?'

Soon, Mikhail's eyes became big.

'Yes, he doesn't listen, so I have to force him.'

It was when Mikhail, who had made up his mind, was trying to grab Jubelian's wrist. Mikhail quickly retreated from his cool life flying toward his neck.

"Ah, you're good at avoiding it." Mikhail's eyes were fierce when he confirmed the opponent who took the lead.

"What dare you do with this?" It seems that ge heard the Crown Prince's guard knight, whose name is Victor.

'And did you say you were a mercenary?'

Mikhail expected that he would admit his mistake and bow to himself. Although they may have the same formal status, they were not born the same, so the imperial knights had a clear hierarchy. But...

"Are you on guard duty?" Mikhail felt angry at Victor's jockeying.

'How dare you lowlife!'

When Mikhail pulled out the sword, someone responded to Victor.

"That's right. Sir Victor is on my escort mission at the order of my brother." The princess, who had spoken, glared at him. "But, wasn't Sir participating in a hunting contest? I wonder if he will get the lowest grade among the participants who try to relax like this."

Beatrice's apparent ridicule saw the noble spirits behind her holding back their laughter. And Jubelian was staring at him with her eyes wide open. Mikhail sharpened his teeth.

'You humiliated me in front of Jubelian, you ruined me!'

But you can't pour that anger on her. Mikhail repressed his anger and answered politely.

"It's a great honor for you to worry about my grades. But I don't know why the knight in charge of Your Imperial Highness is attacking me."

"But you suddenly..."

"I certainly spoke to Princess Floen, not to the Princess." Beatrice opened her eyes thinly and opened her mouth at Mikhail's point.

"It's because I'm going to...!" But Beatrice couldn't continue. Because in the middle of the conversation someone else stepped in.

"Ah, the reason is simple." Beatrice and Mikhail glared presumptuously, but Victor grinned and said. "Because I hate the jerks who treat the lady like piece of shit." Mikhail wriggled his eyebrows at Victor's answer. However, Victor is only a case of being a knight in a lowly status. Far from hereditary succession, there was no need to be angry with the fortunate.

"Sir Victor, you can't be fooled, so you're vulgar." Although he intentionally put up medicine while mentioning his origin, Victor smiled and shrugged his shoulders.

"You're so proud of a subject that you don't have something to be proud of except for your family." At Victor's provocation, Mikhail erased a smile from his face. Victor said, staring at Mikhail like that. "If you think about it, isn't the family too much?" It wasn't his own, but he gained the legitimacy of the duel because he insulted his family. "If you want, I'll cut it."

Having finished speaking, Mikhail drew his sword and swung it toward Victor. As one of the best among Imperial Knights, his attack was quick and fierce. However, Victor struck Mikhail's sword.

'What? This guy...'

It was when Mikhail was staring at Victor. Victor raised his mouth and smiled brightly.

"What is it? I heard that this is the only timber that could become the next military commander?" Mikhail's anger reached its peak at the fact that he was not the Crown Prince and was ignored by a mercenary knight.

"I guess you want to die!" It was hidden from those except the emperor and his family, but Mikhail's skill has now reached a top-notch test where he can use mana. If only mana is spent, it would be possible to embarrass such a spoiled guy.

'If that happens, Jubelian will see me again.'

When he was dating Jubelian, she spoke with her eyes glistening.

<Mikhail, you will surely lead the imperial knights after my father.>

At the time, he took it for granted as she poured out the words for granted. But now Mikhail wanted to prove to Juvelian that he was that kind of timber.

'Look Carefully. How I beat him.'

Mikhail curled his eyes as he looked at the pale Juvelian, then stared at Victor.

'No matter how good the skill is, it's useless in front of mana.'

Mikhail raised the tail of his mouth and infused mana into his sword. In order to duel between the knights, you will have to go through formal procedures, but the opponent is from a lowly mercenary, so it is obvious that if you only get your life saved, you will not be able to protest.

'I will cut your arm like this!'

When Mikhail tried to strike Victor's sword like that.

'What is it?'

When someone intervened between the two confronting each other. And Mikhail, who identified it, made his face straight.

* * *

The wind brushed the skin roughly, but Max didn't care. After hearing the emperor's plan that Count Pyrex told him, he was in a hurry.

'You want to release the beast for the heroic play of such a stupid guy?'

Even the one who is close to the Transcendental is a beast who gave up because he did not have complete control. Many people, including Juvelian and Beatrice, the targets of doing something wrong, could have lost their lives.

'Crazy old man!'

So far, he have despised his father, but it was the first time his heart had soared.

'It's okay because she has Teahcer, but if Jubelian gets hurt, it's never going to be fine!'

It was when he was rushing to speak with such bloody words.

'I am almost at the stadium.'

Max pulled hard on the reins and stood the horse running.

'If I go back like this, will the emperor release the evil beast?'

For that reason, Max's gaze turned to the underpass connected to the stadium.

'It's obvious if it's a place to hide the beast.'

Max said, petting the horse to follow him.

"Knox, I'm waiting here. Dennis will take you with him." The clever horse that had lived and died for a long time listened to the owner's words and stopped quietly and stared at him. It was as if the eyes looked at him before he entered the war, so Max smiled hazily and then turned his head.

'You have to stop them from unlocking the beast. For the sake of Jubelian.'

His red eyes shone with determination.

* * *

Just a moment ago I was wondering if I should stop Lord Victor from provoking Mikhail senselessly. That's because of the content of the original work.

'Mikhail was the one who hit the beast in the original.'

In the first place, a beast cannot be eradicated unless it is at the level of a first-rate inspection. The reason was that only mana could deeply hurt the thick leather of the beast.

In the midst of confusion, Mikhail climbed on the back of the beast and put a knife in it, and became the winner of the hunting competition. He then expresses his love by offering Beatrice the winning prize from there. I looked at Beatrice in a daze and smiled at her face, which was loathsome.

'It is unclear whether the beast will come out now, which is different from the original, but what is certain is that Mikhail's skill is a first-class prosecutor.'

It was when I thought so and tried to stop the two. Someone caught in between the two struck the two swords at the same time. He was afraid of the light he looked at himself, and Mikhail couldn't answer. Watching that look made me feel better.

'It's him.'

It was when I was thinking that. I saw him staring at Mikhail, turning his head and staring at me. I smiled brightly and called him gladly when I saw him the whole time.

"Daddy!'' It was the time I was trying to reach him.

"Jubelian!" At the sound of calling me urgently, I glared at Mikhail.

'What?'

He stared at me and said in a hushed voice.

"Don't go. It's dangerous to go back to the stadium like this." His dim eyes were too serious to be dismissed as nonsense, so I didn't know.

'Is there really something?'

Then I heard someone calling me.

"Jubelian." Was it the mood? My Dad's eyes looked colder than usual today. To the extent that I can't get to my dad. Then, he reached out to me. "Let's go back." I smiled as I stared at my dad.

'Yes, I thought my Dad's eyes looked cold before...'

I stared at him with my arms folded in my Dad's arms. Then, he smiled feverishly.

'Yes, it's my illusion, too.'

I turned around to get back to the stadium.

"You're going to regret it." Mikhail's resentment toward me was heard, but I leaned on my dad and ignored the words.

'It's okay, I have my dad.'

***

As someone that can be thrown away at any time, Count Pyrex didn't know much.

<I'm not sure because he didn't tell me where the beast was hidden. However, if there is no flare, we do not know when to release the beast.>

Max ordered the flare to be fired because he was well aware of the emperor's character.

'It must be hectic by now.'

Because of the emperor's nature, it was self-evident that he would order beast to be released only when all safety was secured. And now that they've fired the signal, the time to send out the beast...

'It's time for me to show up.'

Max went into the basement of the stadium and casually turned around.

'Will she be all right?'

He kept worrying about the her situation even though he tried not to think about it.

'It will be fine. Because teacher will be next to her.'

Max repressed his desire to run, and then became aware of his condition.

'I didn't even wear armor.'

There was no reluctance to expose their faces to the new nobles. However, the problem was that their situation was in a situation where he could not keep her openly. If he responds to Jubelian, the emperor is more likely to send him more than he can possibly do.

'But the emperor would not be able to do anything if I prevented beast from coming out in the first place.'

For that reason, Max was planning to remove those guarding this place and close the doors that led to the stadium.

'Is it here?'

As he saw a huge iron spear in front of him, Max swallowed his saliva in tension.

'The demon is in there...'

For a while, he looked closely at the iron bars, and Max opened his eyes wide.

'None? Besides, the door is open.'

Could it have been already exported to the stadium? Then it turned out that there weren't any guards.

'How the hell did this happen?'

Max looked around in an hurry. Upon closer inspection, the door was not open.

'It's broken.'

Then, a faint groan was heard.

"Argh, keep...me... alive." Max turned to the side where he heard the sound and frowned.

'Are you alive?'

The bloody knight had no lower half.

'A sword? no. It's like being bitten by an animal...'

At that time, I felt a cold and violent life. Max quickly dodged the attack that flew towards him.

Seuwaakk

A harsh sound was heard and a sharp claws brushed past where she had just stood.

Grrrrrr...

A giant wolf growled at the thought of missing its prey. Soon after, the sound of the sound of the sound of the sound of the roar spread.

Swaaang...

An ordinary person had a wild life mixed with loose legs, but Max just stared at the beast.

'My ears are stinging.'

It was definitely a strong energy, but it was definitely weaker than when he was dealing with his teacher.

'It's worth a try.'

Max's sword shone dimly in the dark. It is not yet a perfect sword, but it was a token of a top-notch prosecutor who could give a fatal blow to the beast. Eventually, the beast stared at him and slowly moved, and Max found an empty gap for the beast. However, even in the dark, the beast kept turning his head in the direction that Max was moving.

'Because you seem to have excellent sense of smell, it's better to block it in advance.'

Max opened a pocket on his back and tried to take out poisonous poison that paralyzed his sense of smell. But the moment he opened his pocket and grabbed something, Dire Wolf's body shook greatly.

Kkaeng!

Before Max even felt strange, the beast stepped back. Then he revealed it.

'Are you trying to attack?'

Finally, wondering if he was going to fight after the search battle, Max raised his left hand holding the sword.

'Yes, I'm going to hunt a beast and win.'

However, Max opened his eyes to the beast's actions that soon followed.

'Did you run away?'

Max stood there blankly because he didn't think the beast would run away. But soon, he began to gnash his teeth and chase after the beast.

'I don't know why you're running, but I have to kill it.'

When the distance narrowed, Max tried to attack the beast. But...

Thump!

Scared, he hit the wall. In the aftermath, Max had to avoid the debris of the wall.

'Damn it!'

Max tried to chase the beast again, but the beast continued to slam into the wall, and Max couldn't move forward any further because of the debris of the collapsed wall.

'What's wrong with him all of a sudden?'

Max frowned and frowned at what he was holding in his hand when he was staring at the wreckage of the collapsed wall. The damaged flowers had a faint glow in the dark.

'This is the Lunariel given by Jubelian?'

At that moment, the words of Count Pyrex ran into Max's head.

<There will be a silver flower on the box stone railing where His Imperial Majesty is. The beast couldn't get a pulse on that flower.>

A silver flower, definitely Lunariel was also silver.

'I think the peculiar thing to defeat is that it refers to the beast.'

It was absurd that superstition was true, but the problem that I had forgotten came to mind.

'Then it turned out that there was a stadium over there...'

Max realized the situation only then, and he was all over the place.

"Damn it! Jubelian!"

* * *

I yawned and stared at the stadium.

'No one's back yet.'

Usually, a hunting competition requires high scores within the time limit, so it is beneficial to capture rare and difficult prey.

'There's about an hour left.'

I was looking at the time when the clock was rising up on the center stage of the stadium.

Boom!

Surprised by the sudden vibration, I held my Daddy's hand sitting next to me.

'Huh?'

Usually you would ask me why, but my Dad was looking at me with an expressionless face.

'Did I act too childish?'

Somehow, I let go of his hand and added it as an excuse.

"That's because my hands look cold.'' But he didn't answer. I was in a strange mood again.

'What's wrong with you?'

Then again, an unidentified roar and vibration rang out simultaneously.

Boom! Boom!

I was so surprised that I held my Dad's hand tight. Then he slightly twisted his eyes and lit my name.

"Juvel... Lian."

When I was about to ask what was going on because that face looked unknowingly distressed, my father got up.

"Daddy, where are you going?" My dad turned his back on me and headed somewhere without a single answer.

'What the hell's wrong with him?'

What's wrong with him? It was when I had such doubts.

"Argh!" The bloody knight ran out of the passageway connected to the interior of the building, screaming. I gasped in the sight of his one arm missing. "Everyone run!" Despite the screaming of the article, people were not aware of the situation. Before long, something appeared on the racetrack.

Grrrrr!

The appearance of the giant wolf-shaped monster, the dire wolf made in the book, saw people fleeing one by one with fear. I clenched my teeth.

'I was hoping not, but it's going to be like this...'

Knights who were standing guard quickly surrounded the Dire Wolf, but it was obvious that they would not be enough unless there was a first-class swordsman who could use mana. I was able to walk the streets looking at the far-visible entrance. By the way, the special seat we were in was located on the opposite side of the entrance, and it was a very dangerous situation because we had to go through the field with Dire Wolf.

"What should I do?" I stared at Liche, muttering in a desperate voice. She was shaking her hands with a terrified face.

'It's alright. There is still one silver flower left, so even the beasts will not be able to move toward us.'

If we show a run away, we may be harmed by the beast. I said, holding her hand.

"Don't worry, you won't even be next to us..." Scared to the end, I saw the beast running towards our seat. I shouted urgently. "Everybody run!"

* * *

The sudden appearance of the Emperor was quite embarrassing.

'How did he show up already when he hasn't given the order yet?'

No top prosecutor among the guards confronting the beast seemed to be at stake for that reason. The emperor stared at the man who could face the beast right away. Just a moment ago, Regis, who left his daughter's side without explanation, stood blankly.

'Regis can certainly handle the beast.'

The emperor shook his head for a moment when he was thinking about asking Regis to attack the beast.

'No, that doesn't mean using a magic trick.'

Then, Mikhail was seen entering the stadium quickly.

'Good thing you're there.'

Although the plan was a lot out of order, we still managed to instill fear in the nobility.

'If Mikhail is now fighting the beast, they won't object even if you choose him as the winner, right?'

Mikhail's rush toward the beast was like a legendary warrior.

"Come, Dire Wolf!" However, the beast ignored Mikhail and stared in the direction where there was a special seat for the Duke of Floyr .

'Yes, I told you he was crazy about snow rabbit meat.'

When the emperor cast his eyes on him, he could hear Princess Floyen shouting.

"Everybody run!" It was a fine board to have to run away, but the problem was that Dire Wolf looked at the Princess Floyen, perhaps stimulated by her voice. Soon, the Dire Wolf waved his big tail to reveal its teeth.

Keong keong!

After barking like a dog, Dire Wolf began to pursue Princess Floyen and her companions. The emperor glared at the entrance to the stadium.

'That Maximilian guy should have seen this scene, but that's really disappointing.'

I was just thinking that a huge stadium wall would protect us. But...

Kwang!

I gulped down my saliva as I saw the wall crumbling like chips with a roar. Dire Wolf, who soon appeared, blocked us.

"Ahhh!" When frightened Catherine and Marien screamed, I took out the flowers from my coat pocket.

'I'm sure you'll avoid it when you see it.'

The flowers were brought out curiously, but Dire Wolf came to us regardless.

'Why?'

It was a time when I was questioning the beast's behavior that was different from what I thought.

''Your Imperial Highness!'' I turned my head and Mikhail was running on the horse.

'But it's too far!'

Todd and Victor swung their swords as Dire Wolf ran with it's legs wide open. But unless it was a first-class prosecutor, their attacks were self-evident. I flinched with the blood flowing as expected, then opened my eyes. Blood dripping from Dire Wolf's neck, urgently retreating. And...

"Whew, it was dangerous." A green glow of silver was flowing from Victor's bloody sword.

***

"Madame, is Sir Victor doing well?" Fresia laughed at the subordinate's question. That's why I remembered how she first met Victor.

<I asked you to help me run away, but you never told me to make me get kicked out?>

At that time, she couldn't even imagine that the unreasonable boy would become the Crown Prince's stand-in and mighty power.

"I'm sure he's doing well. He's a little frivolous, but his skills are unquestionably strong."

"Well, I guess so." The man who finished the conversation put up the papers. "This is the paper for tonight, so please go over it, Master." It wasn't a mountain pile, but considering the two, it was enough to work nonstop. Fresia answered with a sigh.

"Okay." How long has it been? Fresia, who was reviewing the documents with sleepy eyes, frowned.

'I thought you'd discarded the data about Dire Wolf.'

She smiled as she browsed the data.

'If you find a prey with magical power, it will change wild enough to overcome paralysis poison. If the wizards were alive, they would have dried up the seed of the beast.'

* * *

I was surprised at the unexpected performance of Victor.

'That's definitely mana...'

Soon enough, Victor was seen lifting the corners of his mouth.

"Hoo-hoo! As expected, I'm a genius!" I couldn't deny it. A top prosecutor is a position where only the geniuses chosen by Mana can climb, and the number is very small. But I didn't even want to admit it.

'I was worried about the snarl, but I didn't think he was a top-notch prosecutor.'

It was when I was shaking my head at Victor.

Grrrr!

I saw the appearance of Dire Wolf revealing itself again. Obviously, even though I was holding the flower, it didn't even respond.

'I don't know why, but that monster is following us with paralyzing poison. And maybe...'

I recalled that I had been overlooked.

'Yes, even in the original, Liche was the target, beating many people.'

Why on earth is that beast following Liche? I thought about the difference between Liche and other people.

'The royal family that succeeded Dragon's blood, and the wizard.'

Perhaps one of them is the reason why beast persistently follows Liche.

'But considering that you don't follow the emperor, is it because he's also a wizard?'

It was when I was trying to figure out the reason why the beast was chasing Liche. A trembling hand touched my hand.

'Yes, it must be scary.'

As a quick-witted woman, she might have noticed that Dire Wolf was after her. I said, clasping her hand.

"Don't worry. There are two first-class prosecutors, so they can defeat the beast." Liche's red eyes shook finely at my words. I looked into her eyes, and I stared at Mikhail.

'This time he may defeat the Wolf in success, as in the original.'

As soon as our eyes met, he looked at me and gave a strong gaze as if to watch closely.

"Sir Victor, I'm going to catch his attention, so try to get into the gap." When he finished speaking, Mikhail swung his sword at Dire Wolf. Sadly, the beast simply avoided the attack. The attack didn't end there. Mikhail quickly swung his sword and attacked the devil's vital spot. But there was a problem.

'It's an onslaught, but all the beasts are avoiding.'

When I was looking at the situation with anxiety, Sir Victor quickly approached the beast's back. The beast, paying attention to Mikhail's attack, was fighting with Mikhail to see if he couldn't notice Victor, who was approaching too far.

Victor did not miss the gap and tried to stab his sword in the side of the beast. But at that moment, Mikhail suddenly launched a strong attack on the beast. As if he gave up his eye-catching and tried to catch the beast himself. As a result, the attack was dismissed because the beast was surprised or struggled greatly.

"Are you crazy, you punk?" I was amazed by Sir Victor's harsh swear words, but there was a bigger problem than that.

'Where did you disappear?'

I was overwhelmed with anxiety at the appearance of the beast who suddenly disappeared. So far we have driven the beast, but we can't let our guard down. Of course, that beast is a powerful monster that can be caught only when several top prosecutors collaborate. When everyone was holding their breath in fear, Mikhail approached Beatrice.

"Are you all right?" I thought she might have given Mikhail her heart, but soon I saw her calmness.

"Now is the time to move? More than that, I want you to know that what you just did just put all of us in danger." Mikhail nodded his head gently to see if he was discouraged.

"Okay. Your Imperial Highness, first of all, this place is dangerous, so it's better to move..."

Kwang!

It was even before Mikhail's words were over. The ceiling was pierced and the beast quickly fell. Then he swung his claws at us.

"Keuwak!"

Although Mikhail urgently stopped his attack, the problem was that he was bleeding from one arm to see if he had been injured in the process. The demon struck Mikhail, who was holding his claws with a sword, wielding a huge tail.

Kwadang!

Sir Victor blocked us and swung his sword, but he was also attacked by a demon.

"Damn, get away!" Sir Victor shouted, but the Masu was already standing right in front of Beatrice, as if he was enjoying the finest dinner.

'If Liche uses magic...'

I thought of a way out of the crisis, but there was no sign of magic to her.

"I'm scared." It's just an ordinary girl my age standing up crying lightly. Kung! At that moment, the demon took off his forefoot and weakened.

'What I read is a novel, but the place where I live is reality.'

Realizing that no miracle could ever happen, I pushed Liche next to me with all my might. I saw her rounded looking at me with amazement. I opened my mouth as I looked at those eyes covered with guilt.

"It's not your fault." My body was knocked down by the beast's enormous front paws terrifyingly to the end.

Grrrr!

I felt intuition when I saw the young yellow eyes that looked at me. My death that I wanted to avoid so much.

* * *

He got out of the basement and headed for the stadium as fast as he could, but the time was delayed until he entered the stadium because of the crowds fleeing from the beast. Max hurried through the wide stadium.

'Where is Jubelian?'

For a moment, Max, who sensed a feeble life, turned his head.

'Is it that way?'

The impatient Max ran there with all his might. As he approached the epicenter of the murder, he saw the face he wanted to see.

'You were safe.'

It was only in the moment that he was relieved. It was because of the beast that broke the ceiling. After Mikhail and Victor were knocked down, the beast slowly headed towards Beatrice.

'That damn bastard!'

Max quickly kicked his leg. However, it was self-evident that if it was this way, it would not be able to stop the evil.

'Fuck, Beatrice, why is that guy standing still?'

Although frustrated, Max was hoping that his sister would be safe from the attack from the beast.

'Please avoid!'

At that moment, someone pushed Beatrice like Max's wind. However, whether she was struggling with strength, she was exposed to the evil eye. And Max's eyes, who identified the figure, shook violently.

'No. Why do you...?'

Max felt as if his whole body was stopping at the sight of Jubelian standing in front of the beast instead of his sister.

<Max, we should pretend to not know each other in the hunting contest. All right?>

There was no reason left to keep the oath. Max cried out her name with a desperate heart.

"Jubelian!"

Max hurriedly pulled out his sword and rushed with all his might, but the beast had already defeated Juvelian and was squeezing her slender body with her huge paws. Just ten steps. If it is a short distance, but the problem was that the distance between the mouth of the beast and Jubelian was closer. Max reached out with urgency. He think he can get her right now, but he couldn't reach her.

'Please, please!'

It didn't matter whether it was God or Devil. If it could help save her, Max could give his soul.

'Just for a moment, please protect her.'

But betraying the earnest desire, the mouth of the beast plunged down. A tear dripped from Max's eyes.

''No!'' At that moment, something exploded inside. The sense of being blocked soon opened up, and everything was small when it went slowly.

* * *

I thought he was only reacting to Liche, but the beast was looking down at me, pressing with his giant front paws. Judging from it's dripping saliva, I guess he's thinking of predating me.

'How could I die so horribly...'

I saved Liche from the monster, but it was heartbreaking to think that I would grieve for Max.

'I've managed to make you a man, what if it's twisted again?'

The more I thought about it, the more my heart sank. It's before I die anyway, so I decided to be more honest.

'Yes, actually I wanted to live. Max and Dad happily...'

But as if to ignore my wishes, the giant wolf opened his mouth at me and bowed his head. I closed my eyes because I wasn't confident in making a deal.

"No!" Ah, as soon as I closed my eyes, I could hear his voice, and I thought it was a hallucination before I died.

'I hope it ends soon...'

That's how I was preparing for the pain.

Kwang! The heavy sensation that was weighing on my body with a huge roar is gone. Soon came the warmth of my body, and the familiar voice calling my name.

"Jubelian.''

'Am I not mistaken, am I?'

He slowly opened his eyes with concern. The man who had missed me so much was looking at me with tearful eyes.

"Max." At my call, he dropped his tears and embraced me.

How would it be to others to see him, who is larger than me, buried his face on my shoulder? He might be embarrassed if they know he's crying. However, I was very grateful and lovable.

"Why are you crying?" I patted him on the back and whispered, and a wailing voice came out of him.

"I was afraid I'd lose you." So was I. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to be with you and Dad. I couldn't stand it, thinking that my end was coming. Swallowing the words, I stroked his cheek, whose tears had not dried up. Then he whispered, holding his forehead to my forehead.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not going to have any more bad luck." It was when I was responding to him for the meaningful remark.

"Get that dirty hand off her right now, commoner. Or I'll cut your throat." Surprised, I looked to the side where I heard the voice. Mikhail was pointing the sword at Max. "You, what are you doing now..." His status now is my lover, Max. I tried to open my mouth to protect him. But.

"It's okay." Putting a finger on my lips and whispering, Max turned his head towards Mikhail.

"If you can do it, try it."

* * *

Knowing that Mikhail was reckless, he attacked the beast because of his petty greed. If he show Juvelian a fatal blow to the beast, it would all go back to the passionate eyes of the past. But the result of that one greed was devastating.

'Jubelian.'

His heart seemed to drop at the sight of Jubelian helplessly lying on the front foot of the beast.

'What did I do this for?'

His violet eyes persistently captured Jubelian. If she were to come back, he'd do a really good job. He would hug, kiss and share his body temperature every day and whisper sweetly what he had never said before. No lovely face, no beautiful body, nothing of his own. Jubelian put her life in front of the beast just for the sake of the princess.

'Don't make me laugh, who wants to die!'

Mikhail tried to gather all his strength to raise a body that was not moving. But already the mouth of the beast was falling towards her. Desperate was visible in Mikhail's face.

'No!'

Mikhail screamed silently in a terrible situation where even his voice didn't come out. Then something flashed and appeared in sight. When the unidentified man in a black cloak appeared, the beast stopped trying to eat and looked at it as if on guard.

'Why is the demon doing that? Who the hell is he...'

Mikhail opened his eyes after checking the face of the freak.

'Was the commoner, Juvelian's lover, also participated in the contest?'

At that moment, Max reveals his anger intact and kicks Dire Wolf's body.

Kwang!

Surprisingly, the Dire Wolf, who had been powerful with one kick, fell helplessly. Dire Wolf, who had fallen out of the way, convulsed once and was unable to get back up.

'How can he do that? It's like that...'

<But things that I don't know the subject keep messing with my daughter, so I can't stand it.>

It was also a moment that he was amazed at the power comparable to the Duke of Floyen, who destroyed a huge mansion with bare hands.

"Max." As she called him with a sad voice, he caught with his eye the appearance of Jubelian in his arms. Mikhail felt a sense of resentment and self-destruction at the same time.

'Why is a commoner like that...'

If it was the way it was, he should have confidence in that place. Defeating the evil beast and having Jubelian were all deserved of his own.

'How dare you stole mine?'

Angry Mikhail barely stood up and turned to Max. Then pointed the sword at him with a fine hand and said bloodyly.

"Get that dirty hand off her right now, commoner. Or I'll cut your throat" At the end of the talk, Max stared at Mikhail with his lean eyes. Then he lifted the tail of his mouth and said.

"If you can do it, try it." Mikhail felt overwhelmed by the appearance of a commoner who believed in the Jubelian and took a rest.

'Do you know I can't?'

When Mikhail struck his sword to smack the cheeky commoner's throat, his legs were shaken by the pressure that seemed to tighten his whole body.

'Fuck!'

He tried to hold out, but it was useless. Mikhail eventually collapsed, unable to withstand the energy of the deadly intangibles.

"Ma, Max. Just now it was...!" As Jubelian called his name in a bewildered voice, the commoner kissed the girl on the cheek and whispered in her ear.

"Ah, from now on, I will make sure that little bastard doesn't come near you." Mikhail resented the fact that he heard it from the common people, not from anyone else.

'I will crush your bones, you insolent fellow!'

It was a time when Mikhail, angry, raised his body and tried to swing his fist.

"Are you okay!" At that time, he saw the appearance of the knights who had come back from hunting.

'I'm afraid they're the Crown Prince's dogs, so they're coming dirty late.'

Mikhail frowned at the appearance of the Crown Prince's guard knights and raised his mouth.

'Even if the common people are strong, they are unprotected by the law.'

No matter how strong they are, they are just mercenaries. In the empire, where the status system was established, if a vulgar person did not listen, it would have been enough to press him with his position. Even though the Crown Prince is not seen, they will be on his side now that they are the same knights. Mikhail went to Max with his finger and ricked and opened his mouth.

"Stop that man right now!" In response to Mikhail's order, the Crown Prince's guard asked, frowning at his forehead.

"What crime do you want you to be arrested for?"

'You seem to be building your pride on the subject qs the Crown Prince's captain.'

Mikhail, who has lived under harsh checks because he was particularly good among the knights. He was used to seeing things like that.

"You hindered the subduing of demons on the subject of the common people, and insulted me, the eldest son of the marquis. If you are a knight, don't you know how seriously it is?" The noble spirits, who had been quiet all the time, opened their mouths as if absurd.

"Sound nonsense!"

"You are the one who interrupted the beast hunt!" At that, Mikhail shook his head and said.

"I was thinking of hitting the beast as it was. But, will he not threaten me because it is not enough to intercept all the beasts he has captured?" At Mikhail's words, Dennis frowned and murmured softly.

"That's what happened." When Dennis raised his hand, the knights pulled the sword.

"Now that arrogant commoner is over!" But contrary to Mikhail's idea, the knighthood of the knights was far away from Max. "What are you doing?" It was a time when Mikhail was trying to examine the acts of knights pointing a sword at him. Dennis gave a low flickered.

"How dare you insult my lord, you surely want to die." When he insulted the Crown Prince, Mikhail suddenly became absurd when he said that he was defaming his Lord.

"Sir, what are you talking about all of a sudden? Your lord is the Crown Prince, and when did I insult him?" At that time, the body-building commoner called the crown prince's captain.

"Dennis." There should not be a commoner's friendly calling the name of a nobleman. Mikhail opened his mouth, lifting the corners of his mouth.

"Now you know, right? How much that trifling fellow..."

"Yes, Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince!" Mikhail stared at Max, unable to speak, at Dennis' reply, who had cut himself off.

'Is that the prince?'

The handsome man with pitch-black hair and ruby-red eyes had arsenic.

"Remove the sword." At that moment, the knights simultaneously removed the sword that was aimed at Mikhail's neck. Then they kneeled on one knee and made an example toward the Crown Prince. Max was taking the greetings for granted with an extremely arrogant expression.

'Are you sure that's the Crown Prince?'

Max slowly approached Mikhail, who had a shocked face.

"Mikhail Albert Hessen, what are you doing not kneeling?" The heat was on his face when he realized he had to take a humiliating look in front of Jubelian. However, if the other party is from the Imperial family, the story is different. Mikhail kneeled his knee, glaring at Max.

'If I gain the confidence of the Emperor, you will be damned.'

At that moment, Mikhail's head hit the floor by a rough hand. The cold voice he heard before long.

"If your knees are kneeling, you should know how to bow your head. If you know my identity." Mikhail shook his head with his head on the floor and sharpened his teeth quickly.

'You must repay this humiliation, Crown Prince!'

* * *

I was thrilled with the humiliating appearance of Mikhail, who was arrogant, but on the other hand, I was worried.

'Is it okay to reveal to Mikhail that he is the Crown Prince?'

Currently, Mikhail has earned the emperor's trust and has a strong relationship with quite a few nobles. Perhaps not only the emperor, but all the nobles will know his face.

"'You must have benefited a lot from hiding your face...'

To this day, most of the nobles still gather the crown prince's face. But exposing his face seemed reckless.

'I'd better talk to him later.'

That's when I was watching Max. When our eyes met, Max pushed Mikhail down with his foot.

"Get out of here." He can say, 'Stop going now,' like a nobleman, but it was when I was sighing at the appearance of him using profanity. "And in the future, if you accumulate on my sister and Jubelian, you will die." After finishing the talk, Max stared at me with an eager gaze. Its face was like a dog asking for praise, so I smiled nicely.

'It's definitely wonderful.'

Honestly, this felt really exciting. He would be like that too, because Mikhail came to me and harassed me even though I told him not to come near me many times.

'Liche is probably thinking like me, right?'

I looked at Liche, but she just sat silent with her head down.

'What's wrong with her?'

Her expression caught my mind and I tried to get up to reach Liche. But I couldn't do that because of Max's actions that suddenly approached me and held me up like a baby.

"Where are you going?" When I tried to tell him to come down, I felt countless gazes towards me. My friends seemed to be curious about the story of my lover's sudden becoming the Crown Prince, and the Crown Prince's guards were looking at me with eager eyes that somehow sparkled.

'It's burdensome.'

"That's..." It was when I hesitated because I couldn't answer. Max whispered in my ear.

"In the future, you'll be with me everywhere. Okay?"

***

I flinched at Max's words.

'Let's be together anywhere? No way, is it okay if our relationship is known?'

Currently, he is hiding his relationship with me in order not to be weakened by the emperor. It felt reckless to announce his relationship with me while the retreat had not been held yet. When I looked at him, I saw somehow staring at me with dark eyes.

"But then the emperor..." I whispered a little, he replied with a bloody smile.

"I'll take care of that from now on. So, if you don't mind, I'd like to make our relationship official." Somehow, a voice filled with urgency and anxiety. I noticed that he was worried that I would refuse. With a smile, I said.

"Of course I like it." I saw his face brightening up in my answer.

"Thank you so much. I'll do really well in the future." For a moment, smiling at that lovely face, I opened my mouth carefully to say what had been going on all the time.

"Hey, Max. There's something I'd like to say now..." As I clouded the end of my words, he stared at me with a nervous look.

"What do you want to say?" I didn't want to burn the candle in a sweet mood, but I couldn't help it. It was too much to look at the eyes of the two of us.

"I'm ashamed of other people's eyes. Could you please let me down?" I thought he would do me a favor, but his subsequent actions made my face glow.

"Everyone, put your eyes down." I sighed at the sight of those who hurriedly avoided eye contact.

'Oh, I'll teach you how to use the right words from now on.'

* * *

The Crown Prince's guard knights moved quickly, but the prince disappeared, leaving only a rottweiler.

<You must not go back to the Stadium. If we go back now, it could be contrary to His Imperial Majesty's intentions. First of all, please wait here. I'm heading to where the beast is supposed to be.>

In the words of Dennis, the Crown Prince's captain of the Guard, the knights of the Floyen and Elios families believed in him and waited. And...

<Captain Dennis just found traces of beast in the underpass and went around to the stadium. Please apply as soon as possible.>

When the knights of the Floyen and Elios families returned to the stadium, the case was settled.

"Get outbof here." Frederick twisted his mouth as he stared at Mikhail lowering his tail at the Crown Prince.

'It's really ugly.'

Before long he turned his head. Juvelian in the Crown Prince's arms looked more lively than usual.

'Princess Floyen, Juvelian.'

A woman who he originally thought was pathetic. To the extent that she was embarrassed to be the child of the same duke, she was out of relief. But...

<Like my escort, it's like a baron giving me a hard time.>

(this is from chapters long long long time ago)

The appearance of her, which he saw by chance, caught his attention, and from then on, he began to see her. Whenever he discovered her gradually changing like a jewel, Frederick was engulfed in a strange ecstasy. And from one point on, he noticed that whenever he saw her, he laughed and he was happy.

'So I wanted to make you happy...'

He hoped it was him, but he didn't make it.

'Well, all you have to do is to be happy.'

He pretended to be okay, but he was heartbroken. Because it was the first love of a bright color. Then, the Crown Prince was seen staring at him. Frederick's eyes were slimmer.

'To be honest, I don't like it.'

Instead of showing his innermost thoughts, Fredrich smiled, bending his eyes.

'But if I could make her happy... I'm willing to bend my head.'

When Frederick looked down, Max frowned.

'What the hell with this man?'

It would be nice to aim at him with pure hostility like Mikhail, but Frederick's gaze was mixed with favor and check.

'It's annoying.'

It was when he was thinking so. Jubelian flinched.

"People are coming. Please let me go." The blushing and perplexing habit was so lovely.

'I'd like to bother you more.'

Max hugged her more tightly, with a smile on his face.

"Since people are coming, I'm going to show them more. That I'm yours." At that remark, Jubelian was at a loss, covering her face with her hands. Max grinned at her, then headed to his seat.

***

The emperor clenched his fist tightly.

'Fuck! Mikhail, that stupid guy...'

Even though he was runaway, it was pathetic that he couldn't catch a beast and twisted his work.

'Well, I still found Maximilian's weakness.'

The emperor lifted the tail of his mouth and stared at Maximilian holding the Juvelian. At that time, he made eye contact with his son. His red eyes were so fierce that those who were looking at the Crown Prince trembled. However, the Emperor's warning was gruesome as he was holding Jubelian.

Do you mean you will not let me go if I mess with your girl?'

The emperor soon smiled at Regis, who was standing behind him.

"I didn't expect you to have a daughter to be a leash for my son, but thanks to your daughter, Regis." Inappropriately, the Duke of Floyen didn't even say a word. However, as if expected, the emperor turned his head back and stared at Jubelian. "If I put that girl in jail, my son wouldn't be able to open his eyes so badly."

The thought alone was a relieved to him. He had the power to control his impossible son and throw him away whenever it was of use. The emperor gazed at Regis again, then laughed as if satisfied, looking at those blue eyes that were still vague.

"Don't be so heartbroken. When I deal with my son, I'll turn your daughter on with you. And I'll kill you where your daughter was buried when I'm done with her." It was when hr poured cruel words on the Duke who didn't even move.

"Your Imperial Majesty, what are you going to do to win this competition?" The Emperor soon turned his back to the question of the chief.

"There will be no reward for this competition, as the damage is severe because of the beast." When the emperor turned around and threw himself out of the box, Regis' eyes, which had been loosened in a daze, became clearer and clearer. Regis clenched his fist and glared at the Emperor as if he were going to kill him.

'It will never go your way, Emperor.'

***

When the beast was caught by Max, the nobles who had escaped returned to the stadium.

"His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince has captured the beast?"

"That's amazing too!"

"By the way, where is he? I think he is wearing black armor..."

People were enthusiastic about the fact that the one who defeated the beast was the Crown Prince. They will be, because he is a hero who has already made a lot of merit through the past wars.

"His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince has protected many again." Frankly speaking, I could not help but feel good, listening to the praise of the man I like. But I couldn't just laugh.

"Wait, that's Princess Floyen over there," I was holding back my shyness, with countless glances toward me.

'Oh, it's really embarrassing.'

It would have been fine if I were just standing next to him, but the problem was that Max was still holding me in the princess' position and heading to the seat.

''Max, drop me off.''

"Why?'' I showed my honest innermost thoughts as I saw his repulsive handsome face looking at me with an incomprehensible look.

"I'm not a child, and I'm ashamed in front of a lot of people." He said with a sigh.

"Even if I put you down now, you can't walk because your ankle hurts."

"It doesn't hurt, ah!" It seems like it was fine, but when Max touched it slightly, my ankle was sore. Not only that, I was stiff as if my whole body was beaten.

'Why do you suddenly do that?'

When I made an expression that I did not understand, he sighed and answered.

"Ah, don't you remember how hard you fell? Moreover, because you were under the heavy weight of the beast, your whole body will hurt right now." Only then I thought I knew why he insisted on holding the princess*.

(*she's talking about herself, not the princess of royal/imperial fanily, okay?)

"Then you hugged me..." As I hesitated to speak, he replied with a faint smile.

"Of course I did it with black heart*. I wanted to show off that I was yours." As I frowned at that, he put me down in a nice seat.

(*other intention)

'Is that the end of shame?'

That's when I was thinking. He kissed my hand.

'No, why all of a sudden...'

It was when I was panicking.

"Who's the young man who carried the Princess Floyen to her seat?''

"I know. I've never seen such a handsome man except the Duke of Floyen." That reminded me of my Daddy.

'Where the hell is Dad?'

There was that commotion, and I couldn't understand that he didn't find me. But what bothers me more is his condition as we saw earlier.

'I'm sure my dad was weird before.'

It was when I had some doubts.

"His Imperial Majesty the Emperor is coming. Everybody be gracious." At last, I clenched my fists, thinking that all of this was coming. Max whispered softly.

"If it's the emperor, don't worry, I won't let him touch you." His eyes saying that way resembled my dad in some way, so I believed in strangely.

"Okay." To my answer, Max smiled gently and looked at me, then looked at someone and hardened his face. I too had no choice but to frown after looking there.

'Dad?'

At the moment of crisis, the Daddy I had waited so long for stood behind the emperor.

'Did you escort the emperor so far?'

Perhaps my Daddy's behavior is obvious. No matter how incompetent and greedy he was, he was the emperor, and as the head of the Imperial Knights, he was obliged to secure his safety. But I couldn't help it.

'The beast never came near the Emperor...'

Then, Max touched my shoulder.

"It's all right. He must mean something." I nodded slowly at the remark.

'That's right. My father is not a man who is truly loyal to the emperor, and all the...'

I recalled my father's blurry, bruised eyes, which had been annoying all the time.

'I don't know if it had anything to do with the Emperor's weirdness in his eyes earlier.'

I glared at the emperor with such certainty.

Chapter 141

When the crisis is resolved, they are bound to act as usual again. The nobles, who returned to the stadium, frowned at the beautiful young man next to Juvelian.

"The young man next to Princess Floyen, he's so handsome."

''I know. Which family's young man?''

"No way, he's not a commoner like in the rumour?'' Then, when the young man kissed the back of Jubelian's hand, exclamations of admiration flowed out of people's mouths.

"He has such an elegant body, and I don't think he's a commoner."

"Who is it?"

Mikhail, who knows the answer, glared at the man next to Juvelian.

"The Crown Prince.'

If he could, he wanted to kill the Crown Prince and bring Juvelian. Mikhail suppressed his desire to kill. Because there was work to be done at the moment.

'The emperor is the only one who can control the Crown Prince and the Duke of Floyen.'

Mikhail went to the emperor. Just in time, the emperor was leaving the box.

"Your Imperial Majesty." At Mikhail's call, the Emperor said, scattering him up and down once.

"Stand by here." Since the Emperor's favor, Mikhail has been the emperor's priority and has rarely waited. However, the Emperor's reaction now was similar to that of Count Pyrex, a hound that can be thrown away at any time. Mikhail gritted his teeth, and bowed his head as if he were submissive.

'You damn imperial bastards, I'll get rid of you once I accomplish my purpose.'

The Emperor, unaware of Mikhail's innermost thoughts, passed by him and lifted the corners of his mouth.

'I can't let him get away with this.'

It's pathetic to think about the mistake he made even though he arranged for them, but there was still so much to be gained by keeping Mikhail by his side.

'But I'm going to have to teach you a lesson, and I hope you feel the responsibility of making mistakes today.'

When the emperor went to the field with that thought, the chief of the city shouted with his voice raised.

"His Imperial Majesty the Emperor is coming. Everybody be gracious." The emperor tore the corners of his mouth at the sight of his son, who was glued to the Princess Floyen.

'I'm dying of joy. I didn't think that girl would be my leash.'

Soon, Maximilian was seen approaching the emperor. The emperor, who looked at his own darker, red eyes than his own, ordered the Duke of Floyen, who had followed him.

"Wait here. If anyone wants to do something stupid to me, you will attack without hesitation." In the midst of confusion, the emperor took a step with the safety device in place. "I heard that thanks to your help, the Crown Prince, we were able to prevent great damage."

Then the people who recognized the identity of the young man who had been next to Princess Floyen all the time were exclaimed. The appearance of the Crown Prince who always covers his face is so beautiful!

"This father is proud of you." He thought he would smack his head like he was wearing a mask, but he just stole his son's head. And no longer concealed hostility.

"Of course, I did what I had to do. As the Imperial family, they deserved protection." At first glance, it's a good thing to hear, but when you open it up, it was a reproof directed at him who was hiding in the box and watching everything. The emperor gnashed his teeth.

'You cocky bastard.'

He wanted to slap that cocky son in the face right now. If the Crown Prince, who caught the first move in front of the noble spirits, was slapped on the cheek, it was clear that there would be criticism toward the emperor. Soon the emperor's red eyes lay on Juvelian.

'It was once a long time ago. Sooner or later, I'll use that girl you care about to kneel your knees in front of me!'

The emperor hid his excitement and carried his words.

"Yes, it's a relief that the damage was minimized thanks to you." Several knights lost their lives due to the explosion of beast, but the nobles were still injured. In fact, he would never have mentioned it as it was. If something goes wrong, the bereaved family can demand compensation for the damage. However, the emperor had a reason to mention it.

'I can't give a treasure to a child like this.'

If he ask for rewards when there is a dead person, people will quickly treat the Crown Prince as a money-mad snob. For this reason, the Crown Prince was self-explanatory.

"But it would be better not to select the winners of today's hunting competition." At the words of the emperor, the prince softly nodded his head. The tea the emperor was trying to reassure him.

"Yes, but there's something I need to point out before that." When his son suddenly said that, the Emperor gulped down his saliva without realizing it.

'What the hell is he going to say?'

There were things on my mind, but I couldn't vote for him. So the emperor asked, pretending to be.

"What is it?" Then the Crown Prince stared at his men and ordered.

"Get it." Soon, the Crown Prince's guard knights brought the body of a huge beast, and the emperor frowned and said.

"I surely won't select the winner of today's hunting contest..." Then, the Crown Prince cut off the Emperor's words and said in a ferocious voice.

"Isn't it weird? Not one, but two or two beasts that don't live here." Only after hearing that did the Emperor realize the error.

'The Count of Pyrex, that's stupid!'

He was too busy to care about a mere beast, so he left it up to Count Pyrex to catch a beast.

'How could I have caught a wild animal that didn't live here!'

The Emperor said, though embarrassed, without giving any indication.

"That's right. But maybe two of them went at the wrong direction and lived here?" Then the Crown Prince raised the tail of his mouth and slowly lowered it. As he raised his hand, the knights of the Duke of Floye brought the body of a huge blue bear. "One more coincidence." The Emperor laughed at him and nodded.

"That's right. It's amazing!" He was staring at the Emperor for a while, and the Crown Prince turned his head again and ordered. "Drag and come." Eventually, the eyes of the emperor widened when he saw the Crown Prince's knights pulled.

'No, how is he...!'

There, a beast trapped in a cage and Count Pyrex were standing in an overwhelmed look. The Crown Prince opened his mouth, staring at the emperor with cold eyes.

"It wasn't a coincidence, unfortunately, because I witnessed Count Pyrex having his men release the beast." At the end of the crown prince's words, a man came out in sympathy with the words.

"As a witness, I prove that the words of His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince are true." Now that the heir to the Elios family, which is very influential in society, has come forward, people's voices have grown louder. The emperor looked at the man who had been loyal with trembling eyes, then clenched his fist.

'That idiot! You ruin things in this way!'

When the emperor was rolling his head, the Crown Prince opened his mouth.

"He confessed. Under the command of the Emperor, we have released the beast for the pleasure of the hunt. Then, isn't it true that the beast also addressed by the Emperor's orders?" As soon as the words ended, the nobles' voices grew louder.

''Is he really doing that?''

"And by the way, aren't those predators very dangerous? How can he let it go without saying a thing?"

"Besides, attacking His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince is, no way..."

As the suspicious gaze focused on him, the emperor bite in his mouth.

'Fuck! Those trivial things dare...!'

He wanted to order the Dragon Knights to annihilate everyone in this arena. For a while, the emperor calmed his angry head.

'Yes, let's calm down. The proof that I planned this work...'

The emperor's red eyes turned to Count Pyrex. If he doesn't speak up, the truth will sink into the depths without ever rising. And as a loyalist who had been with him for a long time, the emperor was well aware of his weaknesses. The emperor glared at Count Pyrex and gave a warning.

'If you start talking crap from now on, I will tear your mother to death.'

As if he understood, Count Pyrex bowed slowly. Now it was time to throw away the dull hound.

"Don't you dare to attack my son and condemn me? I've trusted you all the time, and this is the only price!"

The emperor's angry voice was full of anger, like a man who had been truly unfair. And with his head bowed down like a sinner, Count Pyrex couldn't respond. As the people who saw it began to shake, the emperor laughed inwardly.

'You stupid guy, you think it's better to die alone than to lose the life of your family. Thanks to that, I can safely get out!'

The emperor again stared at his son and opened his mouth.

"Because of the man's seizures, I can't be trustful." Accordingly, the Crown Prince did not say yes or no. But many were guessing. The fact that the silence is positive. The emperor said, swallowing his irritating insides.

"To restore trust with you, I will leave this man's handling to you, son." The nobles roared at the permission of questioning.

"Is this really Count Pyrex's self-imposed task?"

But in fact it was only a minority, and many had doubts about the emperor. However, he is only silent because he knows that he would be in trouble if he misleads his tongue in this situation where there is no clear evidence of the emperor's involvement.

For a moment, he was relieved to see the reaction of the aristocrats, but the emperor slightly pulled up his forehead. If he had done this, he would have pretended to believe, but Maximilian was still staring at him with an expressionless face.

'What's so displeased with that asshole, oh, is that it?'

The emperor recalled why the Crown Prince worked so hard in the hunting competition and opened his mouth.

"Thanks to the Crown Prince, who dealt with the beast and revealed the excitement of the event, the victims will be able to close their eyes comfortably. To honor the ball, I will offer you the Flowers of the Underground Goddess, the winner of this competition." Soon the crown prince slowly bowed his head.

"Thank you, Father." Perhaps thanks to the more docile reaction of the Crown Prince, the nobles were also seen to blame only Count Pyrex.

'Stupid thing like them are simple too.'

It was when the emperor was laughing at the Crown Prince and nobles.

"But I don't need a necklace. Today, I just want to commemorate the victims and give them comfort money." There was a ridicule on the face of the son who said so.

***

Using the crowd psychology, the emperor's appearance skillfully escaped from the crisis was like a lizard running away with its tail cut off. I clenched my fists in resentment.

'Lies! You must have had the weakness of Count Pyrex, so you knew he wouldn't come clean and handed it over to Max!'

I hoped that the emperor would be ruined as he was, but the fact that he had done a bad thing and got out of it was still upsetting. However, I smiled at Max's cider that followed.

'I never thought I'd despise the Emperor like this.'

Max referred to the victims and asked them to put them first. Anyone with an idea will notice. The Emperor neglected the victims of the beast and praised the Crown Prince for eliminating the beast.

"Long live the Crown Prince!"

And as a result, people were enthusiastic toward Max and were showing respect for them.

'This will give the Emperor a sense of defeat.'

Sure enough, the emperor shook himself with anger and left the field. I bit my lips as I looked at my Dad who followed him. He would be like that, because I just saw the end of Count Pyrex abandoned by the emperor.

'I don't know why a strong man like my Dad is following the emperor's word. But...'

At that time, someone touched my lips.

"Stop, it's bleeding." Max said, who had come before me, looking at me with anxious eyes. He hugged me, leaning against him in a fit of agitation. I made up my mind, feeling the temperature intact.

'I will surely save my Daddy from the emperor's beast.'

***

<You've been having a hard, haven't you?>

Jubelian, the girl who first counted her pain, was the only light to Beatrice, who was always living in the dark.

<I came to this place because I got lost with my friend. Is this a restricted area?>

<Your Imperial Highness the Princess, are you okay?>

And she was also a person who tried to protect her from a weak subject.

'Jubelian, I'm so glad you're safe.'

Beatrice, watching the Juvelian in Max's arms, exhaled a small breath.

'But, what the hell was that earlier?'

Soon, what had happened in Beatrice's head began to flow clearly.

***

Beatrice was in despair at the flashpoint of beast's attempt to kill Juvelian.

'No. Please, you can risk my life, so protect her!'

And as soon as she shouted out her desperate wish without a doubt, the world temporarily stopped.

'This?'

When zhe was looking at the unmoved beast, Beatrice heard a laugh. "

[Oh, no, I didn't expect a wizard to appear at this time.]

Who is it? What just happened?

It was the time Beatrice was going to ask.

[It's amazing how time magic works. But it hasn't fully awakened yet, so 'The Ring' won't choose you.]

Beatrice asked several times what it meant, but there was no answer, and time went by slowly.

'No, it's no use stopping time like this!'

Beatrice tried to run towards Jubelian, but her whole body didn't move as if it had hardened.

Does it end like this? A miracle happened when Beatrice was in despair.

'How can you...?'

Maximilian was quickly approaching the beast, defying the slow passage of time. At the moment of inward relief, Beatrice struggled with heart-breaking pain. At that time, the voice came again.

[Down of mana, signs that magic can't be maintained now.]

At that moment, she felt the time she stopped flowing normally.

Kuannng!

The beast was surprised by Max, who appeared in front of him, and shook his tail greatly, and in the aftermath, the rubble of the broken building splattered in all directions. Beatrice was staring at the lump of stones flying towards him.

'I have to avoid it...'

Her heart still hurts, so she couldn't move. The moment Beatrice closed her eyes tightly waiting for the pain, someone hugged her tightly. When she opened her eyes, there was blood running through the man's head to see if he had been smashed on his behalf.

<Are you okay?>

***

It was when Beatrice was reddening her face, recalling the scarlet eyes that were looking at her.

"Your Imperial Highness, are you still not feeling well?" Victor, wearing a bandage around his head, looked at her with scarlet eyes. Surprised, Beatrice staggered in surprise.

"Are you okay?" The same words as before, his hand-held shoulder felt hot. Beatrice hurriedly shook his hand and shouted nervously.

"What, what? I was surprised to talk to you all of a sudden!" Victor sighed at the nervous appearance of Beatrice, though he was worried at best.

"Yes, I'm sorry to have surprised the weak. I've called you three times already. Now I'm going to take you to the carriage. Can you answer me? Your Imperial Highness the Princess." She didn't want to get more involved in a situation that was conscious of him.

"I'm all right."

"Your Imperial Highness, are you all right?" Then sge saw Jubelian and her half-brother approaching her.

"I'm fine. Are you all right?" When asked, Jubelian shook her head.

"I just saw the doctor, and he was surprised at my ankle, but he said it was okay after a few days off." The smiling face was so lovely that Beatrice felt her heart was warm. At that time, Maximilian said.

"Victor, take responsibility and escort Beatrice to the Imperial Palace.''

"What? I'm fine..!'' Go back with him in the middle of the awkwardness! Beatrice looked grim and tried to refuse. But...

"Of course, I was going to. Whoo-hoo, my stomach's full of responsibility!" At that remark, Beatrice saw Victor and hurriedly turned her eyes away.

'Responsibility...'

Beatrice thought with a deep thought for a moment.

'Yes, it's urgent to find out about the magic I used earlier.'

21. Gifts for you

When the emperor returned, the people left in carriages one by one. I was seeing Liche off with Max.

"Your Imperial Highness, good-bye." At my words, Liche smiled and nodded.

"Yes, see you on your coming-of-age day." Then, Max spoke to Liche.

"Don't get lost and go straight to the palace." Liche said, distorting her face and opening her mouth.

"Brother is..." But then, Liche's words were cut off and Sir Victor stepped in.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, don't worry! I'll keep Her Imperial Highness at the risk of my life." I smiled at his words, knowing that he was trustworthy. But Liche's expressions were not good, perhaps because he cut off her words.

'Liche's expression has been strange for some time...'

She said coldly, glaring at Max, instead of being angry at Victor.

"I'm leaving now, so please go, brother. And Jubelian, I'll see you all on the note."

"Oh, yes! Goodbye." Soon as the carriage moved, I stared at him. He looked blank again.

'Did he get shocked by the beast?'

Then, someone called me.

"Princess Floyen, I'm jealous of you seeing someone who's not me." Suddenly, I turned my head in amazement at the respectful voice of Max. He was so cute that I didn't know where his sulky face was.

"What is it? Why are you being so polite?'' He replied, fiddling with my fingers.

"I remember when you asked me to treat you with respect in public, so I'm thinking of doing that in the future." Well, it was definitely when I was thinking that respect wasn't bad either. Suddenly he bowed his head and whispered beside mine. "Sorry, I'll give you the flowers of the underground goddess, but I broke my promise." I sighed at his words.

'Did I really think I liked the jewel because I was greedy?'

I said quietly to clear his misunderstanding.

"No. I was pleased with your choice. And whatever it is you give me, I like it. You know what I mean." He hugged me as soon as my words were over me. Then he whispered quietly.

"I'll bring you something better than the Flowers of the Underground Goddess." In fact, I'd be happy to receive anything, but I knew his stubbornness, so I smiled and nodded. Then he stroked my cheek and lowered his head slowly. I tried to close my eyes slowly after making sure that no one was around. But...

"Jubelian." Suddenly, at the ripe voice calling me, I was surprised and pushed Max.

"Da, Daddy?" For a moment, I was embarrassed by his sudden appearance, and I remembered that my dad was strange and looked at him.

'Are you okay? If you're in a strange state like before...'

Then Dad crumpled his face and glared at Max.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, I'd like to go home with my daughter." The way he was dealing with Max, even his way of speaking, his eyes, and his expression. It was the usual dad.

"Daddy!" At that moment, I was so relieved that I tried to embrace him, but Dad held me in the princess's hug.

'Huh?'

When I was embarrassed, Dad looked at my bandaged ankle and asked.

"What happened to you ankle?"

"Oh, that's..." I was in a riot after being attacked by a demon, but didn't my dad know that I was hurt? Honestly, I was embarrassed. Then, I heard Max's voice.

"If it's okay, I'd like to ride a carriage with you to take the princess." Dad nodded at the remark.

"Yes."

* * * There was an awkward silence for a long time between the three in the carriage. But they were soon forced to talk.

''...you must be very tired.''

"I know.''

Max put the dozing Jubelian's head against his shoulder and stared straight ahead. There was a mixture of sorrow and despair in the eyes of the Duke of Floyen while looking at his daughter.

"Teacher." Max glared at him as the Duke's eyes were caressed at his call. "What weakness did you have that kept you close to the Emperor, not your daughter?"

If time hadn't slowed down suddenly, if he hadn't awakened his strength, Jubelian would surely have lost his life to the beast. He tried to think that there must be some sort of situation with him. But as he looked at his teacher's face, he kept getting angry. Even if he had a weakness, he couldn't understand why he didn't save his daughter.

'Jubelian could have died today. While you're next to her...!'

With his reproachful eyes, Max was waiting for the answer to the question. But it was an unexpected answer from the Duke of Floyen's mouth.

"What was it like to be a transcendent person?" Originally, he wanted to achieve this so much, but I didn't know he would bite that feeling in the present situation.

"Is that important now? Your daughter...!"

"Speak quietly."

Max felt disillusioned at the appearance of the teacher who kept avoiding answers.

'If you avoid the answer, is that weakness more important than your daughter?'

Max stared at the teacher with a contemptuous gaze, but he was bloody.

"I won't trust you anymore, Duke of Floyen." The Duke answered silently, raising the tail of his mouth.

"Your desired sea."

"You, really...!" It was a time when Max was about to say a word, angry at the actions of Duke Floyen, who seemed to be provoking him.

"Uhm, are you two fighting?" As if she just opened her eyes, Jubelian muttered in a hazy voice. Max shook his head urgently.

"It's your coming-of-age ceremony sooner or later. I did it because I was talking about that, but our opinions were divided." At those words, Juvelian laughed with a bright face.

"You keep talking about the coming-of-age ceremony, and I'm looking forward to it. How good are you going to give me?" He was forced to smile, but he stared at his teacher with cold eyes.

"I'm thinking of giving you something important on the day of your coming of age." Disgustingly, the Master was talking to his daughter with a faded smile.

'It's dangerous to have a double personality like that, too.'

Max hugged Jubelian's shoulder as if to show his teacher. Then, he stared at the lovely face of Jubelian looking at him and made up his mind.

'Now I don't care if he says no. I'll propose to you on your Coming-of-Age Day.'

Spoiler: Chapter 143-144

When Beatrice returned to the palace, it was a dreary time.

"Thank you for escorting me all day." When she thanked Victor for escorting her to her room, he laughed.

"If you know that you're grateful, please talk to me occasionally. I'm bored because there are only people around me." Even though she knew he was just saying his greetings, it made her feel better. But soon Beatrice saw the bandage around his head and lowered her mouth.

'You bleed a lot earlier, are you okay?'

It was when she was tapping her lips in anxiety.

"Beatrice." Liche turned her head to the voice that called for her. Her mother, the empress was seen staring at her. "Today, I heard you were attacked by a beast. Are you hurt?"

"Oh, yes, I'm fine." It was when she was overwhelmed by the sight of her mother who cared about her after a long time.

"Well, who is this Lord escorting my daughter?" Then Victor made a polite example and opened his mouth.

"I am Victor, who was entrusted with the order of His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince to escort Her Imperial Highness the Princess." In response, the empress's eyes narrowed. Soon a cold voice came out of her mouth.

"I have something to talk about with the Princess, so will you just return this?" Even with the empress's congratulatory spirit, who didn't even say a word of good work, Victor looked down without disgust.

"Excuse me. I hope you have a gentle conversation." Beatrice was looking sadly at his back. The empress was annoyed with an irritated tone.

"Maximilian, that scoundrel, I'm not sure if he ignores you. How dare he put such a lowly fellow near you?" At those words, Beatrice felt the lumpiness she had just felt with the empress evaporating in an instant.

'How can you say that to the man who protected me? You can say a word of thanks.'

In Liche's head, there was growing resistance towards her mother.

"So what's your business?" She wanted to quickly listen to her mother's business and issue a congratulatory order. But the Empress, who could not know the inside story, smiled at her daughter and said.

"Oh, I heard there's going to be a good stuff at auction soon."

"Good stuff? What is that, so did my mother come here in person?" To Beatrice's question, the empress replied with a hue color.

"That's a magical item." Beatrice quietly shut her mouth at the word magical item. Then, the empress gave a hard reason.

"You know, don't you know that the child who received the gift from the family is born healthy? This mother wants you to prepare a gift for your younger brother." As the empress spoke, touching her swollen belly, Beatrice replied with a twisting smile.

"I'll think about it." When a somewhat ambiguous reaction came out, the Empress stared at her daughter.

The gift was just an excuse, and in fact, the Empress came to restore the relationship with her daughter who had been estranged for a while. Beatrice was a good child who asked for forgiveness when she came to her directly like this. But now...

"I'm tired, can you go?" Now she was speaking in an irritating tone, as if annoyed.

"Liche, you..." Beatrice said coldly at the moment when the empress was angry at her daughter's change.

"It's because I'm so tired, Mother." Soon after, when the empress left, Beatrice lay on her bed.

'Magical item, maybe we'll find a clue to the power I used earlier.'

At that thought, Beatrice swallowed a dry saliva and then smiled.

'And it would be nice to see Jubelian's coming of age gift there.'

***

To my shame, I came up to the room, embraced by Max. Dad was next to us, and knights from our family followed behind. Normally I would have been embarrassed, but it was relatively bearable because I had already been in front of people from the field. The problem was next.

"Jubelian, lock the door and don't trust anyone. All right?" I sighed at Max's repeated requests, as if he were brainwashing me.

'No matter how much the Emperor knew about our relationship, I'm not a child, and it's too much.'

Then, Max pointed his finger at one of the knights.

"You, risk your life to protect Jubelian." Geraldine, who was pointed to him, opened his mouth with a stiff face.

"Yes, yes! Of course, Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince!" Max smiled contentedly at the sight. Then, someone stepped in.

"You must go now, Crown Prince." At my Daddy's words, Max smiled at me.

"I'll leave you alone. You're taking care of yourself. All right?"

''All right.'' In my answer he looked at me lovingly and turned his back. For a moment, I breathed a sigh.

'Did you two fight? Why don't you even say a word?'

That was the question.

"Jubel, you're going to sleep now, aren't you?" Dad's blue eyes talking to me were warm as usual. I was reassured and anxious.

'Are you all right now?'

I was afraid my Dad would get weird again. I opened my mouth, swallowing my dry saliva.

"Hey, you know, Dad. There's something I want to tell you..." I've been trying to talk to my dad alone and ask him quietly about what happened. But Dad shook his head and cut off my words.

''It's late, so I'll talk to you next time.'' I nodded.

"Okay, good night, then." When Dad got up, I held his hand in some sort of anxiety.

"Jubel?" Looking at the face of my dad calling my name, I showed anxiety for a while, and then I let go of my hand in the thought that I might letting him down.

'Yes, it doesn't matter if I'm talking to my dad today.'

I laughed and said, pretending to be okay.

"See you tomorrow, Dad." At my greeting, Dad smiled openly and nodded his head.

"Yes, have a good dream." Do you know? That I am at ease with that word. As I looked at my Daddy's back, I prayed earnestly in my heart.

'May you always be happy with me.'

* * *

After leaving his daughter's room, Regis sighed. There was no way that his disciple and his daughter could not have known that they were looking at him with complex eyes.

'I'm sure you resent me a lot.'

He couldn't be with his daughter even when she was in danger because of his cursing restraints. Before, and so far. Regis clenched his fist, hiding his miserable feelings under an expressionless face.

'Please don't forgive me.'

It was a truly selfish heart. Don't forgive is just one thing, asking you not to forget him. Regis looked back at his daughter's room with a glance at her while mocking. He was just looking at the door, and the warmth seemed to permeate his heart.

'Do you know? I am grateful for the time I can be with you and that I live day by day.'

Regis looked at his daughter's room for a while, turned around and prayed.

'I hope I can write for you until the last time given to me.'

Before long, Regis took a heavy step.

***

At night, Frzeia sighed as she was briefed on what had happened at today's hunting competition.

'The Lord must have gone to the Duke of Floen today.'

In fact, from the Fresia's point of view, the cumbersome work increased. Now, she'll have to protect the personal affairs of Princess Floyen.

'Well, the Duke will do well on his own, but after neglecting the protection of the Princess due to the nature of our lord, we will pay for months.'

That was when Fresia was thinking about it.

"Fresia." Her name was suddenly called, and Fresia was sulking, then sighed.

'Why do you mean the master is losing his spirit as the days go by.'

She was so surprised that she would have a heart attack, but Fresia tried hard to look calm and bowed her head.

"You're here, Lord. I heard today that you have defeated the beast. That's great." Max said with a slight curl in his forehead.

"I don't want to talk about it." Fresia wondered at Max's usual look of self-respect and displeasure.

'Why are you doing that?'

At that time, Max turned the topic.

"Did you find out what I said before?"

"What, ah, a gift for Princess Floyen?" As Max nodded, Fresia smiled and handed the papers over. Before long, Max's expression of opening the papers changed.

"This is..."

"Yes, this is the information of the very precious gems in this underground auction." The Flower of the Underground Goddess that Max originally intended to present to Jubelian is a precious treasure, but it could be said that it was not enough for this treasure. He would be like that...

"Because it's a magic accessory, the competition rate will be fierce." Max smiled with a happy smile after seeing what the magic was on the jewelry.

'If it's this, I'm also relieved.'

At that time, Fresia gave the word.

"Take as much money as you can. It's probably that much of a product, so you'd better think about the price of a castle." And Max nodded as if it was obvious.

"I would have thought so." In the past, it would have been a waste to have a castle blown away by one of the ornaments, but now it's not a waste at all.

'Blue jewel, it would look very good on her.'

Because Max's head had a picture of Jubelian who would love to receive a gift.

* * *

The next day, I was getting up early and getting myself ready.

'Okay, I'm going to talk to my dad later about what happened yesterday.'

When I finished grooming, I tried to go to my dad's office. But...

''Here's the letters, my Lady." Marilyn came in with a mountain of letters.

'Oh, what kind of letters are there?'

I actually guessed. Maybe they're trying to flatter me as the Crown Prince's lover. I said to Marilyn, for a moment, that I was sighing.

"Put it on the desk. I'll read it later." It was when I said that and raised myself up. Marilyn called me up with a puzzled look.

"I'm afraid you've got a visitor and you'll have to go out." I flinched and sighed at the remark.

'I have a guest at such an early hour. Who are you?'

As I went down, I saw a ripe face.

"Princess Floyen." It wasn't nice to me, but the appearance of a gritty and difficult person called me with a firm face.

"Prince Elios." At my call he stood up and stared at me.

"Is your ankle okay?"

"Oh, yes." After a good night's sleep, the pain was gone, so it didn't hurt even if I walked today. Soon after, Prince opened his mouth with a soft gentle smile.

"Recovery is much faster than I thought." I didn't like it at the last hunting competition.

"I gave up, but it's hard to give up because I looked at you with that kind of eye." I didn't know what the word giving up meant, so I stood there, and he sighed. "I've made a serious confession, but I guess it didn't bother the princess." Only then did I understand what he was saying.

"Oh, the answer to that. Actually..." It was when I tried to say the truth and refuse.

"I told you, I gave up." As I looked at him with amazement, he smiled. "I'm sorry to have troubled the princess." Although I was a man who didn't think well of everything he said, I seemed to be a little softened by the apology. As I smiled slightly, he asked, bending his turquoise eyes finely.

"Are you accepting my apology?" Instead of answering, I nodded and he smiled and reached out to me. "Then, as a friend in the future, please look forward to it." As a friend, when I first thought about it, when I was offered a card game, I vaguely thought that I could be friends with a socialite.

"Please take good care of me, too." It was when I was trying to hold his hand.

Kwang!

"Jubelian!"

No matter how openly I started dating from yesterday, I don't think he will come so quickly. It was when I was opening my eyes wide open to the appearance of Max suddenly approached.

"Who are you dare to do?"

"Ma, Max! Suddenly what is this..." Surprised, I called out his nickname in front of Prince Elios. But now is not the time to care about that.

'Because of Max's personality, he'll definitely be arguing. The problem is...'

The Duke of Elios, now in his position for the throne, was one of the families that should not be turned into enemies. This is also because he has a great influence in the aristocratic society, and it is his father, the Duke of Elios, who oversees the administration of the empire.

'If Max becomes the Emperor someday, he will have to negotiate with him, the next duke, but there is no need to carry a penalty already.'

It was when I was next to try to stop the angry Max. Prince Elios said with a bright smile.

"The princess must be tired too. Your lover will never let you go like this." At those words, Max crumbled, crumpling his face.

"If you're talking because you want to die, I'll do whatever you want, Frederick Lionel Elios." Even if anyone else knows, Max is the person who will remain after realizing his words.

'I have to stop him.'

It was when I was trying to fold my arms to stop Max. Prince Elios' smile disappeared from his face.

"Can't you see that the princess is in trouble now because of His Imperial Highness' actions?" At that, Max looked at me with trembling eyes.

"Jubelian, I am..." Prince Elios said coldly, shaking off Max's hand when his mouth was about to open.

"If you have a public relationship in a social world, you have to be careful about your conduct. Your faults may hurt your partner." At that, I pouted my mouth. It may have been for Max, but it was because I was also hit with a bone.

'I should have just lived.'

I sighed for a while, looking at his bloody face and swallowing dry saliva.

'I have to solve it from Max.'

I watched Max's bloody look and folded arms around my arms. As Max looked back with amazement, I stared at him and opened my mouth.

"Max, you won't be able to trust me, but I'll do well from now onward." Max sighed and bit my words.

"Why do you think I won't be able to trust you?"

"That's..." When I couldn't keep my mouth shut, Max was flustered and opened his mouth.

''You're doing well now.'' I looked up at him again and looked down helplessly.

"But, wasn't you that angry that I just behaved poorly?" Then he stroked my cheek and spoke softly as if he were a child.

"Never. You're the one I trust the most." When I said that, I looked at him and opened my mouth.

"Then can you trust me and sit down?" He looked at me for a while, then sighed and sat next to me. Prince Elios looked at us and sat across from me. Max's eyes narrowed as if he didn't like it. But soon after I held my hand, Max blushed and clasped his fingers in my hand.

'Because it's cute anyway.'

I held back my laughter and went to the main point.

"I'll explain the situation from now on." As Max nodded slowly, I summed up what had just happened. "Prince Elios just came to apologize for what I was misunderstanding. And we just made up and decided to be friends." Somehow he still looked disbelief, but the words from Max's mouth were admirable.

''I see.''

"Now I'm friends with Prince Elios, I want you to respect my friend.'' Max sighed and opened his mouth.

"I'm sorry about what happened before, Prince Elios." However, Elios Elios did not answer and was staring at us both with a firm face. I raised my intertwined hands and faced Prince Elios.

"Yesterday, I think His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince reacted sensitively because I was chased by a beast. As a friend, I would be grateful if you could understand, Fred."

* * *

As soon as he heard the words of Jubelian, Frederick crumpled his gaze at the thought of being stabbed.

'This is a complete disaster.'

Until now, he was disappointed by the Crown Prince who opened the main door and entered.

'If it's that way, it'll hurt her, so it might be better to break up.'

For that reason, Frederick tried to provoke him to catch the pod. However, Jubelian was not enough to have a good restraint from the Crown Prince, whether she had seen the inside of it, and led the situation to an advantage. In particular, it was admirable that she drew a line to calm the Crown Prince and told him not to want more than a friend.

'Such a waste.'

Involuntarily, sighing at one thought, Frederick stared at Jubelrian. Like the jewel she had eyes on, she was sprinkling beautiful lights everywhere.

'I told you I gave up, but I did regret it.'

But since she drew the line firmly to give up, he'd have to respect it. Frederick opened his mouth with a smile.

"Of course, Jubelian." When hr called her name, he saw the Crown Prince's eye wriggle. Frederick raised his mouth and stared at Max.

'The man she chose.'

The Crown Prince, who possessed a belligerent and violent nature, made a lot of efforts for his ignorance, but he was a man who could become a tyrant if he did wrong. However, as long as Jubelian was by his side, he was convinced that he would be able to walk the right path without going overboard.

'Maybe you will hear the voice of the people. Of course, I'm not deceived.'

For a moment, Frederick opened his mouth.

"Anytime you need my help, please let me know. I'll help you with whatever I can do." When that remark came to his mind, Frederick smiled.

'If this is all I can contribute to your happiness, I'm willing.'

* * *

"Then you will be healthy and until the coming of age ceremony." At Fred's words, I nodded with a smile.

"Yes, see you that day." Soon Fred left the door, and I raised my mouth.

'This is an advantage because I made a relationship with the Elios family.'

Although his activities have won the support of the people and some aristocrats, there are no noble families who support the Crown Prince openly. I'm sure the Duke of Elios will be a great help.

'Is Max definitely thinking the same as me?'

When I turned my head and stared at Max, I could see that he was staring at the door where Fred went out with an unworthy face.

'I've been so underestimating Max.'

When I fought with my father, who was his teacher, I didn't easily make up with him. I couldn't be relieved with just a few words.

'Then, I think I fought with my dad again. How do I reconcile?'

I sighed and stared at him. Then Max asked back, wondering if he had been stabbed.

"Why?" I opened my mouth when I saw him embarrassed.

"You came early today? You didn't put your duties as Crown Prince on the back burner, did you?" He shook his head and answered my question.

"N, no. The meeting ended earlier than I thought."

''Is that really the end?'' He blushed at my question.

"And I was worried about your ankles..." Only after hearing that honest thought, I did know how to make him feel better. In time I sneakily grabbed his hand and whispered a lie.

"It's almost healed, but it's a bit hard to climb the stairs. Could you take me to my room?" Then he hugged me and said without hesitation.

"Okay." His face seemed somewhat pleasant.

'He's so simple.'

After thinking about that for a while, I recalled my original purpose and stared at my Dad's office.

'I have enough time, so I will tell you later.'

***

Mikhail drank from the bottle and threw the bottle.

"Damn it!" Even after breaking up, he thought there would be no man who was only confident. Even if he was Prince Elios, he thought he was lacking in appearance compared to himself. However, the fact that the man he met with Juvelian was the Crown Prince gave him a sense of defeat.

'No way, did you tell me this star to meet him? Damn bitch!'

He was upset at the thought of being deceived. But on the other hand...

'Even so, I want you to come back.'

He felt like he was going crazy because he wanted to see Juvelian. In distress, Mikhail tried to open the bottle again.

"Oh, that's a very good look." Mikhail glared at the man who had spoken with bloodshot eyes and was nervous.

"Get off, Radian." Even in the bloody aura than usual, Radian smiled.

"If you kick me out, you'd regret it?" Regardless of the words, Mikhail drank alcohol.

'If I regret it, I already did it to the extent that I was sick of it.'

But what he heard soon shocked Mikhail.

"Don't you want to know how to be a transcendent?"

Jjekeurang!

The bottle Mikhail missed broke with a loud noise.

Spoiler: Chapter 145

Even in front of others, the person who kissed my cheek could not be still. Now, sitting next to me wasn't cold, so Max put me on his lap.

"You're too light." Then he put his arms around my stomach and hugged me. And whispered directly to my ear. "But I like it because it's soft and soft."

'I feel like I'm a teddy bear.'

Normally, I would hate it, but I wasn't ashamed of his behavior. I was sorry not to be able to see his face, even if my hair had gone down.

'How did I end up like this?'

While thinking about that for a while, I felt a hot breath behind my neck. And the feeling of the narrow nose. He was silent for a while, with his nose stuck in the nape of my neck. The hot breath kept tickling my neck. And I can feel his scent from time to time.

'Are you wearing perfume?'

No matter how tingly and weird it was, I thought it was fortunate that he couldn't see my face right now. Then, Max grabbed my waist and hugged me. It was a moment that I was embarrassed by his sudden behavior, and then I realized that his attire was more glamorous than usual.

"Jubelian." He was definitely a handsome person, so if he was decorated he was really handsome. Just looking at him makes my face burn.

"Yes?" Somehow, when I avoided looking at him in response to the tingling sensation, he smiled at me, making my head face toward him.

"You should show your pretty face." It's strange to think for myself that the cheesy remark made me feel good, but so was it.

'I never thought I'd be loved like this before...'

Like Mikhail, even when I recall the memories of my previous life, this expression of affection was the first time. Still, good and shy were one thing. When I covered my face with my hands, I could hear his whining voice.

"I want to see your face, but won't you show me?''

'Oh, well, it's so cute that I can't help but look at it.'

I slowly took my hands off. Then I saw Max's face staring at me passionately right in front of me.

'Wow, how handsome is he?'

I feel it all over the place, but I thought it would be because Max was so handsome that I did not fall into the temptation of Mikhail and Prince Elios.

'Of course, my Max has the best personality...'

Although Max sometimes behaves grotesquely, it's just because he lacks social skills.

'That's why I misunderstood him as a tyrant in the original.'

Even that was getting better and better, so I thought a lot of people would recognize his kindness. When I was admiring my lover's face, he took my hand and kissed the back of my hand. Then he smiled and said.

"I wish I could see your face like this every day. Right?" It was close to force majeure that I nodded.

* * *

While looking at the Juvelian nodding her head, Max lifted the tail of his mouth.

'It's worth the while.'

For a moment he was pleased, but when he remembered the sight of Prince Elios, early in the morning, he crumpled his forehead.

'He said I'd give up, but I'm sure he's aiming for the opportunity. Fucking fox.'

For a moment, he laughed when he saw Jubelian staring at him as if she was wondering.

'Well, it's because my Jubelian is so pretty.'

Max kissed Jubelian on her fluffy cheek and hugged her. The soft, warm touch gradually sent the heat up.

'I can't wait to take you to the palace...'

If he live with her, he will be able to sleep with this soft, pretty body, and when he wake up, he will see her pretty face. Every day. Just imagining it made him laugh.

'I want to see her face every day, but wouldn't it be okay if I just took her?'

Maybe his rational judgment was blurred, Max was even facing a dangerous life that he would not normally do. Just before Max's patience ran out, a knock came through.

"Jubelian, are you inside?" As expected, the sabotage of sweet time was the Duke Floyen.

"Yes, yes!" This time, Jubelian looked surprised and tried to push him away. But Max, who had already predicted everything, held her hands and laughed.

"Ma, Max. Daddy..." Her embarrassed face was so cute, Max raised the corners of his mouth and stared at the door.

<But you know what? My daughter's ideal type is a man who is stronger than my father.>

Although his desire to be recognized by the man who forsaken his daughter for his weaknesses disappeared, he thought that if he defeated him, he might not be able to do a modest hindrance anymore. Max put the Juvelian down and said, rubbing her cheek.

"Wait a moment. Okay?" As he was about to turn around, the Jubelian grabbed his sleeve.

"I'll get out, Max." At that, Max shook his head and said.

"No, your ankle are uncomfortable, but I'll go." Then she blushed and opened her mouth.

"Actually, my ankle fine. I lied to break a job earlier." Why did she lie? In a puzzled mind, Max stared at Jubelian silently. Then Jubelian added with a shy face.

"I like to be hugged by you."

Max forgot all the words he had just thought of to persuade her. At that moment, a word struck his mind.

<Princess Floyen. Isn't she beautiful like an angel?>

Back then, he was just proud that the person they praised was the one who chose him, but now he really sympathize with that very much.

'Yes, maybe Jubelian is an angel.'

It was when Max came to such a ridiculous conclusion. Jubelian smiled like an angel towards Max, who was showing a blank expression.

"My dad, I will do it myself." It was only then that Max tried to stop her, but she was already walking towards the door.

'She walk really well.'

He laughed happily as he looked at her for a while, and when the door opened, Max opened his eyes.

"Jubel." To the abominable effect, the teacher smiled at Jubelian as if he were a loving father.

"Come on in, Dad." It was when Max was staring at his teacher behind Juvelian, in a sense of absolute disapproval. He saw his teacher staring at him and then laughing. The awkward smile was like the expression he praised when he first mastered the basic skills of the sword, so Max felt weak.

'No, he's got a weakness for the Emperor...'

At that moment, an afterimage came into my mind.

<Now that you have called me your teacher, I will teach you sword art in the rain, so that you may survive from today.>

It when he first became his disciple.

<It was good of you to learn how to use mana.>

When he was praised for the first time.

<Jubelian is my daughter. She's a really loving kid.>

When he first saw his human side.

There was no way he could hate him. The man who was his benefactor when he was a child, his teacher and her father.

'Damn it!'

Max crumpled his forehead and bowed slightly to his teacher.

'Maybe I am misunderstanding you.'

Talking with him again, Max made up his mind. However, from the teacher's mouth, something unexpected came out.

"No, I'll just tell you what to do." Jubelian also replied after being silent for a while, whether it was unexpected.

"Yes, tell me."

"I'm going to have an inspection of the territory from tomorrow, but if it's okay, why don't we go together?" At the word inspection, Max crumpled his face.

'Then it is! There's no way that human can see the way we're attached.'

Floyen was relatively close to the capital, but the problem was that it was very large.

'It would take a week to insoect, but by the time she get back she'll be busy preparing for the coming of age ceremony, so she'll have no time to meet me. Damn it!'

In short, it was all about saying that he would separate Jubelian from him. There was no way to send her with confidence because it was not possible to know if his Teacher and the Emperor had collusion.

'Please refuse. please!'

Max looked anxiously at the back of Jubelian and prayed. But...

"Okay! I'm nervous because it's my first inspection."

What came out of her mouth was a harsh permission.

'Why did you allow it?'

When Max was in silent despair, his teacher smiled at him. It was obviously a mockery. Max clenched his fist when he saw his teacher showing a series of suspicious behavior.

'I don't care what you mean. I will protect Jubelian.'

It was at the time Max twisted his face and made up his mind.

''Yes, see you tomorrow.''

"Yes, Dad!" Max, who wanted to see the father and daughter exchanging greetings, urgently managed to keep a straight face.

'Jubelian might misunderstand if she saw me.'

At that time, he turned his head and laughed.

"Did you hear that?" Max spoke, barely drawing the wobbly corners of his mouth.

"An inspection?" Then she stroked Max's hair. The sensation of her fingers scrutinizing his hair was so tingly, Max held her hand and barely suppressed what he wanted to give her.

"It won't take long, so Max, please do your duty as a Crown Prince. Alright?" Originally, he tried to say that he would chase after her, but the player was taken away. Now that words were spoken, Max nodded reluctantly, as he could not be proud of his words.

"Yes, all right." Jubelian said, who kissed Max's lips and whispered in a small whisper.

"Thank you." The tender sensation has exhausted his pent-up patience. When he smacked her lips roughly in a hurry, Jubelian had responded with her arms around Max's neck.

Max glistened his eyes, frantically coveting the lips of the Jubelian.

'I'll find a way to keep up with her somehow.'

* * *

After the Crown Prince declared his official love affair, Victor was surrounded by small happiness.

'You don't have to wear that damn armor anymore!'

Even now, Victor was wearing a knight's uniform thanks to Max's heading to the Duke of Floyen as the Crown Prince.

'I am free now!'

It was when Victor jumped in a sense of freedom.

"What are you doing now?" Suddenly, a voice from behind, Victor was startled.

"Ahh!" When he turned his head, Beatrice looked at him with a pathetic look. When Victor came to his senses, he sighed and opened his mouth. "You're surprised to see me suddenly, Your Imperial Highness." Beatrice looked at Victor's head. There was no bandage to see if the treatment was done properly, but it still bothered her. And originally she had another dragon case*.

(*tough case)

'Is his wound okay?'

Strangely, though, words were different from what she thought.

"I didn't appear, it's something that stands out because you just sprung. And only because you're so timid can you say that you're the closest knight to your brother?" At those words, Victor gently crept into his forehead and opened his mouth.

"It's a good thing I'm not the knight of Her Imperial Highness."

"What?" Victor bowed down and asked back.

"Then I'll get going, Your Imperial Highness." Beatrice bit her lower lip as Victor turned his back and left without a trace.

'Oh, I should have asked you to come with me to the auction.'

The knights that the empress gave her were monitoring Beatrice's every move. If she lead them to an auction, everything she buys will be reported to the empress.

'But Victor is my older brother's knight, so we have to ask for patience this time.'

So she tried to speak with a request group, but an order came out of her mouth.

"Stop." At the sound of Beatrice's call, Victor stopped and looked back.

"Why? What else did I bother?"

"No, it doesn't bother me, but..." Beatrice first tried to ask about Victor's wounds. At that time, Victor sighed and kneelee one knee. Then he bowed his head towards Beatrice's feet.

"What, what? What are you doing now..."

"You don't know when you see it? The knots of your shoes are loose." It was then that Beatrice realized that the ankle boots that she wore today were loose.

"You can just leave it." Though she said so with embarrassment, Victor pinched Beatrice.

"What are you talking about? Then you fall." Thanks to this, Beatrice, who looked down at his taller head, could see the wounded spot.

'Ah, you must have applied the medicine.'

The treatments mixed with holy water provided by the temple only aided in skin regeneration, and did not heal each wound. For that reason, there was a large crust in place where there was a wound.

'If the potions that were prevalent in the era of magic existed...'

Beatrice, feeling regretted, reached out to Victor's wounded place without knowing it.

'You shouldn't be scared...'

At the moment when her finger was about to touch his wound, Victor flinched and raised his head.

"Your Imperial Highness, what kind of behavior is this all of a sudden?" It was only then that Beatrice realized that she had stroked Victor's hair.

'What am I doing now...!'

As soon as she took her hand away, Victor said with a sigh.

"No matter how admirable I am, I don't think I'm a pet dog."

"Not that..!" It was when Beatrice was hastily to deny it.

"Here you are." He wasn't there all the time, and both of them were surprised at the sudden voice they heard. But...

"Ahhhhhhhhh!" It was Victor alone who screamed again. Beatrice frowned as she watched it.

'You're really weak.'

Even for a moment, the intruder suddenly appeared and bowed his head.

"I see Your Imperial Highness the Princess."

"What is going on? Sir Dennis." Dennis replied, staring at Victor to her question.

"It's no different, because His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince is looking for Sir Victor..." When he said that, Victor fluttered and trembled.

'I don't know what you're trying to do, but I have an ominous feeling.'

Denise patted Victor's shoulder as if comforting him, then bowed his head towards Beatrice.

"Then we'll be excused, Your Highness the Imperial Lady."

"Excuse me." With greetings, the two of them left. Beatrice just recalled what she was about to tell Victor.

'Yes, I didn't say let's go to the auction together.'

Beatrice sighed weakly, lowering her eyes.

'I'll have to say it again tomorrow.'

* * *

After Max left, I sighed as I looked at the piles of luggage.

'You're not going to follow me, are you?'

For a moment, I guessed why my dad asked me to leave for an inspection.

'Why would you suggest that to me?'

Throughout the conversation, I faced my dad's blue eyes and asked silently. What the hell are you thinking? What are you hiding from me? But Dad didn't give any answer.

'I'm worried.'

That was the reason why I am willing to follow the inspection. I was afraid that my dad would turn strangely in the place where I was not.

'Okay, I'm going to help my Daddy at this point. And I shouldn't take my eyes off of him for a moment.'

I reiterated my determination and clenched my fists.

* * *

Upon entering the office, he saw the Crown Prince staring at him.

"Have you come?" Victor flinched with a fierce gaze like a beast hunting for prey. No matter how much he thought about it, it was sinister.

'What the hell are you trying to ask?'

Then, the Crown Prince opened his mouth.

"Sir Victor, aren't you bored in the palace these days?" At unexpected words, Victor opened his eyes wide.

'How did you know?'

When he was disguised as the Crown Prince, life in the imperial palace was comfortable, but on the one hand, it was boring. But making such a suggestion doesn't it as if he were trying to figure it out of his own mind?

"That's right!" As Victor replied loudly, Max's eyes were bent.

"Okay, that's a very good mindset. Dennis, bring a list of business trips for Victor."

'A business trip, what should I go out and play with?'

That was when Victor was calming his beating heart.

"Yes, this would be great. Ghost subjugation mission." Victor hardened at the word ghost.

"What? Gho, ghost?" He asked the Crown Prince again, hoping that he would deny it, but the Crown Prince nodded.

"Yes, there has been a rumor that morale has been diminished by soldiers who witnessed ghosts near the eastern camp. You go and find out the truth." Basically, there were a few things that only Victor was scared of. One of them was a ghost.

'Damn it! Rather than meeting a ghost, it's better to wear your armor and hold on for a month!'

"Your Imperial Highness, are you really telling me to do that?" Victor trembled and looked at the Crown Prince, but he replied with a smile.

"Can you do it? Are you competent?" For a moment, he trembled while looking at the face of the demonic lord, and Victor shook his head with a white, pale face.

"I'm of course competent, but I'm a little outgoing with my ability..."

"Yeah, when I thought about it, I wasn't too caring." It was at the time when Victor was sweeping his chest at the sudden words. "Okay. It will be hard with your ability, so I'll go instead." At that ridiculous force, Victor opened his mouth. However, the Crown Prince's tyranny did not end there.

"Okay, take this one." Victor's eyes widened, unintentionally accepting the booklet Max handed over.

'A magic accessory?'

Currently, the age of very rare wizards, and even that, since there are no high-ranking wizards, they are barely maintaining the magical spirit. The high-ranking enchanted ornaments were of great value, so they almost boasted an astronomical amount.

'It's an auction, it's going to splatter completely.'

If this is enough, it will be more than just a matter of money, and he will have to follow his luck to win the bid. Victor clicked his tongue while looking at the object on the cover.

"Why did you give this to me?" At Victor's question, Max raised his mouth.

"I was going to participate in an auction for a gift for Jubelian, but I couldn't go because I went out on your mission instead." In a word, there was no saying that if he failed the succeed the bid, he would die.

'It's okay. You have a lot of money, so you can buy most of it. As long as it's not magic.'

Victor opened his mouth with such reassurance of himself.

"So which one should I get?" At Victor's question, Max said, pointing to the cover of the booklet.

"This." Max whispered, touching Victor's trembling shoulder. "I'll take care of your mission perfectly, and I'm sure you'll do it well this time." It is fortunate not to do the ghost subjugation mission. However, the fact that he had to wear the armor again was not enough, and the reality that he had to go to the auction house and successfully bid for magical accessories with great competition was just painful.

'Why? I've always lived nicely, but why is this happening only to me!'

As Max looked at Victor screaming silently, he raised his mouth.

'Okay, if I explain that I've come to handle a difficult mission instead of Victor, you'll understand Juvelian.'

***

Finally, the day I left the inspection was bright. As usual, Dad was waiting for me at the door.

"Let's go." Holding his hand, I came down and saw that the attendants were busy carrying luggage for our woman. I looked at it for a while, and I said looking at my dad.

"Daddy, would you mind going outside first if you don't mind?" My dad gave me a curious look, but instead of asking me why, he nodded.

"Okay." When Dad first went out the front door, I approached the attendants. When Mrs. Perez, who was supervising them, found me, she spoke with a smile.

"My lady, are you heading for the carriage now?"

"Yes."

"It's been a long time since her daughter has returned, so the Duchess will be pleased." I heard that when I was very young, when my mother was alive, I was living in a country house in a manor. For that reason, her grave was enshrined there.

'I can't remember anything, but I still feel like I miss it.'

Even when I was thinking about that for a while, Mrs. Perez crossed something.

"A hometown tea?"

"Yes, Mrs. Ronel, who manages the country house, loves teas very much."

(so the auntie still isn't dead, just, far away)

"Oh, I didn't even think about it, but thank you." Before I left the house, I opened my mouth to see Mrs. Perez and other servants. "Please take good care of our mansion while we're away." Their actions were paused at unexpected greetings. For a moment too, Mrs. Perez, the house keeper who manages our mansion, looked down at me.

"Goodbye, Lady Juvelian." At the same time, I also lowered my head as I saw them bowing. After a while, I lifted my head and opened my mouth with a smile.

"Then we'll be back!"

Chapter 146

The hideout of the Crown Prince was quieter than usual. That's because a person who usually doesn't come and go often appeared. He was sitting in his casual clothes, but the pressure from the whole body was not the criminal's.

"Yes, the Duke of Floyen's carriage departed?" Dennis responded with a nod to the Crown Prince's question.

"Yes, do you want to start right away?" Max shook his head. First of all, there was something to be dealt with.

"Let's wait a minute." When he finished speaking, Max turned his head and stared at Fresia. "How did you do that?"

"Ah, I have a kid on my side. I ordered that kid to look for a chance and rescue him." Max stared at Dennis and opened his mouth.

"Let's deliver it to him." After finishing the talk, Max thought. In time, a soft smile came to Max's mouth.

'Is Juvelian going to be dozing in the carriage by now?'

And the rest of his men, who were watching, soon smiled.

'I didn't expect you to be so generous.'

* * *

I heard a familiar lullaby sound somewhere. I slowly drew towards the sound.

<Dear moon, please warmly wrap our baby. Don't have nightmares.>

And the moment I made eye contact with the person who was singing, I trembled finely. I was scared to see a woman who was covered with blood looking at me.

<Baby.>

She bite her lower lip and opened her mouth in tears.

<Don't come. And...>

I opened my eyes because I was astonished at her words that followed.

* * *

"Hyuk!"

When I was startled and convulsed, my father, who was next to me, looked at me with surprised eyes.

"Jubel, what's wrong?" As soon as I saw that friendly look, I realized that I was in reality.

"Oh, well, I had a nightmare." In my answer, Dad took out a handkerchief and wiped my forehead. It was a handkerchief that I made a while ago.

'You had it.'

You didn't participate in the hunting competition, so I didn't really expect you to carry it around. But I didn't know you were carrying it like this! Frankly, I was moved.

"Daddy, I'm fine now." I was able to laugh broadly because the steaming lingering sound of the nightmare had disappeared. Dad looked at me and smiled calmly. At that time, my eyes grew slightly. "Ah, it's our land." I turned my head and looked out the window.

'Wow...'

It was spectacular to see the entire horizon covered with golden wheat.

'I thought our territory was wide, but it was this much.'

For a moment in admiration, too, I could see people bowing their heads toward our carriage. Dad told me quietly.

"Look carefully. They are the precious people who support us." If they were other nobles, they would have said that we were the ones who ruled, but I was proud that my Daddy, the strongest in the world, was able to say that. I nodded and answered vigorously.

"Yes, I'll keep it in mind!"

***

The white marble mansion was much larger and more antique than the townhouses on the islands. And the lily decorating the garden was like a picture in harmony with the mansion.

"You came home." But, perhaps because I haven't seen it for over 10 years, the mansion was as unfamiliar as seeing someone else's house.

'I should say that it looks more like a palace rather than a mansion.'

Well, it wouldn't be inferior to call it a palace. Our duchy is similar in size to a small kingdom.

'That's why there were so many people who wanted to be the Duchess of Floyen...'

(your dad is hot, and strong and kind, so yeah...)

When I looked at my dad, I saw him reaching out for me.

"Now let's get down." At that, I smiled and held my hand.

'But for the time being, I wish my dad's best was me.'

As we got off the wagon, a ripe face greeted us.

"Duke, welcome." My uncle was still blunt, Viscount Ronell, the agent who currently manages our mansion and estate as a vassal of our family. From that look, I tried to find the shadow of my cousin.

<Well, I think I should be responsible for the safety of the mansion in the system. Have a nice trip, Juvelian.>

'Was it possible to come with Geraldine at all?'

Although he was in a close relationship with Geraldine, it was the last time I saw him in his debut three years ago. Honestly, it wasn't that awkward, but it was four people who tried hard to say hello.

"Hello, Uncle." His expression upon receiving my greetings subtly changed. Before long, a slight smile appeared on his face.

"Jubelian, you've grown a lot." I was worried that he would turn away, but I felt good because he subtended.

"My uncle still looks healthy."

"Oh, he's helping a lot of the people in the country." It wasn't my uncle who answered my question. I smiled brightly and greeted the appearance of an elegant beauty who seemed look like Geraldine by anyone.

"My aunt is still there. How are you?" I said my greetings because she wasn't going up to the system for medical treatment, and my aunt-in-law curled her eyes and laughed.

"Oh, my little princess has become a lady. Unlike what I've heard." I was forced to laugh nicely when she mentioned the evils I had done over the years.

'After all, I must always be prepared to carry my past tasks.'

As I sighed, she grabbed my hand and laughed.

"Don't stand here. Let's get in there, shall we? I've got a lot of food that the little princess liked when she was young."

"Yes, yes!" It was difficult to deal with, but it was nice that the two of them greeted me.

***

Two men were patrolling at the Crown Prince's Army camp adjacent to the Duke of Floyen.

"Haa, it's boring." The soldier who looked like he said was frightened and said.

"Senior, don't you know that? I'm saying that a ghost appears around here for a while!" The soldier said, with a bloody smile, as the juniors looked.

"Hey, that's all bad. I don't want to stand guard, so I do it for nothing." It was then.

"Se, senior, tha, that!" The soldier shouted at the figure of the junior who was shaking.

"Hey, aren't you the pretense that I just ignored it?"

"Senior, please look over there?" Unintentionally, the soldier saw where the junior's fingers pointed, opened his eyes and stepped back.

"Well, what is that?" A translucent man was floating in the air.

"I am back." The man smiled with red eyes, then slowly disappeared. When the junior fell down with a shocked expression, the soldier shouted in a confused voice.

"It's, it's a ghost!"

***

I've been enjoying tea time with my aunt until now and opened my eyes wide.

"What? A ghost?" I asked back to the absurd remarks I just heard, and my aunt gracefully took a bite of the home tea I brought.

"Oh, it smells so good. I'm surprised the little Princess made it herself." She sighed at the sight of her answering the same question for a moment, and for some reason, I shuddered and opened my mouth again.

"My aunt, tell me about the ghost. Are you sure they're coming from a place close to our mansion?" She smiled and opened her mouth.

"Now you look like our cute little princess. Are you still afraid of ghosts?"

<Jubelian, crying is so cute. Do you raise your daughter with this taste?>

Yes, I vaguely remember. The fact that my aunt is like this originally.

"I'm not scared. It's because I care because it's our estate." To my answer, she said 'regret it' and muttered a little, then replied.

"There is a camp near the mansion where mercenaries are stationed. There are many people who see hallucinations while walking along the remote road near the mansion."

"Hallucination?" It wasn't a ghost and it was weird to express it that way, so when I asked, she replied, raising her mouth.

"Ah, I haven't seen the ghost. I've been there not once, but many times." The conclusion seems to have been deliberately going there to see the ghost.

'She really looks like a real aunt.'

I sighed for a while, recalling the thought I just had.

'Why did I think that way? I don't know much about her, but I am familiar with her.'

It was when I was surrounded by a certain sense of deja vu.

"Jubelian, why don't you go if you're curious?" I shook my head when she said the annoying suggestion.

"No, it's almost the end of the day..."

"Oh, my little girl is making all the excuses?" I bet my aunt can make anyone worry about crying. I even wondered if it was because of her that Geraldine didn't come to this house. "Are you scared?" Honestly, I was a little offended by saying that.

"It can't be that way. Do you know if I'm a child?" At my denial, she bent her eyes.

"Ah, it's nice to see such a spirited figure. Our little princess will surely be spirited in front of the ghost." Only then I realized that I went over her words.

"No, I'm not going..." I tried to deny it in a hurry, but she got up.

"Good luck with your walk. When you see a ghost, make sure you tell me." I sighed at the words.

'Well, yeah. There can't be any ghosts, so I'll just go for a walk.'

***

He ran excitedly at the thought of meeting Jubelian by chance, but the situation at the camp was worse than he thought.

"Well, Your Imperial Highness. I mean I really saw a ghost?"

"That's right! I saw it too. Ron over there even got bored with his pants!" The faces of the soldiers telling the truth by telling the facts that he didn't want to know were desperate. And the face of Max, who was listening to them, was full of annoyance.

"Lord, let me know..." As Fresia began to notice, Max frowned and shook his head.

"No, I'll check it myself as I've come on behalf of Victor." Max, who stood up and tried to leave the barracks, said, staring at the men who raised themselves to follow. "It's annoying, don't follow me." Max frowned while quickly heading for the ghost.

'What's scary about ghosts? What's the big deal with all that fuss...'

From Max's point of view, who had never been afraid of anything since he was young, he could not understand the reaction of his subordinates. Soon Max laughed as he recalled the only thing that could make him afraid.

'I miss you there. My Jubelian.'

***

I was now out for a walk with Marilyn and Todd.

'The security of the system is certainly good.'

Compared to the bright distance of the system in the evening, the streets where the sun began to set were dark, and the roads as they were raw were uncomfortable to walk. In addition, the surrounding landscape, where the spiders began to fall, looked like very dreary.

'It looks like even a ghost will come out.'

For a moment, I laughed in vain.

'Well, I'm not very scared, but...'

"Oh, miss, I'm sure ghost will not really going to come, would it?'' With Marilyn trembling with a lamp...

"Maybe it may come out. I also witnessed a beast." I sighed unknowingly at Todd's nervousness while touching his sword. "Are you all right, my Lady?"

"Of course I'm fine. There's nothing like a ghost in the world, is there?" Marilyn shook her head with a serious look at my words.

"No. Lady, there are ghosts."

"Ah, where's that? That's just a bluff, isn't it, Sir Todd?" I asked for consent, but Sir Todd shook his head seriously.

"No, I agree with Ms. Marylin." At the words of the two, I smiled and shook my head.

'What's scary about ghosts? Rather than that, mice and pigeons are more scary.'

I was shivering thinking of pigeons for a while.

Bushirak.

"Ahhhh!" When Marilyn screamed at the sound of the grass, Todd drew the sword with a nervous face.

"Who is it! Ghosts disappear, people come out!" I sighed as I watched the sight.

'Should I have come out alone?'

Then, Marilyn screamed again.

"Ahhhhhhhhh!" Todd screamed because she was not enough.

"Ahhhhhh! It's a ghost!" Both of them seem to be afraid of something like a scarecrow swaying in the wind. I opened my mouth, pointing at what they were seeing.

"There's no such thing as a ghost..." At that moment, I had to stop speaking and frown.

'Max?'

Although long-haired, translucent, and airborne, at first glance, his face and atmosphere were very similar to that of Max. And when I made eye contact, what he said, I was convinced that he was Max.

"Oh, where did this pretty thing come up?" He don't refer to me as a thing these days, but in the past, he often called me in his small gap.

'Have you been following me?'

I told him to wait quietly, but I didn't know that the islands would follow up to this place. I sighed and said to the two frightened men.

"The two of you stay quiet. I'll try to soothe the ghost." I spoke to Max, who is playing ghosts. "What are you doing there now?" Then he approached me with red eyes.

"I'm talking with you. But are we spherical? The day is ripe." I didn't know how to play such an unpleasant joke because it wasn't enough to follow me.

"You have no choice but to cook during the day? Stop playing around." It was when I was staring at Max. He raised his face and looked closely at my face.

"You, those eyes..." And I had to take a step back.

'Isn't it Max?'

It looked like it up close, but it was definitely a different person from Max.

"You, who are you?" He opened his mouth to my question.

"If you ask who this body is..." At that moment, a red light tore his figure. A gloomy voice that came before long.

"Who do you dare to be a ghost?" It was the appearance of my real lover, more bloody than a ghost.

***

Max stared at a ghost half torn by aura cuts.

'It's a ghost theme and a high sense of beauty, so you dare to make a mess to my Jubelian!'

The ghost's translucent body shattered as he swung his sword as if in anger.

"Max, stop now!" Though he still hadn't resolved everything, he couldn't violate Juvelian's words. Max inserted his sword and looked at Juvelian.

"Are you fine?"

"I'm fine." Even at Juvelian's answer, Max looked at her several times before exhaling a sigh of relief. Then he hugged Juvelian.

'I thought that she wasn't afraid to approach a ghost, but in a strange part...'

He couldn't understand how she was scared of rats and pigeons, but fearless of beasts and ghosts.

'If an assassin appears in this way, she may be calm. If she return to the system, she should raise her awareness.'

It was when Max was thinking about that.

"Max." At Juvelian's call, Max pulled himself off and stared at her.

"Why?" Then she smiled nicely and put the reason in her mouth.

"It seems like the ghost has came back to life." Aura cuts are slow to heal. This is because aura interferes with skin regeneration.

'But you still survived?'

At Juvelian's words, Max looked amazed and looked back. Surprisingly, the ghost was raising his hand in a normal state.

"Hoh, you're pretty good to use aura. You're still weaker than Regis." The ghost's words referring to his teacher opened his eyes wide.

'Who are you?'

It was at the time when Max tried to question the ghost.

"Who are you, do you know my father?" The question was stolen by Juvelian, who has a cold look. The ghost smiled and opened his mouth to see if he wanted to answer that.

"Yeah, it feels similar, so you're the daughter of Regis. Was ypu pretty because you resembles you father?" Jubelian's eyes, who had been stiff at those words, were slightly relaxed.

"I, really?"

"Yeah, Regis has a pretty face that even admits this tricky body."

"That's right, my Daddy is handsome." Suddenly she was conversing with a ghost, and Max lost what he had to say, and then clenched hus fist.

'That's very annoying. Shall we tear that ghost apart again?'

At that moment, the ghost disappeared in a flash.

'Where did it go?'

It was when Max rolled his eyes and was looking for a ghost. A voice rang in his head.

[Little boy, you like Regis' daughter.]

Max frowned at a glance.

'Is that sound only my hallucinations?'

[Pft. I have lived for more than 2,000 years, but this is the first time I have ever seen a guy who thinks telepathy is a hallucination.]

'So why are you talking to me? Wizard.'

The ghost replied with a smile.

[It's wrong, but don't worry because it's close to your answer. If you like Regis' daughter, you'll have to risk your life to protect her.]

'Why?'

[I'd like to let you know, but there's an intruder coming. I'm leaving.]

'What? Wait!'

He called the ghost, but there was no answer.

'That fucking guy.'

Eventually, Max recalled what the ghost had said and lifted one corner of his mouth.

'I was prepared to risk my life for her already a long time ago.'

It was when Max was stroking Juvelian's cheek.

"You've been walking for quite a while." Jubelian's mouth waned at the words.

"Daddy!" Max blazed his eyes furiously at the appearance of his ugly teacher.

***

I felt better at the unexpected appearance of my Dad. Whenever I saw him by myself, I was relieved to think that he hadn't changed as before.

'Isn't it because you're worried about me this time?'

At that time, Max said, crossing his arms to my arms.

"The walk isn't over yet. I'm going to be next to Juvelian, so don't worry and go back, Teacher." When he said that, Dad stared at Max and opened his mouth with a careless face.

"Then Max, we'll see him now. If your bed is uncomfortable, I'll give you a room, so you can sleep at our mansion." Max replied after sweetening his lips as if he was embarrassed by the unexpected invitation.

"I'm ready. Let's go, Jubelian." For a moment, I turned back and stared at my Daddy's back.

'I couldn't hear the ghost because it suddenly disappeared. What was it's relationship with my dad?'

I thought that for a moment.

"When I go to the mansion, there will be your childhood portraits, right?" I laughed at the look of Max asking with an excited voice.

'Oh, right, it is not in the system.'

When I thought about it, I wondered if why I could recall the past because all traces of my childhood were left here.

"Of course, I'll show you around my house." Then Max hugged me.

"Let's go." My legs were fine, but I thought it was a princess hug, but on the other hand, I thought it was good.

'It was hard walking on the dirty street, but it was good.'

* * *

When his daughter and his disciple disappeared from his sight, Regis kept his face tight.

"Come out, Paphnil." The Dragon appeared when he sang with a touch of life in his voice.

"Hey, I can see why you're upset..." Before Paphnil could finish talking, Regis tore his figure. He thought about it in a cold way.

"You, you tried to trick my daughter, didn't you?" It was exactly what the cheeky disciple said earlier, but the meaning was clearly different. Paphnil tears his pupil vertically and lifts the tail of his mouth.

"Honestly, your daughter should be quite edible. I've had a hard time holding myself back from swallowing her pretty face because she've got a lot of magic in her face." As soon as his words finished, Regis swung his sword to shard Papnil.

Pyeong!

The difference from the previous one was that the aura was finely adjusted, cut and detonated at the same time.

'He's a monster even though he's a human being.'

Paphnil slowed down to play, and at the same time telepathically spoke to Regis.

[Don't worry. I don't mean to hurt a girl with silver eyes like her.]

Soon after the play was over, Paphnil stared at Regis with his eyes torn vertically.

"Regis, couldn't it be that the weapon you were talking about was the child who inherited my blood?" When Regis gave no answer to that, Papnil burst into mania. Then he mumbled, as if he were chewing.

"That damn child."

***

As they entered the mansion, the butler, Derek met two people.

''You two are here now." Max said, as though he had expected you to come.

"Did you know I was coming?"

"Oh, my master gave me his word." Well, if Max knew the Duke of Floyen, he would have followed his daughter.

'He's not coming now, and I don't know how he's talking to that ghost.'

He turned a blind eye to his daughter during a hunting competition, but at times like this, he was like a father who loved his daughter without fail. So he got confused.

'I don't know what the hell are you thinking.'

It was frustrating because the ghost's identity and the teacher's intentions were all overwhelming. It was when Max was sighing.

"I will guide you through the room." Max stopped trying to nod involuntarily.

'Wait a minute, if I get the guidance now, Jubelian will go back to her room and get ready to sleep...'

After the judgment, Max firmly expressed his expression and declined.

"I'm going to talk to the princess for a while. Tell me the location and I'll take care of it." Derek nodded and opened his mouth.

"You can use the room on the right side of the second floor." He was about to answer yes.

"Oh? That room is near my Dad's?" When Max glared at Jubelian's muttering words, Derek shuddered and avoided his gaze. Max crumpled his forehead.

'I thought it was strange...'

His teacher seemed to keep him from sneaking into Juvelian's room.

'You're a crafty man.'

It was at the time Max was gnashing his teeth.

"Max, you said you wanted to see my childhood portrait, right?" Smiling lovingly, Max had no choice but to nod his head passionately at what Jubelian had said.

'You're still cute, but you must have been lovely in your childhood, right?'

Worry has long been gone. Now his head was full of thoughts of seeing the portrait of Jubelian.

* * *

The place I led Max to was a three-story hallway with portraits of my family on display. And the first picture was of my father's childhood.

'Dad is just as handsome as he used to be.'

It was when I was admiring my Dad's beauty in the picture.

"Who is this person who is next to Teacher?" The woman with brown hair, violet-colored eyes, and a somewhat shy looking woman seemed to be more blurry because she stood next to my gorgeous father.

"It's my mother." At that moment, something faintly passed through my head.

<Jubelian! I told you not to talk to me because it's annoying!>

Maybe she didn't like me.

'The person who came to my dream when I came in a carriage was my mother, right?'

I'm not sure, but the bloody woman certainly looked like my mother.

'You told me not to come in my dreams, but did you hate me?'

Was it because of that thought? I didn't want to talk about her anymore.

"Max, look at this. This is my childhood portrait!" Hastily pointed my finger at another picture, and Max looked at my portrait. Soon he took a breath and stared at my portrait with a firm face.

"Ma, Max?" He mumbled, his head down, as I called out, wondering why.

"You're so cute." A laugh came out of it. He said so with blushing, I was really cute.

***

When he returned to his room, he went to bed and recalled what he had seen.

'It was really lovely.'

In fact, Max didn't like children that much so far. They cried at all, and they were too weak to handle and annoying. However, if the girl in the picture was in front of his eyes, he thought she could be cute. Not only that, he wanted to pamper her and let her have everything she wanted to have.

'Well, it would be impossible unless Jubelian goes back to the past.'

For a while, he was thinking of nothing but slowly, Max lowered his mouth.

<Pft. I have lived for more than 2,000 years, but this is the first time I have ever seen a guy who thinks telepathy is a hallucination.>

'What the hell is that ghost I saw today?'

It is said that the ghost has lived for over 2,000 years. No matter how much they were in the ranks of the Transcendental, it was impossible for humans. Besides...

<It's wrong, but don't worry because it's close to your answer. If you like Regis' daughter, you'll have to risk your life to protect her.>

He tried to dismiss it as bullshit, but the words that he had to risk his life to protect the Jubelian kept getting him sick.

'It may be a trap that the empress dug, but sooner or later, I'll have to go see the ghost again.'

It was when Max was so committed. Almost as if there were no signs, there was a movement that caught the senses of Max, the transcendent.

'I was annoyed earlier, so I forgot an important fact.'

Of course, the teacher's placement of the room may be grumpy, but there was no reason to give him a room adjacent to his room if he was monitoring. If you're a transcendent, you'll be able to sense every movement in this mansion. Therefore, it must be because there is another intention.

'Probably you want to talk with me.'

Convinced, Max opened the door. As expected, the Master stood at the door.

"Teacher, please talk to me for a moment." Regis nodded his head at the prompt remark of his disciple.

"Yes, I had something to say, too."

'He's still a quiet person, so what do you want to say?'

Max was very curious about what the Teacher would say.

"Okay, then inside..." Then the teacher said, cutting his words.

"First of all, let's go out and fight." Max lifted the tail of his mouth and opened his mouth.

"This is what I wanted."

* * *

From the morning I had to get up early. She would be...

"Little Princess, this is today's schedule. Come on and check it out." This is because my aunt forced me to wake myself up, saying it is unacceptable for me to oversleep well.

'Well, I woke up after 10 o'clock, so I woke up too late.'

For a moment, I heard the schedule.

'Examples of farmland in the territory...'

Perhaps the most important people living in our land were farmers. As such, it was expected to take quite a long time.

"I'll have a wagon ready, so we'll go out after breakfast." I nodded at her words also reminded me of the words breakfast.

"Then, my guest and my father have a meal together..." Then she shook her head.

"You can't disturb them. Both of them are very busy right now." At that, I frowned.

'What the hell is going on, busy?'

* * *

Chaeng!

The moment the sword and the sword collided, intense sparks bounced around. It was a terrifying Aura collision that was incomparable to the other day when he was fighting at the training center.

"You still have your thoughts mixed with the sword." At the words of his teacher who came out quietly, Max sharpened his teeth.

'Why?'

As there is a saying that it looks as much as learned, their swords were the same. When he was a first-class prosecutor, he was confident that he would catch up with his teacher soon because it was a piece of paper. However, as there is a sky that spreads out over a high mountain, the gap with his teacher he realized after becoming a transcendent was wide.

'Why can you be so strong?'

The moment his sword and his teacher's sword collided again, said the teacher.

"Do you remember what I once said?" Regis raised his lip when Max looked like he didn't know what to say. "The basic logic of swordsmanship." At that moment, he remembered the words he once heard from his teacher.

<Swordsmanship exists to protect what is precious, not to kill. But you seem to have forgotten the basic logic.>

The grip of his sword was strained. It's certainly something he wouldn't understand if it was before, but now Max understood it better than anyone else.

'It must be because of the desperation to be strong to protect what is precious.'

After meeting Jubelian, he felt the emotion of trying to play Max, and he felt despair several times. And tried to jump over the wall. he thought he'd have no rival if he became a transcendent. But after becoming a transcendent, he realized that a higher sky existed. Furthermore, the change that the teacher, who thought he was a ally, made Max nervous.

'Cause I was afraid he'd turn into an enemy. But...'

Only then could Max know. The enemy that he needs to be overcome is him himself. And also that the teacher deliberately instilled anxiety in him to give him that realization.

'I don't know why you are doing this, but this time I will be recognized by defeating you.'

Before long, Max's sword glowed red, and Regis' eyes shone sharply.

'It's definitely a great talent.'

The disciple, who had just been pushed over to him, seemed to become stronger as he gained new enlightenment. A happy smile came to Regis' mouth.

***

The face of the emperor who heard the report of Gale, the leader of the Dragon Knight, turned white.

"What did the watchdogs do when the Count Pyrex' Mother's home was on fire?"

"Well, it is said that they didn't know because they were sleeping." All hostages are effective when they are safe. If this fact goes into the ear of Count Pyrex, you may be dismissing everything to the Crown Prince. At Gale's report, the emperor roughly struck the handle of the chair.

"What do you mean by that?" The moment Gale lowered his head without strength, he heard the voice of the headmaster.

"Your Imperial Majesty the Emperor, Sir Mikhail has arrived."

'What's wrong with that loser?'

When he was asleep, the emperor opened his mouth.

"I'll listen to him." Soon after Mikhail entered, the emperor opened his mouth, glaring at Mikhail with his red eyes.

''What happened?''

"I came to relieve the Emperor's anxiety.'' When Mikhail said in an indifferent voice, the Emperor managed to hold back his laughter.

"Anxiety? I don't know if you're giving it to me because you relieved it." Even with those insulting remarks, Mikhail replied with no slight change.

"I brought news from Count Pyrex." Mikhail's words brought him the news he most wanted to know, and the emperor was surprised and asked.

"What? So what happened?"

"His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince himself said he died. We just identified the body." The emperor lifted the corners of his mouth. It was a pleasant remark that seemed to be going down in a long time.

"Hahahaha! You are so trustworthy." Mikhail bowed deeply to the emperor.

"Thank you for believing." The appearance of Mikhail, who humbly lowered his head and learned the news for himself, impressed the emperor.

"What do you want to have? I can give you a little bit of detail because I'm going to be 'my son-in-law' in the future."

'Finally...'

Mikhail raised his mouth at the words he had been waiting for.

***

After Mikhail left, the emperor crumpled his eyebrows with a puzzled face.

'Why did you ask for such trash among so many treasures?'

<What I want to receive is 'the favourite of the god of war'.>

What Mikhail wanted was an old sword. But the name's only plausible, it was nothing but a scrap of scrap metal.

'He's a freak, anyway. But... At least I like him because it's honest.'

It was obvious why Mikhail was the first to check and announce whether Count Pyrex had been removed.

'He must have been watching because he wanted Count Pyrex to disappear soon.'

And the reason is because he wanted his job.

'Good for me because I needed someone to fill the vacancy of Count Pyrex anyway.'

That's why the emperor was considering appointing Mikhail as his own great commander. At that time, the chief came in. Not long ago, the Dragon Knight's report, which was monitoring the Floyen's mansion, had asked the emperor to find out where he was going.

"Yes, where did the Duke of Floyen go with his daughter?"

"The Duke of Floyen went on an inspection with his daughter." The report raised the emperor's lip.

'Dumb, is he trying to hide his daughter from me?'

The emperor looked at the ring and shook his head.

'No, there's Max here for now, I'll have to wait and see.'

***

At first, the inspection was very annoying and annoying because I got up early and moved. But I changed my mind when I saw it in the carriage. I've seen people busily moving since the morning.

'You're all very diligent.'

On the other hand, how was I? While moving comfortably in a wagon, I complained about it being difficult.

'In my past life, it seems like I was busy like that...'

When I was watching the figure, my aunt-in-law spoke to me.

"The inspection is just a formal thing, so you just need to light your face. Don't worry too much." I couldn't nod my head at that.

'Even this or that, inspection is the duty of the lord. And since I came on my dad's behalf...'

Honestly, I didn't want to be rough. I wanted to see the grateful people who cultivate hard in our land and produce delicious ingredients so that I can have a rich meal. I opened my mouth looking at my aunt.

"Did you bring documents about where to look around during today's inspection?"

"Yes, but why is that...?" I smiled at the woman who was looking at me with wondering eyes.

"Of course I want to see it."

* * *

Max frowned at the sword pointing at his neck.

'Damn, a monster-like human.'

Compared to before, all sensations in the body have been extremely developed, and muscle strength has become stronger and stronger. As a person became a transcendent, the reconstructed body seemed to be a new species that transcends humans.

However, even though he became so strong, he did not reach his teacher's ability.

'If it were a real battle, I would be enough, but why...'

It was when Max was standing in vain. Regis put his sword down and said...

''Let's call it a day." Max nodded at the remark.

'He's saying we're going to fight tomorrow. But...'

He got used to the speed to some extent thanks to the battle with his teacher today. Not only that, but the sword that was difficult to block in the past can be beaten to some extent. Above all, he was slowly learning how to efficiently use the swordsman through the techniques the master showed. However, there was a part of his Teacher's behavior that he didn't understand.

'If I think about it, why is he suddenly helping me when he has opposed me meeting her so far?'

That's not the only strange part.

<Which father will welcome the thief who visits his daughter late at night?>

Apparently yesterday, the teacher allowed him to go back with Jubelian at night.

'That man wouldn't allow it...'

It was when Max was wondering.

"Now that the day is bright, so let's go to Juvelian." He got to his senses and looked around. Apparently, it was night when I started the battle with his teacher, but the sun was already rising. Only then did Max guess the Master's intentions and tremble.

'This damn man, did you think I was going to visit Juvelian's bedroom?'

Actually, he tried to do that. Of course, he thought about sleeping by holding her hand, but he wanted to feel like waking up in the same bed with her eyes in the morning. At that time, the Teacher raised one of the tails of his mouth.

"Tomorrow, it's better to be a little more empowered. I don't intend to let my daughter date you until you beat me." That said, Max sharpened his teeth.

'You'll see, because I will definitely defeat you.'

***

The autumn sun is strong, if not hot. Even with a parasol, the sunlight was so strong that the surrounding area was empty. But since I wasn't out on an outing, I was busy.

'Our estate has good wheat production.'

What crops are grown on the land, and in the climate and soil of our land.

'We examined the crops while reviewing the materials prepared by my uncle.'

It is not difficult to grow them because the crops are concentrated on wheat, but wheat is slow in growth and the living efficiency of each area tends to be lower than rice or corn. In particular, corn had a short cultivation period and good sleep in poor conditions, so it would be easier for farmers to do their jobs quickly.

'Should I ask you to plant corn in this area?'

It was when the wheat field and the map were looking alternately.

"Aren't you bored, little Princess?" I shook my head at the sight of my aunt yawning beside me.

"Not at all." Then she grinned.

"Well, why is our little princess doing so hard?" It's certainly not unreasonable for her to look strange. Even though I don't play as an idiot for now, my deeds in the meantime have been a normal noble spirit.

However, all the books I read while sitting around at home were the ones I saw for self-reliance. Among them, there were many books related to the management of the manor that I read when I was thinking of living with my Daddy.

<Look carefully. They are precious people who support us.>

Even though it would be boring knowledge if it was boring, I enjoyed the fact that there was something I could do for the people Dad valued. Instead of answering, I smiled, and my aunt smiled with her eyes bent.

"Honestly, I didn't expect it, but it's wonderful." I was embarrassed because I didn't know she would praise me so honestly.

"No. I was just excited..." It was when I was blushing, unable to talk. She said, holding my hand.

"Then, shall we go to the orchard this time? Let's taste the fruit and work to be harvested this time." At the sound of tasting the fruit, my eyes shone as I recalled the paper I had just read. Our estate said that apples were particularly tasty and sweet.

'A lot of apples are said to remain, and they can be kept for a long time, so it would be nice to take them with you when you return to the system.'

Let's ask chef Matthew to make us apple pie, and apple jam would be good. As I thought of foods to make from delicious apples, I smiled.

"Yes, I like it!" That was the time I was trying to follow my aunt to the orchard.

"Jubelian." When I looked back at the call to me, I saw welcome faces.

"Daddy!" I couldn't see my dad and Max, so I wanted something, but just when I went to eat apples, they appeared and I felt better.

"What were you doing?"

"I was just looking around the wheat field and the farmlands in the territory."

"I see." When I was looking at my father, I remembered asking questions and answers about management of the land for a day in the study. Is that why? I wanted to brag to my dad about what I just conceived.

"And our arable land. I just checked and found that wheat is inefficient because it takes up a lot of space."

''Really?''

"Yes, so I thought it would be a good idea to plant a fifth of corn.'' And I talked about the advantages of corn. Dad must have understood what I said, so he nodded and called the administrator. Soon the administrator, who heard Dad, replied with a nod.

"Okay. I'll plant corn next year as you say." It was when I was smiling at the prospect of increasing the efficiency of the land. Max came into the parasol. Then he wrapped my shoulder and said.

"I think I heard you're going to the orchard, but I'm looking forward to it." Ah, that fierce look is definitely that.

'I'm a person who likes sweets, so I want to eat fruit!'

I crossed my arms to him and said.

"Come on, let's go to the orchard!"

* * *

Just a while ago, Jubelian who was talking to his teacher was shining so brightly. He could feel everyone around her staring at her.

''Our lady, how beautiful you are.''

"And you're like an angel to do that for things like us.'' But because she's slow, she couldn't have known the gaze. Max was annoyed and went into the parasol. Then, he urged her to move, referring to the orchard that Mrs. Ronnel had spoken of. But the results were disastrous.

'What do I do with this?'

Max glared at the apple pie in front of him. Still, he didn't like sweets, and he didn't like fruit either. But...

"Would it be delicious?" He couldn't tell the truth to Juvelian, who asked him with hee eyes bent. Max laughed forcibly and put the apple pie in his mouth pretending to be delicious.

'Damn, it's too sweet too!'

Eating apples in the orchard was force majeure. But even that wasn't enough, and it seemed that there were enough apples to eat with it, even as a dessert made with apples came out.

'Shall I tell the truth?'

However, he soon had to change his mind.

"I'm so proud that you enjoy eating apples in our land." Because Jubelian, who speaks with shining eyes, was so lovely.

'Yes, I'd better fix my eating habits.'

Max hypnotized himself and ate up the apple pie. And the apples began to feel delicious as Juvelian looked at him.

'Shall we go for a walk together later?'

It was when Max, who imagined to go to a sparse place and kiss him, had a bright smile.

"Tomorrow, it would be better to look at the security facilities in our estate." At the teacher's words, Max opened his eyes.

'If it were a security facility, there would be soldiers, but you're sending your daughter to a wolf's den?

He knew it well because of his long military life. Unlike knights who may be rude, soldiers made up of commoners often have vulgar or harsh speech and behavior.

'Maybe he'll be rude to the Jubelian or throw a flirt.'

Max was excited and raised his voice.

"I'll go too!" Then the Teacher smiled.

"Yeah, while Max looks at the security facility first, Juvelian, you will stop by the mill and the mill tomorrow." In short, it was to go first and create a polite atmosphere. It was only then that Max realized that he had been deceived by his teacher and sharpened his teeth.

Chapter 151

During the dusk, Regis stood in front of the graveyard.

"Amelia." Regis, who muttered the name blankly, distorted his face in distress.

<There must have been no faith between me and you.>

'If I had believed in you, the situation would have been better than now, right?'

Regrets about the past have always bothered Regis. Before long he brightened his eyes.

'But I'm almost there now.'

The first plan he had made was gradually being completed. But...

<Why are you laughing?>

<Because I like spending time with my dad like this.>

Greed kept rising to the appearance of his lovely daughter.

'If I confess everything, maybe you won't forgive me?'

At that time, when he felt someone's presence, Regis turned his head.

"Your Grace." There stood Viscountess Ronel holding a white lily.

"You were here again." When Regis silenced her instead of answering, she put the lily in front of Amelia's tombstone and opened her mouth.

"I have prepared everything you ordered. If you don't know, I plan to accompany the little princess all the time during the inspection." Regis, who was listening to that, replied quietly.

"Thank you."

"By the way, today I was very impressed with the Little Princess. Did you teacher her to do that?" Regis smiled at those words.

"No, she studied by herself."

"Actually, I was worried about what I could do if she wasn't ready, but that was my conclusion. I was worried because she grew up without her mother..."

"Helena." When her name was called, the Viscountess stared at him.

"Don't you think I said the wrong thing?" Then he slightly distorted his eyebrows. "Neither I nor him, I can't forgive you yet. Regis." Regis opened his mouth, looking directly into her eyes with faint anger.

"... I know." Helena silently stared at Regis and said quietly.

"But I know it's not your fault. Now, why don't you confess honestly to Little Princess?" Before long she bowed her back with an expressionless face. "Then excuse me, Your Grace." Soon after Helena left, Regis kneeled one knee and touched the lily under the tombstone. It was so soft, it was also crushed by Regis' touch.

'Am I entitled to forgiveness?'

Regis' graceful face distorted as if painful.

***

'Why isn't he coming?'

Marx frowned for a moment while waiting for his teacher at the meeting place.

'If you're going to do this, I'll let you spend time with Jubelian.'

Is that his purpose? For a moment, Max came up with an important fact.

'So it turns out that tomorrow is Friday?' l

Although he gave Victor the money to buy a castle and entrusted it to him, he was worried. It wasn't anything else, because it was Juvelian's birthday present.

'If you don't succeed, I'll kill you.'

For a moment, remembering Victor's face, Max looked at the door and swallowed.

'I don't think that human will come, but I'll go to Jubelian...'

[Hey, kid.]

At the sudden voice in his head, Max flinched and replied, opening his eyes sharply.

"What? Ghost."

[A ghost, what excuse me for a living person?]

At that, Max said, raising his mouth.

"It's funny to be alive. There is no seed like you among my relatives." The voice asked the answer as if puzzled.

[Why are you bringing up your relatives all of a sudden?]

Then Max answered, squinting his eyes.

"You're a ghost from the Imperial family." The unique wavelength of the royal family was so unique that it could be recognized from afar. And apparently, the spirit of the red, the Imperial family was flowing around the ghost that he saw at the time. "Why did you show up before me?" At Max's question, laughter echoed in his head. "Stop laughing." The voice in my head stopped laughing and grumbled at Max's warning, which came out in a bloody tone.

[Is it okay to be so arrogant to your ancestors who came to warn you about your lover?]

A warning related to Jubelian meant that he had no choice but to become sensitive. Max opened his eyes and asked.

"What does that mean?" The man who was talking to the sad voice said.

[Paphnil-nim.]

"What?"

[When you talk to me in the future, call me Paphnil-nim. Cheeky descendants ah.]

'Paphnil-nim?'

It was when Max was frowning at a name that seemed to have been heard somewhere.

[Did you say it was Juvelian? Regis' pretty daughter.]

At Paphnil's words, Max revealed an uncomfortable planting.

"Don't call her name carelessly, don't dare evaluate her appearance."

[Yeah, yes, you scumbag descendant. So, the daughter of Regis, do you know that the child is overflowing with mana?]

It is a transcendental ability, so it is often mixed, but the mana that collects and stores the natural energy and the innate mana was different. The principle of using power was also different. Magic concentrates the mental power to materialize the magic power, whereas when using the sword, the mana stored in the body was drawn and used. For that reason, Max couldn't have known about the state of Jubelian. He was a prosecutor, but he wasn't a wizard.

"What? What does that mean?"

[Aren't you tired often when you see her? The wounds on her body will heal faster than normal people.]

It was true that he was tired, but it was ambiguous to affirm because there were individual differences in healing of the wound on the body.

[You keep worrying about Regis' daughter, and your eyes go away, right? And when you are together, it becomes stable.]

Max, who was listening quietly, had no choice but to harden his face.

'How did you know?'

Then, Paphnil suddenly corrected his speech.

[Thinking about it, the last question must be something that doesn't apply to you. Because you are not a wizard.]

At first, he wanted to say that it was mana that was made him attracted to Jubelian. However, if that only applies to wizards, what Paphnil was saying was obvious. Max turned to a bright look and asked.

"Does that mean that the wizard is going to flirt with Juvelian?"

[That's right. The wizard is supposed to be attracted to mana, so he will feel favored by her and try to stick with her. Like your sister, for example.]

The moment Paphnil's words ended, Max was surprised and frowned.

"That Beatrice is a wizard?" Certainly, Beatrice was strangely attached to the Jubelian. If you think about it there, it seems like it was a churn.

'Is this because it's all because of mana?'

It was when Max was frowning, recalling his sister.

[Not yet. However, I will only tell you that she are full of magical talent.]

At those words, Max crumpled his face.

'That guy eats completely raw.'

Still, if she is a wizard, she is quite a threat. Beatrice and him weren't enemies, so he thought it was all good.

'This is all thanks to the Jubelian.'

If you think about it, there were quite a few things that went well thanks to her. For a while, he held back his laughter like that, and Max said with contempt.

"So what do you want to say? Are you saying that Juvelian is also full of magical talents?" When asked, Paphnil replied, laughing and giggling.

[No, that kid is in danger because she doesn't have a talent. She's just delicious food if she's full of magic and she don't know how to use magic.]

"What are you talking about? Tell me to understand."

[Don't you know why the beast is making fun of a tiny snow rabbit?]

That reminded him of the situation at the hunting competition. The very day when the beast who tried to attack Beatrice suddenly tried to eat Jubelian, and it was like a nightmare.

'Don't tell me...?'

It was when Max, who roughly guessed the reason, opened his eyes and opened his mouth. Paphnil, who is impatient, said first.

[It's insignificant, but it's because she has mana. Those who know how to use magic can absorb her mana or not.]

Max, who recognized the meaning of the word, said, sharply.

"Who dare to take that mana? She is the daughter of the Duke and my lover, the Crown Prince." Paphnil replied, listening to Max's words as if chewing.

[If you want me to tell you that, wouldn't it be too greedy? I can't go there.]

"What? Wait a minute!"

Confused at the sudden departure, Max called Paphnil, but he said something wrong.

[Oh, and it would be better not to trust the Regis too much.]

Max distorted his face at Paphnil's words, scratching what was bothering him all the time.

'What does that mean?'

But he couldn't hear anything anymore. Max clenched his fist.

'Fuck, what the hell am I going to do about it?'

When he was suffering from a headache from a complicated head, he felt a sense of distant presence.

'It's Teacher.'

While trying to prepare for the battle, Max stopped. Suddenly, 'Can I trust the Teacher like this?' This is why the question came up. However, he was worried only for a while.

"Max, are you ready?" Max opened his fists and stared at the Teacher coming to him.

'Yes, I don't have to believe all the ghost's words. First of all, I only need to think about the information I need.'

Max nodded.

"Of course. I will be allowed to date her today, so be prepared." At that, his Teacher sighed and drew his sword.

"I have no intention of seeing you to her, so go ahead." Eventually, when the two swords collided, the energy flowing from the sword spread around.

'Yes, it's urgent to beat this human right now.'

Max decided to erase what he had just heard from his mind, except for the warning regarding Jubelian. In time, Max struck the Teacher's sword and sharpened his teeth.

'There are so many people who are already flirting at her, and I have to keep the wizards in check, so I'll have to work harder to make sure there's no one who'll go around Jubelian.'

***

Today I was out for an inspection.

'Oh, it's hard.'

It was very good until I looked around the mill and mill earlier. People are friendly, and it was fun to watch the refining process.

'Next is the guard post.'

In fact, I am an outsider about the sword, but my Daddy is the head of the Imperial Knights. I was used to hanging out with the knights in the mansion, so I thought this would be a perfect time. But...

"My lady, if there is anything that bothers you, please tell us." The guards here were somehow stagnant. And there my Max...

"Jubelian, come over here and sit comfortably." I didn't know where he got it, but when he got a fancy chair that didn't suit the guard post, he was urging me to sit down.

'How the hell did you get offended?'

I sighed a little.

EXPLANATION

Spoiler: Explanation about what Paphnil said

[Hey, kid.]

At the sudden voice in his head, Max flinched and replied, opening his eyes sharply.

"What? Ghost."

[A ghost, what excuse me for a living person?]

At that, Max said, raising his mouth.

"It's funny to be alive. There is no seed like you among my relatives." The voice asked the answer as if puzzled.

[Why are you bringing up your relatives all of a sudden?]

Then Max answered, squinting his eyes.

"You're a ghost from the Imperial family." The unique wavelength of the royal family was so unique that it could be recognized from afar. And apparently, the spirit of the red, the Imperial family was flowing around the ghost that he saw at the time. "Why did you show up before me?" At Max's question, laughter echoed in his head. "Stop laughing." The voice in my head stopped laughing and grumbled at Max's warning, which came out in a bloody tone.

[Is it okay to be so arrogant to your ancestors who came to warn you about your lover?]

A warning related to Jubelian meant that he had no choice but to become sensitive. Max opened his eyes and asked.

"What does that mean?" The man who was talking to the sad voice said.

[Paphnil-nim.]

"What?"

[When you talk to me in the future, call me Paphnil-nim. Cheeky descendants ah.]

'Paphnil-nim?'

It was when Max was frowning at a name that seemed to have been heard somewhere.

[Did you say it was Juvelian? Regis' pretty daughter.]

At Paphnil's words, Max revealed an uncomfortable planting.

"Don't call her name carelessly, don't dare evaluate her appearance."

[Yeah, yes, you scumbag descendant. So, the daughter of Regis, do you know that the child is overflowing with mana?]

It is a transcendental ability, so it is often mixed, but the mana that collects and stores the natural energy and the innate mana was different. The principle of using power was also different. Magic concentrates the mental power to materialize the magic power, whereas when using the sword, the mana stored in the body was drawn and used. For that reason, Max couldn't have known about the state of Jubelian. He was a prosecutor, but he wasn't a wizard.

(SO HERE!!! It is said that the "transcendental ability" and "magical ability" is alike but different, as the "transcendental ability" is stored/collected mana infused to the weapon you're using, on the other hand, "magical ability" is innate, meaning, it's already with you the moment you were born, and magic was concentrated with mental power then materialize that mana,

It's like this:

Both Transcendental ability and Magical ability uses mana, that's whybthey are alike, but they have lots of differences...

Transcendental Ability relies on Physical Power whereas Magical Ability relies on Mental Power... Also, using Transcendental Ability was with weapon Magical ability doesn't need to.)

"What? What does that mean?"

[Aren't you tired often when you see her? The wounds on her body will heal faster than normal people.]

It was true that he was tired, but it was ambiguous to affirm because there were individual differences in healing of the wound on the body.

[You keep worrying about Regis' daughter, and your eyes go away, right? And when you are together, it becomes stable.]

(Paphnil here is saying that Juvelian having lots of mana affects him in many ways)

Max, who was listening quietly, had no choice but to harden his face.

'How did you know?'

Then, Paphnil suddenly corrected his speech.

[Thinking about it, the last question must be something that doesn't apply to you. Because you are not a wizard.]

(it means the symptoms he's suffering isn't from Juvelian having lots of mana because he is not a wizard, therefore, Paphnil is saying that people who are wizards could be affected by her because of her mana, but because Max isn't a wizard, he's fine, welp, I think he has the symptoms because he's very in love with her.)

At first, he wanted to say that it was mana that was made him attracted to Jubelian. However, if that only applies to wizards, what Paphnil was saying was obvious. Max turned to a bright look and asked.

"Does that mean that the wizard is going to flirt with Juvelian?"

[That's right. The wizard is supposed to be attracted to mana, so he will feel favored by her and try to stick with her. Like your sister, for example.]

The moment Paphnil's words ended, Max was surprised and frowned.

"That Beatrice is a wizard?" Certainly, Beatrice was strangely attached to the Jubelian. If you think about it there, it seems like it was a churn.

'Is this because it's all because of mana?'

It was when Max was frowning, recalling his sister.

[Not yet. However, I will only tell you that she are full of magical talent.]

At those words, Max crumpled his face.

'That guy eats completely raw.'

Still, if she is a wizard, she is quite a threat. Beatrice and him weren't enemies, so he thought it was all good.

'This is all thanks to the Jubelian.'

If you think about it, there were quite a few things that went well thanks to her. For a while, he held back his laughter like that, and Max said with contempt.

"So what do you want to say? Are you saying that Juvelian is also full of magical talents?" When asked, Paphnil replied, laughing and giggling.

[No, that kid is in danger because she doesn't have a talent. She's just delicious food if she's full of magic and she don't know how to use magic.]

"What are you talking about? Tell me to understand."

[Don't you know why the beast is making fun of a tiny snow rabbit?]

That reminded him of the situation at the hunting competition. The very day when the beast who tried to attack Beatrice suddenly tried to eat Jubelian, and it was like a nightmare.

'Don't tell me...?'

It was when Max, who roughly guessed the reason, opened his eyes and opened his mouth. Paphnil, who is impatient, said first.

[It's insignificant, but it's because she has mana. Those who know how to use magic can absorb her mana or not.]

Max, who recognized the meaning of the word, said, sharply.

"Who dare to take that mana? She is the daughter of the Duke and my lover, the Crown Prince." Paphnil replied, listening to Max's words as if chewing.

[If you want me to tell you that, wouldn't it be too greedy? I can't go there.]

"What? Wait a minute!"

Confused at the sudden departure, Max called Paphnil, but he said something wrong.

[Oh, and it would be better not to trust the Regis too much.]

Max distorted his face at Paphnil's words, scratching what was bothering him all the time.

'What does that mean?'

Chapter 152:

The guards looked at Max and tried to curry favor with Juvelian.

"You're thirsty, aren't you? It's the fruit juice you just made, and it tastes great!"

"The floor is dirty! Step on this carpet, please!"

Juvelian, looking at the soldiers with trembling eyes, fanned her with their hands and sighed. Then...

"Princess, are you hot? Come on and get the fan!"

"Or is there something you don't like?"

"Please tell me I will correct it!" When Max saw the soldiers begging politely to the Juvelian, Max smiled with satisfaction.

'It's worthwhile to take care of you earlier.'

***

When Max first arrived at the guard post, the soldiers were in very poor condition.

<I heard that the Princess is coming for an inspection today, will it be pretty as the rumors?>

<I don't know, but honestly, noble girls are annoying because they're hitting the shelves even if the waiting for the top is halfway.>

<Hey, if you remember that the Princess hated mice, so she kept catching the mice.>

<If you only think about it then, you get pissed off, but should we surprise her while catching the mice?>

<That's also a good idea. Honestly, if we say something with a mice, isn't it that only that girl becomes a narrow human?>

While listening to their vulgar conversation, Max clenched his fist.

'I can't listen anymore.'

While talking for a while, the soldiers looked at Max and said with a spear.

<Hey, you! What's wrong with you?>

Before long, another soldier next to him looked at Max and crumpled his face.

<I think he's a mercenary, but he has a side that he doesn't look like.>

They argued that they thought he was a mercenary in a comfortable outfit.

<Because the mercenary is so evenly matched, wouldn't it be like a rich man's horse-riding task?>

The soldiers who spoke vulgar language giggled again. Max, who was listening to it, raised one corner of his mouth.

'Good for you. Things will be easier.'

Max said, opening his mouth.

<Who's in charge here?>

It was the captain of the guard who controlled them in substance during the long absence of the Duke of Floyen. Naturally, the soldiers rushed to the cheeky mercenaries who called the captain of the guards 'man', and Max overwhelmed them, causing a fuss. And shortly thereafter, the captain of the guard with a rough impression appeared.

What's he doing? Actually, I'm a little bit busy with the lady coming.>

The captain of the guard was speechless. That's why Max, who had just been far away, was just around the corner.

<Who are you?>

He opened his eyes as he looked at a suspicious young man asking what he wanted to ask, and for a while, the guard drew his sword.

<Dare you make a fuss in the land of the great hero of the Empire, Duke Floyeon! I won't forgive you!>

<Finally, the person in charge has appeared.>

Soon, Max gave the captain of the security guard his hands down...

'How do you have that skill?'

He is now the captain of the guard, but he was also a knight. He also followed the Duke of Floyen in the war and rendered distinguished services. The captain of the guard felt that Max wasn't the culprit, who didn't even pull out his sword and defeated him.

<Who are you making such a fuss? If the Duke knows, he won't just sit down.>

At the command of the guard, Max replied with a gloomy voice.

<I am Princess Floyen's escort.>

The soldiers were amazed at the word escort. Among them, the most surprising were those who talked behind the scenes. Max glared at the two with a touch of life and said coldly.

<I was told that the Duke of Floyen treated his soldiers better than any other nobleman. But you guys didn't hesitate to say anything to his daughter.>

The captain of the guard flinched at the words and glared behind him. The soldiers bowed their heads, unable to raise their heads.

<I'm sorry. It's mine. He committed disloyalty to His Grace.>

It was said that it was a backstory, but one guard insulted the nobleman and the daughter of the owner who served it was a felony that cannot be refuted even if he was killed. While worrying for a moment, Max said with a frown.

<I wish I could put up with all of you, I want to behead all of you guys, but the princess hates killing, so I'll endure it.>

It was when the soldiers were relieved of him.

<If, however, she feels uncomfortable when she comes on an inspection tour, I'll never let you go.>

<Yes, of course!>

It was time to think it was over.

<And if you think about something else, I'll kill you.>

The life in Max's eyes showed that the words were true. The frightened soldiers nodded their heads.

* * *

Sure enough, the price of the bluffing came back to the obedience of the soldiers. Max raised one corner of his mouth as he watched the soldiers reading his own countenance.

'As expected, it was the most deliberate conversation to talk with your fists.'

"I'm sorry. I must have unintentionally burdened you." When Juvelian said that, Max and everyone stared at her. Then said Juvelian, sighing. "You seem to have taken it differently, but I was originally trying to look around the guard post quickly because I wanted to improve the elements you felt uncomfortable about." The guards were surprised at that remark.

'You wanted to improve our discomfort?'

'A princess-like lady came for things like us?'

The guards forgot Max's warning and stared at Juvelian. At first glance, they thought it was pretty, but when they looked closely, it seemed like an angel was strong limp.

'She's so beautiful, as it is said.'

It was when all the soldiers were admiring the beauty. The princess looked down.

"But it must have been hard getting ready because of me. I'm so sorry."

In the meantime, they have been nothing but a superior boss who is an aristocrat. The captain of the guard jabbed at the praise of the Duke of Floyen, but in fact he wasn't upset. From the perspective of the guards, Ronnel, who is acting as a lord, felt more friendly than the Duke of Florien, whom they see once a year at least. But...

"The day before yesterday, I thought while walking around the estate. Even though it is so dark, the place where a woman can take a walk is my father's land. I am a very blessed person. So, I wanted to thank you all. Thank you."

Listening to the words of a noble and beautiful lady, they felt ashamed at the same time as the discontent and resentment they had had so far eased.

'There have been no ones who have acknowledged and praised our hard work so far...'

'I can't believe we've been disloyal to such a good man.'

The soldiers, who were in a state of disdain as if they had committed a blasphemy to an angel, shook their heads with dismay.

"No!"

"We prepared it with great joy!" It wasn't true, but it was half true. They realized that all the hard work they've done was for the angel, and it made them feel rewarded. Before long, Princess Floyen opened her mouth with a shy face.

"Thanks for saying so. And as it is for all of you, please tell me if you need anything." The guards thought at once.

'I think I would be truly happy to serve for that angel.'

* * *

I was planning a direction to improve on the basis of the guard posts I checked during today's barracks inspection, after making some party calls to Max.

'We'd better replace blankets, winter clothes, and lamps for night duty with oil lamps, replace weapons and armor with better ones, and support snacks for work.'

After organizing the guards' opinions and personal opinions, I made a list of the guard posts and delivered it to my aunt. Soon after, the woman, who was looking at the list I gave, stroked her chin and opened her mouth.

"Hooh, isn't this too generous? I think it's a waste of money." And I shook my head and answered.

"Everyone is supposed to work as much as the money he received. But wouldn't it be that he can't raise the rust of all the guards to increase morale? It's much more efficient to get rid of small complaints and buy goodwill. And they're indolent. I think we can set up a civil complaint box so that it doesn't get hurt, so that if bad complaints exceed several times, we can set the ordinance to dismiss." My aunt opened her eyes wide and smiled as if she didn't expect me to say this.

"I thought you were so naive when I saw you talking earlier, Little Princess." I replied with a big smile.

"Because I'm an adult now." In this world, nobility is a politician or something. To some extent, it was necessary to think politically.

'I've been a little hard on Max, though.'

<What? You're telling me not to come here until you're done?>

I sighed softly, recalling the face of Max with a disappointed look on his face.

***

"This is the result of the Princess' inspection today." Regis looked curious as Viscountess Ronnel handed over the documents to him.

"Now you don't call her Little Princess." Viscountess Ronelle replied with a gentle smile.

"She has grown a lot." Regis replied with a grin.

"That's true." Viscountess Ronnel sighed.

"And His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince. No matter how much he like our little girl, I didn't know that he would go to the guard and perform an armed event. Well, thanks to that, there was nothing rude to our lady." At that, Regis smiled.

'You also moved well as I thought.'

If he sent Max first, he knew he would have an accident. And because of his daughter's sexuality, he will try to take care of it.

"But it's a shame because our lady took care of it, and if it was hard, some soldiers who had resentment might have deserted." And, as expected, Juvelian worked out the job well as Regis had expected. It was when Regis had a happy smile.

"I was nervous because I later scolded His Imperial Highness, but who knew? Will His Imperial Highness hover around looking at our lady?" Regis sighed at her grinning.

"The Crown Prince was only gentle in front of her, so I think you'd better watch your language and behavior if possible."

"Of course I know, but this is really fun." Regis quietly opened her mouth, looking at Viscountess Ronnel's shining eyes.

"There are still parts to be inspected, so I hope that you will be well supplemented, Helena." Helena replied with a gentle nod.

"Of course. I'm not someone else, and you're the next housekeeper."

***

Max was at the Crown Prince's camp disguised as a mercenary with a discontented look on his face.

<Max, didn't you say you're here because of something? As I said before, the duty of a crown prince comes first. Okay?>

Thought like that for a moment, Max sighed.

'Not knowing how endangered you are...'

Of course, his Teacher is in the mansion, so there will be no stupid person approaching Juvelian. But he was anxious because hr couldn't see Juvelian right in front of him.

'Besides, when I fight with my teacher later, I become defenseless...'

The subordinates who do not know Max's insides said brightly.

"There have been no ghosts since the Crown Prince's eradication."

"That's right. His Imperial Highness is as sweet as ever!" Max frowned at the remark.

'Then did you say the ghost, Paphnil?'

He didn't think deeply about it because his teacher came earlier, but it was a name he had heard of. Max asked, looking at Fresia.

"Do you happen to know the name Paphnil?" At the words, Fresia opened her eyes wide and smiled.

"Of course. Dragon, the father of the Founding Emperor Altair. Of course, it was later classified as an evil dragon trying to destroy the empire and was sealed in a place no one knew." Only then could Max recall a passage from history.

<Ah, it's sad. My father said that he would destroy my empire, and I sealed him with my friends with whom I was founded. And his tomb was buried where no one knew it, and if the seal was released, disaster would come upon the empire.>

Max recalled a translucent man.

<Ghosts, what's wrong with the living?>

'But you said it was a dragon? Wasn't the dragon close to a God?'

It was when Max was thinking about it while crumpling his eyes.

"So it is today."

"What?" When Max asked at Fresia's words popping out, an absurd answer came back.

"I mean the auction." Only then, Max realized what she had said and opened his mouth.

"Well, the auction won't fail because he came out with a price of castle." Max looked up at Presia and said, puffing his finger joints.

"Protect Juvelian today."

* * *

Wearing a mask and wearing the Crown Prince's outfiy, Victor swallowed in tension.

'Damn, no matter how much I think about it, I'm worried...'

Dennis, wearing a mask, opened his mouth, patting his shoulder slightly.

"Don't worry, Victor. His Imperial Highness has given you a huge amount of gold, which is equivalent to the price of a castle." That made him feel more burdened, but Victor decided to think positively.

'Yes, I'm sure I can succeed. His Imperial Highness' huge sum of money is in my hands!'

Victor was about to enter the auction house with his fist clenched. He saw a familiar silhouette. He said whether the other person recognized himself or not, pointing with her finger.

"You are..." Victor frowns upon encountering Beatrice, who is wearing a mask like himself.

"No, Prin, what are you doing here?" As usual, he almost exposed his identity with respect as usual. Even though it is a night auction where expensive goods are traded, everyone hides their identity. Victor stared at Beatrice and swallowed a dry saliva.

'Fortunately, I would have been in danger if I had revealed myself.'

She said then.

"Shall we come in together?'' Victor suddenly realized that she wasn't even escorted.

'Why is she so defenseless? So what if someone is aiming for the imperial family?'

For a moment, Victor held his outstretched hand and said.

"Yes, let's go in." Beatrice thought that the warm body temperature she felt with their hands held together felt that her face was flushed without her knowledge.

'I'm really glad I'm wearing a mask.'

***

I sighed because of Max's not coming back as late as possible.

'Are you going to sleep at the barracks?'

I said that work came first because I don't want him to be unable to do things because of me, but I also missed him so much that I was going crazy.

'Shall we go to the barracks?'

That's when I was thinking.

Tak tak.

The sound of knocking on the window made me come closer to the window. Soon I opened the window with a happy face.

"Yuri-ssi!" Her hair was brown today.

"Long time no see, Princess. How have you been?"

"Oh, I've been fine. By the way, what brings you here?" At my question she sighed a little.

"Well, my lord gave me a heavy duty to protect his lover." It seems like there is a lot of work. Seeing that he sent his subordinates without coming directly.

'But that's right, you're making your subordinates's trouble because of me...'

Excluding Geraldine, there are as many as ten articles that followed. I thought he was worried because my dad was probably at home. That's what I said, just to give her a comfortable bed.

"Come on in." With my permission, Yuri closed the window and locked it. Then she put a smile on her gorgeous face.

"Thank you for allowing the escort, Princess."

"No. I'm really grateful. If you're tired, it's okay to put your eyes on the sofa, so stay comfortable." At me she shook her head.

"I can't do that. No matter how close the Princess and I are, a mission is a mission." I thought she was a free-spirited woman, but it may be because she was the captain of the Empress's guard, but she had a side of knowledge.

"Okay. I just wanted to say that you can use it conveniently anywhere." At me she smiled.

"The princess is very kind." The compliment was somewhat embarrassing, and my face became hot. She looked at me and smiled little, then touched my hand. "Oh, I'm talking about it because we're together, but are there any gifts you want to receive at the coming of age ceremony?"

'It's my coming-of-age ceremony, so it turns out that there are less than 3 weeks left for the ceremony.'

I was almost ready, but I thought there would be a lot to do.

"If it's a gift, I like it all, unless it's related to rats or pigeons."

"Ay, where's that supposed to be? You can be honest in front of me, so tell me, Princess." I shook my head at Yuri's question.

"I mean it. Because it's the first time I've had someone to give me a birthday present... "

Max, Liche, Fred and my friends at the tasting, and many others. It felt like a miracle to be able to think of myself as close to so many people. And now I'm also convinced that they'll pick a gift for me. Of course, there were people who brought gifts, but Mikhail, who was the a close acquaintance and lover except for his family, had never chosen a gift for me. So it's not a lie. She looked at me silently, staring at me and speaking.

"Anything is really fine as long as someone I like picks up and gives them. Yuri is one of them."

When Max gave me a hairpin before, I was really thrilled. It was the first time I ever received the gift someone chose because of me. And the hairpin was in my head now. At me she laughed lightly and said quietly.

"Suddenly I know a little bit how Max feels.''

"What?'' I wondered what she meant, so I asked back, and she smiled and said something I didn't know.

"I hope the auction ended successfully."

***

Beatrice glanced at Victor sitting next to her.

'It's too bad you're covering your face.'

She wanted to cover his face, but she was curious about Victor's face.

'What kind of expression do you have?'

It was when Beatrice was sighing.

"But what kind of stuff did you come to buy?" He would not be able exposed his identity because of the covering of his face, but the tone that came out like her brother was annoying.

'Well, yes. I can't help it. The fact that Victor is here means that that human might have followed Juvelian at Floyen.'

Beatrice decided to adjust accordingly.

"I'm here to buy today's main character."

Main character. It was a slang word meaning 'perfect guardian', the main product at the auction. Among the defense series, the high-ranking magic, protect, and the magical bracelet that completely blocks physical defense were all right for men and women to wear, so there seemed to be many competitors.

'But you can't beat me.'

When she said that she was going to choose a gift for her little brother, the empress gave her a ton of money to buy a mansion. But Beatrice had no intention of giving the bracelet to her little brother. So, to avoid the empress's surveillance, all the escorts were separated and only reliable maids were brought.

'Because it's a magic item, I'll try to see if I can feel the magic, and then give it to Juvelian as a gift.'

At the time of the beast's attack, the appearance of Juvelian who pushed her away and was in danger was an unforgettable and terrible sight. Beatrice never wanted to go through such a thing again.

'I hope you like it...'

It was when Beatrice was thinking that way.

"Then we're competitors today."

"What?" When Beatrice was buried in his absurdity, Victor answered in a hard voice.

"I'm sure I'm going to get that bracelet."

'Looking at the form, it seems that he is also Maximilian's proxy today.'

Beatrice frowned.

'As Juvelian's gift of adulthood is a precious thing that can only be given once in a lifetime, it can never be yielded.'

When Beatrice made a decision with the conviction to beat her brother, the host came up on the stage.

"All be quiet! We will start auction now!"

Eventually, as the auction house was noisy, the host beckoned. The staff at the auction house waiting under the stage came up with a cushion and placed it on the platform.

"The first is a precious necklace worn by the queen of the ruin. There is a myth that the king who cherished the queen too much changed his finances and died. Since it is the only item in terms of rarity, I will start with 200 gold!" Despite the high prices from the start, prices continued to soar. But Beatrice, who was watching it, was relaxed.

'It will be okay.'

Her money is roughly 100,000 gold. It was a tremendous amount to be able to build a mansion in the system.

"Two thousand gold came out! Is there any more?" And the items being auctioned were less than 10% of her money.

'Today's bracelet will be mine.'

When Beatrice was in the vault with a smile of remorse, Victor, who was next to him, was smitten with abuse.

"Damn it, you're all determined." She couldn't understand why Victor said so when it was going so smoothly.

"What does that mean? The auction price is very low right now." Victor sighed and replied.

"It means that everyone is not spending money now to buy the perfect guardian." At that, Beatrice flinched and looked around. Indeed, except for a few people, she saw them seeing the booklet with a deep face. "I think it's going to be a breeze to raise money right now? That's why they can sell it at a high price even after the auction is over." Beatrice was convinced by Victor's whispering words.

'That's definitely correct.'

For a while, she was holding her head slowly, and she frowned.

'No, but how do you know about high-end auctions so well? Wasn't you a commoner-born mercenary?'

Victor checked the brochure by stroking his chin.

"But it looks good to get a decent item at a low price. Everyone seems to be hesitating to spend money because they're so interested in the 'perfect guardian'." She thought it was a simple ignorance that he only knew how to wield a sword, but it was surprising that he was drawing a logical analysis of his own.

'No matter how long you've been acting as my brother, it's suspicious to say you're a commoner.'

Beatrice was staring at Victor with suspicious eyes.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this cuff button I'm going to introduce you to is a very special product made by a princess from another country for her lover with a different identity!"

Beatrice listened unconsciously to the remark of identity difference.

"The princess's lover was facing opposition from the king due to his differences in status. However, a war of aggression broke out, and the man hid himself for the princess and prevented the enemy from invading. And he was recognized as the king's son-in-law for his great service in the war. He always had this cuff button on his wrist."

Beatrice glanced at Victor. Surprisingly, he was muttering while looking through a binocular at the cufflinks on the podium.

"Damn, it's dirty well." Beatrice frowned at that, and then listened to the host's words.

"The auction price starts from 300 gold!" Then Victor sighed and muttered.

"It's not a bad price, hmm..."

'Why do you say that without buying? He said he would have a lot of money to bet he would buy a bracelet before.'

Beatrice, staring at Victor and wondering, could see why.

'Yes, even if he have the money right now, he just came as an act of my brother, so I guess he don't have money in hus hand.'

After thinking about that, Victor didn't feel sad. But grimly, the price of the cufflinks was soaring.

"3,000! 3,100!" The money in her hand is 100,000 gold. Honestly, even if she spend about 5,000 gold, she won't even get a ticket.

'Yes, I have a debt to him, so it would be better to pay it off like this.'

Beatrice opened her mouth when she was determined.

"5,000 gold!" Then she saw Victor turn his head towards her with a surprised face. He was covered by a mask, so his face was invisible, but it was a gesture of surprise.

"5,000 gold! 5,000 gold came out! Is there anyone who wants to sing more?" After a moment of silence.

'Bam! Bam! Bam!'

The sound of a hammer rang cheerfully.

"Princess' Man! Successful bid!" She didn't even know the name and bought it just to reward Victor, but after shd knew it, she felt ashamed for some reason. At that time, Victor shook his shoulders and whispered in a laughable voice.

"No, did you buy it to give to your lover? The Princess' Man, isn't that funny to you?" Beatrice replied, frowning.

"I bought it for you..." Then Victor asked in surprise.

"Yes? Why me? No way I..." Beatrice hurriedly said, guessing what would he say.

"Don't get me wrong. I'm just giving it to you for protecting me before." At that, Victor quietly stared at Beatrice, then nodded.

"Please call me anytime you need me in the future."

'It's so simple to like that cuff button.'

It was when Beatrice had a bitter smile.

"And you don't have to pay for this kind of thing." Beatrice felt her face heating up at those calm words.

'Haughty boy.'

But contrary to that idea, the corners of his mouth were up. It was fortunate that she was wearing a mask.

* * *

Victor frowned as he looked sideways at Beatrice.

'Is it this bad enough to bribe me and ask for protection?'

This time without escort, the emperor or the empress was indifferent during the hunting competition, and the situation of the Princess gradually felt sad.

'It's natural that I don't even care because she's the daughter of the woman who attacked our lord...'

When Victor sighed in a frustrated heart.

"Ladies and gentlemen, you've been waiting for a long time! You can all look forward to it. Finally, today's main character's turn has arrived! It's the 'Perfect Guardian' with a 6 circle protect enchantment!" In time, when a bracelet made of blue gemstones in platinum was visible, Victor swallowed dry saliva.

'Finally, you have appeared.'

Not surprisingly, he felt that everyone was silent and looking at only one bracelet.

'And there are quite a few of these who can afford a castle, right?'

When it comes to rejection in the system, there were some nobles who emerged as representatives.

'Duke Elios, Count Meissen, Count Terrence, and...'

Victor was frowning on someone who was said to be the best among rejections. He saw the host wearing a bracelet on his arm. Before long, someone struck a sword at the host. But...

'Ting!'

He could see the sword beating out with a sound. The host said in a voice full of laughter.

"Can you see it? If you wear this bracelet, it's fine even if you strike your sword like this!"

As people murmured, the host shouted.

"The auction price for this great bracelet that will protect you from the threat of assassination starts at 5,000 gold!"

Soon, the price of the bracelet soared.

"Yes 20,000! 30,000! 40,000!"

The price of the bracelet, which had soared to the heavens, slowed down after over 80,000 gold.

"82,000, 84,000! No more, 85,000!" It wasn't as fast as before, but some people quietly raised their hands to raise prices. It was as Victor had expected. The money currently in Victor's hand is 200,000 gold, and it was worth a little more time.

'Okay, I'll make a fortune out of it.'

''100,000!'' There was a moment of silence. And Victor turned his head and sighed as she looked at him.

'Oh, I guess the Princess' fund was 100,000.'

Even if she was wearing a mask, he could tell. The fact that she's upset.

"100,000! Aren't you there more?" Still, there was no answer to whether many of the competitors had disappeared. Victor had a smile of remorse.

'Princess, I'm sorry, but our Crown Prince has to take the bracelet. Instead, there are a lot of pretty new items on the auction list after that, so do show pings.'

Victor was whistling unknowingly. It was then.

"190,000." Victor distorted his face, seeing the appearance of someone who had surprisingly raised the price.

'What?'

He could barely see the base, but he couldn't hesitate here. This is because he was afraid of the consequences that would come if he failed.

"195,000!" Victor, who said the price eagerly, waited for the opponent's reaction. However, at the amount he soon heard, Victor was forced to open his mouth.

"250,000." It was a perfect defeat. Victor glared at the blond man wearing a mask with vain eyes.

'If you have that much money, buy a bodyguard!'

Then Beatrice whispered in a small whisper.

''Victor.''

"Why?''

"I mean the bracelet..." It was when Beatrice was trying to luck something out.

"If there is no more, I will make a bid to gentleman 88! 10, 9..."

"280,000!" Beatrice summoned a huge sum.

"Geez, what are you doing now?" As Victor whispered, Beatrice said.

"Let's buy it together."

"What?" Beatrice replied when he asked, seemingly absurd.

"It's a gift to give to the Juvelian anyway, so only one of us needs to succeed." That's right, but the problem was that the monstrous Crown Prince couldn't allow it. Before long, the host counted the numbers with an elevated voice.

"10, 9, 8...!" In Victor's mind, who was listening to the count, joy and sorrow crossed strongly. Soon the host shouted with an excited voice.

"The Perfect Guardian, 280,000 gold!" Now that it has been sold, it has been forced to pay. Victor breathed a breath and cried inward.

'What am I going to do now?'

Beatrice whispered to Victor, who was upset.

"Don't worry. I'm sure my brother will be convinced."

* * *

It seems that I was embarrassed to fall asleep in front of someone who wanted to escort me, so I had a conversation with Yuri until an ambitious time. But as it was near midnight, I got sleepy.

"Princess, why don't you sleep when you're tired?" Even at Yuri's sweet suggestion, I shook my head.

"It's okay." Was it because I had a rare memory of not falling asleep this long? It was a bit difficult to control my body. At that time, Yuri approached the window and released the hatch.

"From now on I will be out, so sleep with confidence. You know?" At those words, I got up to grab her.

''Yuri, wait a minute...!'' But contrary to what I thought, my body didn't listen. That's why I suddenly lost all my strength.

'Oh, I'm going to fall again...'

Someone held me up the moment my body was leaning forward.

"Oh, thank you..." I raised my head to see if it was Yuri, but I had no choice but to open my eyes wide with surprise. "Max?" Before long, Max frowned and sighed.

'Uh, why are you doing that? Not even once or twice... Was it pathetic to see how I was about to fall?"'

It was when I was watching his eyes. He hugged me and said.

"That's why if I don't see you in my eyes, I'm anxious and crazy."

I should say don't worry, I just had to say that my legs were twisted and I almost fell, but either because I was tired or because of my thin mind that missed this body temperature, I couldn't say anything. In time he gently kissed my lips and whispered.

"I'm so nervous, can we sleep together today?" I had to say no, but I couldn't refuse, as he is looking at me eagerly with those eyes. Instead of answering, I buried my head in Max's shoulder and he smiled and whispered.

"Don't worry. We'll sleep with only our hands." Why do words that you used to think for granted sound so weird and embarrassing now? I buried my face in embarrassment, but he took my shoulder off a little. Then... "I love you." He covered my waist and back and kissed me straight.

***

Chaeng!

Max thought as he took the sword from his teacher.

'How the hell can I defeat him at least once?'

Speed is speed, strength is strength, and attitude of calmly analyzing the opponent's weaknesses. A teacher who never misses anything was a wall of new limits or something. But Max also had a reason not to give up.

'I will have to get this man's consent so that Juvelian will accept my proposal!'

Max's red aura became more intense. The sword in the form of a complete sword hit the sword of Regis, which held the blue aura. Regis' eyes have narrowed.

'You've improved a lot.'

He may have the control to handle the sword in detail, respond to unexpected attacks, and be rational and patient in looking at the situation waiting for the right time. For only a few days the disciple had developed noticeably.

'I can trust him in the near future.'

It was when Regis smiled faintly in relief. Max's eyes sharpened.

'No!'

Regis tried to defend in a hurry, but it was already a step late.

Chaengkeurang!

Regis' sword flew up to the floor with a loud noise. Max grinned and opened his mouth.

"My victory..." But at that moment, Regis dug into Max in an instant. Then he lifted one corner of his mouth.

"No." Before his words was finished, Regis had just struck Max hard on the back of his hand. When Max missed his sword in the pain, Regis quickly grabbed Max's sword and put it into Max's neck. "Even if you miss the sword, you shouldn't think you won unless your opponent gives up." Max clenched his teeth as if he were angry, and then spat out softly.

"No thanks." Regis spoke with the sword in his throat.

"You still lack patience." It was an advice that would not have been readily accepted by an arrogant disciple. But...

"Yes, thank you for your advice. Teacher," Max's obedient greeting inspired Regis.

'Surely, you've changed a lot since you met my daughter.'

He taught him for about 10 years, but as he watched him becoming increasingly violent, even Regis thought that Max would become a tyrant. But now the disciple was showing a somewhat normal side.

'In addition, his skills grew rapidly.'

No matter how vigilant he was, the attention of the disciple who attacked without missing me for that short moment was certainly admitted.

'Yes, it's good to stimulate improvement, but you shouldn't undermine your confidence too much.'

The time when Regis tried to say a word of praise to Max.

"By the way, Teacher, what is your relationship with 'Paphnil'?" At the question from his disciple, Regis hardened his face.

"Why do you ask that? And how is he..."

"He said to me. Juvelian has mana." Regis affirmed by his remark.

"That's right. The reason that child's body is weak is because she can't withstand her mana."

"Why are you telling me that now?" At Max's reprimand, Regis stared at Max sharply and said.

"Unless you're a transcendent, because there's no odds with a wizard."

"But don't you think there are few wizards?"

"They're just hiding their identity, they're definitely there. Paphnil, he's an excellent wizard." At Regis' words, Max stared at the teacher with trembling eyes.

"Then what you said to me to be strong in the meantime means to protect Juvelian from the wizards?" In fact, it wasn't what he meant, but because of a different plan, but it was easy for Regis because it was misunderstood.

"Yes." Before long Regis spoke to Max. "Hey, you'll go back to the mansion first. I hope you'll be around her." At that, Max trembled and stared at his teacher.

'Don't tell me, are you accepting me?'

Before long, Max nodded with a determined face.

"Of course, I'll keep Juvelian." Before long, he could see Max running towards the mansion as if in an urgency. Regis looked at his back and grinds his teeth.

'What the hell is Paphnil doing?'

<Okay. I'll keep the memories of your daughter.>

Because he made a 'pledge', Papnil can't tell the truth of the day until Juvelian asks. Nevertheless, anxiety arose.

'I have to check.'

Regis headed for 'Forbidden', where Paphnil was asleep.

* * *

When I woke up, it was still dawn time. As I stared blankly at the dim light passing through the window, I could feel the feel of the hard arm surrounding my stomach. When I looked back, I could see Max sleeping with an innocent face.

'I'm like a teddy bear.'

Although I was grumpy inside, I felt strange inside.

'Yes, should I say I'm ashamed of myself because I feel like I'm married to him?'

But I'm still not at my legally eligible adult age, and I felt like I was fluttering alone because I haven't even asked him to marry me. It was a time when I was trying to sneak out of the arms with a small sigh. He opened his eyes and pulled me into his arms.

"Where are you going?"

"Oh, I'm thirsty..." So I gave him a quick excuse, and he kissed me on my forehead and said in a sweet voice.

"I'll get it for you. Lie down." I nodded slightly, and he lay down for a while and then slowly raised himself up. Even though I hadn't seen him wearing a shirt once or twice, the heat soared to my face on his wide back and my heart pounded. Surely his appearance in the morning was very stimulating. It was when I was swallowing without realizing it.

"Juvel." I was stunned by his voice calling my nickname naturally. I was wondering if he just realized what I had in mind.

"Why?" As he tried to answer calmly, he stared at me and had a charming smile on his face.

"I wish we could wake up in the same bed like this every day. We'll see the morning together." Before I could say anything, he picked up a bottle of water on the table. Then he started pouring water into the cup. I smiled as I watched the scene.

'If I were to marry him, I would see him every day.'

After thinking about that, I was embarrassed because I felt like I was so excited by myself.

'I haven't received a proposal yet, but I think we've gone too far.'

Then, when he turned around, I managed my facial expression.

"Drink.''

"Thank you.'' By the time I took the cup and drank all the water, I heard a knock.

"Lady." When I heard Marilyn's voice, I said to Max.

"Would you like to go in there for a second?'' I said, he slightly twisted his forehead and then went into the closet. That's when I thought of it.

'You wouldn't have to hide if we got married...'

Marilyn said with a big smile when she opened the door.

"You should be ready for your last inspection." It was finally the last day of the inspection.

* * *

After reviewing the overall use of land reform today, I showed my aunt some regrets. Then she looked into it and had a serious look on her face.

"Build a facility that can give these ridiculous benefits to the people of the land." Soon she opened her mouth with a big smile. "To be honest, I was surprised. Because I didn't know the princess would even think of this." Then I nodded slightly and opened my mouth.

"Our territory is excellent right now. The water and storage facilities are well-equipped, so they are not shaken by a bad year or famine, and even the common people are not starving. But..."

With the activation of commerce, a wealthy aristocrat is training merchants and handicraftsmen in earnest. As it is a period of transition from an agricultural society to an industrial one, not only the overall culture but also the facilities and security will develop under its influence. In the meantime, if we didn't make any attempts, our territory would have to fall behind in general.

"I hope our land will be a place where everyone envies, like my father's name." She replied with a faint smile when I revealed my aspirations.

"Yes, it could be." I laughed because I felt good at the answer, I said with my eyes wide open.

"Oh, yeah! I mean about the craftsman. I have someone I want to recommend." At the same time as I spoke, I remembered Ian Fyodor's workshop, who became one of the best artisans in the system.

'I'll have to ask you a favor.'

As I have a good partnership with Ian, I was confident that he would do my favor. The problem was Max.

'I'm sure you won't like it again, how should I please you?'

At that time, my aunt called someone.

"Oh, you are here." Looking back at those words, my Dad, who wasn't here all day, was staring at me.

"Daddy!" As I smiled and called my Dad, a faint smile came to his hardened face. Soon he opened his mouth looking at my aunt.

"Did the inspection end well today?''

"Yes, much better than I expected." I was somewhat nervous when my Dad stared at me for a compliment that wasn't like my aunt.

'What are you trying to say?'

That's when I was thinking.

"Bring it." My aunt took out the box at my dad's instruction.

"I knew you'd say that, so I gave it to you in advance." After she finished speaking, my aunt handed me the box.

"Take it, Princess."

"Oh, yes." I took it in a daze, but I couldn't possibly be able to identify it. I glanced at my Daddy and he stood with a smile.

"Open it up." At that, I slowly opened the box. Before long, I confirmed what was in it, and I had no choice but to open my eyes. The ring with the seal of the Floyen family was the same as that on my Daddy's finger.

"This is the successor's ring. Why do I..."

"Because it's yours." I flinched at those words that came out firmly.

"What? But..." No matter how much I think about it, I can't understand it. I didn't know how to do anything, and I was just a regular person who didn't excel at anything. That's why I only thought of 'why?' It was then.

"Juvelian." My Dad said, who called my name, staring at me intently. "I'm very proud of you."

I'm very proud of you, it was something I never thought I would hear from my Dad in my life.

"Me, me?" When I asked in a trembling voice, Dad nodded.

"Yes. You didn't get the proper successor education, but didn't you make a lot of results at your first inspection?" As I was looking at my Dad with shaking eyes, he grabbed my hand and said, putting the ring on. "And this was yours from the beginning. I was supposed to give it to you when you were an adult..." Even before he said that, I hugged my dad.

"Thank you for the early birthday present, Dad." Soon my Dad hugged me instead of answering.

Chapter 156:

With a dissatisfied expression, Max was spending time in a camp with his men.

<Max came on behalf of Sir Victor, so please complete the mission. Oh, I also check the camp well.>

'She's really heartless.'

When you think about it rationally, she was correct. Juvelian's words were like they thought to work hard. Still, the regrettable thing was separate.

'She don't want a goodbye kiss. She'll give me a hug.'

It was unavoidable that he always wanted to confirm her love. For Max, Juvelian was the meaning and center of his life. However, it was impossible to scorn her for interest. For a moment, Max thought of the upcoming coming-of-age ceremony, thinking...'If she get tired of me and leave...'

'On that day, I have to formally propose.'

Already, the wedding ring was made to be the best. In addition, the clothes were made to look the best with Fresia's advice. But the problem was the birthday present.

'Well, Victor must have saved it for himself.'

When he was thinking so, Fresia came into the barracks.

"Lord, this is a letter from Victor from the system."

'Well, it must have been a fuss about success.'

Max thought of that and accepted the letter. Soon...

"Victor!" Max's bitter voice calling for his subordinates' name rang fiercely inside the barracks.

22. Becoming an Adult

Several days have passed since he returned from his inspection.

'Max hasn't been coming in lately.'

As I was about to go through a great event, I felt that he could not see the political affairs well because of me, as gold was in the midst of an important period. Pretending to be cool, I told him not to care and to work, but I missed him because he didn't come. I was thinking...

'Should I write a letter?'

When from outside the door came Marilyn's voice.

"My Lord." From the moment I came back wearing the successor's ring, it was the title that employees called me.

(I didn't know what to do with that as it doesn't have a direct translation so I just made it My Lord as at the word used, which is 소가주님 the word 주님 means "Lord" and there is no word for 소가)

'It's also awkward.'

I still couldn't believe that such a grand title meant me.

'But, should I get used to it? Now I am my father's successor.'

<Do not overdo it. Whatever the situation, you should put yourself first.>

On the way home, my Dad said frankly, but I made up my mind when receiving a gift from him that day. As my Daddy's daughter, I'll be the Duke's successor that is not ashamed.

"What's happening?" When asked in a solemn tone for the dignity of a Duke's successor, Marylin smiled a little and answered.

"It's no different, a guest has come."

"Who? No, who is it?"

"Ian-nim, the craftsman of Fyodor's workshop." That remark reminded me of what I had proposed to him not long ago.

<Hello, Ian. How have you been? It's been a long time since I've been to our Country House. It was for the inspection, and I had a very comfortable time thanks to the beautiful scenery and friendly people. However, I have something on my mind, so I'd like to ask you a favor.>

And the request is to make a disciple of a craftsman belonging to our estate and ask for teaching in the form of an apprenticeship. In fact, I was worried about it. My request was because I didn't have to ask for a secret to someone I saw for the first time. There...

'I couldn't talk to Max, would it be okay?'

Then, Marilyn laughed and said.

"He think positively about the contents of the letter you sent, so he'll ask you to review it together." At those words, I jumped up.

"Where is he now?" Excitedly, I opened the door wide, covering my mouth and laughing. I wondered why I was running out like a child, so I quickly changed my stance. "Guide me, Marylin." Then she nodded and smiled brightly.

"Yes, of course. My Lord. Please follow me." Somehow her attitude was no different than it used to be, so I felt a little despondenthusiastic.

* * *

Max was twisting his face while playing chess with Beatrice. His fingers patted the table. It may be distracting, but Beatrice was only looking at the chessboard with a serious face. Soon Beatrice cried with a smile.

"Checkmate!" At that moment, Max quickly overturned the chessboard.

'Never mind, I shouldn't have listened to her!'

* * *

There was more work to do at the camp than he thought, so it took him a long time to return home. He wanted to run to Juvelian right now, but the first place Max returned to was the Imperial Palace and visited Beatrice's residence.

<Is that what you did?>

Beatrice replied with a smile.

<Why don't you say it's a thing, my virtue? If it weren't for me, my brother wouldn't be able to present the bracelet to Juvelian.>

To that, Max replied with a grim look.

<My money went into it more in the first place, but what is the compulsion to give a joint gift? I'll return the money, so look for other gifts.>

Despite the threatening, bloody voice, Beatrice responded calmly instead of being angry.

<I can't help it because I can't recognize it. Let's bet with me.>

<You say bet? What bet?>

<We are playing a game. That's why we accept the request of the person who wins.>

There was nothing to worry about. Max nodded at once. Then Beatrice opened her mouth.

<Do you have a game you like? I like chess, but...>

When he heard that, Max raised his mouth. Chess was an example when his teacher taught the strategy, so he was good at chess from an early age.

<It's good.>

<Okay. If you play a chess match with me and win, my brother can present the bracelet alone. However, in case you loss, each person says that their stake is half and half, and you have to accept my request.>

If he give up the bracelet, she would not know, but half and half have hurt his pride. But, thinking that he would never get lose, Max nodded happily.

* * *

"I don't approve of this!" At Max's words, Beatrice said coldly with arsenic.

"What would I do if you couldn't admit it? You wouldn't mean to say two words with one mouth*?"

(*it means backing up on your own words. Like when you already said yes then suddenly you said no)

'I can show you what's really mean.'

Max has lived an unjust life in the first place. Such words couldn't hurt.

"I can say not only two words, but also several words*." As Max' laughs, Beatrice replied.

(*it means he can lie many times, just like that, lmao)

"Think carefully. If she knew you were such a human, what would Juvelian think?" When Juvelian was mentioned, Max's expression hardened. It was an obvious threat to anyone. But, rather than being shy, Max was nervous with a fierce voice.

"Who's saying two words with one mouth? Don't make your own decisions! I'm the one who keeps my words." When Max answered reluctantly, Beatrice smiled.

"You're gonna do me a favor now, aren't you?"

"So what? That request." Max asked coldly, wanting to come out so desperately because of how great a request. Before long, a quiet voice came.

"I'm saying that I can't trust my escort, so I want to borrow my brother's knight before Juvelian's coming of age ceremony." Max nodded at a lesser request than expected.

"Okay. Let's go back and find the right one and send it." After saying that, it was when Max was trying to get up.

"No, I like someone who is familiar with me!" At Beatrice's urgent words, Max frowned.

"If it's a familiar person, are you referring to Victor?" Her heart trembled at the exact point. However, Beatrice tried to pretend to be calm and nodded.

"Yes, he didn't offend me."

<What's the point of acceptance? I'm as good as dead.>

Beatrice sighed to Victor, who was crying at the auction house.

<Don't worry. I will take responsibility of you and protect you.>

(it feels like she (Liche) got Victor pregnant and now she's taking responsibility of him)

And now she was trying to do that.

'If you're like Victor, you won't be able to easily give it to me with considerable skill.'

It was when she was swallowing a dry saliva and watching Max's reaction. Max lifted one of the corners of his mouths.

"Once your taste is strange. You're the only one who says that the tactless guy doesn't offend you." Beatrice raised her mouth to a concise answer without saying anymore.

'I kept my promise, so I have no debts.'

At that time, just before Max left the door, he turned his head and said.

"Oh, and I'm just telling you, because he's a playboy in our unit, so it's better not to think anything else." Beatrice's mouth fell at the shocking words from Max. Max looked at his younger sister as if she's strange, and thought, turning his head.

'I have to give instructions to my men and go to see Juvelian.'

***

After consulting with Ian, starting next week, he decided to teach the craftsmanship of our estate to craftsmen. However, on the condition of wearing the necklace he made on the day of my coming of age.

<If Duke Floyen's Little Lord wears my products, the reputation of our workshop will rise even further. The promotion effect will be very large, so for me, it means giving out small things and taking big gains.>

In fact, it was only good for me.

'I didn't know that the first thing you did well would come back like this.'

It was when I was thinking so. Ian rose from his seat.

"Then I'll go." I nodded gracefully at Ian's rise from his seat.

''Yes, thank you very much today, Ian." Then he said, with a smile on his face.

"Thank you very much. I got a lot of inspiration from seeing the Duke's Little Lord today." No matter how much I put an iron plate on my face to pretend to be a small craftsman, I couldn't calmly answer, 'I see!'.

'Is Ian still thinking of me as a muse?'

When I was smiling nicely, someone wrapped my shoulder.

"I see. I knew it well." I turned my head and saw the handsome face I had been waiting for. But I couldn't help but be afraid rather than glad to see the situation now.

'I haven't told Max anything yet...'

There was a smile in his mouth. It was an ominous sign.

***

I don't know if it was before, and now Max has revealed that he is the prince. I had no choice but to worry that I would say something strange. But Max only spoke with a relaxed face.

"Because I still had something I wanted to ask you, the best craftsman in the system."

<If it's not the Fyodor Workshop, it's okay.>

I had a bad feeling when Max asked Ian.

'Aren't you asking for something strange?'

However, I couldn't ask Max what it was, so I seemed to stay silent. At that time, Max touched my shoulder and smiled brightly.

"How about going out for strawberry cake with me after a long time?" I sighed, nodded my head, and then told Ian.

"Goodbye, Ian." Ian curled his head and went out. Now I glared at Max. "Max, no matter how much we are lovers, if you trespass when I have guests..." He said, hugging me before the end of my words.

"I haven't seen you for too long. So I made a mistake because I wanted to see you soon." I knew it was an excuse, but I didn't feel bad. I said, hugging Max.

"Next time, please wait for me when I have guests. All right?" Max nodded at my words. The figure was so cute that I laughed at him, and asked with our fingers intertwined. "How'd you manage your work?" Then he creased his forehead slightly. "Why did you think I was late? I told you not to come until you're done with your work." Well, I think I'm saying the wrong thing. Just tell him to do it moderately. To soothe the sulky Max, I hurried up and said what he would like. "Then we'll have a strawberry cake..."

But I couldn't continue. That's because he came to kiss me. The act of hastily biting and sucking my lips was like being possessed. Soon he took off his lips and said softly.

"This was the most desperate I ever had."

* * *

Back to the workshop, Ian sighed.

'I thought I could do anything for her...'

A beautiful girl who showed up as a salvation when he was in the most difficult and hopeless situation. Ian wanted to do whatever he could for her. So, under the pretext of muse, he gave her jewelry with his own heart. However, when hr saw that she was with the Crown Prince, he felt weak and at the same time feeling insignificant. His mouth was very bitter.

'In the first place, I knew that I was a person you wouldn't dare to cherish.'

Ian tried to manage his mind and thought of Juvelian.

'Now that you have become a small craftsman, it would be nice to make a symbol full of dignity...'

Then someone called Ian.

"Ian Hector." Ian stared at the uninvited guest who trespassed into the studio in dismay.

"Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince, I hope you'll leave now." Max frowned slightly at the decree in a cold voice.

'Without Juvelian, he's showing his true colors. An arrogant man.' Ian of Fyodor's Workshop has unkind and arrogant personality. That would be the case because Fresia used him as a regular. He wanted to go out because of his heart, but there was a reason that Max wanted to make a request.

'I need one more gift. It's comparable to a magic bracelet.'

Originally, he gave a magic bracelet and tried to monopolize Juvelian's laughter. But now that he has jointly presented a bracelet with Beatrice, the laughter cannot be said to belong to him, so he needed a bigger shot.

"I would have said it for sure? I will ask you." Ian replied, raising one corner of his mouth to what Max said.

"It's hard to get a request because there's a lot of work behind me. I'm sorry you took a precious step..."

"Don't you have Juvelian in your mind?" At the words of the Crown Prince who had cut off his words, Ian stiffened his face and stared at him. Then Max said. "It's a request for Juvelian." Ian frowned and sighed and asked in a calm manner.

"So that's the request?''

"It is...'' Ian laughed at the request of the Crown Prince.

"Are you serious? But if you do this..." Max nodded instead of answering to him. Ian had no choice but to admit it.

'I guess you really love her.'

On the one hand, despite feeling that way, grumpiness soared.

"I might replace it with a counterfeit product with the intention of embarrassing Your Imperial Highness, but you don't know how to trust me for a request." Then Max stared at Ian and opened his mouth.

"You're the one who will do your best for her, so you can't." Ian replied with a bloody smile.

"I'm glad you know."

***

A man was swinging his sword alone in a dark place.

<The God's favor is said to be a lump of scrap metal on the surface, but it is said that it is because they do not know the true nature of the sword. I heard you have to prove it in front of the sword?>

At the word of prove, Mikhail continued to swing his sword for days. However, Mikhail was increasingly tired of the shape of the sword, which only fell short, and did not change anything. But there was a reason he couldn't give up.

<Source? What is that important? The important thing is that it's a clue to being a transcendent.>

The reason why he holds the favor of the godless even though he thinks it's a trick of Radian, it's because of the silly hope of becoming a transcendent.

'How many days is it today?'

Except for eating, drinking, and sleeping, Mikhail continued to swing his sword. Nevertheless, it was still just a lump of black iron.

'How long do I have to do this?'

It was obvious that he would not be able to attend because he wasn't invited to Juvelian's coming of age ceremony. So he got even more nervous.

'If I couldn't be a transcendent like this, she would marry the Crown Prince.'

When he thought about it, his anger soared.

"It sounds funny!" Mikhail's sword shattered the air with a rough crackling sound. Reminiscent of the Crown Prince, the Duke of Floyen, and Juvelian who rejected him.

'I can never give up. You are mine.'

So Mikhail was captured by his anger and his strong obsession with Juvelian, and swung his sword.

[Do you want strength?]

Mikhail's mouth twisted at a low-pitched voice in his ear.

'Now I can hear hallucinations.'

Then, the voice was heard again.

[I will ask again. Do you want strength, man with a strong hunger for strength?]

Mikhail self-motivated, thinking he was finally crazy.. But nonetheless, the question was asking what he wanted so much. Mikhail opened his mouth.

"Yes, I want strength." No answer was heard, but Mikhail grappled again with a greasy eye. "The power to make that girl mine!"

Kwadeudeuk!

At that moment, incontinence went into the sword and a dark purple light began to leak from the inside of the sword.

Kwang!

Soon the sword broke away with a loud noise. Who would think this was scrap? With a bright light, it was embellished with the black and glossy beauty that it really showed.

'Finally...'

Mikhail's eyes were filled with joy.

* * *

As time went by and it was an important day before the coming-of-age ceremony of the Duke Floyen's Little Lord, Mrs. Perez was asking her employees to take precautions.

"Tomorrow is our Duke Floyen's Little Lord's coming of age ceremony. I'm sure you all memorized the position of the guests, right?"

"Yes." Then Mrs. Perez said in a stern voice, perhaps not reassuring to hear the answer.

"You must not make a mistake. Please keep in mind that your mistakes can adversely affect our Lord's reputation." Then the voices of the people began to grow.

"Yes Ma'am!"

"I will work hard for my lady*."

(the maid said 아가씨 [a/ka/ssi] here which means Lady)

"We will do our best!" All of the employees were showing enthusiastic reactions.

Soon Mrs. Perez had a happy smile. And I too had no choice but to watch it happily.

'Thank you for thinking of me like this. If we finish the coming of age ceremony successfully, I should give you a thick bonus.'

As I was thinking so, I made eye contact with Mrs. Perez.

"My Lord, when did you come?" As the attention was drawn, I laughed brightly.

"Oh, I wasn't trying to interfere, but I'm sorry." It's been a long time since I hadn't put up with the stern Lord concept. When I apologized in my usual way, the employees waved at me.

"No, we aren't interfered at all!"

"Of course my Lady have to look around!"

"I will do my best for you tomorrow!"

Now I know. How selfish and immature I used to be. The fact that I was able to grow up safely with these people who cared for me. I didn't know the easy fact until now because I took it for granted.

"Thank you all."

'For taking care of me so far.'

I should have said it earlier, but it was too late. But they gladly accepted my words.

"You're welcome." The words brought tears to my eyes, but I smiled. It was then.

"My Lord, a guest came." I guessed who the guest was and smiled brightly.

* * *

Max smiled contentedly at the sight of the finished craft. As a person who knows Juvelian well, Ian's craftwork deserves to be called art.

'By all means, your skills are admirable.'

There was a strong affection everywhere, but it was still raising the value of this artwork.

'This should be more than a magic bracelet.'

Max, with a faint smile, stared at Dennis and opened his mouth.

"I'll take you to the Duke of Floyen tomorrow, so carry it well."

"Yes, and since the emperor is calling, you should go to the office."

"Okay." Before long, Max left the room. The gift must have been solved, too, and his steps were light.

'I'm looking forward to seeing how much Juvelian will like it tomorrow.'

At that time, when a day-ripe person caught his eyes in the hallway, Max stared at him.

'Mikhail.'

Max's eyes were fiercely distorted.

'It's crazy to appoint such a young man as the captain of the pro-defense force.'

It usually takes about 10 years for a rating knight to become an advanced knight. However, there was no guarantee that he would become the captain of the committee, as the post of the chief of the committee was only four opposition parties at best. For this reason, it is obvious that the Emperor and Mikhail are under fire due to their high-speed promotion. Perhaps the knights were jealous, and it was obvious that other nobles would be counted. Max slowly lifted the corners of his mouth.

'And even if you try, you can't be higher than me.'

That's how he was. Just as ordinary people bow their heads when they see a nobleman, they have to bow in front of the next emperor, Max, even if they are the leader of the throne. Max relaxed and waited for Mikhail's response. Soon after, Mikhail stopped walking and paid a silent tribute to the Crown Prince.

"I see Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince, the next sun of the Empire." Max stared at Mikhail and crumpled his forehead violently. Just a moment ago, Mikhail was smiling.

'Are you laughing your best?'

He don't even like to breathe in the same space as him, but I couldn't seem to be happy when he laughed.

"Are you the captain?''

"Yes, I am." Then Max said, twisting one corner of his mouth.

"It's great that you flattered my father and even won the head of the Self-Defense Force." Max was sarcastic, but Mikhail smiled as if he didn't care.

"It's because His Imperial Majesty gave me a good account of my humble skills."

"He must have admired the way things are, not you skills."

"Hahaha, I don't know if that's what it is." And somehow Max felt his irritation soar.

'Fuck, I want to twist his neck.'

Max looked at him and lifted the tail of his mouth.

"Yeah? But I don't see you doing good, so should I worry about the future?" Soon after Max passed, Mikhail lifted his head and twisted his mouth.

'It won't last long for you being arrogant, Crown Prince.'

Mikhail's eyes, glarirng at the Crown Prince's back, gleamed with a terrible eye. Soon he turned his head and said to the waiting man.

"I'll be outside the palace for a moment."

* * *

"That's pretty good." I smiled at the sudden remark. I must be, for I knows that that remark is a compliment to me.

"Thank you. It's so reassuring because Liche praises me." To my answer she said, blushing.

"It's okay to have pride. Isn't the system aware of my aesthetic?" Someone muttered at that.

"Who set that standard?" It was Sir Victor, who followed as Liche's escort. Soon Liche said, frowning.

"You, what would have happened to my brother if it weren't for me? Somewhere beneath your cheeky..." Sir Victor rebutted without being hesitant.

"Because of the character of His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince, would I only be scolded? If I knew that Her Imperial Highness the Prince would treat me like this, I would have just been scolded!" I was amazed and smiled at the words I couldn't possibly imagine as words to the Princess.

'Well, Sir Victor is still there.'

Even thinking so for a while, I saw the appearance of Liche who seemed to be powerless.

'Is there anything bad about it?'

As I held her hand, she stared at me as if surprised.

"Since we have reviewed the banquet hall, should we go eat something delicious?"

"Huh? Well, yes. Then let's go down to the dining." At that, I shook my head and said.

"It's our Chef's cooking. We're going to eat a lot tomorrow. Let's go out there today. I know a delicious cake house." At my words, she opened her eyes and slowly nodded.

"Okay." I prepared to go out with Liche like that.

* * *

Max glared at the emperor with a dissatisfied face.

"...that's why this father is sad. Do you understand?"

'Why is this old man nagging so long today?'

Originally, after meeting the emperor, he had to be annoyed because he tried to stop by Fresia's salon to get advice.

"Yes, I was a very bad son. Father." The emperor nodded as he responded with dryness, tired.

"It's good to know." Before long, the emperor stared at Max and said. "It's all because I was indifferent." Are you now trying to appeal to my feelings abominably? At that thought, Max clenched his fist. Before long, quiet words came from the emperor.

"So I'm going to proceed with your marriage." At the sudden words, Max opened his eyes and glared at the emperor. Soon the emperor said with a smile. "The Princess Floyen."

"She's a Little Duke now." The emperor twisted his mouth, staring at his son who responded. The Crown Prince's recognition and reputation have already increased considerably. Rather than antagonizing with his son in this situation, it was better to appease him. Soon the emperor opened his mouth.

"The Duke of Floyen is a very picky man. No matter how much you are the Crown Prince, if you don't meet his standards, you won't be allowed to marry his daughter." At those words, it seemed that Max's face was hardened.

'I thought he would react too.'

As expected, the emperor laughed at his son's reaction, which was so simple. Now it was time to pull up the fishing line with the bait.

"But I will persuade the Duke of Floyen to marry that child if you wish." Convincing the Duke of Floyen was the easiest thing for the emperor. It was just a ring to manipulate and make him write a letter saying that he agreed to the marriage.

'I'll give you that girl, so you just have to listen to me all your life. Maximilian.'

How long has it been? A gentle word flowed from the Crown Prince.

"That's funny." It was when the Emperor stared at his son with a frown on his face at the answer that was different from what he thought. The emperor had to face a fierce look at him. "I haven't even gotten permission from her yet. What do you do with her father's permission?"

'You must not show your emotions in front of the emperor. Because he may get a weakness.'

It was like a spell Max had always thought of himself. But...

'You're treating her like a thing. You, you damn old man!'

Max's efforts to win her heart were all eventful. And every time she responded to his efforts one by one, Max had been filled with joy. So again, Max did his best to prepare the proposal. Looking forward to seeing Juvelian glisten with her pretty eyes. However, the emperor was denying all the time and effort Max had spent with her. Max felt his anger rising.

"It's not her father who will I get permission to marry her. It's herself. I appreciate your thoughts on this ugly son, but I'll do it myself, Father." After finishing the talk, Max made a silence to the emperor and left the office.

'You little prick!'

Saengkeurang!

The anger-stricken emperor threw the vase and screamed evil. He opened his eyes fiercely and gnashed his teeth.

"I'll make you regret it."

***

Liche took a fork of the shiny strawberry soaked in syrup and put it in her mouth.

"What do you think?" Liche smiled and answered my question.

"It's really good. It seems to melt in your mouth." In the original, she liked sweets, especially those with strawberries. If she's afraid, the drink she drank when she was assassinated was strawberry sangria, so I said everything.

"Max also liked it very much." At my words, Liche opened her eyes, as if surprised, and asked.

"What? My brother liked it?"

"Yes, last time he ate four pieces by himself?" Then Liche frowned and muttered.

"It can't be, but has he changed?" It was Sir Victor who answered that.

"No, His Imperial Highness still hates sweets as much as cucumbers." There was something offensive while listening to Sir Victor.

"He don't like cucumbers?" No way, he definitely ate it deliciously, but he can't hate cucumbers. It was when I was brainwashing myself like that.

"Yes, it's very horrible." Sir Victor's reply came out neatly, and I was in confusion.

* * *

"It's really old and I had a hard time repairing it."

The favor of the escaped war god was a great sword by anyone, but due to the oldness, the sword was worn out and died. It would be nice to get another swordsword at all, but the problem was that ordinary swordsmen could not hide the energy from the sword.

"I have completed the repair, take it with you."

"Yes, how much is it?" Mikhail tried to pay the tanner. But he refused and smiled.

"It's an honor for the His Imperial Majesty the Emperor's captain to give me his request." In other words, it was a kind of flattery to look good. In the past, he would have laughed at him, saying that he could see his intentions, but now that he had strength and status, he felt like ge was feeling uplifted for some reason.

''Yes, I'll remember this place." Mikhail left the store pleasantly.

'Now I have to go back to the palace.'

It was when hr tried to move with that thought. At the sight of the familiar, Mikhail opened his eyes.

"Hah, honestly I didn't know. He hate it." Juvelian was walking with the Princess and the Crown Prince's guard knight, the commoner mercenary.

'Still, no, much more beautiful than before.'

He thought she would look worse than before, even if they met by chance. He thought that the longing for her was just an excuse to gain strength. However, Juvelian, who he saw with his eyes, was more beautiful than the fantasy he saw in the dark. And Mikhail realized something.

'It's quiet.'

It was an arcade street that used to be busy, but there were no people here, where there were many places selling weapons. And unlike before, now he have power.

'Now this may be an opportunity.'

If he kidnap Juvelian and lock her in a place they don't know, the Crown Prince will not be able to marry her.

'And she'll only look at me.'

For a moment, Mikhail's persistent gaze at Juvelian was filled with laughter.

'But now I've changed my mind, Juvelian.'

Soon his eyes turned red.

'I'll rip and kill your father and your man in front of you. And I will make you my slave.'

Soon Mikhail turned and headed for the Imperial Palace.

***

Max was waiting for Fresia's reaction. Soon, said Fresia with a serious face.

"From what I've looked around, this terrace is better than that one. You can see the garden well and the moonlight is fantastic." At that, Max nodded.

"Do you have it ready?" At Max's words, Fresia replied with a smile.

"Of course."

"Good." It was when Max was holding his head.

"And you're going to dance with the Princess for the first time tomorrow, right? According to what I heard, the Princess Floyen didn't reveal her partner. It's deliberate, right?" At that, Max frowned.

'When I think about it, I don't think I heard such a word...'

It was obvious that she will shine more than anyone under the brilliant lighting.

'Obviously, a lot of flying bugs will be twisted.'

For a while, he made a rough look, and he quickly laughed.

'Well, she don't have to say anything. Maybe she didn't say it to surprise me. It's cute.'

Max envisioned hugging Juvelian tomorrow and dancing in front of those who envy him. It was lovely to imagine that her cheeks were dyed red and her eyelashes were shaken.

'I hope tomorrow comes soon.'

* * *

At dawn, I can hear the birds chirping wildly. Finally, the coming-of-age ceremony, which I was looking forward to, has dawned. I tried to go down and look at the banquet hall before getting dressed.

"The curtains, the tablecloth, all in good condition. The floral decorations there are really, great." But I already saw someone reviewing it.

"My aunt?"

"Oh, my little girl woke up early." When I asked her when she was coming, she said she was going to arrive on the day because she had a lot of work to do.

'Maybe it was because of what I asked for during the inspection.'

So I thought I should do a good job in preparing for the banquet from beginning to end. But I didn't know she'd be here so early!

"How did you get here this early? It'll take four hours from the Floyen to the system." She replied with a smile as I asked with surprise.

''I stayed up all night for fear of regret.''

"What?''

"I should have come a few days ago to help, but if I don't, I'll regret it forever.'' I opened my mouth at that remark. She smiled and added words. "And you're the protagonist of today's party, but you're not working. Today, don't worry, enjoy." In fact, I was nervous because it was my first banquet, but after realizing that my aunt was helping me, I felt reassured. I smiled brightly and nodded.

"Thank you." At my greetings she curled her eyes and laughed.

"By the way, who are you going to dance with today? It's private, so I hear everyone wondering." I opened my eyes wide at the unexpected remark.

'First dance?'

Only then did I realize. The fact that I didn't think about who I was going to do the first dance with. I was so ashamed that I made such a mistake when I was determined to prepare a perfect banquet.

'Oh, what should I do?'

Of course I'll accept it if I was asked by Max or Dad, but the question is which one of them is to dance with.

'I'm sure you'll be disappointed...'

It was when I was thinking about that. I heard the voice of my aunt full of laughter.

"First, let's go up and change into a banquet outfit."

"Yes!"

* * *

From early on, Regis opened his eyes to a loud noise.

'It's today.'

He felt tired as if he hadn't woken up yet. It didn't feel real that his daughter had already become an adult.

'Is Juvel up?'

Regis left the room after getting ready quickly, thinking that he might not be struggling alone. When Regis entered the banquet hall, someone was grumpy.

"You're coming later than the little lady. Dad is disqualified, let's go." At the bruise of Viscountess Ronnel, Regis sighed of relief.

"You came early."

"Isn't it natural? Even if you didn't roast it so sweetly, I was going to come early."

"Yeah. Thank you." In response to Regis' reply, Viscountess Ronnel looked around and lifted her mouth. Her eyes were staring around.

"By the way, it is a time when flowers are rare and expensive, but instead of flowers, they are decorated with artificial flowers, ribbons, and crystals."

Only then Regis looked around. He didn't attend banquets often, but to his eyes, the interior was very good. He want to praise her, so it makes his mouth tickle. After a slight nod in affirmation, Viscountess Ronnel added.

"I felt it during the inspection, but our Lord is very practical." Regis quietly agreed with her.

"Yes. That child is very affordable and smart." Then Viscountess Ronnel said, stiffening her face.

"It's pretty bad to see that expression right now, Your Grace. I'm sorry, I think it's a shame when other people see it." It was only then that Regis realized that he was smiling. When he coughed in embarrassment, Viscountess Ronnel said. "By the way, it seems that the Lord hasn't decided on a partner yet?" Regis looked surprised at those words, and she opened her mouth. "Of course, it's traditionally a tacit rule to dance for the first time with your family on the day of coming of age." When she glanced at Regis, he nodded with a serious expression, replied.

"Yes."

***

"You are so beautiful today!" I couldn't laugh at the admiration of the maids. Then Marilyn stared at me with a worried tear.

"How do you like it, my Lord? Don't you like it?" I looked in the mirror at the question. In the mirror I was wearing a light pink crinoline dress decorated with glittering crystals.

"No, I love it. And I ask you for the necklace and the earrings were sent by the Fyodor Workshop." Marilyn nodded and told Selah. "Selah, bring it over." Marilyn said, who had finished speaking, beginning to get my hair done.

'Oh, what should I do?'

I'm sure one will be disappointed. As I bit my lips, Marilyn sighed and said...

"My lord, don't do that. It removes all the makeup." But I couldn't help it. When I think of the mistake I made, I am having a headache. Then, the door opened and my aunt came in.

"My Lord, are you getting ready?"

"Yes." When I answered weakly, she smiled and said.

"As expected, our Lord is very pretty."

"Oh, thanks..."

"Who would you dance with when you're so pretty?" I bit my lips again. Then I went straight to my head.

"Actually, I forgot to choose a partner." At my words, she opened her eyes and smiled.

"Isn't it that way? I was embarrassed how it was." Something seemed to be teasing, but I stared at her in the heart of like climbing up a rotten ladder.

"What should I do?" At that, my aunt said, 'Hmm', I was nervous and she opened her mouth.

"It's a tradition for a lady who doesn't have a fiance originally to dance for the first time with her family when it comes to adulthood."

I thought about it.

'Yes, I'm dancing with my dad too!'

Then she opened her mouth.

"But our Lord is in a romantic relationship with the Crown Prince, so the first dance could be with him?" That said, I was confused.

'Ah, really, what should I do?'

* * *

There is a lot to prepare for large events such as a coming of age banquet. Therefore, it was rude to go before entering the banquet. There was still room for the banquet, so Beatrice was checking the gifts for Jubelian. Beatrice glared at the bracelet and sighed.

'I don't know either.'

When she screamed, there was obviously a film around her. While the film was forming, she felt a tingling and fluttering sensation in the bracelet. However, she herself could not activate any magic.

'Obviously, my head was tingling at the time, and something seemed to be sucked from my heart...'

It was when she was concentrating, remembering the time when Beatrice broke the magic. Her head hurts more and more, and she started to feel like something moving in her heart.

'Don't tell me...!'

It was when Beatrice laughed, wondering if the magic would emerge again.

"Your Imperial Highness the Princess, His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince is here!" Her heart stopped at the lady-in-waiting's call. Looking at the clock, there was still room until the banquet time.

'What brings you here?'

Though irritated, Beatrice opened her mouth thinking it might be important.

"Attend him." Before long, Max came in, and Beatrice had no choice but to distort his eyes at what he said.

"Beatrice, if you're ready, let's go to the banquet."

The conclusion was that he wanted to see Juvelian quickly, so he came to sanctify. Beatrice distorted her face, staring at her brother, who had no basic common sense.

'Because you're a human being that doesn't help anyway!'

* * *

I made up my mind for a while after I was so worried.

'Yes, I made up my mind!'

At that moment, Marilyn's voice came.

"My master is waiting for you, my Lady." It was only 20 minutes before I entered that I was thinking for a moment. This time, I am not attending a banquet, but as I am greeted as an organizer, I had to go early to greet the guests. At Marilyn's urge, I woke up. As I left the door, my dad in a robe stood there.

'Wow.'

It's a face I see all the time, but when my dad determined and dressed up, I couldn't help but admire him.

'But even if you're so cool, you wouldn't have anyone to dance without me.'

I approached my dad thinking that way. Then he bent his eyes and laughed.

''You're so beautiful, Juvel."

'Daddy's more beautiful.'

I wanted to say that, but I held it in.

"Daddy, about today." At that time, someone cut in on the conversation.

"Oh my, our Lord's so pretty. Right? Honey." On the back of my aunt and my unclr, I sighed.

'Are you trying to play a joke again?'

This time, I won't get caught up in the pace of my aunt. That's when I tried to open my mouth with that thought.

"It turns out that our Lord didn't choose a partner, right?" I only realized what she was talking about.

'This is not a mistake, but disguised as the original intention.'

In response, I nodded and put my hand on my Daddy's arm.

"I'll tell you when it's time to dance in the banquet hall."

***

When the carriage with the imperial crest arrived at the Duke of Floyen, the attention of the people was drawn. People were admired at the appearance of the prince and the princess descending in it.

'Ah, you two came together.'

As rumors have spread that the Crown Prince and the Princess have a good relationship, people were watching their brother and sister with warm eyes. But in fact, the conversation between the two was cold.

"A little more arm down? It's uncomfortable to hold you" At Beatrice's bruise, Max said, frowning.

"Why are you complaining like this today?" Beatrice glared at Max instead of answering.

'You're annoyed that you're going late because of me in the carriage, and you don't even laugh. Besides, I could have broken the magic, but that man ruined it!'

You wondered why she became so obsessed with magic, but she couldn't help it.

<It's not your fault.>

On that day, the fear Beatrice felt was an emotion she never wanted to experience again.

'I want to be strong and protect my people.'

As Beatrice applied strength to her arms folded without me knowing, Max said in a fierce voice.

"If you have a complaint, tell me. Or did you have any pain?" That said, Beatrice glared at him.

'Why is this man so strong? It's unfair.'

It was then.

"Oh, it's as rumored."

"Yeah. I think the relationship between the Princess and the Crown Prince has been improved these days." It was when the brother and sister were disgusted by saying that they had a good relationship.

"I heard that the Little Duke of Floyen* was the bridge." I couldn't be angry at the words. The two were forced to smile and headed for the banquet hall.

(Little Duke of Floyen=Juvel)

***

As today's main character, I was sitting and receiving gifts with greetings from people.

''Congratulations on your coming of age, Little Duke of Floyen.''

"Congratulations, Little Duke of Floyen. It's a great feast." I responded to Rose's parents greeting me and congratulating me.

"Thank you for congratulating me. Count Arlos, Countess Arlos. I hope you have a great time today." They said goodbye to my greetings and they stepped back cautiously. I was impressed by the look.

'Now, I really have become a Little Duke.'

If someone of higher rank comes to me, I should stand up and greet him, but now that I'm recognized as the successor of the Duke, only my Daddy, the Duke of Floyen, and the Duke of Elios, from the other nobles, were the only ones who were higher than me.

"I see you, Duke of Floyen." At the polite greeting my Daddy greeted him with a nod.

"Yes, thanks for coming to celebrate my daughter's coming of age. I hope you have a good time."

"Yes, thank you for your consideration." The polite greeting given to my father was no different from other nobles. But... "The Little Duke of Floyen, how beautiful you are today." If you have the same status, it is common to shake hands. At the sight of Fred pushing his hand at me, I raised myself and shook hands with him.

"Welcome. Little Duke of Elios*, your outfit today is very nice." He winked at my praise.

(*since Frederick/Prince Elios is the successor of the Duke of Elios, he has the same title as Juvel's, it wasn't used till now thou)

"It's my friend's Coming-of-Age, so I'll dress as lightly as possible." For a moment, his servant hands the present to Marilyn.

"If you need my help, please feel free to tell me." I replied with a nod to the low words from Fred.

"Tell me when you need my help, Little Duke of Elios." So we, the Duke's successor, agreed to help each other and concluded our greetings.

'I think I've met some important guests, except Max and Liche.'

For a moment I was reminded of two people who hadn't arrived yet, and I glanced at my Dad.

'Should I tell you now?'

It was when my lips were choking.

"His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince and Her Imperial Highness the Princess!" I stared at the entrance. Then I took a breath while watching the incoming Liche and Max.

'Oh, he's so handsome.'

I was looking at my usual other party that was distracting.

"I hope you have a good time." Max responded politely to my Daddy's words.

"Yes, thank you for your consideration." Before long, Max came to me. For a moment, I realized a certain fact that I was staring at that wonderful figure.

'Ah, I must get up too.'

The moment I tried to get up.

"Please sit down for a minute, Little Duke Floyen." I was forced to sit back in the barrel that Max held back. Then I silently watched his actions.

'What are you trying to do?'

It was all about greetings anyway, so I roughly anticipated what he would do.

'Maybe you're trying to shake hands?'

It was when I thought so. He bent over and kissed me on the back of his hand. It was a courteous greeting as if one's subordinate would do to one's superiors. I was bewildered by his utterly unexpected behavior. Then, he whispered in a low voice.

"Congratulations on your coming-of-age, Jubelian." That sweet voice inhibited my frantic beating heart.

* * *

Ahead of the coming of age ceremony, Max thought the whole time. How can he show off that he's the lover of Jubelian in front of people? Max's kiss on the back of his hand was the result of his consideration.

'You know now. I care and love you enough to lower myself.'

Soon Max slowly raised his head and let go of Jubelian's hand.

"Congratulations on your coming-of-age, Little Duke of Floyen." Then she nodded, her cheeks dyed red.

"Thank you for congratulating me, Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince." She was so lovable that ghe wanted to ignore people's eyes and kiss her. However, the law has not been able to make up for the past years. Max hands what he has prepared to Jubelian. "This?" Max opened his mouth, thinking her round eyes were very lovely.

"Of course the gift I prepared..." At that moment, he had a sharp pain in his foot. When he turned his head slightly, he could see Beatrice staring at him with a fierce look.

'Beatrice, I thought she was clever, but she noticed really quickly.'

He wanted to say it was just his own preparation, but it was hard to predict what angry Beatrice would do.

'I can't help it.'

Max said reluctantly.

"It's a gift from me and my lovely sister." Soon after, when Juvelian bowed her head, Max was in fear.

'Are you disappointed?'

It was when Max was worried and couldn't take his gaze away from Jubelian. Lifted up.

"Really..." But contrary to his expectation that she would have been disappointed, her expression seemed very thrilled.

"It's the best gift. It's a gift prepared by two people I like, so I'll cherish it." Max frowned at the unexpected reaction of Juvelian.

'We two are showing off with a present. It's normal if you don't like it.'

At that time, his mean sister showed off her face.

"It's valuable, so always carry it with you, Little Duke." It was when Max was frowning at the thought that she had intercepted what he had to say.

"Yeah." In time, Jubelian smiled brightly, and he smiled.

'Yes, it's because you like it.'

Max recalled. Whatever the matter, the fact that the happiness of the Jubelian comes first.

* * *

The gift presentation ceremony and greetings are over. Regis stared at his daughter.

'We're going to dance now.'

The reason why it is traditional to perform the first dance with parents during the daughter's coming of age was simple. They usually get married after their adulthood, because it was difficult to dance with their daughter again.

'For that reason, the first dance with parents during the coming of age ceremony was called the last dance. And I will be dancing the last time.'

Although she will continue to dance with Max when she has finished dancing with him, it was a little comforting to think that her first dance was his.

"Derek, get ready to play." Derek was seen approaching the orchestra players waiting for Regis' instructions. Regis turned his head to tell his daughter to dance.

"Jubel." When their eyes met, Juvelian smiled awkwardly and said.

"Daddy, I think I'll have to do the first dance with Max." At the unexpected daughter's words, Regis opened his eyes wide. He breathed a sigh and soon smiled.

"Yes, if you mean it, I can't help it." His daughter got up and stared at Regis. Then she said with a smile.

"I'll be back soon." Before long, he saw his daughter standing in front of the Crown Prince and reaching out her hand. In an empire where women seldom apply for dance, it was truly unconventional.

"There was a reason why Little Duke Floyen didn't reveal who was going to dance for the first time."

"Yes, it must have been a surprise gift to His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince." Afterwards, as the music flowed, the noise around him gradually calmed down. Regis captured the image of his daughter dancing with Max.

'You both have... Really grown up.'

He didn't know that his disciple would cherish his daughter, but the two children who became adults were a very good pair. Regis laughed bitterly.

'I wanted to see you enter the wedding hall, but it's probably impossible.'

Before long, the music stopped and Regis stood up when he saw his daughter returning.

'Although this is her second dance, in fact, this is too much for me.'

Chewing on the wrongdoings he had made to his daughter, Regis slowly approached her. When the beautiful woman like from a picture greeted him naturally and then joined hands, people fixed their eyes on the two. Soon the music played, Regis gently led her daughter.

The sense of holding hands, a lovely face looking at him, and his daughter's steps as light as a feather. Regis felt that precious time with his daughter with all his senses. It will be just a moment, but to remember that precious moment forever.

'I wish I could be with you for the rest of my life...'

The music was wonderful as time passed. Regis paused and tried to say goodbye. However, his daughter didn't let go of his hand. l

"Juvel?" As he called her name softly, his daughter smiled and said...

"The last dance, that's sad. I'm thinking about dancing with my Daddy all the time."

He thought it was the end, but his daughter was saying it wasn't the end. She grabbed his hand and shook Regis as she danced. But Regis knew it was a useless hope, so he had no choice but to have a bitter smile. Then, Juvelian said.

"This banquet, next banquet, or anywhere. Come with me, Dad." Regis' eyes shook with meaningful words as if he had been able to see her thoughts.

***

I fucking cried... Really, Juvel and Regis always makes me cry...

It's been my hunch since the talk about Marquis Pardel's second son who is known as the "Playboy" like, isn't Victor known as a playboy too? I think he is that 2nd son... My hunch is he ran away from their Marquessate and he live his life as a commoner mercenary... And I love how Liche was clumsy when it comes to Victor and how Victor was so tactless like tsk tsk! I love this pair! I was well fed up by their chapters... Sorry but, these pair became my favorite... Max and Juvel, I love you both but... lmao...

Chapter 161

The long, twinkling silver hair was shining under the light. Every time she danced, the flaming pink dress was also shining, making her owner stand out. People couldn't take their eyes off the appearance of the Little Duke dancing with her father, the Duke of Floyen.

"She is really beautifully mature."

"She's not only beautiful, but she's elegant in every action."

"I heard that even during the hunting competition, the evil beast were blocked by her in order to save Her Imperial Highness the Princess."

"The Duke must be proud of her too."

Although it is a Juvelian who was once famous for her stupidity, the appearance she showed for less than a year was genuine. And people were greatly impressed by her current habit.

"By the way, the Little Duke of Floyen. She was a very good match for the Crown Prince."

"That's right. I didn't know because he wore a mask at every banquet, but he was really handsome, right?" Nobles below the count were unable to participate in the hunting competition, so nobles who did not know the face of the Crown Prince were everywhere. No wonder they were surprised to see Max's face.

"That's not what's important. There's a rumor that the Little Duke of Floyen is his lover, is that true?" Many people paid attention to the Crown Prince. However, the center of attention, Max, was staring only at Jubelian.

'How long do you want to dance?'

He was just happy when he first danced with Jubelian. Because he thought he had beaten her father, his teacher. But what came out of her was just a hurtful remark.

<Max, I'd like to dance with my dad to my heart's content today. However, I will give you the first and the last dance.>

Though he was comforted by the fact that they were going to dance together for the last time, he would not have wanted the first dance if he had known how long he would dance alone.

'It's already the fifth time, aren't you tired?'

In the past, she was weak enough to think that her physical strength was severe, but her physical strength was improved by taking a walk every day. Even that doesn't seem to have improved a lot because of her mana...

Soon afterward, when the music stopped, Max swelled with hope and stared at Jubelian. But grimly, she danced with his teacher. Max got nervous. That is why he made a plan to propose to Jubelian today.

<Lord, give instructions when you are ready. I will shoot firecrackers accordingly.>

All preparations for a successful proposal were completed, as well as the firecrackers. But there was one minor problem.

'How long are you going to dance? It would be unreasonable to confess at the time when the atmosphere is best to go like this?'

When Max was overwhelmed by that ominous premonition, someone came to his side. It was his faithful and loyal subordinate Fresia who helped a lot with this proposal.

"Lord, why is the Little Duke dancing only with the Duke?" Max, seeing his subordinate's words, crumbled his eyes.

'You're just asking if I made a mistake while dancing.'

Although Max was indifferent to any rumors, he did not want to be misunderstood that he was having a discord with Jubelian.

"The last dance was mine."

"Then the point is, the dance has to end." At Fresia's words with a sigh, Max stared at the woman. If he could, he wanted to approach them right away. But...

<Max, you'll wait for me, right?>

Max sighed, recalling his lover as she asked him with a lovely face.

* * *

It was already the seventh dance. In fact, I was tired and my legs were numb, but it was still bearable. It's the first time I've danced with my dad this long.

"Juvel, are you feeling well?" I replied with a smile, as I saw my father looking with anxious eyes.

"Yes, I'm fine."

In the meantime, falling down seems to be because I lack of exercise, so I tried to improve my physical strength. Thanks to that, my physical strength was better than before. However, it must have been still poor physical strength. Seeing that my calf is so stiff. Dad couldn't take his eyes off of me as if he was worried about me. Unlike the previous days, where he avoided my eyes.

"But Juvel, I think what you're doing..."

"Daddy."

"Yes." To the low answer... I said, giving strength to the arm holding my arm.

"I'm so happy that my Dad attended my coming-of-age ceremony and danced with me."

On the day of my debut, when I took my first step in the social world, while waiting for my dad, I stared at the banquet hall lit up with colorful lights. It was very bright and dazzling, but I hated it because it felt only dark around me. By the time the banquet was ripe, I wasn't comfortable in the banquet hall anymore and ran out as if running away. But now, I was dancing with my dad in the brightest place.

"Thank you. For staying by my side." I stared at my dad's blue eyes.

It used to be a color that I thought was like cold ice, but now it feels like an oasis in the desert. If it had been taken for granted, I might not have thought it would be lost. But I had a hard time because I tasted how sweet that affection was. Like a mirage, I'm afraid my Daddy will suddenly disappear from my side one day. I think we're going to go back to our old ways.

'Of course that won't happen, but...'

What I'm thinking, Dad didn't answer. Suddenly anxiety arose.

"Can you make a promise with me?" My dad, who was silent about whether the word promise was wrong, opened his mouth.

"What is it?" To my Daddy's question, I replied by taking a deep breath and then exhaling.

"Will you be by my side in the future?" My dad's lips touched as if my words were absurd.

"I don't know why you're saying that suddenly." Yes, even if I think about it, it's ridiculous. But...

"The times with my Daddy were so happy and good." It's insensitive, but when I was recognized as a successor, I felt faintly.

'Now that I have grown up, he is trying to pass on what my dad has.'

Of course it is a pleasure. I thought it was fortunate that I didn't get kicked out of the house, but I became a successor and got the approval of my Daddy. But I knew the meaning of inheritance...

To pass on what you have to your loved one is to prepare for the breakup that will come someday. Even in the distant future, I was terribly afraid of it. I thought it would be nice to stay as a child a little more.

"I'm also an adult now. I was scared because I thought I could break up with my dad someday." When I revealed my honest feelings, my dad looked at me with shaking eyes and a slight smile.

"It is natural for a person to die. Above all, I don't know why you think that way. Am I not a transcendent?"

I know. Dad's been living in good health for a long time, and the fact that what I'm doing now is a foolishness. But tomorrow, I will be an adult that I can't leave out. From now on, I thought that I would never be able to act like this, so I thought it was the last time, and I took courage to say what I had accumulated.

"I know, but can you just promise me?" Dad sighed, then nodded slowly.

"Yes, I'll stay as long as I can." It wasn't completely reassuring, but I felt relieved as he made a promise. At that time, Dad stopped moving.

"The music has stopped."

'It will start over soon, we can dance again.'

I replied so and tried to dance with him.

"I was also very happy to be able to dance with you." I tried to answer eagerly, 'Me too,' but my dad was staring somewhere other than me. "But now, I want you to know that there are people next to you who won't leave you alone."

I turned my head following Dad's gaze. I saw Max standing there and staring at me.

'Ah, you've been waiting.'

Somehow, I was overwhelmed by a blunt sensation. Well, even if it's not Max, I'm not going to have a banquet alone anymore. I have friends with Rice and my precious friends will be with me. At that time, Dad gently pulled his hand and said.

"I'll escort you." Certainly, listening to my dad's words, I could see how useless I was.

"Yes." When I finally got to the place where Max was, my dad whispered to me.

"Happy birthday, Juvel." As the words ended, the hand that had been held was released. And Dad turned his back. It was when I was staring blankly at my dad turning back. Someone took my hand.

"Juvelian." It was a familiar voice calling my name, the voice of someone I love. And maybe he was a person who might be with me for the longest time in the future. I stared at him and said with a light smile.

"Max, can you give me a second more time?" At my words he quickly said with a sigh.

"I've been waiting so far, but can't I wait a second more?" Eventually, his hand that held my hand was relieved, and I ran towards my Dad with the hem of my dress. Then I grabbed his hand with a surprised face.

"Juvel?"

I was a little hesitant because I could see that not only my dad, but also the attention of the people around me. However, if I pass this by without doing anything, there are moments where I will regret it. And now, I thought, if I didn't say this, I'd regret it for the rest of my life.

"Dad, thank you for your birthday wishes. And I love you." The moment I finished talking, my dad's eyes grew bigger. I love you, it took me a long time to tell you this. I was so sad that you might turn away from me, and I felt like begging for love from you, who is indifferent to me, that my pride would be hurt. However, I felt relieved to hear his honest words. My dad didn't turn away from me, nor was he indifferent.

'But I'm a little embarrassed.'

It was then.

''Oh, how admirable.''

"I know. It's so lovely."

Only then I realized that people were looking at us, and I was struck by countless shame.

"Oh, Dad! See you later!" I walked toward Max as if running away.

* * *

Max sighed as he looked at Juvelian approaching him.

'What did you show such a cute figure in front of so many people?'

Just a while ago, there were quite a few men blushing looking at the shockingly lovely Juvelian.

'But it's annoying that a lot of flying flies are twisting...'

Then, Juvelian leaned against Max's shoulder. With that fluffy, tingly touch, Max firmly looked at Juvelian.

"Max, come on, let's go to a place without people!" There was a lot of shame in her whispering voice.

'She's cute.'

Of course, Max didn't want to show his lovely lover anymore.

'In addition, I have to carry out what I have planned for today.'

Max stares at Fresia and raises his hand. Soon he made a circle with his index finger and thumb, and Fresia nodded with a smile.

'Now I can take Juvelian to the terrace...'

When Max was about to go to the terrace, Juvelian said softly, crossing her arms to his arms.

"Let's go up to my room." Of course, if he go to Juvelian's room, he will be able to express affection without being disturbed by anyone. It was very tempting, but the problem was that going to her room was an off-plan proposal.

"Juvelian, I'm..."

"After relaxing in my room, let's come back to the banquet hall. Okay?" She was so lovely to see, that Max nodded his head unknowingly.

***

Fresia, who came out of the field, looked serious and was giving instructions to her men.

"A little bit later, the Lord and Little Duke Floyen will come to that terrace."

The men were nervous about the words and swallowed dry saliva. That would be because they knew that today the Crown Prince would propose to Little Duke Floyen.

"It's an important day for our lord, so mistakes aren't tolerated. Make sure everyone does it firmly." All nodded at Fresia' instructions.

"Yes Ma'am!"

"And since the above situation is the personal life of our Lord, it would be good to do not be curious and not to look at all." At that time, a subordinate who was listening to Fresia asked with a serious face.

"Then, when should the firecrackers go off?"

"Let's shoot firecrackers 10 minutes after the lord comes to the terrace. I will deliver it to the flower team waiting on the roof."

"Yes!" Fresia sighed and stared at the terrace with a determined look.

'I hope you have good results, my lord.'

***

"Oh, it's so quiet and nice." Juvelian's face, sitting on the sofa while being held by him, looked very comfortable. Max sighed, hugging Juvelian's waist.

'I think we'll have to go to the terrace even now...'

Since they've already been instructed, his subordinates should be ready by now. However, if they stayed like this, he couldn't even propose and return to the banquet hall at the end of the banquet.

"Juvel, are you tired a lot?" When asked carefully, Juvelian nodded, looking up at Max.

"Yes, my legs hurt and I'm tired." Max wanted to get sick when she said that her legs hurt.

'Hey, your body is weak, but you danced like that...'

Max hurriedly lifted Juvelian's skirt. Surprised Juvelian stared at Max with her rabbit eyes wode-open.

"Ma, Max?" Although Juvelian was slightly confused as to whether he was just trying to lower the hem, only a slightly swollen calves were in Max's eyes. "Why, why are you doing this?" Max didn't care, holding Juvelian's leg and said.

"Please wait. I'll massage you." Eventually, Max's long fingers began to loosen the tight clumps. Juvelian flinched without knowing and received the touch.

"Tha, that's okay..." Still, Jubelian left her leg in his hand, as if she like the hand that loosens her muscles. Max laughed as he watched that pretty face gradually loosening.

'Are you okay now?'

As Max looked at her leg again, he suddenly noticed that Juvelian's hem was raised to the point where her white thigh was visible. Max blushed and hurried to look away.

'Hah, shit this is crazy.'

At that time, Max pressed the place where he was not aware. Then Juvelian screamed reflexively.

"Ahh!" With a louder voice than expected, Max flinched and looked at Juvelian.

"Are you all right?" Soon, Juvelian stared at Max, clinging tears to her eyes.

"It hurts if you just rub it like that." The sulky look was so cute that Max hugged Juvelian tightly. Then, Juvelian put on a cheeky face and pushed his chest away as if she was trying to get out of his arms. However, Max smiled and locked Juvelian in his arms, as if he was deaf.

"Let it go."

"Sorry, don't get angry. Huh?" At the rushing words, Juvelian sighed and pressed his cheek to Max's shoulder.

"Max."

"Huh?"

"They said you hate cucumbers?"

"Who, who is saying that?" Max don't know who it is, but when asked with the thought of not letting go who is it, Juvelian replied.

"Liche. Besides, you don't like sweets?" It was as expected.

'The guy who really doesn't help!'

Then, he felt the soft sensation of her lips. Juvelian kissed Max's cheek.

"Today, giving me a gift with Liche was really the best. I didn't think the two of you would get along. But now, I feel relieved." The look of Juvelian smiling with her eyes bent softened the feelings of angry Max.

"Hey, that's because you asked. And we don't seem to be like strangers anymore." At Max's words, Juvelian smiled brightly and stared at him.

"Thank you." After expressing her appreciation briefly, Jubelian spoke with a serious expression. "And I like Max as he is. So, if I didn't overdo it while you was forced to eat something you didn't like..." Max picked a lovely word and kissed her dainty lips. Then he opened his mouth with a deep emotion.

"If so, stay with me forever and watch." At that, Juvelian opened her eyes and stared at Max.

* * *

I thought, calming my burning face.

'To be together for a lifetime is to marry, right?'

I thought he was a person who knew nothing except for swordsmanship, but I didn't know that he would propose to marry this suddenly.

'That's also a proposal in my room...'

If you propose in a room without a mood, there may be some people who are disappointed. But looking into his sincere eyes made me feel excited.

'Well, that's Max's charm.'

Besides, it was meaningful in its own way. I met him here for the first time, and it was a place where we made a lot of memories.

'I didn't know I'd be in this relationship with him then.'

As I was thinking so, I could see him pulling something out of his arms.

'It looks like a ring.'

Although the case was big for a ring, I couldn't think of anything to give when proposing a wedding. So I reached out my hand towards Max. Then he smiled and pinched my cheek slightly.

"Did you think it was a ring?" I wondered if he was going to propose without a ring, so I looked at him with a suspicious glance and asked.

"Then what is it?"

"Hair ornament."

"What?" Nothing else, hair ornament in the proposal! At my question of embarrassment, he smiled with bloodily and whispered quietly.

"Would you like to close your eyes?" I remembered the last time I caught him, so I was pouting my mouth and closing my eyes.

'Yes, let's just be fooled.'

Apparently, Max thought that I liked it very much because of the appearance that I liked after receiving hair accessories.

'But giving a ring to a proposal is common sense...'

How to teach this man who is only interested in swordsmanship? That was when I was sighing. He fidgeted with my hair and grabbed my hand.

"Would you please follow me?" As I followed Max, wondering what else he'll do, he said, gently letting my hand go. "Now open your eyes." As I slowly opened my eyes to the words, I saw a mirror.

'I'll look at the hairpin...'

After confirming that my hair was decorated, I had no choice but to harden my face.

"Tiara?" No matter how much money you have, the state prevents strictly manufacturing them. The crown, which was allowed only for the Imperial family, was now on my head. "How is this..." It was when I couldn't speak. He asked kindly.

"Do you like it?" The crown made of platinum with a large pink diamond was harmoniously blended with my dress, as well as the accessories I wore. Slowly nodding my head, he smiled.

"Good thing. I was wondering if you didn't like it because it was made from a remodeled crown my mother used."

'That's what your mother used?'

Max always said that he had no affection for his family, but his mother was the only one to blame. However, when he told me that he had even renovated that precious crown, my heart became crushed.

"It must be a valuable memento, but because of me..." Max said, gently wrapping my cheeks with his big hands so that I couldn't speak.

"My mother said this before she died. 'I want you to give the jewelry I used later as a gift to someone you love.'." In time he slowly lowered his hand and held my hand. Then he whispered in a laughable voice. "And if I just give it, it will be uncomfortable to wear it, so she told me to remodel it so that it can be used." I had no choice but to stare blankly as he hold my finger and put the ring on my ring finger.

'Oh, really I got a proposal.'

It was then when I realized that I stared at Max with trembling eyes. He looked straight at me and opened his mouth.

"Juvelian, please be my elegy*."

(*a poem of serious reflection, typically a lament for the dead. What he's trying to say here is be with him forever till death, something like that)

Though he was confident, his voice shivered slightly and laughed unbearably.

"Of course..." I stopped trying to nod my head.

<But now, I want you to know that there are people next to you who won't leave you alone.>

Only now I could find the trap in those words.

'I don't know if I'm alone, but my Dad...'

At that time, Max sighed.

"You're getting caught by teacher, aren't you?"

'How did you know?'

It was when I was staring at him dismayed at that thought. He smiled and pinched my cheek slightly.

"Why don't I know when you are making it so obvious?" Did I do that? As I was thinking about that, he kissed my cheek and whispered. "Don't worry, if I become the Emperor, I will call him to the Imperial Palace every day. If it's an Imperial Order, he has to be a loyal who does not violate, so even if he hates it, he will have to come every day." I laughed at those words that came out in a bit of a joke. "What is it?" But when I think about it, what I was worried about was a simple, clear, and pleasant answer.

'Yes, just because you become an adult doesn't make any difference.'

When I think about it, it was like that in my previous life, but I think I was thinking too much. Then, he looked at me with anxious eyes and asked.

"So the answer is..." I hugged Max's neck and kissed him lightly before he could finish asking. Soon my lips fell, and I opened my mouth to answer.

Peong! Peong!

At that moment, I opened my eyes round to the appearance of a loud roar and the dark outside scenery colored gorgeously.

'Huh? What firecrackers? I've never ordered anything like this?'

At that time, Max muttered with a puzzled face.

"No, I'm here, why is that bursting?" At his words, I found out the whole story and smiled and kissed him. Max first touched my lips and then deeply penetrated into my mouth. It was a gentle and authentic, adult kiss.

***

Fresia was waiting for a moment when a subordinate reported Max entering the Juvelian's room.

'Will the proposal fall through like this?'

Then a couple of men and women entered the terrace. When she saw the dark, but white-painted silhouette of a man*, Fresua intuited that he was the Crown Prince.

(*advantages and disadvantages of Victor and Max having the same figure)

'You are finally here!'

The moment when she instructed to set off firecrackers at that thought.

"What do you care whether I drink or not? You're a playboy!"

"Who's the playboy? It's ridiculous, really!"

The faint conversation was quite different from what Fresia expected. It was then that Fresia noticed that the woman's hair was quite different from that of Juvelian's.

"Stop..." But it was too late.

Peong! Peong!

Fresia stared desolately as the flames hung with a bright light soared and lit up the sky. Even that wasn't enough, and she saw those waiting on the roof spraying flowers.

'How much money was spent here...'

When she thought of Max getting angry with fire, a headache arose. Fresia sighed as she touched her temple.

And Beatrice and Victor, who were misunderstood as Max and Juvelian, were looking at the sky with their dumb faces.

'What is this all about?'

It's a pretty romantic scene, but it was when Beatrice was sighing at the thought that it didn't fit his situation. A low voice from Victor was heard.

"I was worried and poked my nose. Too much drinking is bad for your health, and the next day it can be painful because of a hangover." She was upset just a moment ago, but her heart grew soft at the words of worry. Beatrice stared at Victor with trembling eyes, and answered calmly.

"Okay."

"And if I were a playboy, I would have sinned for the rise of status by targeting Her Imperial Highness. But I didn't..." Victor said, staring at her and looking at the sky with a nice face. "Because I'm never a playboy." Before long, her face was turned red by the light.

23. I'm fine now

Paphnil, sitting alone in a dark cavity, known as "Forbidden", lit up his red eyes.

'Aren't humans not sure? That this is an act of the dragon's coming of age ceremony. Of course, it's dirty and crappy.'

Still, he liked the atmosphere of the banquet hall shining like a dragon who likes gold and silver treasures.

'It's your 19th birthday, has it already happened?'

Regis and his daughter looked very happy as they watched through magic. It's so different from before.

'Well, it was pretty serious back then.'

Paphnil stared at Juvelian. It was a beautiful appearance that resembled "her" very little, but her mana was still unstable.

'Because magic is strongly related to mental power, those with mental damage cannot use it. So, unless she get over those days, she won't be able to use magic all her life. Even though she is favored.'

With a somewhat bitter smile, Paphnil tried to take his eyes off Juvelian to see if he had lost interest. At that moment, Paphnil's pupils turned narrow.

<Never should my daughter think of 'memories of that day'. Until that child desperately wanted it.>

Remembering what Regis once said, Paphnil carried arsenic.

'It seems like your daughter desperately wants her memory back, Regis.'

Before long, the magic stone that sealed the Juvelian's memory shattered and glowed.

* * *

The dream-like banquet is over. I took off my party clothes, changed into pajamas, and lay on a fluffy bed and recalled the banquet.

'I think I'll use the gift that Rose bought for a while.'

I received a lot of gifts, but what I liked the most was the tea set she gave me. As expected, as a friend who became close with me through a letter, I thought that she knew my taste well.

'It reminds me of a gift. No way, the bracelet that Liche and Max bought together would be that expensive.'

Honestly, it was very burdensome, but I could tell how siblings would come out if they refused it.

'It's obvious that you'll be depressed like a cat who's been rejected by its owner for the game you've caught.'

With that in mind, I put the bracelet in a drawer for trinkets.

'I have to wear it often in the future.'

It was time to sigh with that thought. Suddenly a smile came out.

'By the way, it was really hard when I danced with Max for the last time.' Ip

Is it because we're officially engaged now? It seems like I did check the surroundings while dancing, or told Max to see me in the middle instead of dancing.

'And my Daddy...'

When I returned to the banquet hall, I first informed my dad that I had been proposed by Max before making public announcements.

<Good. Really, great.>

My dad, who smiled and congratulated me, looked at me and quickly avoided my gaze.

'Why the hell do you do that?'

In the past, I was hurt because I thought that he was turning away from me.

'But when I think about it now, rather than turning me away...'

Yeah, the appearance that seemed somehow anxious was like a person who made a mistake to me.

'I don't know when Dad started doing that or why on earth. I can't even remember before being turned away.'

If I think about it based on the memories I heard from my dad, I think I was quite spoiled when I was young. But I did not remember beung pampered by him. Even though I thought it was because I was too young, it felt strange that I had no memories of that time.

'Why the hell?'

In the past, I stopped by wondering, but not now.

'Obviously, I still have a sense of distance from my dad because of the past I do not know.'

I lay in bed and tried to recall the past. But strangely, my head was sore.

'Shall I open it to my aunt?'

It was when I was wondering if she would know if she had been interacting often when she was living in her home. The door suddenly opened, making a 'kkik' sound.

'Huh? Looks like I have the door locked?'

It was a time when I was approaching the door with a question.

'Huh? What is this?'

It wasn't until a while ago, but there was a star-like glow floating around me. As I stared at the suspicious light, I immediately exclaimed.

"Wow, it's pretty." And at that moment, the light gently wrapped me around.

* * *

Marilyn stood in front of Juvelian's room and knocked on the door.

"My Lady, are you inside?" Noon had passed, but it was strange that it was still quiet.

'Are you very tired?'

For a moment, even thinking about that, Marilyn pushed the door slightly in a thought. Yesterday, the door was opened to see if she was asleep without locking the door.

'Why is the person who usually locked the door thoroughly...'

Marylin stopped thinking and widened her eyes. In time, a scream burst out of her mouth.

"Ahhhhhh! The lady...!" Juvelian fell on the floor with a pale, tired face.

***

Somehow, I heard a familiar song. I overcame the flood and lifted my eyelids hard.

<Wake up.>

I saw a woman staring at me with a queer face. At that moment, goosebumps sprang up.

'How could that person be here?'

As I pinched my cheek, thinking if I was dreaming, she looked at me with an irritated glance.

<Are you going to stop listening again?>

<Mother?>

At my call, she crunched her eyebrows, looked at me, and opened her mouth.

<Now go back to your room.>

I looked around at the saying that it was my room and was amazed.

'Is this home*? How can I be here?'

(*the one she's talking about here is the one where Viscountess Ronnel lives, her aunt)

It was when I was looking around in surprise. Soon a person familiar with sight came in, and I happily tried to call him.

<Ah, eup!>

But before long, my mouth was shut and I couldn't make any noise.

<Don't say anything. Not yet, okay?>

At that, I nodded carefully. Then she lifted her hand and gently stroked my head.

<You're good.>

I laughed heartily at her compliment in an awkward tone. Before long, when Daddy was not visible, she got up. Then she held my hand and said.

<I will take you to the room.>

At that, I nodded softly. Before long she said quietly.

<Keep in mind. The man running around at night is not your dad. So, don't ignore me and stay next to me.>

'No, it was definitely my dad.'

That was when I was wondering. She grabbed my hand.

<Let's go.>

'Mom is quite tall, no, am I getting smaller?'

As a result, there was a unique feeling of a child with small hands and voice.

<Duchess, did you cough?>

And Mrs., Mrs. Perez's young face. It was only then that I realized that I had returned to the past.

***

Regis stared at his daughter with a distorted face, then called someone in a harsh voice.

"Paphnil!" However, no answer was heard from Paphnil, and resentful Regis shrewdly saying... "Do you want to see the empire destroyed by my hand?" Before long, Paphnil appeared. There was a clear arsenic on his face.

"You're making a nonsense threat, child. And now, I don't care about being a guardian dragon." The air froze coldly when Paphnil revealed his life, but Regis replied without concern.

"I have made an oath with you. But why is my daughter in this state?"

"That's because your pretty daughter wants to recover her own memories."

"What? What is that..." Then, Papnil approached Juvelian. Before long, he smiled with a soft smile.

"I think your daughter is quite satisfied with the afterimages of the past right now?" At that, Regis looked at his daughter without knowing it. Juvelian's mouth was slightly raised.

***

<Juvel.>

I stared at my dad at the sound of calling me. A very handsome man with silver hair and blue eyes. It was a perfect formative beauty that could not be imagined that there would be a face that resembled it.

'No matter how I look, it's my Dad, but why does my mother do that?'

However, my mother's reaction caught my heart, so I kept looking at my Daddy. Then Dad sighed and took the hand he had in his pocket. I was nervous to see his fists clenched.

'What?'

I was staring at the hand with tension, but before long, my Dad's palm opened and my eyes lit up.

'It's stick candy!'

It was a lollipop that I couldn't see when I was growing up, but I was drooling as soon as I saw it, although I may be a child now. Dad looking at me took off the packaging and handed it to me.

<Okay, I want to get it.>

I took the candy and put it in my mouth. I became happy when the sweet taste came into my mouth, which I had been tense for all the time.

'Ah, it's delicious.'

Dad naturally hugged me and smiled gently. Then he wiped my mouth with his sleeves and said.

<My princess, did you like the candy taste so much?>

I tilted my head looking at my dad.

'Well, it sure sounds a little weird for Daddy.'

***

The news of Juvelian's fall was first delivered to her fiancé, Max.

'Nonsense. Yesterday, she was definitely fine...'

Max was thinking and trying to leave the Imperial Palace recklessly. Then, someone grabbed him by the arm. Max, who was trying to resist reflexively, slowly flexed his muscles after confirming who she was.

<I didn't think the two of you would get along. But now, I feel relieved.>

"Come on, take me, take me with you too. Please." Max nodded helplessly at the sight of his sister looking at him with tearful eyes. At Max's permission, Beatrice followed him and wished eagerly.

'I hope you'll greet us safe when we go, Jubelian.'

* * * *

'Surely eating sweets makes me feel good.'

It was when I was sitting on my Dad's lap munching on candy.

<Lord.>

Mrs. Perez spoke with a serious face, bowing her head to my Daddy.

<Your wife was with the young lady again today.>

At those words, Dad said, stiffening his face.

<Go back.>

As Mrs. Perez stepped back, my Dad looked at me step by step. In time he sighed with a complex face.

<Fuha.>

I sighed the same way and followed the action, and my dad smiled and patted my head with a big hand. When I was smiling because of the good touch, my Daddy said in a slightly bitter voice.

<Juvel, your mom is sick. So you have to give her a rest.>

<Where is it painful?>

<Heart.>

<Why is her heart?>

Daddy answered my question with a darkened face.

<Because your Daddy is a bad person, he have done a lot of wrong things with your mother.>

I was only six years old and I couldn't understand the words. However, 'I' , who has been looking at my Dad for a long time, can see that his face is similar to that of sometimes avoiding my gaze.

'What happened with my mother?'

Then, I stroked my dad's head. Then I smiled softly and said.

<No, Daddy's nice.>

Then Dad opened his eyes wide as if surprised. And 'I' was also surprised by my boldness when I was young, so I was deceived.

'Patting my Dad's head, what the hell did I do? Was I really like that?'

But there was a word out of my mouth that was different from 'my' will.

<So she'll forgive you, too. I've been listening to her lately, so she smiles a lot.>

My Daddy looked at me with trembling eyes and answered bitterly.

<I just want your mother to be healthy again.>

At the words, I stared at my father.

'You look gloomy.'

Then I committed another sudden act.

<Do you want this?>

'No, what if I told you to eat the candy with saliva?'

When I was embarrassed by that nonsense, I remembered what I was thinking.

'It's a shame, but it's not a waste because I'm giving it to my dad.'

I think I was trying to cheer him up by giving him the best thing I had at the time.

'But it's not a matter of courtesy to give what you're eating.'

"I" was ashamed of my behavior that was deviating from common sense. Soon after Juvel, Dad shook his head at the candy.

<Thank you, Daddy doesn't like sweets very much. So you can eat my share.>

A euphemistic refusal, but the young child smiled and put the candy in her mouth, as if she was happy that she didn't have to give it to him. Then I began to crunch the candy and chew it. My Daddy looked at me with surprise and spoke quietly.

<It must be... Really delicious.>

I hugged my dad and whispered in his ear, for if he had noticed a little.

<Do you trust me, Dad?>

Dad slowly turned his head off at my words, and I hugged him and said...

<My mom will be healthy for sure! So don't be sad, okay?>

Soon I, a young girl who knows nothing of the circumstances of her elders, will give him the best I can. When I patted my Daddy on the back with my small hand, he answered in a dark voice.

<Yes, she will be.>

***

Although she was not receiving visitors, the story was different for Max, Juvelian's fiance.

"Juvelian." She seemed to be asleep, but Juvelian did not open her eyes no matter how much he called. Max grabbed Juvelian's hand with his dark eyes and silently buried his head in her hand.

'Why the hell did you become like this?'

Beatrice, watching the figure, felt a crushing pain inside her chest. When she was about to wipe away her tears, something came into her eyes.

'What is this?'

Beatrice, who saw the sphere of light floating around the Jubelian, touched it without realizing it. At that moment, when the lovely image of the girl came to hrr mind, Beatrice opened her eyes.

[Giddy up, giddy up!]

She looked young, but she couldn't have recognized her.

'Juvelian?'

***

I guess it wasn't a lie to say that I was playing on a horse. Because I was sitting on my dad's shoulder just now.

<Hahahaha!>

Originally, if it was 'I', it was a situation that I couldn't handle because I was embarrassed, but as a child I laughed calmly at what was so fun.

<Lord, the refreshments are ready.>

Soon, as my dad put me down in front of the table, I was eating a cake with a fork and staring at him and asked.

<Daddy, does the prince really live in the Imperial Palace?>

<Yes.>

<Is he tall? Riding a white horse?>

<No, but why are you asking about the prince?>

When asked with an uncomfortable face, I replied without hesitation.

<I am going to marry him.>

Even I dropped a fork to see if my Dad was embarrassed by the sudden words.

<Daddy, I dropped it.>

As I pointed my finger at Dad's fork and said, he sighed and gestured to me. I understood it and climbed onto my Dad's lap.

<Why did you think of marrying such a budding yellow kid, no, the prince?>

Then I replied as if it were natural.

<That's because I am a princess!>

Everyone has a dark history, but I'm the only one watching this from a first-person perspective. As I was feeling shame, I heard my dad's voice full of disappointment.

<You said you were going to marry me...>

The original 'me' would have had a pupil earthquake, but the young I laughed, kissed my dad's cheek, and whispered in his ear.

<Then, I'll marry my dad too!>

To send a public check that I can't even keep... Young me was really unusual. At that time, Derek entered the parlor.

<Lordd, a messenger came from the Imperial Palace.>

At that, my dad put me down and ordered Derek with a firm face.

<I'll be coming soon, so I'll take care of Juvelian.>

I wanted to hold my Dad's hand and tell him not to go. But I had to look at the back of my dad as he left the room holding me in his arms.

* * *

Two days have passed since Juvelian fell. Many people were stunned by the news of the Little Duke that collapsed as soon as her coming-of-age ceremony was held. Except for a few people. Only three days ago, he was frowning, but the Emperor's face was now so bright.

'Maximilian, as soon as you heard the news, you turned pale and ran out, didn't you?'

He was worried about how to scold his son, but he can't believe it's happening! At this point, he thought that God was on his side.

'Now you can't do anything until that girl wakes up?'

Due to a series of events, the Crown Prince's approval rating was as high as breaking through the ceiling. Perhaps that is why the nobility was demanding that the Crown Prince be formally given a royal education. However, at this point, the fact that the offending son had become quiet made the emperor satisfied. He had a strange sense of deja vu for a moment.

'It turns out that there was a similar storm in the past...'

Soon the emperor held a arsenic.

'Yes, that's when Regis' wife died.'

At that time, Regis had been mourning his wife's death for a while after the whole meal. And a month later, Regis, who entered the palace, had become more obedient as the emperor had intended.

'How do I do it? I think I should try it again like I did then.'

It was when the emperor grinned as he stared into Kirke's eyes. The ring, which had not changed unless it was time to activate its ability, suddenly sparkled red.

'Huh? What's wrong with this all of a sudden?'

Normally, he had to wait a month to reuse a ring. It hasn't been a month yet, but the emperor rubbed the ring with a confused face because he wanted it to be activated suddenly. Soon the flickering light of the ring faded away slowly. The emperor blew his eyes with a sigh of relief.

'Is it because it's old?'

Then someone entered the office. Mikhail was the one who could come in without notice, so the emperor naturally tried to meet him. However, it was an unwelcome visitor who entered the office.

"Your Imperial Majesty, why are you avoiding me?" The emperor frowned at the appearance of the empress, who came without prior notice.

"What is it?"

"The child in my womb keeps wanting to see his father." At those abominations, the emperor twisted his mouth.

"Then, wasn't this the wrong place?" At that, the empress gazed at the emperor with trembling eyes and raised the corner of her mouth.

"What? What are you talking about?"

"Isn't it not my child in your womb?" The Emperor's words made the Empress's face pale. The emperor laughed at the empress and said. "I already knew that you were playing at night with a kid with dark red eyes."

"Oh, it's unfair! He's just a musician who sang for entertainment." Then the emperor contained arsenic.

"What? Then who is the child's father? Obviously I took a pill when I joined you."

"A pill?"

When an unexpected word came out from the emperor, the empress was overwhelmed with a sense of betrayal. The emperor stared at the empress as if he were throwing away, and checked the documents as if it was not worth paying attention to. The empress, feeling contempt and anger, glared at the emperor with eyes closed.

"You...!"

However, the emperor, who was already familiar with his gaze, knew how to act in such a situation.

"As it has been in the future, if you keep Maximilian in check and take care of him when appropriate, I will admit it as my child, Empress." When he planted a weak hope that could sprout even in barren land, the empress smiled with a poisonous smile.

"Okay, let's do that."

Chapter 165

After my Dad was called to the Imperial Palace, the young I was sitting in the room without power.

'When will Dad come?'

As it was now, the emperor seemed to push my Daddy back at this time. And I drew a sulky and ugly monster on the paper as if I knew it as a child. There was a crown on the monster's head. It was when I was sitting on the floor scribbling on paper.

<What are you doing here?>

My Daddy's voice was so bright that I crept towards the door. It was then.

<Regis, you must be right today.>

Unlike usual, I could hear my Mommy's voice of relief. Then my Daddy sighed and said calmly.

<Amelia, go back to your room and sleep.>

When she was asked to go back to her room, she asked in a voice of astonishment.

<What?>

<I told you. Until your symptoms get better...>

At that moment, my Mom's voice dropped sharply.

<I'm not crazy! Why don't you believe me?>

Then came Dad's voice, which came out in a soothing soft tone.

<Amelia, that's not what I meant. You know...>

But my mom screamed because she was feverish.

<No, I don't know. And don't you remember what happened before? Say I'm crazy. It's your fault!>

Soon Dad answered in a desperate voice.

<I'm really sorry. Even if you hate me, I understand...>

<What do you understand? You were indifferent to me. Do you know what I was feeling because of you who didn't come to see my newborn baby?>

<I said there was a situation.>

<So what is the situation?>

Dad opened his mouth while indulging.

<I can't say that. But I promise you this. My wife is you, my successor is Juvelian...>

At that moment,'jjaak' I heard a sound. I was surprised by the sound, looked out the door, and flinched. Mom's palms were dyed red, and dad's cheeks were turned.

<Why can't you tell me? Am I even your wife? Your words say my daughter is the successor, but who knows? You'll pass it all over to a boy born from another woman!>

<Amelia, I swear I will never...!>

<Don't you ever come near my daughter! You are the one who is dangerous to the child now, Regis!>

At that, Dad sighed and replied.

<We both seem to be overly excited, so let's talk next time. Let's take a break today.>

<No, I won't go until you're gone. If you're going to go, go with her!>

At my Mom's voice, I went into the closet and crouched. Soon after I was young, I thought.

'When will Mom and Dad make up? I wish we could get along.'

And 'I,' who knew the answer, was filled with bitterness.

* * *

How many days have passed since mom and dad fought? My mom sneaked up on me and told me.

<Shall we play hide-and-seek?>

I stared at my Mommy, who suggested to play hide-and-seek.

'Why are we trying to hide and seek?'

Looking back and looking back, I was able to find out a few things I didn't know. The most surprising of all was that my depressed Mom hit me and left me when I was younger. Perhaps that's why she had a tendency to bother me until now.

However, the strange thing was that these days, she tries to be next to me as if she is obsessed with me at night.

<Why?>

The little one asked me naively, and my Mommy answered calmly.

<Because I want to play at that time. So if I tell you to hide, you have to hide. All right?>

The voice of someone telling her daughter to play was dry. But still, I guess I loved her. Seeing that the interest she gave me was so good. I hugged my Mom and said, nodding my head.

<Yes! I'll listen to my mom very well!>

She looked at me with trembling eyes and bit her lips. Then she muttered straightly.

<Never come out until I say I found you. Okay?>

There was a faint mixture of crying in her voice. 'I' stared at her with my young gaze. Contrary to what I thought, her eyes were clear and straight.

'Why are you so obsessed with me?'

Suddenly I wanted to understand her.

* * *

"Are you here?"

Back in the palace, Beatrice sighed, looking at who was waiting in her room.

"Mother, what's wrong with my room?"

"It's not unusual for a mother to come to her daughter's room." Beatrice laughed bitterly at the empress' answer.

'My mother knows well that she would not come if she had nothing to do with me.'

But with the words out of her mouth, Beatrice opened her mouth.

"But I'm a little tired today, mother."

"Yes, so let's just briefly talk about it." Not surprisingly, Beatrice nodded slowly as the word 'briefly' came out.

"Yes, do it."

"I mean the Crown Prince, how long did you think he'd stay there?" When Maximilian was mentioned in her mother's mouth, Beatrice hardened her face.

"Why are you asking that?"

"Aren't you close to Maximilian these days? I'm worried..." Beatrice said firmly, cutting her mother's words as if they weren't worth hearing any more.

"No, my mother did it if she thought it was good, but he's not the one to worry about. Please tell me your honest feelings." The empress replied with a frown and irritation.

"Do you know him so well that you're going to get along with him?"

"Yes, my brother doesn't intend to use me." At the words of the princess, which seemed to be sarcastic to her, the empress crumbled her eyes.

"You'll regret it. But if I say you're wrong now, please forgive me." Beatrice replied without hesitation.

"I'm already regretting it. Everything I've done wrong and hurt my brother, believing in my mother. And I don't want to understand my mother anymore." The empress left the room, staring at her daughter without an answer.

'What a shame, how did you grow up? How can you say that?'

After returning to the room, the empress touched her belly while trying to throw something. Before long she quietly put down the object and clenched her teeth.

'Yes, I can't be kicked out like this.'

The emperor who has been fooling her for a while, her daughter who is now thorny, and Maximilian, the cause of all these things. She have not yet retaliated against those three. Among them, the one she hated the most was Maximilian.

'Okay, first of all, I have to put it over on Maximilian.'

It was a stupid idea that she would never do, but the empress, confined to a corner, could not think reasonably.

"Send an assassin to the Duke of Floyen. And behind that is the Crown Prince who kills his fiancee in a coma because he was annoyed. Do you understand?"

"Yes!" As the knights stepped away, the empress stroked her belly and muttered...

"Don't worry, my dear. This mother must make you emperor."

* * *

When my dad didn't come home for a few days, my mom didn't want my attention and didn't come out of her room. And the one who took care of me was my family's vassal, my maternal uncle and aunt.

<Hah, to say that Amelia is still suffering from such a ridiculous delusion, is she taking medicine?>

Mrs. Perez replied with a face saying that she was reluctant to ask.

<Yes.>

<Do not forget, make sure to give her medicine at night. It's a big deal if she do crap again.>

It was when I was paying attention to the serious appearance that wasn't like my Aunt who always showed only pleasant appearances. When I made eye contact, she made Mrs. Perez go away and smiled brightly.

<My little girl, we should go to bed early, so we get taller. If you go to bed late, you will stop there.>

At the words of my aunt, I pouted my mouth.

<Don't lie. Dean* sleeps early, but he's not very tall!>

(*Geraldine's nickname, before I made it as Din but Dean is more eye-pleasing)

Suddenly he pulled in himself, and I saw Geraldine in fit of rage.

<Hey, my height is average among my peers. And when I grow up, I'll be bigger!>

<But you're smaller than Todd.>

Geraldine said with blush when I mentioned Todd, who was a trainee at the time.

<You, you! You'll never get married if you choose such mean words!>

I answered with my tongue sticking out.

<It's okay, I'm not going to get married and live with my dad! Dean can't get married later if he's so short and weak.>

Then Geraldine cried and said to my Aunt.

<Mother, Juvelian is not getting married!>

In time, my aunt laughed and said.

<Pft, hahahaha! I told you last time that cousins cannot marry under imperial law! Yah, you just got dumped!>

After all, she really looked like my aunt. And Geraldine was soon mad about whether he was even more hurt by her look.

<Mother, I hate you! Boohoohoo*.>

(*he's crying loudly, okay?)

I looked at him patheticly for a while, and when I realized something, I sighed.

'Oh, my God, I'm Geraldine's first love.'

It was when we were thinking that it would be better to forget because it would only be a dark past for each other.

<I'll put our crybaby to sleep, so take the little girl to her room.>

At my aunt's instructions, the maid held my hand and said...

<Come with me, lady.>

When I arrived at my room, the maid dressed me up for my pajamas.

<Is Daddy not coming again today?>

The maid answered my question with a smile.

<I said he'd come either today or tomorrow, so he'll be here soon.>

<Okay.>

The maid said, putting a nightcap on my head.

<Don't worry and have sweet dreams, lady.>

<Yes, good night, Becky.>

So I lay in bed and tried to fall asleep. But strangely, I couldn't sleep.

'It's too dark.'

Then, I heard a faint voice.

<Hide tight.>

It was my Mommy's voice. I hurriedly hid myself in the closet. Soon after, I could hear footsteps, and I looked through the door of the slightly opened closet and watched who was coming in.

'Oh? It's Daddy!'

I reflexively opened the closet door and flinched as I tried to run out.

'No, I promised to be quiet until my mom said I found me.'

Before long, Dad came slowly in front of my bed. Little I was looking at my dad's face, holding back laughter. But 'I' couldn't laugh.

'That expression is the same as that day.'

During the hunting competition, my dad was staring at the bed where I was sleeping with those eyes that felt a weird sense of foreignness.

'Is the emperor...?'

It was when 'I' had such doubts.

<Don't move!>

A woman with a cracked voice and messy hair shouted, pointing her sword at my father.

<Who the hell are you?>

Unlike her trembling voice, her eyes were clear that day. I guffed my saliva as I watched the two in confrontation. My dad, who had been in such a state before, treated me with emotionlessness like a robot and felt confused for a moment.

'How will you react this time?'

It was the time I was watching my parents. Dad opened his mouth.

<Where are you?>

His voice was like a robot to the point where I got goosebumps. Instead of answering, she only pushed the sword end further towards the neck of my father.

<For now, get out of my daughter's room.>

Dad opened his mouth staring at my Mom with a blank stare without any disturbance.

<Where did you hide my "dearest person?">

At him, my Mom shouted.

<Regis! Please, come back to me! Can you hear me?>

There was a faint cry in my mother's voice. It was then. Dad's hand shined blue.

Quazzik!

There wasn't even a small scratch on my Daddy's hand, who crushed the blade with his bare hands. The moment my Mom opened her eyes, Dad pulled her hand that held the sword and held her.

<Let me go!>

Mom shuddered and tried to shake her hand, but Dad opened his mouth as he stared at her with his eyes still feeling nothing.

<I asked where she was.>

The terrified mother and the unfamiliar father were more frightening than when they were fighting.

'Please come and stop them!'

However, no one of the employees was coming here, perhaps because they got used to the arguments of my parents.

'It can't be like this.'

The young I, who wanted my mom and dad to get along well, couldn't overcome the urge and ran out of the closet.

<Daddy, stop it. Huh?>

I thought that if I stopped my dad, it would come back to the original state. But my dad just stared at me with an expressionless face. It was when my dad was thinking about why. Only the tail of his mouth rose slightly on my expressionless dad's face.

<Found.>

I'm sure I've always seen my dad, but I was scared of the face that looked like he was wearing a mask. At that moment, my mother, who turned pale in daylight, screamed and called me.

<Jubelian! No! Run for it!>

I couldn't take it off without realizing it. Dad grabbed my collar and lifted it up as if he were grabbing something.

<Daddy, it hurts!>

I cried and struggled, but my dad just muttered, staring at me with eerie eyes.

<According to the command, a precious being...>

I was afraid of that appearance, so I called him with tears.

<Daddy!>

At that moment, Dad stared at me, distorting his forehead.

<Juvel... Lian?>

It was when I read the confusion in those eyes.

Kwajangchang!

The vase that hit my Daddy's head broke with a loud noise. There was bleeding from my head, but my dad's change was just a little loosening his hand holding my clothes. But my mom didn't miss the gap and ran at him and pulled me out.

<Go ahead!>

At the moment, the young I was overwhelmed by vague fear and left without hesitation. Despite the uproar, none of the employees have come forward. In a way, it was natural. It was common for the Duke couple to raise their voices in the house. I was terrified when I didn't see anyone to help.

'How come there's no one here?'

Then I saw two people standing in their employee's clothes and talking.

<Who shall we do?>

<Well, anyway, we'll be standing by and we'll get rid of the duke.>

Soon after they found me, they closed their mouths. Theie eyes were very cold, but I couldn't have noticed it. Because in my little head, I only saw my mom and dad fighting.

<Daddy's fighting with mommy. Come on, stop him!>

They nodded their heads and laughed in a friendly way at what I said with tears.

<You wait here quietly. Got it? >

* * *

Tears rolled on Juvelian's cheek. While watching her, Max let out a sigh and wiped away her tears.

"What are you dreaming of?" He tried to talk to her, but the answer didn't come back. As Max stroked her cheek, hhe grinned in a sad voice. "You still haven't found your memory?"

On the day he first received the call and ran, the Teacher told him that Juvelian was currently dreaming of a long dream to find her memories. So Max waited and waited quietly hoping for her to wake up. However, it has been five days since Juvelian couldn't wake up. Until now, when there was no sign of waking up, Max was overcome with vague fear and helplessness.

'Even though I'm a novice, there's nothing I can do for you.'

What if she don't open her eyes forever? It was when Max was staring at her, unable to say the words out of his mouth.

"I'll be watching her, so close your eyes." At the calm voice of his teacher, Max raised himself while staring at him.

"I'll be back soon, so please talk about it." Regis smiled as he saw his disciple grasping his intentions and leaving his seat.

'I thought he couldn't care for others except his life...'

Soon Regis glanced at the lying daughter's face with a smile.

'You changed him.'

It was a time when Regis inadvertently wiped his daughter's hair.

"Dad... No... Mom... Why..."

Regis' face when he heard the voice of his daughter come out quietly was tired. He soon lowered his trembling hand slowly, in despair.

'I wanted you to forget about it forever, but you finally remembered it.'

***

How long would you have waited for them to believe? I was worried and couldn't stand it.

'You're not fighting by now, right?'

It was her who was terrifying to me at times, but she was still my mother. I was hoping she would reconcile with my dad as soon as possible.

'Yes, it will be okay if I secretly look at them.'

When I went back to their room, what I saw in my eyes was red.

<Juvel...Lian...>

They were two bodies in the clothes of a soldier, a bleeding and fallen mother, and a father standing with a bloody sword. When I was scared, my Mommy reached out and called me.

<Baby.>

Her appearance and this situation were scary, so I burst into tears. She stared at me and said...

<Forget it.>

Soon she closed her eyes helplessly.

<Mommy, Mommy!>

I called her, but the answer didn't come back. At that time, I saw my bloody dad wailing and crying. A child who heard a roar like a beast thought that my dad was scared. And whether this reality was overwhelming, I felt my body lose strength.

'Yes, this would be a nightmare.'

Then, I saw my Daddy's face through my closing eyes.

<Jubel!>

Soon I closed my eyes, and the "my" ceremony was also darkened.

***

When I opened my eyes again, I was on my bed.

'Am I back?'

I looked around because I wanted to return to the original world, and for a while, my small body moved regardless of my will.

'It's still the past.'

Realizing that, I watched my young behavior again. I was looking back and forth in my room looking for the blood that I saw that day.

'None.'

Smiling wide in relief, I immediately ran to my Mom's room.

<Mommy!>

In the spacious room, however, Mrs. Perez, dressed in black and silver, stood in tears instead of her mother.

<Oh, lady. When did you wake up?>

Soon she reached out her hand to me and said...

<Let's say good-bye to your mother.>

I didn't even know what it meant to say goodbye, but when I heard that I could meet my mother, I followed her. Soon, when we arrived at the temple in our territory, we saw familiar people gathered. And as soon as they saw me, they showed signs of embarrassment.

<Where's my mom?>

My question hardened everyone's face. I felt strange and headed to the place where there were so many boxes of white lilies. When I saw my Mommy surrounded by flowers there, I was puzzled.

<Why are you sleeping here?>

As a child, I reached out to my Mom and was appalled by the cold sensation. Come to think of it, the weather was pretty chilly.

'I'm going to catch a cold.'

I hurried to take off my coat and put it on my Mom's body. It was then.

<Who brought Juvelian?>

A frightening cold voice hardened my body. As I turned my head, I saw my Dad's face crumpled. The glare on his face, which had become rickety, was similar to the lifeless look I had seen in a bloody dream.

<Ahhhh! No!>

Unknowingly screaming, Dad tried to approach me with a look of embarrassment.

<Jubel...!>

But the image overlapped with my Dad in the terrible nightmare who was holding the bloody sword. I began to struggle with fear.

<Don't come, I'm scared!>

How many seizures did I have? My Dad, who looked at me with a pale face, turned around.

<I'm sorry.>

I've lost my mind again after a game.

* * *

Regis smiled bitterly at his daughter's trembling eyes.

'You're finally about to wake up.'

Soon, a bitter voice came out of his mouth, as much as his expression.

"When you open your eyes, you will reject me and hate me. For you, I'm the monster that killed her." So he decided. As soon as his daughter refuses, he will let go of his desire to be with her a little bit more.

Then, Jubelian's fingers flinched. In that feeble change, Regis was simultaneously feeling the fear that his daughter had known the truth and the joy that his daughter had awakened. Soon after, his eyelashes trembled and my eyes opened.

"Ah..." As soon as he saw her, Regis had a bitter smile on his face, the tears flowing from her dark blue eyes.

'In the end, as I expected, you have come to hate me.'

<No, don't come!>

From his daughter's point of view, she will feel scared and terrible. What Regis could do for her now was to disappear as soon as possible.

"I'm sorry." That was when Regis was trying to get up. Juvelian shed tears as she held his hand.

"Dad, now, it's okay."

***

"What are you talking about?" The inquiring Dad's face, looking at me, looked indifferent at first glance. However, if you look closely, you can see that he looked pale compared to usual, and his eyes were shaking. I spoke face to face with our eyes.

"I won't misunderstand now."

<Where did you hide my "dearest person?">

On that day, Dad was clearly seen as being controlled by someone else.

'And that somebody might be...'

I stared at my dad and opened my mouth.

"Daddy, I have a question." Instead of answering, my Dad turned his head off. I held my Dad's hand tightly and opened my mouth, hoping that he might refuse to answer. "How can the Emperor manipulate you?" Sure enough, when I asked him, he laughed as if he was in vain.

"What? What nonsense is that...?"

"I already know everything Dad. You were also manipulated during the hunting competition." At my words, Dad looked at me with trembling eyes, and he lowered his eyes without power.

"How did you know?" I held my dad's hand tight and opened my mouth.

"Eyes, eyes was different from my Dad's. So I got it."

"Right." My dad's face was full of depth, when I discovered the secret he had hidden for a long time. I continued to stare at my dad.

"And the important thing is not how I know. I'm just wondering how we can get through this."

"What?" Then I said, wrapping my dad's hands in my hands.

"Don't worry about it alone. Let's solve it together now, Dad." My Daddy opened his eyes like he was surprised and slowly lowered his eyes.

"Don't you hate me?"

With those words, I recalled my life as 'Juvelian'. When I visited him, waited for him not to come to my debut, and always indifferent to me, it hurt me. The reason I did not try to heal the wound was because I was afraid of losing him. But now I decided to show my sincerity instead of avoiding it.

"Yes, I hate you." My father stared at me with blue eyes as if he had been shocked by my answer and then dropped his gaze again.

"I see."

The hand I caught was shaking, but I didn't care.

'Now I know.'

<My princess, did you like the candy taste so much?>

Unlike what I had been shunned, I was loved by him as a young girl in a lost memory. My dad and I looked very happy on the outside, but the reality was different from then. We were afraid of hurting if we touched each other, so our relationship, which we had left as it was, festered as we hunger, so we were distrusting each other.

'And now it's time to pop pus*.'

(*something like open the wound, like opening the truth, something like that)

I stared straight at Dad and opened my mouth.

"I want to know now. Why did Dad have to be so harsh to me." My Dad sighed at my words and then nodded softly.

"I think it'll be a long story.'' Still the blue eyes were full of anguish. I held my father's hand tightly to encourage him and opened my mouth.

"It's okay. I've already expected it." We've been mistaken for that long, so it's hard to take a long time.

***

At 15, Regis was the first to become a full-time knight. And it was natural that he was promoted to a super-fast promotion, an unprecedented genius who can handle mana.

<You're the successor to the Duke of Floyen?>

At the young emperor's question, Regis nodded, trembling in his elongation. Then the emperor smiled kindly and patted Regis on the shoulder.

<Relax. I thought I'd call you as my side source.>

The words suddenly floated up to his father's advice.

'He told me not to get close to the Emperor.'

Although Floyen was a prestigious sword, it existed as a shield to guard against the imperial family from generation to generation. For that reason, Regis tried to say no to the emperor, using the excuse for his lack.

<I'm not good enough to serve you yet.>

Although he had just reached adulthood, the emperor who survived the quarrel with his brothers was not easy.

<I'm saying this because I think I'd be reassured if someone like you stood by me. There are a lot of people who have antipathy toward me.>

Surely the emperor, as he said, was isolated without any significant force. The naive little boy, who had just begun to interact with others, nodded in sympathy with his words.

<Okay.>

So, Regis became the emperor's honor guard, and he was trusted by the emperor to develop his loyalty to him. It was his family and the empress, his companion, who dissuaded him from doing so.

<Sir Floyen, if possible, do not be alone with His Imperial Majesty.>

Regis, however, ignored her remark, thinking that the empress was wary of the Duke of Floyen. Then one day, the emperor called Regis and had a drink.

<Your Imperial Majesty, I am not yet of age.>

<Hahaha! Imperial law is severe. One, not above me, the Emperor. Come on. Don't hesitate to lift it.>

At the emperor's suggestion, Regis drank. Mana was taking the liquor apart, but it was so strong that his mind became more and more confused.

"'Oh, I'm in big trouble if I make a mistake."'

It was when Regis was trying to activate himself to wake up.

<Regis.>

The emperor reached out to Regis. The ring on his finger was emitting a strange light, but Regis thought it was an illusion that he felt so drunk.

<I think you're my friend.>

<Woah, it's an honor.>

When Regis held his hand and answered, the emperor asked cautiously.

<If you don't mind, won't you sign a contract with me?>

<Contract...? What is that contract?>

<It's no big deal, it's like you do me a favor sometimes.>

The emperor was usually cautious even when giving orders to Regis, and since he had never made an unreasonable request, Regis readily nodded.

<Okay.>

The emperor lifted the ring and opened his mouth.

<Okay, the contract has been made. Now you will help me as my 'loyalist'.>

<Glo...Ry...>

In a delirium of wine, Regis thought as he slammed his head into the table.

'I can't believe you're making such a mess in front of His Imperial Majesty...'

***

"I knew later. That ring had magic that could manipulate people, and that the condition needed to cast the magic was my permission." Dad's face, speaking with a voice full of regret, soon darkened. "Afterwards I had to do an unwanted murder under the order of the emperor. I was an evil that had to disappear from the world." I frowned at the word evil.

"The bad thing is the emperor who tricked and manipulated my Daddy for his greed. Originally, he was a good man who sacrificed for many people!" At that, Dad opened his eyes wide, as if surprised, and then slowly lowered his head. Before long, Dad's voice came out trembling.

"Everyone says I'm a war hero, but in fact it wasn't my will."

"Don't tell me the emperor..." I stared at my Dad with trembling eyes. A bitter smile lingered on his beautiful face.

"The Emperor left me as a scapegoat to escape. He didn't know I would survive." That remark brought my anger back against the emperor.

'I'll never forgive you.'

Then my Dad threatened my troubled expression of anguish.

"And my dear family members were injured because of me who had fulfilled the emperor's orders. My father ran to support his ugly son, who was isolated from the system, and he was attacked by the ambush Thegerian army and suffered from the aftereffects of the wound. My mother, who was caring for me, was shocked and followed my father soon after. And your mother..."

It was a hidden wound, but it was still a wound that has not been healed. I opened my mouth on behalf of him, who couldn't speak.

"Mom was attacked by the assassins sent by the emperor?" At my trembling words, my dad stared at me with amazement.

"How did you know that?" A bleeding mother, two bodies, and a dad holding a bloody sword. Back in the past, what I've seen is definitely a misleading scene. But when I think about it a little, the odd thing wasn't one or two.

'Apparently, that day, my dad came to me with my bare hands. The sword my mother was holding was bent. Then where did the sword come from?'

Perhaps the answer to that question could be given by those who were wearing the clothes of the city.

'Yes, I couldn't hear it properly, but obviously, the conversation they had was strange. The atmosphere was strangely sharp on me.'

As a child, my Daddy kept me very dear, and the commercial people in my family were very kind to me. But they can't react so coldly to the situation where I ran in tears.

'So I thought he was an assassin, or an emperor's spy, but I didn't expect to get hit.'

And the last reason was his eyes. His eyes on my Mommy were filled with sadness. I bit my lips, then opened my mouth, staring at my Daddy.

"Now it was big enough to not misunderstand even if you are holding a bloody sword, Dad."

How long have you been suffering? My heart ached at the sight of my Daddy with dry eyes, unable to even shed tears, whether he was used to suffering.

'I'm sorry for you. You have been suffering for your whole life because of the evil deeds that others have forced you to do.'

When I couldn't stand it and shed tears, my Daddy wiped my tears with his sleeve.

"I'm sorry. It's because of me that you..." I couldn't stand myself and hugged my Dad at the appearance of misrepresenting my behavior and reproaching himself. Then he flinched and opened his mouth again.

"Juvelian, why did I turn away from you...?" I shook my head.

"It's alright."

'Now I know without telling me. Your actions come from fear of losing me. So...'

I covered my father's cheeks with my hands and shed tears.

"I'll protect you." Soon, a drop of tears fell from his dry blue eyes.

***

Max, who was listening to all the truth outside the door, clenched his fist tightly.

<Sometimes people get stronger to protect their weaknesses.>

He heard that his teacher became a transcendent only after getting married. It was only now that Max could understand why his Teacher said that.

'Master, you were trying to be strong to protect your wife and daughter. And what tried to make me a transcendent...'

Maximilian was the sword that Regis had pulled out. Sword to stop him if he is manipulated by the emperor and attack his daughter. Max clenched his fist tightly as he listened to the faint cry coming out of the door.

'It's never going to happen. And I will surely kill the emperor who made her sad.'

Chapter 168:

24. Awakening

How much did I cry hugging my Daddy like that?

'This is enough, right?'

I thought there was no problem communicating with my dad now, but for a moment, I suddenly thought that my dad was still unreliable.

"Dad, if the emperor is calling in the future, or if there is anything going to happen, you are going to discuss it with me first? Okay?"

At my words, Dad sighed and nodded. But still I couldn't believe him.

'There must have been one or two secrets so far!'

"You're never going to do anything personal without me knowing it. Okay? Promise?!" Dad stared at my little finger with a blank face and said with a smile.

"You look like you used to be." I was embarrassed, but I gave my dad a big smile.

"Because now I have my memory. This is my personality." Then Dad nodded and said calmly.

"You're right." All of a sudden, there was a question.

'How does he know I've regained my memory and act so naturally?'

Usually, it's normal to wonder with questions, but Dad was speaking calmly. It's like I knew I'd do it.

"Daddy, you know." It was when I was about to ask about the reason. Dad said with a sigh.

"First of all, there's someone anxiously waiting for you, so let's welcome him first." Soon as Dad opened the door, someone big jumped in.

"Juvel!" He looked at me with red eyes, and in time, he was filled with tears. His eyes were so desolate and lovely, I tried to smile and put down the corners of my mouth.

"What's wrong with your face, Max?" His face was a national treasure, but his gaunt face was very emaciated.

"It's... for caring." At the stupid words I sighed, crumpling my eyebrows.

'I don't know what to say to you that you did it to take care of me.'

Then, there was a red and faint haze behind Max.

'Oh? What's this?'

Unknowingly, the moment I touched the line, it disappeared.

'What is it?'

For a moment I was wondering, I suddenly thought of the past and laughed.

'I heard dreams come true, but I did realize my dream of marrying the Prince.'

Of course, the Prince rode a black horse instead of a white horse, and he was not nice to people other than me, but it didn't matter.

'Because Max is the only one who can take care of me, starving and not sleeping, even if he's sick.'

***

It was the Duke of Floyen that was clear in his head before, but the image gradually shakes. Using the connection magic he had previously hung on Max, Paphnil, who was watching the Duke of Floyen, hardened his face.

'I'm a dragon, she's negating the magic I've got.'

It was natural that he was amazed, a great race called the magic designer. Dispel, which is a magic nullifying magic, was possible only when the caster's magic power was significantly higher.

'I've never experienced such humiliation in a fight with my own people.'

Soon Paphnil murmured softly.

"You don't seem to be aware of it yet, but is it really your favorite 'priest'?"
Frowning for a moment, too, Paphnil lifted one corner of his mouth.

'On the other hand, you still have a long way to go, descendant.'

Suddenly, his gaze turned to another descendant.

* * *

An old book made of parchment said that magic was the manifestation of a strong will. Beatrice glared at what was in front of her.

'Yes, let's think about what we want to implement.'

The fire may burn this space, and water might get wet everywhere, so it was difficult. And the wind would make a mess, so it shouldn't be implemented either. Beatrice cried out with her eyes wide open.

"Freeze!"

But when there was no change in the water bucket, Beatrice sighed.

'As expected of I not being able to do magic, was it a coincidence?'

Beatrice was the only one in the Juvelian's room to peep at the fragments of her memory. Beatrice was sure. Juvelian's fall must have something to do with magic. For that reason, she wanted to learn magic to help Juvelian get up quickly, but her magic still hasn't been implemented yet.

'I wish I had someone to ask for advice...'

Then, someone who was idling said grudgingly.

"What strange behavior have you been doing before?" Beatrice answered Victor's question with a frown.

"You don't have to know." Victor's eyebrows wriggled at her words. He have carried a bucket of water, firewood, everything. Instead of telling him why, she was only doing the unknown. Victor wanted to know why Beatrice was doing that.

"I don't need to know? Do you mean that you've only made me do chores so far?" Beatrice sighed at the remark.

'That's because you're the only person I can trust around me...'

But she couldn't be able to tell the truth. It's easy to be treated as a crazy person after talking about magic in a situation where you can't even implement magic. Then, someone knocked on the door. She was the head lady-in-waiting who was guarding the door to prevent the empress or disturbers from coming.

"Your Imperial Highness! This is a breaking news." Soon Beatrice's eyes grew bigger when she heard the news.

"Is it really true that Juvelian woke up?" When asked Beatrice again as if she could not believe it, the lady-in-waiting replied with joy as if it were her own business.

"Yes, that's right!"

"Oh, thank God. Get me a present for Juvelian right now."

"Yes!" Beatrice whirled, perhaps with relief, as the lady-in-waiting left the room. Victor grabbed her in a hurry and ran into a pinch.

"The Princess will be worried if Her Imperial Highness falls." Beatrice blushed and pushed Victor down, sighing.

"I'm afraid I'll have to go." Victor looked surprised at Beatrice's words and hugged her.

"Wha, what are you doing now...?" Before long Victor took her to bed and said firmly.

"Take a rest today."

"What? But...!" Beatrice tried to resist, but Victor's attitude was stubborn.

"You haven't been able to sleep for two days because you've been doing that mysterious act."

"But, Juvelian...!" Victor sighed and said...

"If she see that Her Imperial Highness' eyes are so cold now, Little Duke will welcome you." Beatrice blushed at the remark and answered calmly.

"Oh, I see. Why don't I sleep?" Victor smiled as he watched her lie in bed. But as soon as Beatrice turned her head, his smile quickly erased.

"Then I'll leave you alone." Out of the room, Victor told the lady-in-waiting who was waiting outside the door. "Her Imperial Highness is going to sleep, so please be careful not to disturb here."

"Yes." Soon after Victor left, the ladies-in-waiting whispered.

"How can he be so thoughtful?"

"I know. If his origins are the only fault, then it's a fault..." Beatrice, who was eavesdropping on Victor's conversation with the maids behind the door, breathed a sigh.

'He is from...'

The union of commoners and nobles is also a world where they are ridiculed and despised. Moreover, if she said that she liked the knight from the common people, it was obvious that she didn't know what the result would be.

'Yes, he's not interested in me in the first place.'

Beatrice sat down with a bitter smile.

'In the end, neither the magic nor Victor was thrilled by me.'

Feeling embarrassed and terrible, Beatrice buried her head in her knees.

***

News of Juvelian's recovery was also delivered to the emperor. "p

"It's faster than I thought that she'd be awake." After a moment of grumbling, the emperor soon stared at the boy, who was kneeling his knee with a frightened face.

'But thanks to you, I have gained time.'

The ring's magical power was still insufficient, but it didn't matter.

"Do you know how to use magic?" At the emperor's question, the boy bit his lips and shook his head without hesitation.

"No, I don't really know how to use it. Please save my life!"

"If you check whether that is true or not, we'll see." When the emperor raised his hand, the knights lifted their sword and stabbed the boy in the chest.

"Ack!" When the boy died immediately with a painful flurry, the emperor held in a ring with a smile. Before long, the ring that absorbed the boy's magic shed a dark purple glow, as if satisfied.

"Sure, the wizard was right." The emperor, who supplemented the magical power of the ring, laughed happily, then suddenly frowned and muttered. "By the way, what's Mikhail's doing lately?"

* * *

The Marchioness of Hessen stared at her son with anxious eyes.

"Mikhail, are you really okay now?" Not long ago, since the day Mikhail practiced his sword alone in a dark underground training room, the Marchioness was reluctant to know where her son was.

<I finally got it. Ugh.>

Even that wasn't enough, and Mikhail began to riot like a madman immediately after hearing the news that Juvelian had fallen and clamored to go to the Duke of Floyen.

<Maybe mine may disappear, how can I stay still!>

He even pushed the Marquis away, so it couldn't be said that the
Marchioness has disastrous feelings. But now her son was in a terrifyingly fine appearance.

'Jubvelian, is it because I heard the news that that child has woke up? It's weird though. Not like my son...'

Mikhail bent his eyes and smiled toward his anxious mother, then left the mansion. Before long, he smiled as he touched the sword sack on his waist.

'If I really do what you say, can I become stronger than the Duke of Floyen?'

Then the sword came to talk.

[Of course. Feed me plenty of blood from the wizard's heart.]

Mikhail smiled brutally, lifting the corners of his mouth.

'Wizard, where can I find it?'

In time, a peculiar voice of laughter rang in , his head.

[I'll let you know if there's a wizard around.]

Spoiler: Chapter 169-170

I was sitting on the sofa telling Max about the past I had forgotten. Listening to my childhood story, he was reacting with anger and laughter.

"I see." The relief that he was beside me made me smile and think of something.

"Ah, Max, you didn't tell me that, did you?"

"What?"

"When I was a kid, I dreamed of getting married to the Prince!" At my words, Max sneered up and soon hugged my waist.

"Then I'll be your real first love."

"No, that's a little..." It was a time when I was throwing up on that ridiculous argument. Max kissed his cheek and whispered.

"You're my first love, too." I recalled the fact that I had forgotten for a moment that I gazed at the handsome face.

"So, how long have I been down?" To my question he opened his mouth.

''About six days.'' I stared at Max at the remark. Though it was clear whether he came and went to the palace and my house every day, there was a strong sense of fatigue.

"You don't come to visit me every day, do you?"

"That's right." I breathed out a sigh of relief at what seemed to be a matter of course.

'Oh, so you haven't been at work in the meantime?'

Currently, Max's support has risen, but so far, it is more of an image of an warrior who leads the army rather than the next emperor. Perhaps that's why there were still quite a few people who mocked Max in lowly, calling Max as 'bloody, ignorant slaughterer'. In order to improve such an image, it is necessary to show sincerity in administrative aspects or show a different aspect, but I didn't even know that he would be stuck only in sick care.

'Of course, I was happy that Max was there when I opened my eyes...'

Then, Max hugged me.

"You're proud of me, aren't you?" I sighed at his look in my eyes, which he hope he will be praised openly.

'What do I do? He'd be disappointed if I let it go like this...'

But that was only a moment.

'Then I haven't washed in six days...'

The maids would have wiped my body roughly, but I couldn't help it. It was then.

"Jubelian, we..." He looked at me with his arms around my shoulders, and he seemed to be kissing me. I spoke quickly, covering his mouth.

"You've been through a lot. Now we have to go home to the bay, right?" He gave me a disappointed look, but I couldn't help it.

'Because the story of the sleeping princess is a fairy tale, and this is reality. Still...'

Come to think of it, there was something that Max did well.

'I'll have to wrap it well.'

* * *

It was in an instant that the news that the Crown Prince was healed by caring for Juvelian wholeheartedly spread to the social world.

"Oh, His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince is so kind."

Among the cold-blooded battlefield killers and intellectuals, many feared that the Crown Prince would become a tyrant. However, many expressed surprise at the news that the crown prince had resorted to caring for his fiancee.

"I'm surprised I didn't see it like that.''

"The next emperor with a strong armour and a kind heart! Isn't it wonderful?"

In addition, the number of friendly public opinions has increased. Fresia, who was listening to the great anger of the ladies at Salon Blooms, raised the corners of her mouth unknowingly.

'Romance, I never thought there would be such a way.'

She have been trying to shed the negative image of Max. However, it has been more than once that the Empress' back-to-back work, which has just turned cold and spread malicious rumors, has been thwarted.

"You look very nice, actually. How good it would be to stand with Floyen's Little Duke!"

"That's right. If the two weren't engaged only, the unmarried young people wouldn't have been in an uproar?"

But the Crown Prince, who was called the "monster," was now recognized as a "person" with warmth.

'It's a great opportunity to change it into a classic image. Who else did this cute thing?'

As a staff member of the Crown Prince, Fresia wanted to give an award to someone who came up with such a brilliant plan. And he already knew who was responsible of it.

'I'm so relieved that Juvelian is the master's companion. Sooner or later, I'll send you a delicious cake.'

At that time, another news came to Fresia's ear, who was singing.

"By the way, Lord Mikhail, it was said that he was trusted by His Imperial Makesty the Emperor..." When Mikhail's story came out, Fresia frowned slightly between her eyes.

'So, he asked our guild for a strange request, and I think we'll have to do some background checks.'

* * *

<Don't come to me until you've finished your work.>

When Max returned to the palace, he was constantly dealing with this backlog. But he couldn't help but resent her.

'That's too much. She refused to kiss me and...'

Still, Max continued his work without a break, hoping to see her as soon as possible. At that time, Dennis talked to him.

''Your Imperial Highness, why don't you take a break?'' Max replied irritatedly, staring at the papers.

"I'm busy, where can I rest?" It was then.

"You're working really hard, aren't you?" In a lowly ripe voice, Max stood up. Eventually, Max's eyes widened when he found someone standing at the door.

"Juvelian?" Juvelian, wearing a yellow dress, lively and sunny than usual

'She looks like a chick.'

It was when Max was looking at Juvelian and thinking of a little baby bird with yellow fur. Soon she looked back at Dennis.

"Sir Dennis, could you please excuse me for a moment for a conversation with the Crown Prince?" And Dennis smiled and bowed politely.

"Of course. Have a good time." When the door closed, Juvelian stared at Max. Max faced her with a puzzled look.

'What the hell brought you here to see me?'

Did Mikhail get in trouble again? Did she have an argument with his teacher? It was when Max was thinking of several cases.

"Max, open your arms."

When Max opened his arms, she jumped into his arms standing blankly. As Max panicked and looked down at her unexpected behavior, Juvelian smiled and hugged him tightly. Then she lifted her foot and kissed Max's cheek.

"I think I'm working hard, so I came to reward you in advance."

Her face was so adorable, and his resentment against his heartless lover had long since disappeared without a trace. Max hugged Juvelian's delicate body tightly and kissed her.

When he poured out a bit of a rough kiss because of his long hunger, Juvelian stumbled, perhaps overwhelmed. Max supported Juvelian's waist and laid her on the sofa. Then he climbed on top of her and started kissing her again. Rather than a kiss, she seemed to prey. How long has it passed? As his lips fell, the Jubelian exhaled rapidly. Max stroked her slightly red cheeks and whispered.

"What would have happened to such a pretty idea?" Then Juvelian smiled and hugged him tightly.

"Yes, you're proud of me, aren't you?" Max stared blankly at Juvelian, as she swas so cute and cute to imitate what he had said. Then when Juvelian smiled, he stood up. "I'll come here often in the future, so you're working hard, okay?" At that, Max eagerly looked back. Then, he heard Dennis' voice outside the door.

"Your Imperial Highness, His Imperial Majesty has just delivered a command to come to his office." Max sighed at the words and raised himself. Then he thought, looking at Juvelian.

'It's a shame to let you go, but I'm sorry to ask you to wait alone.'

However, it was insane to break the emperor's orders for wanting to be together and spend time with Juvelian, or to take Juvelian to the Emperor's office. At that time, a good idea came to Max's mind.

'Yes, I have to tell you to be with Beatrice.'

* * *

<Wizard? Well, there's a saying that the wizards that used to be famous came in and out of the palace often, but they soon disappeared.>

While searching for the wizard's whereabouts, he searched the guest book after hearing something suspicious from Radian. It really hit his mind that there was a record of the wizards and then they disappeared at some point.

'What did the Emperor do to them?'

Mikhail was heading to the Oval Office just in case for the Emperor. At that time, he saw a ripe figure. Soon there was a living in Mikhail's eyes.

'The Crown Prince.'

Apart from worrying about him when Juvelian collapsed, h had imagined killing him again and again.

'The emperor thinks it's a thorn in the eye, so if you kill him now...'

That's when Mikhail brought his hand to the sword sack with that thought.

[You're still on par with him, so you'd better not face him.]

Mikhail slowly lifted his hand at the warning of the cold sword.

'Yes, he was also a transcendent.'

Mikhail, who recalled the power he saw on the day of the hunting competition, gritted his teeth and bowed to the crown prince.

'But I have a chance of winning, so I will kill you, Maximilian!'

Then the sword spoke.

[And I can feel a strong mana over there.]

'What?'

When embarrassed Mikhail asked back inside, the sword smacked its lips and said.

[Very appetizing mana. If you get that power, you'll be able to take care of him in no time.]

At the answer, Mikhail glared at the direction the sword was pointing at.

'Near the Imperial Palace.'

Mikhail hurriedly headed there.

"Stop." At the call of the Crown Prince, Mikhail clenched his fist tightly and answered calmly.

"I think I just said my greetings. What are you calling me for?" It was an irreverent attitude, but now that Mikhail is the leader of the Emperor's royal guard, the Crown Prince should only give a warning.

'Even if the Crown Prince makes a dispute, it will be the only thing to press it with the position, so you only have to bear it.'

When Mikhail had finished preparing his heart, the Crown Prince opened his mouth.

"You know I'm engaged to Juvelian?" Blood was infested, but this was the expected range. Mikhail replied, calming his mind.

"Yes." Then the Crown Prince, grumpyly raising his lips, stared at Mikhail.

"It's a slope, but will you not celebrate?" At that, Mikhail explicitly revealed his life and stared at Max. Facing Mikhail's life, Max lifted the tail of his mouth.

'Come on, do something.'

He tried to seize the pretext by provoking, but contrary to expectations, Mikhail soon softened his momentum.

"Congratulations." Mikhail, who spoke hardly as if chewing, passed by Max. Looking at the back, Max held this arsenic in his hand.

'You're running away with your tail down today.'

***

"Come on, son!" Max had a twisted smile on his face, staring at the emperor welcoming him.

'I knew you were trash, but I didn't know you were worst than that.'

For a moment, Max bowed his head, as he looked savagely at his father who had done evil to his teacher.

"Greetings to you, Father." The emperor said, who came down from the throne and embraced his son.

"You must have had a lot of trouble for the last few days." Knowing that even this act was a calculated pretense, Max felt his stomach upset. But he kept his face and answered calmly.

"No. But what purpose did you call it?" He pretended to be worried at best, but the emperor felt angry at Max's cheeky attitude. But soon the emperor looked at his son and smiled with a kind smile.

"The reason I called you is to discuss your marriage." When a word he had not thought of came out of the emperor's mouth, Max opened his eyes and asked again.

"Marriage?"

"Yes, the marriage between you and Floyen's Little Duke." He mentioned his marriage to Juvelian, but at the words of the emperor, Max was in guard instead of rejoicing.

'What the hell is it?'

As if to reassure such a son, the emperor said with a big smile.

"Okay, right now, isn't it crazy? Let's decide later."

* * *

"Liche, long time no see." As soon as she saw Juvelian, Beatrice opened her eyes wide. She was still worried about getting a puffy face, but her lively, red cheeks were well matched with the bright color of her clothes.

'You look like a chick today.'

Beatrice opened her mouth thinking that the yellow dress was lovingly blaring.

"Yes, is your body all right now?" Then Jubelian nodded.

''Yes, I'm afraid I slept all night!''

"Fortunately.'' A sigh of relief was also for a moment, when Beatrice flinched at Juvelian's eyes staring at her.

'Why is she looking at me like that?'

She thought for a moment, and as she looked into her eyes, she felt that she was getting tired. Then, Jubelian opened her mouth.

"Liche looks tired." Beatrice flinched at the remark.

'It must be obvious that I couldn't sleep last night because I was upset.'

But there was a good word to use in this situation.

"You must be mistaken..." It was then.

"Didn't you get a good night's sleep yesterday?" It was when Beatrice hurriedly denied Victor's question that it wasn't the case. Juvelian stared at Beatrice with a worried look.

"Liche, what's wrong? Huh?"

"Oh, no. That's..." It was when Beatrice tried to give another excuse because she didn't want to worry Juvelian for no reason. Again, Victor stepped in.

"You've been doing strange things lately." At the word "strange things," Beatrice retorted her past behavior.

<Freeze! Freeze!>

<Come on, freeze!>

<Why is it not frozen? This run-of-the-mill...!>

It was a behavior that would not seem normal to anyone. It didn't matter to Victor, but she was ashamed to tell him.

"Sir Victor!" Victor sighed as Beatrice hurriedly called him. Now that Victor didn't say anything, she could see Juvelian slightly twisting her head in wonder. Beatrice hurriedly reached out to Juvelian's hand.

"Let's go for tea.''

"Yes!'' Beatrice, who smiled at the cute figure, shuddered.

'Is this feeling sure...?'

It was not an illusion. Obviously, the moment she held Juvelian's hand, a tingling sensation arose as if static electricity was rising. And the feeling was similar to the day of the hunting competitions Beatrice stopped time for.

'How did this happen as soon as I held Juvelian's hand?'

It was when Beatrice was astonished. Juvelian said with her eyes wide open.

''Liche, I see a red haze behind you.''

''Red haze? What's that...?" She could see Jubelian reaching out for a moment. And that moment.

[What are you doing? Get out of that hand!]

The voice that rang urgently in her head, and Beatrice, hardened her face.

'Is that... a ghost?'

Paphnil sarcastically said.

'I think I know why you can't use magic. Are you so obtuse...]

Then, Liche realized a very important word.

'Wait, magic?'

***

He pretended to be calm on the outside, but he still felt his stomach was boiling.

'You want me to congratulate you? To me, who was a lover of Juvelian?'

Mikhail was heading towards the direction of the sword, brooding over his anger toward the Crown Prince.

'I will tear you to pieces and kill you, Crown Prince!'

Then the sword suddenly came to him with a roar. And his idea that came into his mind.

[There is a wizard near here.]

Mikhail glared at the word wizard.

'Finally...'

Mikhail went to the wizard's place, feeling where the vibration of the sword was getting stronger. Soon after, Mikhail had no choice but to frown.

'It's near where the garden of the Princess is, is it around her?'

If he was caught killing a woman, it was obvious that he would get in trouble. For this reason, Mikhail killed his spirit and headed to a place where the vibrations felt strong. The faint voice that had been heard from time to time came closer and closer. Although he hesitated because it was a palace, Mikhail slowly pulled out the sword.

'Yes, I could quietly kill you. All you have to do is not find out that I killed you.'

At that time, he saw women wearing dresses in Mikhail's sight.

'Wait, that's...'

Is it a joke of fate? At the place where the sword points, Juvelian was enjoying tea time with the Princess. Victor was standing a little further away, but the vibrations stopped rising again towards him.

'I would rather have killed that cheeky commoner without hesitation....'

One was necessary for cooperation with the Emperor, and the other was the one that he wanted to have. The sword spoke to Mikhail, who was astonished looking at the two women.

[Two wizards, you're lucky.]

Mikhail, surprised by the remark, dropped the sword by mistake.

Chaeng!

He could see Jubvelian and the Princess looking around at the loud noise. And Victor was right with his eyes near where Mikhail was.

"Who...!'' Mikhail picked up the sword and quickly left the place.

* * *

I never thought someone was listening to Liche and my conversation! I was hoping that he'd get goosebumps and get caught, but what Sir Victor said made me sigh.

"I missed it." Liche said, shaking. I hesitated to reach out to reassure her.

"Your Imperial Highness, don't worry. I kicked him out, didn't I?" Sir Victor's eyes soothing Liche looked as sweet and serious as ever.

'How nice of you to see her like this.'

It was when I was seeing him again.

"Of course you did. Didn't you say you would take responsibility and protect me?" Liche's voice was a little quivering. I could see that she wasn't shivering from fear, though I was rather tactless.

'I guess Liche likes Sir Victor.'

I stared at Sir Victor and soon opened my eyes wide.

'Huh?'

I'm sure his face was fine, but Sir Victor's ears were all red.

***

Mikhail swears after Victor.

"Fuck, even if it wasn't just that lowly guy..."

If Victor wasn't there, Mikhail would not have panicked and would have calmed Juvelian and the Princess before talking. Mikhail, who put Victor along with the Crown Prince in his killing list, gripped the sword sack.

'The only wizard you found was the Princess and the Juvelian?'

Hence, a wizard is a woman he can't kill! At first, it was embarrassing, but now the annoyance soared.

'That's why it's all about the food in the picture*.'

(*it's an idiom, i don't know how to explain it but please just think of it's meaning)

Then, the sword whispered.

[Taking the heart is a quick magic intake, and there are other ways.]

Mikhail crumpled his forehead at the remark.

'I can't believe you didn't really say it.'

And the sword, which recognized the scolding, spoke again in a tone that did not feel attached.

[It was because I didn't want to recommend it because it was such a hassle.]

'So what's the way?'

Mikhail hastened to answer the question with a black, soft answer.

[Mana is a force used by the mind. That's why you get a lot of emotional impact.]

'So what's the way?'

The sword replied to Mikhail's torch mixed with irritation.

[You just have to make the sacrifice love you. For example, enough to want to voluntarily give you mana.]

"What?" It was so absurd that when Mikhail made a sound with his voice, the sword was filled with an unpleasant laugh again. At first, Mikhail thought that he could bring the Jubelian and make it as a sacrifice, and asked, frowning.

'What if the sacrifice gives me magic?'

Instead of answering the black question, he was silent. Mikhail thought with a tight clenched tooth.

'You must have a mishap.'

It was Mikhail who realized that a world without Juvelian was terrible because of this incident. There was no way he could impose such a dangerous task on Juvelian.

'One more option if I can't find the wizard.'

Mikhail's purple eyes shone savagely.

***

"Liche, I'll be back again!" Beatrice sighed as Juvelian left with Max. Then she came up with a question in my head.

'So, do you mean the Juvelian has the ability to nullify magic?'

[No, magic is not negated unless you intend to. However, I was saying that she was strong enough.]

Beatrice sighed at Paphnil's answer.

'Then the reason my magic doesn't work is not because of her nullification.'

As he watched, Paphnil raised the tail of his mouth, recalling the scene he had seen before.

'I thought it was strange to be able to use the magic of all time from the beginning, so it was a possible collaboration with Regis' daughter.'

Chapter 171

Max's face was not very good when he went to the emperor.

"What happened?" I smiled as I stared at Max.

"Why do you look at me like that?"

"Oh, well, I thought someone said something bad." When I thought about the imperial palace and talked without the subject, he smiled.

"It was a good word rather than a bad word. It is just because the person who said it was bad."

"What do you mean?"

"He said let's set a date for our wedding."

"What?" Surprised at the unexpected remark, he held my hand tightly and lifted it up. As if he'd never let go.

"Why? No?" It wasn't that I hate it. It's just that I didn't expect any sudden talk of marriage.

'At least I wanted to have a leisurely marriage...'

But to be honest, he might be disappointed, so I turned around and said.

"No, not that. It was strange that he said that." Then he touched my hand, smiling and holding it.

"Don't worry, I'll protect you." He bowed and kissed me on the back of my hand. Surprised by his unexpected behavior, I flinched greatly.

"Ma, Max. Wait a minute!" No matter how remote it is, it's the Imperial Palace. At first glance, there may be no one, but someone could have been watching us like before.

"Why?" He asked in a strange voice if he felt it was strange to be scared. I sighed.

<Jubelian, I don't think we have to say that someone was watching us. It's probably because my mother sent a knight to watch over me.>

'Liche told me not to talk, but it bothers me.'

Sir Victor is an excellent prosecutor who is well known as a top prosecutor. It was on my mind that a competent person who could escape from the scandal was watching Liche.

"The room..." Max's eyes grew grim as I told him the truth about what had happened earlier.

"I see." From the cold look of his expression, there was something I could guess.

"Just in case, Max, don't say anything to Sir Victor, okay?" Then he flinched and shook his head.

"Okay." When I arrived in front of the carriage, Max held my hand from the side so that I could get on the carriage. I grabbed his hand and climbed onto the carriage, pulled it without letting go. When Max made a curious face, I smiled and whispered.

"You work hard today, so I'll give you a prize before I go." At my temptation, Max stared at me with a blank face, then said with an attractive smile.

"You really make me feel like working." Soon the door of the carriage closed, and he rushed in like a beggar.

* * *

"Today, Her Imperial Highness the Princess spent time with Little Duke Floyen." At the report of the Knight posted to Beatrice, the empress asked, frowing.

"Don't you know what they were talking about?"

"Yes, Her Imperial Highness sent us out, and besides, the ability of the Crown Prince's guard knight next to her is so good that it's impossible to spy on them." At that, the Empress sharpened her teeth.

'Maximilian, you are an obstacle in my life!'

That the emperor deceived her by contraceptives, and her daughter who listened well was broken. Come to think of it, it wouldn't have happened without Maximilian.

'Because of him, I...'

At that moment, she remembered the rebuke she had heard one day.

<Isabelle, you always blame others.>

Isabelle remembers what Latisha, the late Empress, said and she sharpened her teeth.

'It's the same as his mother that bothers me at everything!'

The empress, who couldn't beat hee, threw a porcelain doll in a dress.

Saenggrang!

The empress glared at the wreckage of a broken doll with red bloodshot eyes, and then she tore her red lips and laughed.

'But I am the winner.'

Like that doll that had been shattered without power, Latisha, who was braggy, eventually turned into a cold corpse. She also voluntarily drank the poison from Isabelle.

'After sending the assassin to Maximilian's residence.'

<My defeat, I will drink the poison you give me. Just do, save my son's life.>

Before the Emperor chose the Empress, Isabelle's father, the ancestor Count Meissen, gave enormous support to the Emperor's guard, the Dragon Knight. This allowed the guards of the young Prince to fall into Isabel's grasp, and that was why the assassin was able to infiltrate the Prince's room.

<Replace all of the Prince's Guard Knights!>

Latisha, who learned the truth lately, tried to use her hand, but it was unreasonable to get rid of Isabelle's power, which was already deeply rooted in the Imperial family. Eventually, she admitted defeat to Isabelle and chose death by begging her son's life.

'It's funny to think about it again. I can't believe you drank poison to save your son who would die in my hands one day!'

Maximilian superimposed over the stupid woman who laughed at the time. The blood of an annoying bitch who luckily survived the battlefield sent to die.

'You've been lucky so far, but if Duke Floyen's daughter is in crisis, you'll be willing to sacrifice your life. Like your foolish mother.'

Isabelle twisted her mouth with poisonous eyes.

***

Today Max bit my lips as if they were food. I asked if he wasn't sick of it, he said with a lump of laughter.

<You haven't allowed me anywhere else yet. So, I can't help it.>

Eventually, after I stumbled, he kissed me on my cheek and put an end to his predation.

Then he bit my earlobe and said...

<To be honest, I was moved by the emperor's words.>

I stared at Max in astonishment, and he stared at me and said.

<Juvel, I'm looking forward to the day when you'll allow me everything.>

Shame at his words, I kicked Max out.

'Marriage, then we'll have to spend the first night, right?'

For a moment, I sighed as I looked out of the window at the scene that seemed to flow, as I recalled the anticipation of Max's eyes. At that time, the bitter pain over my lips was irritating.

'Oh, my lips must be swollen, how can I look at my Dad's face when I'm embarrassed?'

It was when I was shuddering at the embarrassment of being different from my dark history.

'So he knew I had my memory back, as if it were for granted, and what happened?'

Other than that, there was another unconvincing point.

'Yeah, come to think of it, it's definitely weird.'

In the original work I read, there were two reactions from people who dealt with 'Juvelian'.

'To be hostile, or to be turned away and ignored.'

I understand that Liche and Max, my enemies in the original, turned into a good relationship. It's true that I avoided the bad events that were mentioned in the original book anyway. But Dad's case was different from them. There was nothing that could be said to be an opportunity for the relationship to change between us.

'I didn't say hello first. Because the reason I didn't talk to my dad was because I was ignored even though I had been begging him.'

Originally he was hard on me. To the point where he take it for granted that I was abandoned from the original book after finding the memory of my past life.

'Of course now I know that the reason for being cold-hearted in the original is to keep me safe. But...'

I understand the original father's behavior because I know why he had to be cruel to me. But no matter how much I thought about it, I couldn't know why my dad suddenly changed his mind and approached me. It's no wonder he planned to die in secret a few days ago.

'Why? If my dad planned it, He should have turned away from me like in the original, but secretly made a plan and executed it...'

Then, when I realized something, I laughed in vain.

'Then it turns out that it's Foundation day.'

In the original work, at Foundation day, I am taken to a dungeon under the accusation of poisoning Liche's glass that day.

'Well, that won't happen anymore...'

I couldn't help but worry. If the original story goes like that, Liche will be poisoned that day.

'As the original Liche, a wizard, it must be a strong poison. But who did that?'

I rolled my head over.

'Who is the one who will benefit from killing Liche?'

At the time, I thought it was Max, but now I know that he has no reason to do so. Then who would have done such a thing? There were many people who got caught, such as the emperor and the empress, but there was no confirmation since it has not happened yet. However, 'I' knew the situation well because he saw the original novel, the foundation of the world we live in.

'Yes, this time I'm going to protect Liche and reveal who's behind it.'

* * *

'Nothing's gonna happen, right?'

Regis, who was waiting for his daughter to go to the palace, sighed.

<Now I'll protect you.>

Determined to die, she made his "desire to live" rise, which he had suppressed.

<You never think about anything else? Or maybe I'll follow in your footsteps.>

'I can't die hearing that.'

Regis sighed and laughed.

'But to do that...'

Before long, Regis closed his eyes with a troubled look.

<Father, I really didn't do that!>

It will take more preparation than expected to keep his nightmare from coming true.

'The problem is I still can't get out of the emperor's grip.'

Regis sighed and took the dagger out of his arms.

'I have to hand this to the Juvelian...'

Treasure among the treasures that overcomes all attacks. It was something everyone would covet, but he didn't have the courage to hand it over to Jubvelian. Somehow, as he saw in 'Nightmare', he was scared that Juvelian would make an extreme choice. Before long Regis shook his head.

'No, it's different from my dreams, so she'll be fine.'

[Hooh, are you going to hand it over to your daughter?]

Suddenly, when Paphnil's Telepathy was heard in his head, Regis frowned and alerted.

"Get off my concerns." In response to his cold answer, Paphnil summoned his alter ego in front of Regis and laughed.

[That's too much. I've given you the precious Sword of Protection, but you can't thank me enough.]

'It's actually my daughter's.

With the words out of his mouth, Paphnil spoke with a natural smile.

[But you don't have to be serious about the effects of the sword.]

Regis glared at Paphnil's alter ego with biting eyes.

'What are you up to?'

Before long, Paphnil smiled playfully, thinning his pupils.

[Kirke, the God of Magic, made the sword to protect his priest.]

Spoiler: Chapter 172-174

"What? You'll extend the escort?" When Beatrice asked back as if she was dumbfounded, Max nodded.

"Yes, Victor, alone is not enough." In that remark Victor said, staring reproachfully at Max.

"That's too much! I'm a talented person who plays the role of 10 provinces alone!" Maximilian's brow creaked slightly in the protest, but he soon straightened his face and said...

"You've got quite a lot of talent."

"What? But I'm at least more than Mikhail...!" When Mikhail's name came out, Max twisted his mouth.

'Yes, he. He was strange these days.'

After becoming the captain of the Self-Defense Force, he felt a touch of ominous energy around Mikhail. And it's own skills have also increased more than before.

"Do you think that what you saw during the hunting contest is his skill?" As Victor stared at him unanswered, Max continued. "That's why I'm trying to get another escort. Because you're unreliable, Victor." The words showed Victor stiffening his face and leaving the room soon.

<If you need me in the future, please call me.>

'What, you always said you'd be there for me when I needed you.'

Beatrice stared at Max as she was devastated by the scene.

"Who's willing to increase the escort? I'm good enough with Sir Victor!" Max stared at Beatrice with a frown and soon sighed.

"I heard everything." That said, Beatrice could see that Juvelian had told Max what had happened before. She felt a bit of betrayal, but she soon eased her feelings.

'Cause you're worried about me, right?'

As Beatrice sighed, Max tapped her shoulder lightly.

"I don't know what you're afraid of. Don't worry, I'll select the best of my men." Beatrice said, staring at Max.

"Who are you afraid of? I'm just..." As Beatrice looked down in his eyes, unable to speak, Max opened his mouth.

"I'll leave you alone." As soon as Max left the room, Beatrice jumped into her bed. Perhaps out of energy, her whole body seemed to be dropping.

'Yes, Maximilian's right. Without an escort, I would not be able to protect myself.'

She then sighed and stared at her hand.

'If I had known I would use magic...'

Soon Beatrice clenched her fist.

'What on earth is my mental problem that I can't use magic?'

The first time she heard an unidentified voice, she was appalled, but the information he told her was about the magic Beatrice longed for.

<Magic is the embodiment of mental strength. In short, the reason you can't implement magic is because you have a problem with your mind.>

It's a matter of mind that she don't even know about herself, but when she think about it, it seemed to her at first glance.

'Maybe it's because of my parents.'

Every time she thought of her father who was not interested in her and her mother who was trying to manipulate her, Beatrice had the urge to disappear.

But...

<You've been having a hard, haven't you? But you don't have to try to win someone's approval.>

Since her savior, Juvelian, appeared in front of her, she have not been bothered anymore. Because she felt comfortable and not alone.

'Jubelian was comfortable because she is a wizard, but I still like her.'

But Beatrice soon looked down and buried her head between her knees.

<Why am I asking you to avoid her? That's because most magic will be nullified when it reaches that child's hand!>

Unlike Juvelian, who unconsciously cancels magic, she could not use magic even if she tried.

'Why can't I use magic?'

Beatrice called on her ancestor to see if she could get some advice.

"Ancestor, are you listening?" But there was no answer.

'In the end, do you mean I have to find out?'

At a time when Beatrice was enveloped in gloom, there was a harsh voice in her ear that she heard as a child.

<Are you not aware that if you make a mistake, it will interfere with this mother's future!>

So she tried. She didn't want to be a useless child. But now herself was no different from then.

'Oh, that's depressing.'

It was then.

"Your Imperial Highness, are you there?" When Victor's voice was heard outside the door, Beatrice rose up and looked at herself in a mirror. Soon she lifted the corners of her mouth.

'Well, then, you can't make an appointment.'

Feeling better, Beatrice opened the door around her. But as soon as she saw Victor's face, which had calmed down, she was worried. As Victor came inside, Beatrice looked at him and asked with concern.

"What's going on?"

"Oh, that's..."

"It's all right, tell me." When Beatrice suggested it in a soft voice, Victor lowered his head.

"I'm sorry, but while I was escorting you, I lost my temper and left." Beatrice burst out laughing at his remark.

"Hoo, do you know you were really cocky back then? My brother's face was worth seeing after you went out like that!" Then Victor blushed and sighed.

"Don't make fun of me. I'm afraid I'm going to get fired." Beatrice said casually.

"If my brother fires you, why don't you be my knight?" Then she could see Victor's face hardened.

'Oh, I made a slip of the tongue. The gap between the Crown Prince's guard knight and the Princess's knight like me is so big that I can't dare compare...'

It was when Beatrice bowed her head in melancholy.

"Well, the only knight who protects Her Imperial Highness is wonderful! Ha-ha-ha! It's reassuring to have the corner of the vibe!"

Beatrice smiled brightly at Victor with incredible eyes at the words in a bright voice. Soon Victor said, staring at her with serious eyes.

"Although I'm not the most powerful swordsman in the world, I will surely protect the Princess." Beatrice turned his head, blushing at his words.

"Of, of course! Isn't that what you promised!"

"Hoo hoo hoo. I did!" Even for a moment when she smiled awkwardly, Victor bowed his head.

"Then I will work hard to escort you today, Your Imperial Highness." Laughing kept coming up, Beatrice tried hard to get her facial expressions together and said calmly.

"Yes, of course."

***

"What the hell are you up to?"

When Regis asked, Paphnil's alter ego answered, raising the corners of his mouth.

[So, it reminds me of the old days. The day you helped me out of that damn shackle, only 'half'.]

At the remark, Regis stared at Paphnil with a flinch. The dragon's eyes, smiling with thin pupils, glimpsed life.

[If it wasn't for you, I would still be rotting in that goddamn cave without knowing how the world is going! In that sense, I am grateful that I can be seen as a self-made alter ego.]

The dark red energy was slowly circulating, creating an atmosphere of excitement.

"Paphnil." Paphnil giggled at Regis' call.

[But no matter how much I think about it, I'm annoyed by the fact that the freedom I'm given is half. So play with me after a long time.]

As the air in the room became more and more rough, the density of the flag was increased. Regis said, clutching the pendant in his pocket.

"If you want to try, try it." When he said confidently, Paphnil's expression became cold.

[Because of being cheeky, being the owner of a new thing, you tremble with arrogance.]

At that moment, the emerged magic flooded into Regis.

Kwang!

Regis lifted his guardian sword and blocked Paphnil's attack. And, as Paphnil had promised, the guardian sword was activated. Paphnil, who blocked the attack that came back to him, raised one corner of his mouth sharply.

[What's my purpose? I'll let you know if you want to know.]

After speaking, Paphnil began to raise his strength. At the same time, a number of attack magic lights were generated around Paphnil.

[But if you stop all these attacks.]

If he don't block it, this house won't be safe. Regis concentrated the energy of his whole body on the sword to create a long sword shape.

'i must stop it all.'

It was then. The door that I thought wouldn't open. Regis called his daughter, who opened the door, in a startled voice.

"No! Juvelian!"

* * *

"Greetings, my Lord." As soon as I came home, seeing Derek greeted me, I said the person I wanted to see the most.

"Where's Daddy?"

"Oh, he'll be in his room now." As soon as I heard Derek, I headed to my Dad's room.

'Yes! Now the question is, don't hesitate to open it to you dad.'

With such determination, I stood at the door in a state of nervousness.

'It's not as easy as I thought!'

I took a deep breath and took my hand to the door handle.

'Yes, I can say hello to my dad after you open it and ask him naturally.'

It was when I was thinking about turning the door knob or not while swallowing like that.

Kwang!

Surprised by the sound from my Dad's room, I tried to open the door. But the door didn't open easily.

'Is the door locked? Please, open up!'

It was when I pulled it again hoping that the door would open. 'Bang!' The door opened with a sound.

'It's finally open!'

For a moment, I opened my eyes wide to the sight I had seen.

'No, what's all that?'

Numerous fireballs were floating around a ghost that resembled Max seen in our territory. And there was only one word I knew that would explain the phenomenon.

'Is that magic?'

It was when I took a blank step without realizing it.

"No! Juvelian!" My dad ran toward me and hugged me as it was. It wasn't until I held him in my arms that I began to understand the situation.

'That ghost was trying to hit my Dad, right?'

As if my guess was right, I could see the fireballs slowly flying toward us like slow motion. And my Dad hugging me with a nervous look.

'Daddy's having a hard time stopping that fireball, too.'

I clenched my fist tightly. I didn't want to see my dad try to give up his life for me anymore.

'Now I want to protect you.'

At such a desperate and eternal moment, a bright silver light began to envelop my dad and me. I reached for the light.

'Please protect us.'

At my will, the light became the shape of the shield and swallowed up numerous fireballs. Then a ghost resembling Max stared at me blankly and opened his mouth.

"Kirke nim?"

***

The warmth of the silver lining was remarkably similar to that of the man he had not long missed. Paphnil stared at Jubelian with faint expectations.

"Kirke nim?" Although he had such expectations that Kirke might have descended on the body of a priest, Juvelian was so different from her master, Kirke. But soon he showed his disappointment on his face.

"You, what are you?"

'If it were her, she wouldn't look at me like that with the enemy's eyes.'

While making a bitter smile for a while, Paphnil was sly.

"Guess. I'll give you a prize if you get the answer. What do you think?" The words creased the middle of Juvelian's forehead slightly.

"Don't play around!" Paphnil grinned as he felt the threatening flow of the atmosphere.

'That's a lot of power, by the way.'

At this rate, Kirke's priests were the best in history. It occurred to him that maybe it would help his plan.

'Yes, show me your strength. I'll judge the value of your use with that.'

How long has it been? Paphnil, who was waiting for Juvelian to attack, frowned as his forehead creased.

'What is it? Why isn't she attacking?'

Obviously, Juvelian's surrounding magical power fluctuated, so the hostility he had was certain. However, no matter how long he waited, Juvelian did not attack.

'Why?'

Soon Paphnil guessed why and asked.

"You don't know how to attack?" Sure enough, said Juvelian, blushing.

"Oh, no? If I do something stupid, the ball will go wild!" Strangely enough, as he saw it, the speculation that had been simmering just now cooled down. Paphnil suddenly felt sorry for his descendants.

'To have a relationship with such a slow child. I thought he was so mean. Is it because of her?'

Paphnil murmured softly.

"My identity is a rock even if you ask your father." Paphnil, who had lost his fighting spirit, quietly returned to the "Forbidden".

***

I got serious about the name Paphnil.

'Paphnil is the devil, right?'

Known as the evil dragon trying to destroy the empire, but even questioning its existence. But I had read something about it in the original.

<Beatrice, I know how you feel. I was betrayed by my family, too.>

'When Liche was just awakened, he approached her.'

The original Paphnil incited Liche constantly. To blame her parents and hate this society that made her oppressed. And as time passed, Liche began to agree with him, and made plans to destroy the empire.

'This time, his purpose won't be different, will it?'

For a moment I clenched my fists, I stared at my dad and smiled in vain.

'Even though I used magic, there is no sign of embarrassment. That means...'

There was a high probability that Dad already knew that I was a wizard. My memory that have been erased and then suddenly come back is maybe related to magic.

'And how did he get to know Paphnil?'

I quit after clearing up a lot of questions. This is because I realized that it is pointless to think on my own without asking the person concerned.

"Dad, I just..." It was when I was going to ask about Paphnil first.

"My room is dirty, so why don't we move first?" Only then did I nod when I realized that my Dad's room had turned into a mess.

***

Back in his main body, Paphnil sighed.

'I was hoping she would help my plan, but her priest, who can't even do magic attack...'

Though pathetic, Juvelian was worthy to be included in his plan, as Kirke's only priest.

'I'd better wait and see. On the other hand...'

Soon, Paphnil stared at Beatrice, which was projected before his eyes.

[Ancestor, are you listening?]

Paphnil's eyes rapidly cooled.

'I don't think there's a chance for the Princess.'

Paphnil, looking at Beatrice's figure with indifferent eyes, slowly closed his eyes.

'Shall I take advantage of Regis's daughter and my other descendants? If it's not them, I'll look for someone else.'

Paphnil used magic to examine the empress this time.

[Save the poison. A colorless, odorless poison that doesn't react to silver and doesn't taste anything.]

Her eyes were filled with poison when ordering the guard knight.

'I'm afraid something funny is going to happen soon.'

Paphnil laughed at the corners of his mouth, and soon had a cold look on his face.

'Of course this is useless for my plan.'

When Paphnil popped his finger, this time he remembered the emperor.

[Sir Mikhail, what's going on?]

At the emperor's question, a young man with one knee kneeling in front of him opened his mouth.

[Your Imperial Majesty, do you really want to see the Crown Prince and Floyen join forces?]

[Didn't I tell you before? The Duke of Floyen can't be the power of the Crown Prince.]

[Of course I don't doubt you. However, I am feared that the power of the Duke of Floyen would be absorbed by the Crown Prince.]

Paphnil laughed as he listened to their conversation.

"The favourite of the god of war, who owns that lunatic sword, has a funny guy." Though contemptuous of the unbelieving, he was well aware of the strength of his chosen man. "Maybe you'll be as strong as Regis. And maybe it will help my plan." That's why Paphnil decided to remember Mikhail.

25. Slowly Revealing Truth

After moving to my room, I took a deep breath and opened my mouth.

"Daddy, you said before that you could ask me anything you wanted, right?" After a while, my dad slowly groped his head.

"I did."

"So when I did get my memory back, and even when I used magic, my Dad didn't get agitated." At the sound of his sigh, I swallowed my dry saliva and continued. "I'd like you to explain that." Before long, my Dad spoke in a calmly manner.

"The reason you lost your memory is because I sealed it with magic." When I opened my eyes wide with astonishment at the word "sealed," my father said in a bitter voice. "I'm sorry I sealed your memory without permission. When you look at me, you're always fainting and suffering..." Dad couldn't keep talking and thought I would cry. And I sighed, biting my lips.

'...because I thought my Dad killed my Mom then.'

After hearing the reason for sealing my memory, my question was solved, but it became bitter.

'Maybe that's why you avoided me.'

I stared at Daddy, who had a gloomy look on his face.

'I want to let you know it's okay now. But how...'

Then, I suddenly remembered my old memories.

<Hahahaha, Daddy!>

When he came home, he often had a gloomy look on his face, which would brighten if I hugged him without hesitation.

'But at this age, how do I do that?'

For a moment, I raised myself looking at my Dad's dark face. Then i approached my Daddy and sat next to him and held his hand.

"Daddy, I'm sorry for the misunderstanding." Dad shook his head and held my hand tight.

"I'm sorry I didn't speak properly and misunderstood." However, after solving the problems in our hearts, our relationship seemed to be getting back to normal. I looked at my Daddy and leaned on his shoulder as if I was naughty.

'Yes, we can start step by step.'

How silent could he have been? Suddenly, I became curious about the things that I haven't solved yet. When I stared at my Dad, he nodded and opened his mouth.

"You must be curious about more." I laughed at his word. Seeing that you know what I think just by looking at my eyes, it certainly seemed like our father and daughter relationship was recovering.

"But how did you seal my memory? Did I use magic to seal it?" Soon Dad shook his head and said...

"No, I knew you had a gift for magic, but today is the first time you've used magic." I wondered if there were any memories I still couldn't find, but I was relieved by the words. However, there were still unanswered questions about the problem.

"Then who sealed my memory?" My Dad sighed at my question and looked at me.

"It's Paphnil. He's the first emperor..."

"I know if it's about him, but I'm curious how he got to seal my memories." When I asked him indirectly, he opened his mouth with bitterness.

"It sounds like a long story."

"Yes, but it doesn't matter. My Dad will have plenty of time to spend with me in the future." In my reply, Dad nodded with a gentle smile.

"Right."

***

After being manipulated by Kirke's ring, Regis had to do anything the Emperor told him to do. Even at the moment when his father's illness worsened.

<Your Imperial Majesty, my father is very ill. Please let me be by my father's side.>

But the Emperor said, ignoring Regis' earnest request.

<Hasn't your father been ill for a year already? It's not an immediate emergency, but if you neglect to help the bureau with that kind of thing, should I use it?>

<But his health has been deteriorating lately.>

<Don't worry. The Duke of Floyen will surely recover in no time, so please rest your mind.>

In the end, Regis couldn't stand by his father even when he closed his eyes and had to let him go. On the day of his father's funeral, Regis ran out of the funeral hall in anguish. It was the "Forbidden" he often came with his father when he was young that Regis stopped running without a destination.

<Regis, keep in mind. The evil dragon, which is trying to destroy the empire, is asleep here, so do not step in. You should be especially careful about that cave. Do you understand?>

For a moment, he recalled memories with his father, and Regis soon shed tears, twisting his face in agony. Soon, a roar like a beast burst out of Regis.

'It's because of me. My father died because of me.'

Shortly after screaming, Regis took the pendant out of his pocket and squeezed it.

<Regis, you might have thought you should just go, but in fact, this pendant has the ability to grant wishes. But since you have to risk your life, you'd better not make a wish for the rest of your life, right?>

Regis grabbed the pendant tightly and recalled what the emperor had said.

<You must bear in mind that what you do is a feat for the empire.>

Regis gnarled his teeth and said to himself with a spirit of life.

<If it weren't for the Emperor...>

The desire for the emperor and the empire to disappear was fierce, but Regis quickly dropped his hand.

'No, I can't die with my mother and Amelia.'

It was when Rrgis, who was so realistic, was about to go back to the funeral home.

[Do you hate the Emperor?]

Regis frowned at the sudden voice.

<Who is it?>

Regis sensed the energy around him. Except for himself, however, there were only birds and small animals flying.

'Did I hear something because I was shocked?'

At that time, he heard a laugh.

[I am someone, who hates the Emperor like you.]

At the same time, a huge wave of energy was felt in the cave.

***

For a moment, I hardened my face as I was listening to my Dad's anger towards the emperor.

<Do you hate the Emperor?>

'It's similar to Liche's.'

Thinking that way, I asked my dad.

"Was it Paphnil?" My Dad nodded affirmatively to my words.

"Yes." Looking at my Daddy's face full of hostility, I asked just in case.

"So you fought Paphnil that day?" At my question, Dad laughed and shook his head.

"No, it was too much because I didn't have any weapons. Besides, there's a possibility that he'll encroach on our territory, so I thought I'd better get back."

"But Dad isn't bound by weapons, right?"

"At the time, I was also obsessed with weapons. Because the master was just a newcomer." For a somewhat realistic reason, my Daddy felt like a human being. When I looked at him, my dad stroked my head and asked.

"It's late, shall we talk about it next time?" I shook my head at his question.

"No, please go on!"

"But I'm afraid you'll go to bed too late."

"It's okay to sleep a day late!" At my words, Dad sighed and nodded slowly.

***

The next day, Regis, who was looking at his father being buried in the ground, recalled what happened yesterday.

'As the voice said yesterday, the evil dragon might have woken up.'

So he ordered himself to come back and take a defensive posture, but the dragon didn't come in for a raid.

'Did I hear it wrong?'

At the time of sighing, he suddenly remembered what his father said by Regis' mind.

<Regis, keep in mind. The fact that it is the duty of the Lord to protect the people of the land. And this father is very confident that you will be a great lord.>

Regis, who was looking in a forbidden direction with a stiff face, repeated his father's words and clenched his fist.

'I might have heard the voices, but I'll have to check it out.'

Regis told his mother and Amelia that he had a place to go for a while, and then left home with a sword.

<If you meet a dragon, don't panic. The pendant that can untie his shackles can only be used by our own kin. So all you have to do is reject his offer, which is the duty of the first emperor to our family.>

Remembering and recalling his father's words that he once heard. Regis, who soon arrived at the Forbidden, smiled dejectedly.

'Then it is. If the evil dragon had awakened, it would have been a riot before.'

The moment when Regis was about to turn around with that thought.

<Where are you going? Little boy.>

In the image of a translucent man in front of his eyes, Regis hardened his face.

'What? The sun is still up, so it can't be a ghost.'

When asked who he was, the man replied with a bloody smile.

<My name is Paphnil, the father of the first Emperor Ashett, the Dragon.>

As expected, Regis grasped the blade of a sword tightly in the image of a man transferring the name of the evil dragon.

'I'll have to get rid of it. If the evil dragon is released, our territory may not be there as an example.'

At that time, the man slyly said.

<Maybe you've heard some weird shit about being sealed. Like, I'm the Devil. But it's not a matter of fact.>

<How do I believe that?>

When asked by Regis, Paphnil answered.

<Do wizards exist now?>

Regis opened his eyes wide as if surprised and stared at Paphnil with cold eyes.

'No, you're testing me.'

Regis replied, nodding his head to sound out Paphnil.

<Yes, they exists.>

However, Paphnil stared at Regis and lifted one corner of his mouth.

<But it must be rare. My son, Altair, is a very jealous guy, so he couldn't have left the wizards who might surpass him.>

Soon, Paphnil lifted his arm up.

<Wouldn't it be ugly because his father, who stopped him trying to kill the wizards, was also shackled? Thanks to that, I couldn't take a step outside the forbidden.>

Regis opened his mouth as he looked at Paphnil with shaky eyes.

<I still can't believe you.>

Then Paphnil tore the corners of his mouth and said...

<Let me swear by the name of the moon and the God of Magic, Kirke, that the words I just said are true.>

"It was an oath in God's name, but I didn't believe it. There's still a lot of suspicion." At that time, my Dad opened his mouth coldly. "But in the end, I was deceived by him."

"How?"

"Paphnil helped me to gain my trust, and pretended to sympathize with me being manipulated by the emperor. He said he would help me if I release the shackles." I recalled the previous move.

'Did you release him then?'

But what Dad said was not what I expected.

"I couldn't believe him no matter what kind of remarks he made. I was always keeping my father's words in mind." He and I could recall what his father told him earlier.

<If you meet a dragon, don't panic. The pendant that can untie his shackles can only be used by our own kin. So all you have to do is reject his offer, which is the duty of the first emperor to our family.>

"But even if he's tied up, he's a dragon that's powerful no matter what anyone says. I was afraid that he might do some nonsense, so I had no choice but to visit him every night." Before long, Dad's eyes were slightly dimmed. "But your Mom thought it was weird, and she doubted that I was cheating."

I remembered my Mommy. Her mental state, always nervous and depressed, seemed sick for quite some time.

"But I couldn't tell her the truth. I was worried that if she found out that such a monster was near our territory, she would go wrong."

It was a good judgment. If it were my Mom's personality, she'll have to go and see if it's really a dragon.

"So I gave her another excuse, but she didn't believe it." Soon Dad bit his lower lip and said... "To the point where the child who had I have been so looking forward to is left to the point of birth."

"That would have been me?" My Dad gave me a startling answer, but he spoke quietly.

"Yes." Holding my hand tightly, Dad clenched his teeth and then continued. "I came to my senses late. I used the excuse of protecting the land from Paphnil, but only then did I realize that I had failed to protect my family." Soon Dad stared at me with slightly red eyes and said... "I'm sorry. It's all my fault that you weren't loved by your Mom." There was anguish in his quiet voice. I shook my head thinking of the happy memories of my childhood and the last time I saw my Mom.

"It's okay. Instead, my Dad gave me more love. And my Mom turned me on at the end." Dad nodded slowly at me, with a sad smile.

"That's right. She was, she was a strong person." How long have I been holding my dad's hand? Dad opened his mouth with a dark face.

"After you fell at Amelia's funeral, you saw me and you passed out while playing. Neither the doctor, the therapist, nor the priest know what caused it. I had to make a decision as I watched you stop up day by day."

"If it's a decision..." When I clouded my words, Dad nodded slowly.

"Because the symptoms I see were similar to the mana rush that one day I heard through rumors. So I had to go to a dragon called a magic designer."

***

When Regis, who hadn't been walking for a long time came, Paphnil, who was in the form of a dragon, twisted his mouth.

<Who is this? Aren't you Regis who put me in the ground?>

Regis looked at the Dragon, who was struggling to live, and spoke quietly.

<Paphnil, I'll offer you a contract.>

At the word of "contract", Paphnil laughed with a buff, then twisted his mouth. But soon, at the words from Regis, Paphnil had no choice but to harden his face.

<I'll release the shackles as you wish.>

***

"The price I asked him was to do my favor first, and then he wouldn't hurt me even after I let him go."

"But he could break the contract." At my question, Dad shook his head and said.

"Because it's a contract through a pendant that comes down to our family and a key to unlock his shackles, neither he nor I could break it." A contract that can't be broken means that dad must also release the shackles. I soon stared at my father with trembling eyes and opened my mouth.

"Did you sign a contract?" Dad looked at me and took off his nodding lip.

"Yes, as soon as he treated you as contracted, I released the shackles."

'Ha, Dad. Why did you do that?'

For a moment, I recalled the situation of my Dad, who was desperate at the time, when I sighed and felt stuffy.

'Yeah, 'cause I was dying.'

It was then. Dad opened his mouth with a faint smile, as if he were laughing.

"But his body still cannot escape the ban."

"What? Why?"

"I didn't do all the shackles, I just did some." I was amazed at the remark with my mouth open.

'Oh, yeah! It's a condition for my Dad to release the shackles, so even if he don't release them all, a contract will be made.'

I was admiring my Daddy's wisdom for a while, and I remembered the scene where Paphnil attacked us earlier.

"But Dad, earlier, Paphnil..." Before the question was over, my Dad shook his head to let me know what I didn't know.

"It's an alter ego, not the body. I can only use about 10% of the power. Even that can be used because I released the shackles."

'Oh, so that's why you're trying to use someone else to destroy the empire!'

For a moment, I was worried about my dad.

'As my dad played puns in the contract, Paphnil might be in the same way. For example, if he try to lure someone to harm my dad, he didn't hurt him directly.'

It was when I clenched my teeth.

"It's late, so why don't you go to bed?" I felt my heart fluttered on my father's face smiling at me. So I was surprised to say the same thing.

"Daddy, I'll be sure to protect you!" My Dad soon smiled at me.

"Yes, that's reassuring."

Chapter 175

Mikhail was drinking alone in the dreary office.

<The Duke of Floyen never betrays me. Don't worry, you only have to move well as I tell you.>

He encouraged the emperor to oppose the marriage of Juvelian and the Crown Prince, but the emperor only spoke in a casual way. It wasn't a relationship of trust, but Mikhail was convinced when he saw the Emperor's blind faith in the Duke of Floyen.

'It's obvious that the Emperor can handle the Duke of Floyen by any means. It's just...'

<Of course. Feed me plenty of blood from the wizard's heart>

Mikhail, who once recalled what the godless favorite said, twisted his mouth.

'That's a magic trick, and it's right to kill a wizard to cover his lack of mana.'

Mikhail's expression was not very good, although he had questioned the missing wizards.

'If Juvelian is a wizard, the Emperor will try to kill her.'

Mikhail clenched his fist and opened his eyes wide.

'Never, I won't allow that. And...'

<And wouldn't it be more advantageous for us if the Duke of Floyen's leash would be Maximilian's leash too?>

Mikhail's head reminded him of Jubelian in a white dress. Although she was a very beautiful figure in his imagination, it was the Crown Prince who stood by her in a showy manner.

'You're gonna give mine to that goddamn guy?'

His heart is getting cold and his head is boiling up.

'Don't make me laugh!'

Mikhail couldn't stand the heat and tried to throw the bottle away. It was then...

"Captain, are you inside?" In the voice of his subordinate, Mikhail put the bottle on the table and opened his mouth.

"Come in." Soon the door opened and he could see the face of the subordinate. He was one of the men who he once placed to the Empress under surveillance. "What brought you here to see me?" At Mikhail's question, the subordinate opened his mouth after giving a silent salute.

"It's no different, and the Empress' behavior is strange these days."

"What?" When Mikhail, who was nervous about Juvelian's matter, asked groaningly, the subordinate opened his mouth.

"They say she's looking for poison." Mikhail frowned at the remark and stroked his chin.

"Poison..." Mikhail thought of the first person the empress would remove, and soon smiled.

'Maybe the Empress will clean up the Crown Prince.'

Unexpected earnings made Mikhail feel better again.

'So, you said that the princess might be a wizard, too, right?'

He had a general idea of how to use the princess. Mikhail lifted the corners of his mouth.

'I'll get my mana, my Juvelian, and my throne.'

Soon, Mikhail opened his mouth.

"I'll stop by the Princess' palace tomorrow." His subordinate asked Mikhail's words in wonder.

"What? What brings you to the Princess' palace?"

"I want to see if the knights of the Crown Prince's commission are doing well. One in ten thousand..." Soon Mikhail stopped the twisted arsenic. "If you abandoned your duty, you'll be punished." Paphnil, who was watching Mikhail, lifted the corners of his mouth.

[On the day my damned son founded this goddamned country, something interesting is going to happen.]

***

'You're going to protect me.'

Regis soon stared at his daughter with a worried look.

'Why would you say such a thing, what if you were caught by the emperor?'

When Paphnil was told, Regis had investigated the wizards. And as a result, he could see that the wizards were disappearing without a trace.

'If the emperor touches you, I'll bring this empire...'

It was when Regis was clenching his fist unknowingly.

"Haam..." He could see Juvelian yawning with a blink of an eye.

"Juvel, what do you think of what I just said?" When he told his daughter to go to bed, she smiled back. Regis smiled as she headed to bed instead of answering.

'She was taller than before, but she's still young.'

Soon after, as Juvelian sat on the bed, Regis stared at his daughter's face.

<Don't worry about it alone. Let's solve it together now, Dad.>

'Yes, I'd better warn you in advance what the Emperor will do.'

It was then...

"Do you have anything to say?" Regis sighed at his daughter's question.

"Juvel, about the wizard in the anecdote with Paphnil." It was when Regis had just had his luck.

"The fact that wizards are so rare so far means that it's highly likely that the imperial family has taken some action regarding them for generations?" When Juvelian said that, as if she had seen through his mind, Regis stared at his daughter with astonished eyes. "I'm a decent Little Duke now." Regis laughed at her daughter's unnecessary remark.

'I thought you were just young, but I was wrong.'

Looking at his daughter with affection for a moment, Regis nodded.

"Yes, and if I get manipulated by the ring, then..." Regis clenched his teeth, unable to speak.

'Maybe I'll attack you like I did then.'

Then, his eyes met with Juvelian.

"Daddy."

"What's wrong?"

"Have you ever heard of the ring's weakness from Paphnil?" Regis recalled the weakness of the ring he had heard in the past.

<But there's a possibility. The ring should show its owner who's so cool that it's freezing. Like, a wizard who was cut off from the current imperial family a decade ago.>

The current emperor, who owns the ring, is not a wizard. It was safe to say that Max and Beatrice, the two of them, were unlikely to be wizards.

"Of course, but it's not possible because..."

"Even if it's not possible, just tell me." At his daughter's words, Regis sighed and said.

"If a powerful wizard appears among the imperial family, the ring may choose a new owner." As soon as his words was finished, he could see Juvelian's eyes wide open. In time, Juvelian slowly gave out her eyes and bowed her head.

"Juvel?" Is she frustrated? Regis was worried about his daughter's shivering habit. "What's wrong?" At that moment, Jubelian raised her head.

"Daddy! I think I can find a new owner! I..."

"Juvel, a wizard who succeeded the blood of the imperial family. You can't be the master of the ring." Then Juvelian bent her eyes and nodded.

"Yes! So I'm going to teach the Princess the magic!" For a moment, Regis breathed a sigh, as he was bewildered by the sight of his daughter referring to the Princess all of a sudden.

'You seem to be mistaken for teaching magic anyway.'

He heard that magic is the realm of thorough talent, and those who do not possess mana do not even deserve to learn magic. Furthermore, Beatrice, the daughter of the current emperor who is suspected of killing the wizard with little mana, could not have been rich in mana.

'How do I explain this?'

It was when Regis was thinking about it. Juvelian leaped up and snapped her hands.

"I'll make sure you're free!" Because it was a hopeless word, he knew it was a useless torture of hope. But...

'I can't believe you're crying.'

Her daughter was so admirable and beautiful that Regis slowly turned his head off.

"Thank you." Juvelian hugged him and said.

"Daddy, you trust me, don't you? I'm sure it'll work out."

"Yes."

'Even if I'm not free, it's enough because I'm happy because of you.'

With no words out of his mouth, Regis kept a soft smile.

***

"Good night, Dad." My Dad nodded with a smile at my greeting.

"Good night, Juvel." Soon as Dad left my room, I lifted my upper body and sighed against the head of my bed.

'Daddy, you had an unexpected look, didn't you?'

It's worth it. My behavior was basically claiming to make Liche a wizard without any basis.

'But if I tell you that I am reincarnated and the contents of this book are the same as the book I saw in my previous life, won't you understand? Maybe you think I'm out of my mind.'

Either way, it would be better to be seen as a groundless throw than a situation where there is no answer.

'By the way, it's a problem.'

Soon is the international, the flow chart that is different from the original, and the appearance of a the dragon called Paphnil. My head hurt in many ways. I arranged my thoughts step by step and set priorities.

'Yes, first of all, we're gonna make Liche a wizard before Foundation Day. And...'

I clenched my teeth and clenched my fist.

'Let's find out who's framed me in the original work, and who's trying to assassinate Liche. I'll be done with the dead flag if I get through the Foundation day safely.'

After I made up my mind, I was about to sleep, but I laughed at the window door.

'Oh, the sun has already risen.'

For a moment, I was buried in bed, looking up at the sky in a despondent mood.

'Let's get some sleep, 'cause I'll have to stay fit if I want to fight.'

Before I closed my eyes, I prayed earnestly.

'Please make my family all happy.'

***

Paphneel wrinkled his eyes.

'No way I'll put a barrier across the entire mansion.'

He tried to keep track of the movements of Juvelian and Regis, but this was too much.

'That's pretty good. I'd love that magic. If I eat that, I'll get rid of this damn shackle quickly.'

There was no provision in the Regis' contract that he could not touch Juvelian. However, if he tried to touch Juvelian in the first place, Regis will be desperate to stop him.

'I don't want you to kill Regis by mistake. If I do that, I'll lose my life because of the breach of contract. And...'

Soon, Paphneel grabbed his belly and laughed.

'If it goes as I planned, it'll be a lot of fun.'

***

"As of today, I will escort the Princess with Lord Victor." As expected, when the guards sent by the Crown Prince arrived, Beatrice looked unworthy.

'Now, I can't be alone with Victor. Wait... what am I thinking?'

It was when she was cooling her face.

"Your Imperial Highness the Princess." The sight of Mikhail visiting the Princess' palace without permission made Beatrice crumple her eyes.

'Mikhail, what brings him here?'

When Beatrice stared at him, Mikhail smiled and greeted her.

"How have you been?" Then, someone stepped in between the two.

"Please let us know what you've come for."

'You're reliable.'

While smiling at Victor's back, Beatrice fixed his her when she saw Mikhail lifting the tail of his mouth.

'Are you laughing?'

Soon Mikhail opened his mouth.

"I should have visited you more often, but I'm finally here because I'm busy."

'Are you ignoring Victor now?'

No matter how low his position is than Mikhail, Victor is the escort of the Imperial family, Beatrice. Not only did Victor ignore him, but she felt uncomfortable when he was so crawling in front of her, the Imperial family.

"My knight would have asked you to reveal your business. Captain Hessen." At Beatrice's question, Mikhail, instead of being intimidated, shrugged and answered.

"He's not even the official escort of Her Imperial Highness, and I don't feel the need to answer his words."

"What?" Beatrice raised her voice by setting the edge, but Mikhail said calmly, glaring at Victor.

"And how can you answer the knight who can't even defend himself?"

"What? What are you talking about...?" It was before Beatrice's words were over.

"How long ago, there man was in the garden?" Beatrice was shaken by those words she had never thought of.

'I'm sure we kept quiet, how could he do that?'

It was time for Beatrice to stare at Mikhail with trembling eyes.

"Pick up and come." At Mikhail's command, knights of the emperor's throne surrounded the masked man and brought him. Beatrice asked, frowning at the unusual flow.

"What is he?"

"We were obsessed because he was hiding in the garden.*" When the emperor's lieutenants answered, Mikhail said, glaring at Victor with glaring eyes.

(*they are engulfed at finding him because he is hiding in the garden, something like that, fuck mikhail)

"How can a man who can't catch a rat like this escort Her Imperial Highness?" At Mikhail's talk with a wry smile, Beatrice glared at him with her lips slanted.

"What do you want to say?" Soon a smile disappeared from Mikhail's face. He stared at Beatrice and opened his mouth.

"I can't accept this as the Captain of the Imperial Guards." Even though Victor didn't even move, Beatrice felt his stomach boiling.

'That goddamn guy, how dare you...'

Beatrice, who was so furious that zhe couldn't stand it anymore, opened her mouth...

"The escorts my brother sent me are the escorts that I have allowed. I don't dare to accept it!" Then Mikhail handed out the paper. It was the emperor's edict with a national seal stamped on it. Beatrice's complexion, which confirmed the content, was blurry.

"And His Imperial Majesty agreed with me. My own new escort for you." Beatrice shuddered with contempt and helplessness. While looking at Beatrice, Mikhail, with a serpentine smile, touched a black sack. Then came a smiling voice.

[This woman's magic looks very appetizing.]

Mikhail stared at the sword and thought.

'What you said last time, are you sure?'

The sword's self answered him.

[In the name of the god of war, I assure you that even if the sacrifice comes to love you, your life will be safe.]

Soon the black sword muttered with a wicked smile.

[You just lose your self*.]

(*the one he is talking about here is his consciousness, something like that)

***

The remaining time to the Foundation day is two weeks from now. To help Liche awaken her magic as soon as possible, I visited the palace site of the Princess.

'I'll tell Max what's going on later.'

But soon I had no choice but to harden my face.

"I cannot allow the Little Duke of Floyen to Her Imperial Highness the Princess. I hope you can go back." I asked, stiffening my face at the mechanically spoken words of the knights I saw for the first time, not the knights I always saw.

"Are you, indeed, the Knights of Her Imperial Highness the Princess?" And it wasn't them who answered my question.

"Of course." I hardened my face by looking at that face.

"Mikhail, don't tell me you..." Then, Mikhail smiled and said.

"Let me talk to you for a moment, Little Duke of Floyen." In the past, I would have been reluctant to even mix words. Because I was very afraid. But now I'm not afraid of him.

"Alright." As I answered, I glared at the sword in his waist.

'That sword, by all appearances, is suspicious.'

There was a dark purple glow on it.

***

Meanwhile, Max was staring at Victor with incredible eyes.

"Are you serious?"

"Yes." Staring at Victor looking at him with a determined look, Max nodded with a serious expression.

"Okay, I accept your resignation." At the words Victor set the Lord's last example by kneeling one knee.

"Although I may not be able to stand by you anymore, don't forget that I am your sword." Looking down at the figure, Max replied with a smile.

"Well done." It was then...

"Your Imperial Highness!" Max frowned at the appearance of Dennis rushing into the office without permission.

"What's going on?"

"Oh that's..." When Max heard Dennis' report to the end, Max jumped up from his seat.

"What? Juvelian followed Mikhail?" As he spoke in a show of life, Dennis nodded and said.

"Yes." Max clenched his fist tightly to make a thud.

'You damn thing, dare, not enough to throw all the knights I sent to Beatrice with the emperor on your back, are you now trying to trick Juvelian?'

Before long, Max said, putting on his coat.

"Tell me where they went."

***

'I finally came to the enemy's den...'

I stared at Mikhail. What he was thinking, he was looking at me.

'You're not trying to do anything weird to me again, are you?'

As soon as he did crap, I thought about using magic, and then he stared before he opened his mouth.

"You look healthy."

"Yes." He gibbled with embarrassment when I answered in a short answer.

"Do you still like tea? Or maybe coffee..." I shook my head with a sigh.

"No, just tell me what it is." In my answer, Mikhail crumpled his forehead a little, then sighed and opened his mouth.

"Okay, but the Little Duke is a close friend of Her Imperial Highness the Princess?"

"Why are you asking me that?"

"I just caught a man who sneaked into the garden a while ago, and he seemed to be on the Empress' influence." At the word Empress, I flinched and stared at Mikhail. Mikhail continued, with his eyes slightly lowered. "I know I can't be trusted. But I can't overlook the Empress' preparation for poison."

"It's poison?" When he stopped talking and I asked, he nodded.

"Yes, it is said that it is a rare poison that has no color, taste, or smell. Besides, it is not detected in silver." I shuddered at the remark.

'No way, was the empress the culprit who poisoned Liche?'

The person who was excluded from the suspect line hoping not to be in the heart of her heart*, but Mikhail's words were all the same as saying that she, Liche's mother, was the culprit.

(*like not doing as her mother something like that)

'Is he sure she's the one who tried to kill Liche?'

When I was thinking hard, I saw Mikhail looking at me closely. As if to look at my reaction. It reminded me of what he had done to me.

<Where are you going? Who do you think I to let you go?>

And the fact that until recently he was strangely obsessed with me.

'Yes, it's Mikhail's words. I can't trust him.'

Soon I opened my mouth.

"How do I believe you?" Then he looked at me with a sad look and said.

"I understand, of course, that I can't trust. But I couldn't be silent, Juvelian, because I was afraid you would be harmed in connection with the Princess." A burning gaze, and an imploring voice. It was similar to what I gave him before. Soon he opened his mouth. "Because I love you." He forced me to laugh.

'No, I know because you've tried. It's not love, it's obsession, it's selfishness.'

It was bitter in my mouth. But I said it in a roundabout way because I thought if I told him the truth, I might provoke him like last time.

"If you're done talking, I'll get up now."

***

Mikhail, who was listening to Jubelian, frowned slightly.

'Why don't you look at me when I do this?'

He thought it was disgusting, but Mikhail didn't bother to show...

'Yes, I know now that I need some acting to make you love me again.'

So far, he is being looked down upon, but if he succeeds in this scheme, he will win the Juvelian's love.

'If that happens, as the sword says, I will absorb your mana, and I will be stronger than I am now.'

Mikhail will be able to bring anyone to heel with his strength. Even the Emperor and the Duke of Floyen. Imagining a happy future, Mikhail stroked this sword sack.

'I don't care if you lose yourself. Rather, it would be convenient because I can handle you as I please.'

Soon after, when Juvelian rose up, Mikhail smiled and opened his mouth.

"I'll see you off." But Juvelian shook her head with a cold face.

"It's fine." Soon, when Juvelian went out of the office, Mikhail was cursed.

"Bitch. Do you decline my favor?" It was when Mikhail unwittingly grabbed a sword sack. The whole sword trembled.

[It's dangerous.]

Mikhail asked what he meant, but the sword remained silent as if he didn't want to answer. Mikhail crumpled his eyes and soon thought of the sword.

'Well, it doesn't matter. I get strength and Juvelian, and it's all he get.'

***

'Damn it, where the hell is she?'

From the Crown Prince's palace to the knight's lounge, it took a good half hour to walk. But Max quickly ran the distance.

<I heard the news when I saw them heading to the lounge, so it must have been a long time since she entered the lounge.>

Dennis reassured Max that it would be okay because it was the imperial palace, but it wasn't Max that would remain silent.

'If you do something stupid, I'll kill you!'

While the anger against Mikhail grew, on the one hand, a handful of resentment against Juvelian. That's why he couldn't quite understand meeting Mikhail, who has crazy eyes every time he see her.

'You met Mikhail without telling me, what the hell is wrong with you?'

Does she think Mikhail still has some lingering feelings? He came up with anxiety. But Max shook his head soon.

<Sometimes you have to trust your partner and wait.>

Now he can understand what his teacher said, which was hard to understand at that time.

'Yes, there must be some good reason. Because that's the kind of person I know.'

Let's trust her and wait, thinking of it, Max waited for her nearby instead of rushing into the lounge.

***

As soon as I came out of the door, I glanced at the door that was closed.

'What the hell is he doing?'

How long would he have been like that? When I was completely out of the lounge talking to Mikhail, I felt relaxed.

'I'm glad nothing happened. I was afraid I'd use magic here, but...'

Unless Mikhail knows I'm a wizard, this will be a trump card. Even if I'm imprisoned as in the original story, no one can hurt me if I use defensive magic.

'Anyways, we know where the poison came from, so we have to make sure Liche doesn't drink it anyway. The problem is...'

There was no way to give her a word, as long as Mikhail had filled the escort with his own people in the name of protecting Liche.

'You're going to censor the letters, aren't you?'

How do I approach Liche? As I casually turned my head in frustration, a familiar sight came in.

"Max, no, Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince?" He didn't come running as soon as you got the report? When I saw his disheveled clothes, I was convinced. "When did you come?" I could see him avoiding my eyes instead of answering my question.

'It's been a long time.'

The thought that the prediction hit the mark was a moment, I smiled at the realization of a fact.

"Did you wait for me all this time?" Soon I saw him nodding slowly, and I opened my eyes wide.

'You really waited quietly!'

I wanted to kiss him right away, but there were so many eyes.

'And I'll have to explain it in many ways.'

I said with folded arms in his arms.

"First of all, let's go back to the Crown Prince's palace."

"Of course."

***

Juvelian was driven out by the guards. Beatrice, who heard this through her maid, was covering her eyes with a gloomy face.

'Block everyone in front of my door, so I can't meet anyone.'

The words was actually a branch of a sanctuary, but in fact it was contraband or something. This is because Mikhail ordered the newly deployed knights not to go out.

'For my own safety? That's funny! There was no one in the garden that day except me, Juvelian and Victor, but if you weren't the one who spied, you wouldn't know the situation that day!'

It was when Beatrice was grinding his teeth, recalling Mikhail.

Tak tak!

At the sudden sound, Beatrice was startled and stared in the direction of the sound.

'I think it's on the balcony, is Maximilian...?'

She had no time to think. Beatrice quickly headed toward the balcony. Soon Beatrice, who found the one who knocked on the window, became agitated without realizing it.

'Victor, you came.'

She thought she was going to cry if she let her guard down, but Beatrice straightened out her face.

'You may use your mind because of me*, so let's pretend to be calm.'

(*he'll find out what she feels towards him)

When Beatrice, who had her heart set, opened the door, Victor strode in.

"The boundaries are tight."

"I see." For a moment when they looked at each other awkwardly, Victor smiled brightly and said.

"You're not looking for ice or fire today."

"Oh that's..." Beatrice looked dark again. After being trapped here, when she screamed inside that she wanted to capture an intense desire, nothing changed, let alone magic. "I guess I'm wrong, too." Beatrice muttered quietly, and Victor hardened his face.

"What do you mean? Your Imperial Highness, what's wrong with you?"

"I, I don't really know how to do anything..." Beatrice recalled what the empress had said in the past.

<Are you not aware that if you make a mistake, it will interfere with this mother's future!>

She tried to hold it in, but her feelings were agitated. Beatrice shed tears.

"I'm useless." As she always thought, she felt more miserable when she revealed what she had never been able to say.

'What am I doing in front of Victor?'

But tears rarely stopped, so Beatrice was still dropping them. Victor took out a soft handkerchief and wiped it around Beatrice's eyes. It was not long before he said a word in a low voice.

"Does Her Imperial Highness feel I'm useless?"

"That, that can't be!" When she answered the shocking question without hesitation, Victor asked back.

"But you're suffering this humiliation because of me?"

"Why is this because of you? I, I don't have the power..." Victor, who was quietly listening to Beatrice's answer, sighed and answered.

"No, Mikhail, he's a wicked jerk." At the words in a pleasant tone, Beatrice burst into a small laugh, and "Pft!" without realizing it. Then Victor giggled. "It's nice to see you smiling." At his words Beatrice felt her face burning.

"By, by the way, what's your business? I think it's from my brother..." Turning his words hurriedly out of shame, Victor said with a smile.

"Oh, it's personal business."

"What, personal?" Beatrice's chest was beating violently as if she was struggling with two bumps.

'Personally speaking to me, you..."

It was when Beatrice was waiting for what would come from Victor's mouth.

"I'm here to say goodbye." Her heart was beating cold.

***

I was in Max's room giving him a detailed account of what happened earlier. And when Max heard me, he asked back, surprisingly twisting his forehead.

"Poison? Did he say that?"

"Is there any antidote or something?" When I asked with a nod, he made a serious look.

"I know that poison, but it's safe to say there's no antidote. It's made of herbs with conflicting potions.."

"How do you know so well?" Then he gave me a bitter smile.

"It's a poison used to poison my mother." When I hardened my face without realizing it, Max hugged me and said... "Don't worry, the empress will never touch you." I stared at him when he said something unexpected.

"Huh? Me?" Then he nodded.

"Yes, she might try to poison you, my dearest person. That's why Mikhail called you and told you." I shook my head at the remark.

"No, I'm not in danger!" Then he stared at me with a curious look.

"How can you be so sure?" How would he react if I told him that I knew the future I saw in the original? It was when I looked at him with that at the thought. Max said, with a faint smile. "Well, if you're talking, you must have a good reason." My heart was moved by his words that I could feel his faith in me. And I was convinced. He might listen to me seriously. I said, leaning my head against his shoulder.

"Can you believe me no matter what I say, Max?" Then he hugged my head and said.

"Well, I'll have to listen to what you're saying." I laughed a little at his words and then took a rest. Then I said, staring into Max's jeweled red eyes.

"It's not me who will drink the poison, it's Liche."

"What? Why would she..." Max, who seemed absurd, shut his mouth. I thought you were going to take a look at what I was saying.

"On the Foundation Day, Liche falls down after drinking poison from a drink. And I'm the one who's being blamed." I said, touching the ring, the sign of succession, on my hand. "And my Dad will volunteer to the emperor and put me in jail. In the shadow's room, too." When I finished speaking, Max's face became serious.

"Is my teacher really like that?"

"Yes, and he even gave me a dagger." In the original I took it as a sign of suicide, but now I know it. That dagger was given to me in a different way.

'I'm gonna go home and open up something about the dagger for my dad.'

It was when I was going to finish thinking like that.

"So what happened?" Max was grimacing at the impression that he listened to me seriously.

'Oh, that's not it...'

I hurried to tell him what I guessed because I was afraid he might misunderstand my Dad.

"That's why. Because my dad sends you to jail."

"What? Me..?" Looking at him asking back, I had a playful smile on my face.

'"Of course I'm scared that you'll torture me in front of you..." I couldn't bear to speak. If I told him that I committed suicide because of it, Max would be hurt. Max looked at me as if I was strange.

"Are you all right?" I slowly nodded and opened my mouth.

"What a strange story, isn't it?"

I stared at him, and he was looking at me without any reaction. For a moment, I looked into his serious eyes as if he would believe everything I said. I said in a quivering voice.

"Actually, I know the future."

Chapter 178:

In my words, Max stared at me for a long time. In time, his forehead was slightly wrinkled.

"You know the future? Did he ever come back to the past?''

I shook my head at the question.

"No, the truth is..." I told him that I was a reincarnation, and that I had read the story of this place as a book where I lived. "... that's what happened." In the hope of helping him, I told him a shortened version of the story in the book, but his expression and atmosphere were unusual. I frowned unconsciously and looked at him.

'You don't think I'm crazy, do you?'

Of course, I think it's nonsense, so I don't have anything to say even if he treat me like a madman. But I kept hoping he'd understand me. It was then...

"That story was honestly struck me. Beatrice is the strongest wizard and the main character."

'Are you believing me?'

For a moment, I was so moved that Max burst out laughing and opened his mouth when he opened his eyes at the sight of him holding me in my waist as if I had been bound.

"But there's something I don't understand. Come on."

"What, what is it?" Then he soon got serious.

"If what you really said is in the book, and if I came to save you, it's very strange to think of me as 'scary'." Only then did I realize that I made a slip of my tongue.

'I must have said about the torture and that I was scared!'

Then, he asked, pulling my waist.

"So what did you hide from me?"

"Oh, that's..."

'How can I tell you that I killed myself because I was afraid I'd be tortured by you?'

I could not answer and hesitated. Now, he said, bringing his mouth to my neck.

"If you don't answer, I will torture you as you say."

"To, torture! Are you sure you want to do it?" When asked in a fit of surprise, Max bent his eyes and smiled wickedly.

"Of course, it would be fun to brand this pretty neck for mine." I blushed at his words, covering my waist with one hand and sweeping my neck with the other.

"Too much." Then he stared at me with an expressionless face.

"Tell me honestly. What happened to you at the end." The friendly look in his eyes made me bite my lips and answer frankly.

"I killed myself. I was scared to be abandoned by my dad, and you said you'd torture me." That's strange. It's definitely a story in a book, why am I crying? When I became unknowingly sad and wept, he sighed.

"I didn't ask you to cry, but I'm sorry, Juvel." The warm warmth that enveloped me, his arms that held me were so warm that I felt relieved. It was when I stopped crying. He stared at me and asked. "That's why you avoided me?" I nodded slowly. Then Max wiped my tears in my eyes and sighed. "That's what it was, too." Then I asked with a flinch at the low-pitched remark.

"Is your heart hurt?"

"Of course, you just believe in the contents of the book and fear me recklessly." It was when I was smiling awkwardly when I saw him talking reproachfully. "I was so nervous about it."

"You are nervous? Oh, so that's why you cried then?" When asked as if making fun of Max's words, he blushed and turned his head. Then he said quietly.

"Maybe you were afraid of my cruel side, and I was afraid you'd leave me at any time."

"I can't do that! That was my slip of the tongue. I'll never leave you, so don't worry!" I smiled as I embraced Max and patted him.

"You're not really leaving, are you?" Nodding my head furiously, he said with a grin. "Okay, then I promise. I won't torture you." I read the desire in his eyes and tried to restrain Max.

"Wait, I still have more to say..." Before I retorted anything, he rushed in on me and kissed me. I screamed inwardly under his kiss attack.

'I haven't even brought up the subject about Liche yet...!'

***

"I want to return the knighthood and go back to my home." Beatrice seemed to be burning up at Victor's words, but she pretended to be calm.

"What are you going to do?"

"Oh, I'm thinking of being a knight. What do you think?" At Victor's reply Beatrice distorted her face.

'You want to quit as the Crown Prince's knight and enter as the knight of a noble family.'

Although of commoner origin, Victor is Maximilian's closest close friend. But kicking the chance to get ahead on his feet? The thought of nonsense was intense, but Beatrice first asked calmly.

"I see. Where is your hometown?"

"Perdal Territory."

"Ah, if it's there, it's quite a rich place."

'Yes, if it were the Marquis of Perdal, the head of the Treasury Department, the best of the five rejections*, the payment would be much higher than now.'

(*idk what does it mean, but it's literaly rejection)

In the end, he chose money instead of giving up his honor.

'You said you'd protect me!'

Although she was a bit resentful of him, Beatrice smiled.

"Yes, you could be a great knight there, too." Victor said to her words.

"Don't skip meals while I'm away, and never abuse yourself!" She would rather bear it if he turned coldly, but his words that he thought until the end made her feel emotional and hot.

'Can you just stay with me?'

She wanted to hold on to Victor, but she couldn't.

"Yes. You too, be healthy." At her words, Victor smiled and jumped off the balcony. Beatrice stood in the room clenched her lips.

'It's all right. You did a good job.'

He has been so comforting many times, but when she let her guard down, she felt like tears would come out. Soon, Beatrice twisted her face with dry eyes.

***

Following the reincarnation in the book, Max wasn't embarrassed even though I talked about the magic with Paphnil this time. When asked why, he opened his mouth.

"Paphnil told me." He must have tried to reach out to Max as well! It was a very vigilant being. Then, Max pinched my cheek slightly. "So, did you go to see Mikhail because you know how to use magic?"

'I had a reason, too.'

As I pout out my mouth, he sighed and sat me on his lap.

"I'm not ignoring you, but every time I see him, I get an unusual feeling." There was a guess in that remark.

"Oh, that's probably because of the sword at Mikhail's waist."

"What? How do you know that?" I opened my mouth to the question.

"I saw a dark purple mana coming out of the sword. It was suspicious, and there was a reason why I agreed with Mikhail to watch closely." Max frowned at my words.

"No way, did he find the magic sword that appears in the story?" At that murmur, I smiled.

"Don't worry, I can break it anytime I like." Max glared with surprise at my words.

"What? How?" In response, I opened my mouth as I recalled Mikhail's sword that I was looking at.

"Since it is a sword that is repairing a cracked sword with mana, you just have to stimulate the crack. So, the most important thing right now..." I bit my lips and opened them. "It's Liche's safety. Now, there is not much time left before the Foundation day."

"I can meet her."

"How? The entrance door is guarded by the knights, no matter how much Max enters the emperor's ears*, it will be difficult."

(*how much sneaky Max can be from the emperor)

Max said with a smile on his face.

"Have you forgotten? The fact that I went to your room through the surveillance of my teacher."

***

'Funny, I can't go out of my room because the locked me out.'

It was the fourth day since she was detained in her room. Beatrice was silent with a superfluous face.

'Are you trying to kill my blood by drying it like this? Mikhail.'

Wouldn't it be nice if she could take revenge on Mikhail and die even if she die? At that thought, Beatrice twisted her mouth. At this point she resented, the empress, her mother, and the emperor, her father.

'I hate everyone like you for being my parents.'

Beatrice's consolation was a letter from Juvelian that Maximilian occasionally appeared on the balcony. On the first day, to her surprise, she mentioned the magic and wrote a short letter with a little trick on how to use it.

<Liche, I can't dare say how hard it must be for you. But I hope you don't give up your magic. I'm sure you can use magic.>

While looking at the letter, Beatrice shook her head, distorted her face.

'No, I don't know how to use magic. Unlike you, Juvelian.'

<Hey, even if you learn magic, you don't be cocky to me.>

Of course, when she remembered the words of her half-brother, her heart was cold, but Juvelian's heart was pretty, so Beatrice was able to laugh.

'I can't use magic, but I'm so glad you're a precious wizard. Juvelian.'

It was then.

"...orders...get out of the way!" Beatrice frowned at the noise outside the door.

'What else is going on?'

Let's not worry about it because it's not related to me anyway, Beatrice thought so and tried to lie down in bed.

It was then.

Kwang!

'What the hell is going on?'

As she approached the door carefully, she could hear the voices of the knights.

"...stop it!" At that moment, the door broke with a 'bump!' and Beatrice opened her eyes.

"Oh, it hurts like shit." On the chest of a man in a knightly uniform, a medal, a symbol of the captain of the knights, was hung. The man soon stared at Beatrice.

"Victor, how could you..." When Beatrice couldn't speak, Victor kneeled one knee solemnly in front of her and grabbed her hand.

"Hello, Your Imperial Highness the Princess. My name is Kaylen Lionel Perdal, who was appointed as Her Imperial Highness' Captain Knight today." Beatrice shed tears at his words and smiled brightly.

Spoiler: Chapter 179

As soon as I got home, I was going to tell my dad about reincarnation in the book.

"Daddy, do you have time to tell me something?" But then, Derek came up to Dad in a hurry and said.

"Lord, this is urgent news from the estate. They say there's something wrong with the "Forbidden" now." I frowned at the remark.

'What the hell is going on here?'

It was then.

"Juvel, I think I'll have to go to our estate for a while." I stared at my Dad anxiously at his words.

'Are you going to be okay?

Then he smiled and stroked my head and said.

"You know, the contents of the contract I made." I felt much better at the words that tried to reassure me.

"Talk to me when you get back." My Daddy nodded at my greeting.

"I'll investigate as soon as I can."

***

At the absurd news, Mikhail burst into laughter and raised his lip.

'What? The Emperor has appointed a new commander of the Self-Defense Forces? The Captain of Her Imperial Highness' knight, who was also vacant?'

The Emperor's trust in Mikhail has reached its peak thanks to the well-interested interests. Even among the Captains of the Knights, he couldn't believe that he had appointed such an important position without consulting him at the top.

'Moreover, that greeting is the second son of the Marquis of Perdal, who is rumored to be stupid... Did you even take a bribe?'

Mikhail clicked his tongue. Considering the Emperor's insatiable greed, it was also possible.

'If it were to be reported, we'd have to conciliate that rascal...'

The Marquis of Perdal, head of the Treasury Department of the Empire, was renowned for the wealth of the empire and the graceful people he gave to many. However, it was questionable whether the maniac who gave up even in such a prestigious family would listen to him.

'I'd better meet him first.'

If it doesn't work, he'll take the lead, even by force, and with that thought, Mikhail headed to the Princess' room. And when he arrived at his destination, Mikhail twisted his eyelashes.

'What is that...?'

The exterior door, which had been locked to lock up the Princess, was broken and dimmed. If something wrong had happened to the Princess, he will not be able to avoid the responsibility. Mikhail pushed the ragged door and entered the Princess' room.

"Your Imperial Highness!" And at that moment, the tip of the sword stopped poking in front of Mikhail's neck. But it wasn't so threatening in the eyes of Mikhail, already on the verge of transcendence.

'Are you saying you're going to take the lead from the beginning?'

Mikhail, who laughed and confirmed the person in the rumor, hardened his face.

"How rude of you to trespass into the room of Her Imperial Highness, Lord Mikhail." The cheeky commoner, the Crown Prince's subordinate, stood with a smile and holding a sword. On his chest, a medal, the symbol of the Captain of the Knights, was worn.

'Don't tell me, is he...?

Then, Victor pushed Mikhail into the imperial edict.

"As it is written here, I have full authority over the knights of Her Imperial Highness the Princess' palace." Watching Mikhail twisting his face as if he understood the situation, Victor smiled a wry smile. "If you got it, get out of here. From now on, I will select the Knights of Her Imperial Highness' Household, Mikhail Albert Hessen." Mikhail gritted his teeth when he said that.

'Are you talking about being the same as a captain? So if you look at it, you're the only one who is the Princess' guard...!'

With the same heart, I wanted to break that arrogant guy's skinny neck right now, but Mikhail managed to manage his mind and endure.

'He may be a bastard, but Marquis of Perdal is respected...'

Furthermore, Mikhail felt intimidated, as the Marquis Hessen had borrowed a large sum of money from the Marquis of Perdal in the name of their investment. But for a moment, Mikhail opened his eyes wide.

'But I will pay you back for this humiliation.'

Soon after, as Mikhail and his order-bound knights retired, Victor relaxed his expression and smiled awkwardly.

"Well, the door is broken. It looks like it's an expensive door, but I'm so sorry to stop it because I saw crazy guys joking around the door. I'm sorry." Beatrice laughed at his remark.

'I'm relieved that you've pushed the door that locked me up.'

She was going to say it was all right, but she flinched when she realized something was wrong.

'So you didn't just break the door, did you?'

Beatrice looked at Victor with surprised wide eyes. However, the appearance of the mark did not appear except that his clothes were a little messy.

"And it looks like you hit the door... Are you all right?" When asked in a calm manner, Victor responded, staring deeply at Beatrice with deep red eyes.

"I'm all right." With warm, bright red eyes and somehow embarrassed to look straight into Victor's eyes, Beatrice avoided his gaze without knowing it. Soon there was an awkward atmosphere between the two.

'I wanted to say a lot, but what's wrong with me?'

Beatrice, who hated the awkwardness, spoke to Victor.

"Victor, no. Is it Kaylen now?" At Beatrice's words, he replied with a bright smile.

"You can call me Kay." Kay, she was muttering that nickname for a while. Beatrice asked about the post-war situation.

"What the hell is going on? I don't understand what's happening. I can't believe you're my captain of the Self-Defense Force." Kay opened his mouth to her words.

"As you know, Your Imperial Highness, we should have had such a good door, right?" Beatrice was well aware of his noble character, his immense wealth, and his fame.

'Obviously, after hearing the circumstances before and after, he must have helped for his son.'

"I told my father that I wanted to be a knight for the Princess, and he said, 'If it's not the best, it's meaningless.'." When something different from what she thought came out of Kay's mouth, Beatrice replied with a wry smile.

"I, I see. What a great sense of value." Kay answered with a serious look.

"I actually hate my father's values. That's why I left home without my name and position." At the words, Beatrice shook her eyes and lowered her eyes weakly.

"But why did you go back?"

"I wanted to be someone's power."

"What kind of person?"

"Someone who's smart, sweet and shining, but only she doesn't know her value, such a fool." Beatrice shed tears unknowingly at those words that came out in a sincere voice.

Then, Kay gave her something.

"Don't cry, my lady." Beatrice, who received the handkerchief, laughed. The handkerchief was white with nothing. Beatrice, who grasped the meaning, spoke with a dominant voice.

"It's going to take a while to return this handkerchief."

Spoiler: White Handkerchief meaning

Before long, Liche said lowly.

"Bow down." As Kay lowered his head, Liche grabbed his cheek and kissed him. In time, Kay opened his eyes wide and Liche said, blushing. "And from now on, it's called Liche..." Even before she was finished speaking, he put his lips over Liche's lips and then lifted them off.

"Liche, I love you." At that moment, Liche was sure.

'I'm not afraid of anyone coming now. Because you decided to protect me.'

Soon it began to move like a miracle that had been stagnant inside her body.

'This is...'

Before long, Liche's face lit up. She could instinctively know. That this is the magical power she wanted so bad.

***

The emperor frowned his face.

'Marquis Perdal, you arrogant bastard, you dare threaten me?'

Not long ago, the Marquis of Perdal had a request for appointing his son as the the Guardian Knight for the Imperial Princess because it's okay to have a frustrating position. A few days later, with a message that he will visit him with a gift.

'He's got a lot of money, so would he give me something good?'

I was hoping for some kind of bribe, but it was threats, not bribes, that the Marquis Ferdahl put out with a good face.

<What if the nobility found out that His Imperial Majesty had diverted the state budget to his private hands? I understand that His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince's approval rating is soaring right now.>

'I'm sure I've made a double-book... I never thought you'd check the entire inventory. They said you were a tramp, but it was true. A terrible fellow.'

The emperor shook his head soon after, as he was grinding his teeth, recalling the evidence presented by the Marquis Perdal.

<Your Imperial Majesty, for your information, I have a lot of gifts for His Imperial Majesty. However, the Imperial family and our family are distant relatives and aren't they have long-standing friendships? I don't want to lose Your Imperial Majesty. So, if you accept my son as the Captain of the Imperial Princess' Knight, I will be silent forever.>

'Because he lowered his tail first, I don't need to pretend with him.'

But that didn't relieve his anger. The emperor gnawed his teeth and thought.

'This is all because of Maximilian!'

In fact, the documents presented by Marquis Perdal weren't such a big threat. He is the current emperor, and if some nobles were talking about it, it was enough. But the problem was that the next emperor, Maximilian, was openly showing his antipathy towards the emperor. The emperor clenched his fist tightly.

'Yes, there's no sign of him listening to me, so it's time to take care of him.'

"Your Majesty the Emperor, Captain Mikhail, wants to meet you." At that remark, the emperor raised the corners of his mouth.

'I'll have to discuss it with Mikhail.'

***

Liche was finally released from custody and protection. But the news was not enough, and it shocked me that Lord Victor turned out to be the second son of the Marquis Perdal, and now he's the captain of Liche's knights.

'Isn't it like you said you were talking without hesitation, because you were Lord Perdal, who is famous for being as crazy as me?'

I think so, Victor, no. I was staring at the Captain of Liche's Self-Defense Force, now Lord Kay. At that time, Liche talked to me.

"Juvelian, you keep looking at my knight's face today."

"Oh, I'm sorry. I still... don't believe it." In my answer she sighed and said.

"I don't doubt you, but I'm afraid that if you keep staring at my person... My brother will be furious." At the right words, I nodded and caught her gaze.

'Max will do that.'

It was then.

"It's no wonder I called you..." Soon I opened my eyes to see the shining sphere that rose before me.

"Oh, oh! Magic...?" Instead of answering, she nodded with a confident smile.

"Yes, now I know how to do magic. I realized what was wrong with my mind."

"What was the problem?" At my question she laid her eyes slightly down and said, staring straight at me.

"It was a self-denial of my existence. Because I had no faith in myself, magic had not been invoked."

Spoiler: Chapter 180

'She denied her existence...'

I agreed, brooding over Liche's bitter words.

'So did I. Until I met Max, and made up with my Dad.'

I was hurt by my family and recalled the past when they denied me. Suddenly, it occurred to me that we looked very much alike.

'Although, as it was, she was the heroine and I am the villainess.'

I stared at Liche, with some sort of impulses.

'Can I talk to you?'

It's only Max I've talked about reincarnation in the book now. I was going to tell my Dad too, but I couldn't because he was still in our estate.

'I'm glad Paphnil didn't cause any trouble, but I hope he will get back soon.'

It was when I was thinking about my dad.

"Actually, I envied you. You were like the main character in the story.' I felt a strange sense of deja vu at Liche's words.

'Because I was, too.'

In some unexplained impulse, I said with a sweet lip.

"Liche, actually..." Even hesitating for a moment, I stared at my friend solemnly. A wonderful princess with eyes that resemble the one I love. I now cared about her with all my heart, and I trusted her. "I have something to tell you." I told her everything before I knew it.

How much time has passed?

When my words were over, Liche was staring at me with a curious look on her face.

"So I was your enemy?" Nodding my head, Liche distorted her face. "No way! I've been so hard on someone as lovely as you?" I laughed at her violent denial.

'I can't believe you took it so seriously. Well, Liche thought it would be.'

But the look on her face was really serious, so there seemed to be a slight need to evoke the reality.

"It's all in the book. It didn't happen in our world." She sighed deeply in my words and said.

"That's a really annoying story. You are the enemy, Mikhail and I are lovers... I must have been unhappy in the story." I had a smile on my face. Even though she heard that she was the protagonist, she was talking me about me rather than liking it.

'Good thing you said.'

Then, she held my hand and said.

"It must have been hard to say, but thank you for telling me, Juvelian."

"Thank you for listening to me, too, Liche." For a moment, I opened my mouth, laughing at each other.

"And about the Foundation day..." The Empress has not yet told her that she brought in the poison. I was wondering what to do. Then, Liche said.

"Don't worry too much about the Foundation day. Well, I won't touch a drink." It was reassuring to see her answer in a serious voice.

'I'm glad you're alert.'

But it's too early to be relieved, I opened my mouth.

"Yes, and we can't predict what's going to happen, so stay with me." In my words, Liche lifted the corners of her mouth and nodded roughly.

"Yes." At that time, someone stepped into our conversation.

"You two kept talking, so I didn't want to interrupt, but how come you forgot about my existence?" I replied with a giggle to the words of Lord Kaylen, now the Captain of Liche's knights.

"Please keep an eye on Liche." He answered with a nod.

"Of course. She is the master of my body and mind?"

'Dedicated body and mind... Ah, you're talking about a knight's oath?'

When I was thinking so, Liche raised herself with a blush on her face.

"Juvelian! I think you can go now." It was for a while that I looked at her in a strange way. I answered with a smile.

"I should." Max will be waiting for me. It was when I was about to leave the door without saying the word.

"No, why embarrassingly say such a thing. Idiot." Listening to Liche's voice behind my back, I laughed a little.

'You two look great together.'

***

I was sitting next to Max and confessing that I had told Liche.

"So what was her reaction like? Did she like it because she's the main character?" I shook my head at Max's question and said.

"Rather, she sided with me and made it feel bad together." In my answer, Max said, with a slight crease in his forehead.

"Yes, well, she's very fond of you." I laughed unconsciously, and he pinched my cheek and said. "Don't laugh. I'm jealous." It was when I was laughing at his playful remark. Max asked as if he was curious.

"And then... How's Kaylen doing?" He haven't spoken about him since Sir Victor left, but I guess he was worried about him as he was a subordinate who had been with him for a long time. I answered with mischief.

"Well, I don't know? He look a little more mature than usual." Then Max laughed.

"Well, he's being coy because he likes Beatrice." His remark made my eyes wide open.

"Did you know? How do you..." Then Max stretched out my cheeks and giggled.

"Well, how did you know?"

"Don't play around..." Then he took my chin and stared at me softly. When I closed my eyes without knowing it, he opened his mouth.

"You can't help but show your eyes." When I opened my eyes in surprise at the words, he kissed me lightly in surprise.

"Max!" I felt like I was teased, so when I went away, Max smiled and hugged me. As I tried to bustle out of the arms, Max was heartbroken.

"The Victor I know was the one who hated his family more than anyone else."

The Marquis Perdal? I'm sure it was a very popular and decent family, but why did he hate it? It was the time to bear such a question...

"He looks good on the outside, but the Marquis of Perdal is a cold-blooded man who rules people by playing money. Kaylen hated his father, so he was anxious. But it was Kaylen, who was better than his brother, that Marquis Perdal pointed out as the successor.'

'Oh, that's why he ran out of their house.'

He looked light-hearted, but there was such a story. It was really something to see again. But even more surprising was that Max, who had been indifferent to others, was showing interest in people who weren't me.

'I'm proud of you.'

Soon Max continued to hold me tightly.

"It must be that he loves Beatrice that much that he has gone back and regained his position." I said with a smile, as I was speaking calmly but felt a certain emotion.

"You like Liche and Sir Kaylen." Max hugged me without answering my question. I hugged him and smiled gently. "Let's all get through the Foundation day." Soon I heard a quiet voice.

"Of course."

***

Regis sighed.

'I said as if nothing had happened to Juvelian, but...'

Soon, Regis stared at the space that was "Forbidden". There was nothing there, as if torn off. Regis took out the pendant and glared at it.

'I'm sure the key is still in good hands, how did you get out of it?'

Regis soon clenched his fist.

<Honestly, your daughter should be quite edible. I've had a hard time holding myself back from swallowing her pretty face because she've got a lot of magic in her face.>

Regis recalled the nightmare he had long ago.

<Father, I really...>

The sad image of his daughter, who begged to believe in her.

<Go in.>

A cold self who had pushed his daughter into prison. In time, Regis closed his eyes and stared at the traces of Paphnil, opening wide.

'I'm not going to let you do what you want. Even at the risk of my life.'

***

When I came back to the mansion, there was a carriage my Dad had taken back. I headed for my Dad's office.

"Daddy!"

"Long time no see." I asked with worries at the appearance of my Dad who seemed tired somehow.

"What happened to the person who broke into the forbidden?" When I told the reason in the letter, Dad sighed and said.

"Ah, he answered that he entered with his ambition to rob the rare dragon."

"What? No way! And if you get eaten by a dragon..." At that moment, my dad said with a straight face.

"It is never allowed to eat." What do he mean, even if he is an irresponsible thief, he must have been a precious people to my Dad.

"Daddy's so sweet." When I complimented him, Dad shook his head lightly.

"No, it's natural."

For a moment, I was smiling at my Daddy because I felt reassured, and I told him the story of Lord Kaylen and Liche being detained in the room. But he didn't seem surprised at all.

"Daddy, did you happen to know?" My Dad nodded at my question.

"Because I already knew that Max had been trying to win Perdal's second son."

'Well, at times like this, he lacks humanity.'

Sighing for a moment, I recalled what I wanted to say as soon as I saw my dad.

"Daddy, you know. Actually, there was something I really wanted to say."

"Really? What is it?" When asked by my dad, I grinned and said.

"I actually know the future."

"Future?"

"Yes, I actually saw it in a book. What happened was..."

I wouldn't have been able to speak so casually to anyone else. But as Max and Liche did, I was able to speak without hesitation because I believed that Daddy would believe me.

Is that because it includes me and his story? Unlike when I talked about it with Liche and Sir Kaylen earlier, Dad's expression was distorted.

"I'm sorry." The words shook my head and said.

"Dad, it's not our current story, it's a story in a book. So you don't have to worry too much about it." He said with a sigh.

''It still bothers me.''

"What? Why?''

"The contents are so similar to my dream.'' I asked him with glaring eyes.

"Dream?'' Dad nodded at my question.

"Yes, but if there's anything different than what you said..." It was when I was questioning him. There was a bitterness in the blue eyes.

'What the hell is wrong with you?'

Then, my dad's lips opened.

"I guess I know what happened after your death.

Chapter 181

I jumped out of my bed at the amazing remark. And I asked my dad in a loud voice.

"The story... after my death?" Dad sighed as he stared at me gently. "It sounds like a long story to me, so you'll sit down first." He sat down with a puzzled look on his face.

'What the hell has happened since then?'

I'm holding myself back, but now I was pretty excited. I was wondering what happened after I died, but I gave up early thinking that I would never know the future.

'I was wondering what would have happened to Dad and Max, Liche and Mikhail...'

The world where the villainess who was obsessed with the hero died. I used to think everyone would have lived happily except me, but now I've changed my mind.

'At least, would Dad be sad?'

When I stared at my dad, his face was dark. Soon a somber voice came through his lips.

"After that, it was simply hell."

***

When his daughter was found guilty of assassination of the Princess... Regis was quite bewildered.

'She's never gonna do that. I'm sure it's someone's doing and set her up.'

Worst-case scenario where it's impossible to know who the killer is. In the meantime, Regis approached to secure his daughter's safety. At that time, the emperor sarcastically teased Regis as if he had waited.

<How do I believe in you! Isn't this the intention of trying to get into jail like this!>

in the worst case of this situation, his daughter may be condemned, or he may be manipulated by the emperor to harm her. Just imagining it was terrible, so Regis thought of a way to keep his daughter safe. And the way he found was to lock her up in the shadow's room.

'Yes, the Shadow's Room is at least safe from the others. And the sword will protect Juvel.'

It is a place where only direct imperial families can come and go, so only the emperor and the crown prince can touch the Juvelian now. And the Crown Prince was his only disciple.

'I'll have to ask Max a favor.'

However, the heartless and arrogant disciple refused to do so, and the time Juvelian was in prison for a long time. Regis became nervous and had no choice but to pull out a trump card.

<If you save and protect my daughter, I will help you punish the emperor.>

This meant that if his daughter was rescued, he would make a decision not to be manipulated by the emperor. However, Max, who did not know the meaning, accepted his teacher's offer as if he had waited.

<All right, I'll take care of your daughter.>

Even though Maximilian was a wrecked person, he was still a man of no pretense. Regis believed in his disciple and was waiting for his daughter to return safely.

<I'm sorry.>

But... it was his daughter's cold corpse that came back. It was also the dagger he gave to protect his daughter what is embedded in her chest. It was a moment when his whole world was shattered like a sand castle that Regis was struggling to protect. Soon, a desperate scream, feeling the taste of blood, bursts with a dry throat.

<No! Juvelian!>

'For what... have I endured?'

It was very resentful, the emperor who tried to put a leash on him by using Juvelian, Mikhail who abandoned his daughter, and his foolish self who had persevered in the name of protecting her so far.

'She's dead, why am I holding it in?'

There was no reason to tolerate it anymore. The moment he realized it, his vision spread and red and blood covered all over his body.

'There is no reason for the world to exist without my daughter.'

Drunken by madness, Regis began to slaughter what seemed to be a clap. To mourn the pitiful and mournful daughter, who was shunned by many and chose to commit suicide.

[Okay, you're finally my way! Hurry, my berserk, destroy the empire founded by Altair.]

Someone's crazy voice came in, but Regis, who had already fallen out of his mind, was bent on cutting down everything that had troubled his daughter.

<What? Why isn't the ring working?>

The voice of the terrified emperor. If Regis was out of his mind, he would have laughed. But now he had no reason.

<It's, it's my fault. So please save me...!>

Jakag!

It was even before the Emperor's words were over. His head in the crown fell to the floor and rolled in a shabby. Regis tried to trample it over and then stared blankly at the crown.

<Why do I want a crown? A princess has to wear a crown.>

When he remembered what his little daughter once said, Regis looked around with hazy eyes.

<Father, I really didn't do that!>

Here he ignored his daughter's pleas and led her to a cold prison. Regis fell apart, contorting his face painfully.

<Juvel, what have I done to you?>

After all, it was himself who failed to protect his daughter. Reminding him of the fact, Regis pounded the floor with his fist and cried and struggled. Then something dropped from his arms.

<This is...>

Regis grasped it tightly when he saw the jewels, the beautiful pendant with the twinkling of silver, that were exquisite in violet and blue. Before long, he remembered what his father had asked him to say.

<Regis, you might have thought you should just go, but in fact, this pendant has the ability to grant wishes. But since you have to risk your life, you'd better not make a wish for the rest of your life, right?>

Maybe it's a meaningless gamble and suicide. But the reality of living without Juvelian is as terrible as hell. Regis grabbed the pendant with faint hope.

<No, stop!>

Someone's cry came in, but it was after Regis made up his mind.

<Please, give my child a chance to live happily ever after.>

After finishing his words with a strong desire, Rejis lifted the sword and penetrated his chest.

[A person who transcends time, transcends. I will grant your wish, for you have been rewarded with your life worth the price.]

When he saw the pendant shining between and the faint voice coming in his ears and the blurred vision, Regis smiled and closed his eyes.

***

After the talk, my dad and I sat silent for a while.

'I didn't know... you'd make that choice.'

In the original book, I was emotional and sympathized with myself, and made an extreme choice. And as a result, the sorrow of my death had to be borne by my father who was left alone.

'But... it's a dream.'

It was then.

"I tried to think of it as a dream, but my emotions at the time were so painful that I decided. Not to make a choice that I'll regret this time."

'So you reacted differently to the original when I approached you.'

I thought for a moment, and soon I thought, stiffening my expression.

'Yes, it's not a dream like Dad said. Maybe it's a choice I've made before.'

The whole time I listened to the story, I thought this. Maybe the pendant gave me another chance as it came from my dad's dream. I inadvertently grabbed my dad's hand. I used to hesitate because I was afraid I'd be rejected even if I wanted to, but now I could hold this hand without hesitation. I said, staring him in the eye.

"If I had another chance... I would never leave my Daddy alone this time." My Dad looked at me with trembling eyes and soon smiled.

"I will... also protect you this time." I hugged my dad and cried.

"Yes, let's be happy this time. Dad." Then he hugged me tightly and replied.

"Yes... let's be happy."

***

At the late hour, Mikhail was heading to the emperor's office, preparing a false report that the Crown Prince's movements were unusual to provoke the emperor.

'With this, the Emperor will suspect the Crown Prince.'

And when he reached the door, he heard the voice of the emperor through the crevice of the door slightly open.

"Are you sure you want to do that? Yes? But..." Mikhail frowned at the emperor's words to himself.

'Have you finally lost your mind?'

He even thought that he was as greedy as crazy he was. It was then...

"Oh, of course I don't doubt Paphnil-nim! I wouldn't have let you go."

'Paphnil?'

Mikhail burst out laughing in silence at the name of the evil dragon he heard in the book and thought.

'You must be really crazy.'

Soon, however, Mikhail had no choice but to harden his face when he heard from the emperor that...

"I doubt that Regis' daughter is really a wizard. She's not good enough, except for a nice face. Oh, it's enough to use the ring without restrictions for a lifetime! That girl's mana is that powerful, right?" Angry Mikhail clenched his fist tightly.

'Don't make me laugh. You'll never touch her!'

As Mikhail turned his steps, Paphnil, who was talking to the emperor telepathically, smiled.

'This one's ready for the embers.'

It was when Paphnil was smiling with remorse.

"Well, there's a saying that magic makes you young again, so wouldn't I be able to use magic if I had magic?"

At the Emperor's question in a servile tone, Paphneel distorted his face.

'I can't believe you're a descendant of Altair... If it weren't for the Crown Prince, it would have been ruined.'

***

I had come to the palace to discuss how we would act when we are in the Foundation day. Meanwhile, I told Liche about my dad's dream.

"I see. Maybe the Empire..." The bitter response made me guess what she was thinking.

'Dad didn't talk about the others, but... Perhaps the Empire, at least the system, was close to annihilation.'

Then, Lache said.

"Well, there's a question."

"What is it?"

"I mean the voice in the commotion. Doesn't it look like Paphnil?" I nodded at her.

"I think so, too." I'm actually sure. He hated the Empire, and he was the only one I knew who would call the First Emperor Altair. At that time, Riche raised questions again.

"And I have another question. How did the Duke get out of the ring?" That was also a question I felt, so I put what I thought into my mouth.

"Liche, about that ring, maybe..." In the past, Dad once took off the control of the ring.

'That's when he tried to kill me.'

And in the future, when my dad wasn't under the control of the ring, it was when he lost his self to the grief that he lost me. I have been able to draw one conclusion from the past and the future.

"I feel like he's out of control when he's traumatized mentally. And Paphnil would have known that." I gnashed my teeth as I talked. The bottom line is that Paphnil deliberately drove my Dad crazy by digging a trap to destroy the Empire.

'I don't know the true criminal for the poisoning yet, but... I know for sure. The dark side of all this is Paphnil.'

It was the moment when the blurry outline of the enemy became clear.

Spoiler: Chapter 182-183

26. How to Prepare for Storms

I stood up after discussing with Liche in detail.

"I'll get going, then. Let's meet at the Foundation Day." For a moment when I nodded, Liche grabbed me in a hurry.

"Wait a minute, Juvelian.''

"Huh?'' When I stopped walking, she took her chances carefully.

"May I, by any chance, approach the emperor and see what it's like? Maybe the ring will choose me." I shook my head at her.

"It's a matter of time. It could be dangerous." In the original work, Liche was a powerful wizard, but she was not chosen by the ring. Therefore, it was highly likely that the results would not be different this time.

'And the emperor, daughter or son, is a heartless man who can harm for his own purposes.'

What if he finds out that Liche has enormous mana? I was afraid of what he would do to Liche.

'I'm worried about Paphnil there.'

He told me not to worry, but given the reaction of my Dad, who kept saying different things, it was highly likely that something had happened to Paphnil.

'I don't know what's going on, but it's definitely bad.'

For a moment, I stared at Liche, even though I was thinking about going home and taking a peek at my dad again. Three days from now, I was thinking of knowing the identity of the real culprit who tried to kill Licje and whether Paphnil was involved in this.

"Don't worry, let's get through the Foundation day safely first, okay?" At my words, Liche sighed and soon nodded.

"Okay." I hesitated as I tried to take a step. Neither has it been because I have yet to tell Liche that the Empress bought a poison. I looked at her and soon grabbed her hand and said.

"And do not contact the empress or the emperor until the Foundation day of the country is over. Okay?" To my request, Liche responded with a slow nod.

"Okay."

***

After Juvelian left, Beatrice stood at the closed door and sighed.

'Juvelian said we'd hand it over to Gunkuk first, but...'

<My father, he's being manipulated by the emperor's ring.>

At first glance, Juvelian's face, speaking of that, seemed indifferent, but sadness and bitterness were mixed in her moist eyes.

'You must be burning inside. Because your father is being held hostage by my father or because he has no care...'

Before long, Liche clenched his fist tightly.

'I want to help Juvelian.'

The ring said it chose a strong wizard as its owner. Although she herself in the book was not chosen by the ring, things were so different now.

'I think I was just angry in the story, and I was eaten by it, but now I've awakened my own strength.'

When she had made up his mind, Beatrice stare at Kaylen.

"Kay, I have something to say..." He said before she finished.

"I knew it." Beatrice gave strength to her eyes when he answered in a hard way.

"I've already made up my mind..." It was before she could finish her words.

"I know. So I'll follow you." Rather than disagreeing, he said he would be willing to follow her. At Kaylen's words, Beatrice took a big smile.

"Thank you." Then Kaylen blushed and grumbled.

"Don't thank me for this. It's only natural that I protect you." His confident words were too reassuring. When Beatrice hugged him, Kaylen blushed and hugged her too.

'More than anything, I have Kay.'

She heard in the book that she was Mikhail's lover, but she had a hunch. The fact that Mikhail just took advantage of her anger.

'I don't want to be treated as a means by him anymore.'

It was then.

"But, in what cause would you ask the Emperor to attend you? If he find you without any business, he'll find it strange because of the Emperor's nature." The corners of Beatrice's mouth went up because of Kaylen's question.

"I have a good idea." Facing Beatrice's face looking at him, Kaylen smiled. Because he had a glimpse of her heart.

"Okay, use me. My Princess*."

(the word Princess used at how Kaylen address Beatrice and how Regis used to address the little Juvelian is an endearment, it can be used as the daughter of King and Queen to, for example, Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, the only daughter of Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, that in Korean language, she will be officially addressed as 공주 which is the word for a Royal Princess and an endearment, but Beatrice on the other hand, is addressed as 황녀 which is the word for an Imperial Princess, please keep in mind that an Empire and a Kingdom)

***

As soon as I got home, I asked my dad to spare me some time and then I got lucky.

"Daddy, is there really nothing wrong with the Forbidden?" Then I saw my Dad's eyes shaking.

'As expected, something happened.'

The thought that my hunch was right also briefly, I grabbed my dad's hands and said.

"Please tell me honestly." The sound of a small sigh, and before long, words like cheers came out of my Dad's mouth.

"I couldn't tell you because I was worried about your performance. Actually... There was no Paphnil on the Forbidden." I opened my eyes wide at the words.

'There was no Paphnil in the Forbidden... No way, did anyone break the shackles?'

But if it had been so easy to untie the shackles, Paphnil would have been free sooner. Feeling strange, I asked my dad.

"Daddy, havebyou heard of another way to break the shackles?" My Dad shook his head.

"The first Duke of Floyen was an outstanding prosecutor, and he was also the person that the first emperor kept in check. The order to monitor Paphnil was actually one of the emperor's jealousies, but my father said we were the only guards, so we should keep a close watch on him." I was listening to my Dad for a moment, and there was a conjecture from that remark.

'Maybe, the first emperor may have devised another way to control Paphnil. If so...'

I clenched my fist tightly, recalling the face of the emperor, the only person who might have been in contact with Paphnil.

'Whatever you're up to, I'm sure we'll stop you this time.'

***

"As expected, Paphnil-nim, that will surely bring Max to his knees." The emperor's face turned bright after hearing many stories from Paphnil. Paphnil, who was watching the scene, yawned and said.

[Okay, I'll go back to the forbidden.]

"What? But you haven't taught me the magic yet."

'You idiot! If it's impossible to learn magic, it's useless to tell.'

It was when Paphnil was crumpled at the word magic.

"You didn't forget the medicine, did you? I helped you get out of the Forbidden." At the sight of the emperor, whose greed was endless, Paphnil looked angry.

'Stupid thing.'

The first emperor's seal was the only way to remove the shackles. It is to be opened using a pendant that comes down to the House of Floyen. If so, the simple answer would come back, asking if they could unlock the seal by manipulating the House of the Floyen family, but the problem was that it was impossible to unseal the seal using Kirke's ring. This is because the pendant, a relic of Kirke, responded only to the owner's original will. However, it was Paphnil's true body that was certainly here.

And why is it possible?

'You treat me like a leash-toothed son of a bitch, and you dare to say that I helped your body?'

This is because it was possible to adjust the length of the shackles with the orb inherited by the emperor of Ashett during the coronation. And this was also the consideration of the first emperor Altair to pamper the dragon, Paphnil, whenever necessary.

'You're the one who's gonna rip me off!'

Even for a while, Paphnil was patient. If he touch the Emperor, the shackles around his neck will tighten his neck.

'Yes, I'll hold it in. My purpose will come true soon.'

Soon Paphnil sighed and said.

[Don't you know? It's about the fact that what you did was temporary.]

"Yes, but..."

[If I don't rest from the Forbidden, I'll definitely be asleep on the Foundation day.]

At that remark the emperor opened his eyes thinly and soon smiled and said.

"Yes, sir. Then I'll see you on Foundation Day." Soon after, when Paphnil disappeared, the emperor lifted the corners of his mouth.

"Pft, that stupid dragon, I didn't know it would help." As long as he get his hands on youth, he'll be able to stay in power for longer. Then it wouldn't matter if he got rid of Maximilian, a son who doesn't listen.

'And the nobles will not dare to turn against me as a wizard!'

It was when the emperor was inflated in his dreams.

"Your Imperial Majesty, I have a report for you." At the sound of the servant's voice, the emperor opened his mouth with a straight face.

"Come in." The corners of the emperor's mouth, hearing the report soon, drew lines.

'Regis' daughter has been hanging out with Beatrice a lot lately. It's going well as planned. And I feel like Mikhail is doing what I want.'

He added to the emperor's satisfaction.

"And a moment later, Lord Mikhail asked me to tell Your Imperial Majesty that he has something to report."

"Yes, I see." It was when the emperor nodded.

"Your Imperial Majesty the Emperor, Her Imperial Highness the Princess, is asking for an audience." The emperor twisted the corners of his mouth when he heard the servant's voice outside the door.

'What's going on with her all of a sudden?'

Judging from the behavior of the princess recently, it was suspicious that she suddenly came to visit even though she had nothing to visit.

'Yes, pretending to be a caring father would be easier to divert the attention of the nobility. I think it'd be good to ask her what she mean.'

The emperor replied, with a bright color in his mind.

"Welcome her!" When the door of the Oval Office opened, the captain of the Self-Defense Force, Kaylen, along with Beatrice, followed behind.

'That man is somehow familiar.'

For a moment the Emperor was conscious of his daughter, who was staring at him, when he saw Kaylen standing silently.

"Welcome, Beatrice!" Beatrice smiled at the emperor's gentle calling of her name.

"Are you well? Father."

"Of course. But what brings you here?" At the question Beatrice looked back at Kaylen, the captain of her Self-Defense Force, who was standing behind her.

"I just... wanted to get permission to marry Sir Kaylen, my captain of the Self Defense Force." The words struck amazement in the eyes of the emperor.

'Wait? Of course he's a child of a useful family, but it's so sudden?'

It was when the emperor was busy calculating with two strong forces, financial and armed forces.

Saengkeurang!

The sound of the gold tray rolled over the floor. There was a sense of bewilderment in the eyes of the emperor, who looked toward the door where the sound was made. Mikhail had a ferocious look next to the dismayed young servant.

'Oh, my son-in-law is the one who brought him in.'

"Come on, wait a minute..." At the moment when the Emperor urgently called Mikhail, Beatrice raised her foot and kissed Kaylen. When the emperor saw her, his face crumpled mercilessly.

'What is she doing in front of her father?'

At that time, Beatrice took off her lips and smiled.

"We're in love, the two of us. Father."

The emperor frowned at his daughter, who spoke confidently in front of him.

'Beatrice, that thing's been locked up, so your head's a little off.'

And for a moment, the emperor grinned as he alternated between Mikhail and Kaylen.

'But there's a good bunch of them.'

Soon the emperor weighed the two young men and stared at Kaylen gently.

'If you have money, you can buy force.'

Kailen's father, Perdal, did not deal with the sword, but no one thought he was weak. This is because Perdal had the second most powerful knights after Floyen and Hessen. And the reason it was possible was because of the huge amount of money that they could bring in the best talents.

'I heard Hessen was also indebted to Perdal.'

And when the weight was tilted completely to one side, the emperor rose up and approached Kaylen.

"Right, do you also have the Princess in mind?" To the question, Kaylen replied, blushing.

"Of course! Her Imperial Highness is the loveliest woman in the world!" The Emperor smiled at his naive response.

'Yeah, I think this guy's easier to handle. And Mikhail...'

It seemed certain that he was jealous, given that he felt hostility from the way he glared at Kaylen with a stiff face.

'Yes, I've been coming too far.'

The emperor gazed at Mikhail and spoke attentively.

"Sir Mikhail, can you wait for a while? As you can see, I think I should have a conversation with the Princess." Mikhail clenched his teeth and soon smiled back.

"Okay. I'll see you later." When Mikhail left the office, Beatrice stared at the emperor. Whether he had finished weighing, his eyes were full of favor toward Kaylen.

'Okay, the conflict was successful, so...'

"Come and sit down." Looking at the emperor who offered her a seat with a caring face, Beatrice smiled with a smile of remorse.

'Now I'm going to have to look at the ring.'

Over here, her red eyes headed for the ring that was fastened to her father's left hand.

***

Back in his office, Mikhail clenched his teeth tightly.

'You're not even weighing me with that kind of guy?'

In fact, it didn't matter anymore whether the princess stuck with Kaylen or not. He already knew it was impossible to embrace her. However, at least the emperor who used him should not have such an attitude. He should have crushed Perdal's stupidity in front of the impeccable Princess and established his own authority.

'You treat me like a hound? Damn you! I'll tear you to pieces and throw you for the dog's food!'

For a moment, Mikhail laughed savagely, even burning his hatred for the emperor.

'Yes, the emperor's use value has fallen, so now I'll have to go to find that woman.'

***

Beatrice longed to see the ring on the emperor's left hand with her red eyes.

'Ring, the wizard you've been hoping for has come. Come on to me!'

But without any reaction from the ring, Beatrice creased the forehead slightly.

'Why the hell aren't you responding to me? I would be a much better master than the emperor!'

It was when she was staring at the ring so tenaciously.

"So this father wants you to choose the groom carefully, Beatrice." At the sound of the emperor's voice calling his name, Beatrice looked up. And to the emperor's observant gaze at him, Beatrice replied with a sheepish smile.

"Yes, I will."

"Yes, then you should go now." Beatrice bit her lips and stared at the ring again.

'Oh, I think it'll work out if I touch it.'

Soon Beatrice stared at the emperor. A man who pretends to be kind, but can't hide his cold eyes. It was actually not easy to be nice to him. But Beatrice plucked up courage.

'For Jubelian!'

Beatrice approached the emperor and grabbed his hand, then stroked the ring with a deep desire in her heart.

'Please, acknowledge that your master is me.'

But there was still no run reaction on the ring.

"Beatrice? Why did you grab my hand all of a sudden?" With the rather quivering voice of the emperor, Beatrice slowly took her hands off, expressing disappointment.

"Thank you for thinking of me." By any chance, she saw the emperor, but he was just showing off that he's a loving father.

"Yes*. Come on and go ahead."

(what the emperor said here was "그래, 녀석." which literally means "Yes, dude/guy." which made me a bit doubtful at using it. 녀석 is an impolite term to address a man, sometimes, it can be used as an endearment for a boy too)

'Yes, to you, I'm no different from a servant's offering to take you in.'

For a moment, Beatrice smiled and acted brightly, as she looked at his eyes with a pesky look.

"Then I'll go back. Stay healthy." Instead of answering, the emperor smiled and waved. Soon after, Beatrice, who had left the imperial chamber, returned to her room and sighed loudly.

'In the end, I'm not the owner of the ring, was I?'

When Beatrice entered her room, someone wrapped her downcast shoulders.

"It's okay. Didn't we exclude the ring from our plan in the first place? It's a gain if you get it, and it doesn't matter if you don't get it. So don't forget." Beatrice smiled at Kaylen's sweet words.

"That's right." Then Kaylen hugged Beatrice from behind and sighed.

"By the way, it hurts my pride. I can't believe I'm being weighed with him like this."

"You were already expecting that the Emperor would." As Beatrice raised her hand and stroked his cheek, Kaylen closed his eyes and said, approaching.

"But... I'm obviously a great man!" The whining was so cute that Beatrice laughed.

'He must have hurt your pride.'

Then, a low voice came in.

"I'm afraid he'll take you away from me." He looked unfamiliar. Because Beatrice's always seen him, he was confident and cheerful.

'Oh, I shouldn't have done anything. I couldn't even count on Kay's heart.'

At that thought Beatrice turned and hugged him.

"Kay, are you afraid you won't be able to marry me?" Kaylen blushed and nodded slowly at the pointless question.

"Yes." At that moment, Beatrice wrapped his cheek.

"Kay." Facing that hot stare, Kaylen felt his whole body getting hotter and hotter. Just before turning into a beast, Kaylen managed to hold on to his reason and shake off her grasp.

"Li, Liche. I'll leave you to look around..." Even before his words was finished, Beatrice grabbed Kaylen's hand. Then she pressed her lips down on his wrist and whispered.

"Bring me to you." Looking at her trembling scarlet eyes for a moment, a fascinating smile quickly formed on her face. "If you do, I'll get rid of that anxiety." At that moment, Kailen felt a burst of pent-up desire.

"No regrets." Kaylen, who had finished talking, rushed like a beast. Beatrice put her arm around his neck and left herself entirely to Kaylen.

***

Late at night, I was standing on the balcony giving up a sigh.

'Nothing's going to happen that day, right?'

I already have a lot of measures in place, but I couldn't help being anxious. The original story was as horrible as hell.

'If there's one thing wrong with Liche...'

A weak thought for a moment, I shook my head.

'It's all right. If I think it's weird, I'll go first!

It was then.

"What are you doing without sleeping?" I almost screamed at Max's sudden appearance.

"You, you scared me!" Max replied with a sly mouth when I pinned at him.

"Sorry. I didn't know you'd be awake." That too, for a moment, I could see why he showed up at this late hour.

"I didn't know you'd be awake... You didn't come here to sneak a look at me sleeping, did you?" Max avoided looking instead of answering.

'As expected, I was right.'

And for a moment I was staring at Max, and I soon I sighed.

'Yes, I guess you missed me today because I just came home after saying hello.'

The situation was understood, so I was a little soft-hearted.

"Max." I said, reaching out to him who was looking at me. "Come here." At my call, he hugged me like he was about to jump in and kissed me everywhere on my face. I was embarassed, but because I knew that this was his charm instead of asking an apology, I accepted everything instead of pushing him away.

'Do you think you're getting spoiled more and more?'

It was when I was being kissed while being hugged by him. He whispered in my ear.

"Why didn't you sleep till this late hour?"

"Oh, I just can't sleep..." Nothing has happened yet. There was no need to give an honest answer to him. I tried to make a decent effort, but...

"Lies." He knew like a demon*.

(*like a demon: in the manner of being amazingly precise and accurate in action or guessing)

'Are you quick-witted at my business?'

When I smiled awkwardly without saying anything, he said, pinching me slightly on the cheek.

"Your face right now is so cool."

'No matter how it is, he's so cool.'

It was when I was pouting at the words. Max hugged me and smiled.

"No, I'll put you to sleep." Recognizing that his remark meant sleeping here, I asked with widened eyes.

"What? But..." It was before my words were over. After he put me down on my bed, he lay beside me and stared at me.

"Juvelian." My name was nice to hear in his low voice. Though he usually felt handsome, Max had a strange vibe today.

'Yes, should I say he look a little bit drowsy?'

As I was gazing at his face, he touched my cheek and said.

"You worry too much." Soon Max pressed his mouth down on my cheek. It was like a kiss from a parent to a child.

'Come to think of it, I haven't received it from my dad since I was a kid, but Max has done it a lot lately.'

It was when I was smiling like that. He stared at me and said.

"Don't worry, I'll protect you." I was convinced of what he was like to say. I'm sure this guy will really protect me. I lay on Max's arm, kissed him on his cheek and whispered in a small voice.

"Good night, Max." I couldn't sleep, but mysteriously, my eyes were shut.

Spoiler: Chapter 184

At night, the emperor smiled, staring at the ring shining in the dark.

'That's what Paphnil said.'

<For the time being, wear a fake ring. Because the princess is aiming for your ring.>

The emperor quickly grasped the ring and sharpened it.

'I didn't expect that girl to be staring at my ring. Is she a wizard?'

As expected, even his children were not reliable. For this reason, the emperor agonized over how to deal with Beatrice after she went to the Foundation day.

'Yes, we can use Mikhail to deal with Regis and get the mana of Regis' daughter to become a wizard.'

The emperor soon recalled what Paphnil had said.

<Looking young? Ah, the more mana you have, the easier it is to turn your body back to its peak. Think of being a transcendent as a similar principle.>

'And the more mana there is, the better.'

Soon the emperor's red eyes dimmed with madness.

'Beatrice, if you filial piety at the end, there will be no room. You will be able to live a life worthwhile.'

***

She think she fell asleep deeply, but her eyes opened earlier than she thought. Beatrice was involuntarily trying to get up and then gave up.

'I can't get up because my whole body's numb.'

Kaylen was as considerate as he could, but the pain she suffered for the first time was more painful than she thought. So she hung on crying, but she had no regrets.

'Tomorrow's gonna be a disaster.'

The reason why the emperor was able to run a so-called wedding business with a daughter was because she had no experience. But now that they've crossed the line, Beatrice was going to say she'll take charge of Kaylen.

'Maybe Mother will be disappointed if she finds out?'

She was able to shake off her weak affection to the emperor, but she couldn't do that to her mother.

'I'll have to tell you later. I'll give you a gift that I prepared for my little brother.'

When she thought of the gift in her drawer, Beatrice smiled pleasantly.

'That's good, though. I was personally offended by being involved with Mikhail.'

When she was smiling, she flinched at the twitching pain.

'The Foundation day of our country is two days away. That's a big deal. How can I even dance.'

With a small sigh, Beatrice stared wonderfully at Kaylen's sleeping face next to her.

'You have this innocent face in your sleep. When I opened my eyes, there was no such beast*.'

(*the beast used at the other chapters was like "evil beast" or something, while here, it's like a beastly animal or a person who is very violent or barbarous)

Her blushing face, recalling the violent moment, soon she had a bitter look on her face.

'In the end, the ring didn't respond to me.'

While sighing softly, Beatrice recalled something strange while thinking of the ring.

'Now that I think about it, I don't think I felt a thing on the ring either.'

At that time, Beatrice was surprised by the hand wrapping her waist.

"Ka, kay?" Then he yawned and asked a slow question.

"Why aren't you sleeping?"

"Oh, I was worried about the Foundation day of our country." Kaylen smiled and kissed her on her cheek.

"Liche, there's a way to make you forget your worries." His low whisper gave her goose bumps. Beatrice asked him, shivering.

"What is it?" At that moment, Kay groped Beatrice's waist and laughed languidly.

"Let's do it again, shall we?"

***

Meanwhile, the empress opened her eyes in shock at the words of her guard knight.

"What? Beatrice told His Imperial Majesty that she wanted to marry the Marquis of Perdal's esteemed son?" She hoped to deny it, but affirmation came back from the guard knight.

"Yes." After a long silence, the empress opened her mouth.

"Everyone back away." The knight and all attendants withdrew to the order. It was only after the breathtaking silence was over, that the Empress trembled.

'To say that you want to marry to the emperor by choosing a marriage partner without consulting me... You too!'

<Your Imperial Majesty the Empress, you want me to be your power? Hahaha, would I not know if there was a prince who could be elected as the next emperor, you are reckless.>

Marquis Perdal was a writer who ignored her, who could not have a son in the first place. So his son was excluded from the candidate for her groom.

'You will marry the son of such a man!'

Unable to contain her anger, she murmured a little.

"How did I raise you, Beatrice...?!"

Angry soars. And she was afraid. Like a husband who turned away from her, she thought that her daughter might turn away from her too. On the one hand, she and her child were worried about the behavior of her daughter, who seemed to be out of concern.

'Baby, what do you want your sister to do?'

She caressed her belly with tears falling down her eyes. The baby was calm, as if he had guessed how his mother felt.

'Oh baby, you're the only comfort I have.'

Then, she heard a knock. She had clearly told them not to disturb her, but she was irritated by the act of knocking on her door senselessly.

"Who is it?" Then a low voice came from outside the door.

"It's Captain Mikhail." In the past, she thought she was the man of her daughter, so she had a good feeling, but now he's a dog that she doesn't want to see. The empress yelled in an angry voice.

"Get out of here right now!" However, when the door was opened after breaking that order, she did what she did and hardened her face. "Why do you dare come in here? Hey...!" It was before her words were finished.

"I'm afraid no one will come even if you call. Sadly, your dogs will be held captive by my men."

"Lady-in-waiting, answer!"

She called the lady-in-waiting, but none of the words seemed to appear to her.

'If I had known I would suffer such shame, I would never have sent out the knights...!'

The empress, engulfed in uncontrollable anger, trembled, but Mikhail opened his mouth without concern.

"I'm here to ask about the source of the poison found in the Empress's Palace, Your Imperial Majesty." The words whitened the queen's face like a wax figure.

'How did that guy notice the poison?'

For a moment, the empress rolled her head.

'No, you can't recognize a drug that looks like water. Maybe he's just soundibg me out.'

Soon the empress strongly denied it.

"Poison, what a fool! I'll kill you for this kind of slander!" When Mikhail heard that, he lifted one of corner of his mouth. Soon he took out a small piece of paper and spread it out in front of the empress.

"When the Little Duke Floyen finds something to drink, you will hand her a glass with poison. You don't know what this is?" Of course she know know. Because it was an order she gave. But the moment she admit it, Mikhail will find her with a weakness. For that reason, the empress replied with pretense.

"Why are you trying to blackmail me with such a forged document?" Mikhail smiled coolly at the remark.

"Forged document... That's funny." Before long, Mikhail stiffened his face and looked forward to living. "Wouldn't you, when the cup was given to the Little Duke of Floyen, and when she fall, going to impose conditions on the Crown Prince in exchange for the antidote?"

"What, what are you talking about! Poison? Who dare you to...!" The Empress tried to deny it, but Mikhail cut her words in a bloody voice.

"The Crown Prince already knows this fact."

"What?" Mikhail raised the tail of his mouth as he stared at the empress, who was crumpling her face as if she was in astonishment.

"Because I warned the Little Duke of Floyen. Of course do you think she didn't tell the Crown Prince?" Mikhail smiled at the appearance of the empress, who smeared her lips instead of answering.

"I'll help you. However, if you grant my terms."

"... What are the terms?" At her blunt remark, Mikhail said, tearing the corners of his mouth open.

"Feed the poison to your daughter." At the end of his word, the face of the empress was horribly distorted.

"What nonsense are you talking about?" No matter how much she hate her, she was her child. There's no way she could have been insensitive to the idea of poisoning her own daughter. "I'll let you go!" The empress shuddered and threw a vase at Mikhail. Ironically, however, Mikhail easily avoided the vase.

Jjaekang!

The vase that hit the wall broke with a crash. At the same time, the empress rushed at Mikhail.

"Get lost!" Mikhail held her fingernails towards him and held a smile while holding the rushing empress's wrist.

"Don't get excited. Shouldn't you be thinking about the baby in your belly? He'll be the next emperor."Frighteningly to say that, the empress stopped her tantrums.

"The next emperor..." Mikhail said softly, staring at her in the middle as if out of her mind.

"Think about it. With the antidote, your daughter won't die, will she?" Soon, the corners of her mouth slowly rolled.

* * *

Early in the dawn, early in the morning, Max sighed.

'You'll be sleeping well without me, right?'

He kept feeling guilty because he promised to be with hee, and he left after confirming that Juvelian was sleeping deeply.

'You'd be disappointed if I wasn't next to you when you opened you eyes.'

For a moment, Max stared at Fresia, who was kneeling her one knee in front of him.

"Is it ready?" Fresia replied, raising the corners of her mouth.

"Perfect. Don't worry." When Max was trying to say something, someone called him.

"My lord! Long time no see!" A voice filled with emotion, Max unintentionally looked at the main character, and immediately crumpled his face.

"You, why are you here?" The chilly reaction made the man sad.

"I owe you that my Lord, so shouldn't I come?" Then Max sighed and said.

"I guess I told you to take care of your mother."

"But my mother said that it is impossible not to repay your grace." At the man's stubborn remarks, Max grinds his teeth.

"If you, who should have died, even stand out from the emperor, I will be in trouble, Count Pyrex." And the man grinned.

"Hahaha, it's been a long time since I've already lost my title, so feel free to call me Hampton." In response, Max pointed to the temple to see if he had a headache. Whether or not he knew the inside, Hampton said confidently. "Don't worry, I'll stop the emperor from doing anything at the risk of my life."

Chapter 185

Upon hearing the report from the chief, the emperor crumpled up his forehead.

"What, what, how? Beatrice. She slept with her Self-defense Force Captain."

"Yes." After that, the emperor felt a headache from his daughter's troublesome behavior until the end.

'What a shame, you don't listen to me!'

Before long, the emperor said in a cold voice.

"Wouldn't I have ordered the attendants in the palace of the Princess to join him? If it could get into her ears..." At that time, the voice of the servant came from outside the door.

"Your Majesty, the Marquis of Perdal is asking for an audience." The emperor squeezed his teeth, thinking that there was something to come.

'First of all, I was going to have a means to control that guy, and I weighed it with Hessen and tried to tear it off!'

For a while, the emperor took a deep breath and thought.

'I have to deal with that rascal right now.'

***

Max wasn't next to me when I opened my eyes. I thought...

'Did he go away like this?'

For a moment, I raised myself with a giggled.

'Well, thanks to you, I have the courage to prepare for tomorrow.'

I didn't want to show it, but I'm actually worried about it...

<Father, I really didn't do it!>

Because I was afraid that the future would become a reality. But when I think about it, a lot has changed since then.

<Hang in there.>

First, I knew the truth of my father who I thought he had abandoned me.

<You! Did you end up trying to hurt her, too?>

I broke up with my lover, Mikhail, and became friends with his lover, Liche.

<Stop!>

I fell in love with Max, whom I was afraid of.

'There's so much change, there can't be the same ending. So I'll be able to pass the National Foundation day safely.'

I smiled with such optimism. But that's also for a while.

'Still, it's better to be prepared just in case.'

For that reason, I gave instructions to our vassals.

* * *

After dealing with the Marquis of Perdal, the emperor was drinking with a weary face.

<I think it is an honor to have my scarce child in Your Imperial Majesty's eyes. But Your Imperial Majesty, on the one hand, I am afraid. My son would not have been able to refuse because he became a subordinate of Her Imperial Highness the Princess, but I am also concerned that there might be coercion.>

The appearance of Marquis Perdal, who secretly criticizes him while pretending to be a sinner, was abominable. He tried to persuade him, but...

<Ah, I am really afraid. If Her Imperial Highness the Princess is playing with my son... I have no face to see my wife. Please kill me rather, Your Imperial Majesty!>

The emperor eventually lowered the tax quota of the Perdal estate in the name of consolation.

'You damn bastard! How dare you come to me for a wedding trade?'

It was when the emperor was enraged, remembering the Marquis of Perdal.

[You look bad. What's going on?]

When asked by Paphnil, the emperor sighed.

"It's no big deal. It's just... A headache happened."

[Maybe, is there a disruption to our plan?]

In response, the emperor stroked his hand and said.

"Ah, that's not it. It's private." Beatrice will never marry anyone anyway. He was thinking of absorbing her mana when this was over.

'Yes, even a man like that idiot would not want to cheat in front of a powerful wizard.'

It was when the emperor had such an idea.

[Did the princess come to see you while I was away?]

The emperor replied with a nod.

"Yes, as Paphnil-nim said. She really covets my ring." At the emperor's words, Paphnil replied with a smile.

[She's as I expected.]

To be a strong wizard, it would take the help of Paphnil, so the emperor flattered him.

"I'm confident that I can use my head well, but I can't pursue the wisdom of the great dragon." Then Paphnil stared at the emperor with red eyes. The emperor's smiling face collapsed in the chilly gaze as if looking at the beauty.

'Even if you pretend to be human, you're still a monster.'

He was convinced. Had it not been for a leash, that dragon would have killed him by treating him as a waste.

'But if he do that, he's just in a situation where he is tied with a leash.'

The emperor replied with a loud smile.

"Anyway, thanks to Paphnil nim, Foundation day is relieved." Instead of responding to his words, Paphnil stared at the ring on the emperor's finger.

'Why is that monster looking at my ring?'

The emperor flinched without knowing and covered the ring with the other hand.

As a result, Papnil's pupils sagged vertically.

[But, it seems that the mana of the ring is weak. It still seems not enough to control Regis.]

The emperor sharpened his teeth at the words of the mana of the ring.

'I don't have enough magical power even though I gave up the life of a wizard...'

He was suddenly nervous, but Paphnil, who could never be serious, was watching. So the emperor pretended to be calm and kept up.

"Well, tomorrow, the magic of the ring won't be full enough? And Papnil-nim decided to help me." At the Emperor's answer, Paphnil said, shook his head.

[You have to be prepared in case you don't know. It might happen that there will be something that Regis will use.]

Paphnil said again at the appearance of the emperor who was sulking.

[I'll put in the mana and return it straight away, so be assured. If you're suspicious, you can use the Orb.]

The suggestion deepened the emperor's red eyes.

'Yes, it would be okay if I use the Orb as soon as that monster wants to do a crap.'

Even with that thought for a moment, the emperor lifted the orb and gently handed the ring to Papnil. Then Papnil put a deep smile on his lips.

[It's been a long time.]

In time, something like a red haze from his palm was sucked into the ring.

'That's great. To be able to embody mana as visible.'

The emperor's eyes were amazed when he first saw the manifestation of mana in his life. Soon, Paphnil smiled and handed the ring to the emperor.

[This would be enough to control Regis.]

When the ring came back to his grasp, the emperor smiled and put on the ring. In time he smiled.

'Okay, tomorrow everyone will have a knee under me.'

The emperor was regarded as Ashett's worst monarch because he had almost lost the system to other countries. However, he will soon be recorded in the history books as a powerful wizard who succeeded Altair. The emperor smiled with a happy smile, thinking that his humiliation was over.

***

After finishing the decoration, Beatrice was sighing in the mirror.

<I am grateful for Your Imperial Highness the Princess' heart, but my son's body was insufficient as Your Imperial Highness' companion. I hope you'd rather pay attention to it.>

'I didn't know you'd be so opposed.'

The advent of an unexpected obstacle left her feeling hopeless.

'But it's not something to worry about right now.'

Beatrice soon looked at herself.

'This is good enough.'

The elegant yet calm atmosphere did not at least seem irresponsible.

'Although it will be difficult to talk to Marquis of Perdal, it's important that I look like someone who won't abandon Kay.'

It was when Beatrice was looking in the mirror with a serious face.

"Your Imperial Highness, are you ready?" Beatrice lightened up at Keilen's voice outside the door.

"Yes, I'll go out." When she opened the door, she could see Kaylen, dressed to the fullest.

'The formal dress also suits you very well.'

He stood out even when he was wearing a knight's uniform, which was not fancy. Although he was already strikingly handsome, he was more handsome when he was neatly dressed.

"Today... You look so good." Kaylen answered her remark with a blush.

"That's a relief. Shall we go then?" Instead of answering, Beatrice held his hand and smiled.

***

Waiting at the entrance of the banquet hall, I stared at the banquet hall. The people who quietly laughed and talked looked very good. It's like a clear sky the day before the typhoon.

'But I shouldn't relax.'

Soon afterward, when we entered the room together, people familiarly praised us.

"Today, the Little Duke and the Duke are entering together."

"She look like a beautiful woman." For a moment I was smiling at the words, I stared at my Dad. The appearance of my dad scattering the banquet hall with a bitter glance seemed somewhat awkward.

'Yes, of course you are worried.'

I whispered, holding my dad's hand tight.

"Daddy, don't worry too much. Today we're going to pass without a hitch." My lingering words made my dad smile.

"Yes, we will be happy." Somehow I got choked up. That means my dad and I have been longing for a long time. When I was about to nod my head.

"Her Imperial Highness the Princess Beatrice Evelyn Ashett enters with the Marquis Perdal's Kaylen Lionel Perdal." At the entrance, I stared and smiled. The two people walking together certainly got along well.

'But since Lord Kaylen is the Captain of Liche's Self-defense Force, people may think he's just an escort.'

At that time, I made an eye contact with Beatrice. At her nod I said to my dad.

"Daddy, I'm going to rest on the terrace for a while." My Dad gave me a sharp look, but nodded as usual.

"Yes, of course."

***

Entering the terrace, I tried to lean against the railing. Then, someone called my name.

"Juvelian." How good would it be if it was Max? The man in front of me was not Max.

"Mikhail, what are you doing here...?" When I spoke shivering, Mikhail said urgently.

"Don't be scared! I didn't mean to hurt you. Just because I'm worried about you." I stared at him with a frown upon him.

"What? What does that mean?" In my question he caught me in a passionate eye. A pleading voice that came out soon.

"I can't tell you what's going on because it's not clear yet. Only... I'm afraid you'll get caught up in it."

'I knew this would happen.'

Last time I heard about poison, I had a hunch. Because if I was alone in the banquet hall, I thought Mikhail would approach me and tell me something else. But when he didn't tell me the details, I sighed and said.

"Why? You don't have to worry about me."

"I can't just wait and see!" As soon as I was surprised by the voice and thought about running out, Mikhail kneeled his knee in front of me. Then he looked up at me with mournful eyes. "Because I still care about you." The moment I heard that, I had goose bumps all over my body.

'You didn't mean to say that.'

I wanted to tell him to get out of my sight right away. But if I do that, I will fail to sound him out.

"You don't even explain what's going on, but you believe it's for me?" When I asked him so, he raised his voice.

"You don't know anything...!"

Suddenly I thought of Max. He was originally a self-centered man, but he didn't ignore me and was trying to respect me. What about Mikhail, on the other hand?

"Shut up and listen to me!" He tried to cut me out of love and asked me for obedience.

'I, I've been such a fool. You used to take that for granted.'

I didn't feel the value of being with him anymore, so I tried to turn around soon. It was then...

"Juvelian, it's because I'm worried you'll get hurt when you get to know the whole truth." I gave me a big smile and glared at him.

"You don't have to worry about it. I'll take care of my own business."

When I finished speaking, I walked toward the entrance without regret. I was hitting the defense wall with magic in case he was going to do anything wrong, but Mikhail did nothing to me.

"This is my last greeting. Please don't mind me, Mikhail." The moment I was about to leave the door, Mikhail said to me.

"Don't trust anyone. Even if it's a family or a lover." It was his clear intention not to trust anyone, citing family and lovers.

'You're trying to drive a wedge between me and my precious people.'

I was honestly angry, but I didn't want to have any more scuffles with him, so I opened the terrace door. At that moment, I saw a familiar face looking at this side nearby.

'Daddy, I told you not to worry...'

I was smiling like that for a while. I shook my eyes when I saw someone next to him.

'Oh, why is Max here already?'

Max's role in the Foundation day today was quite important. As the next emperor, he was going to visit the grave of Altair, the founding emperor, and then look around the system with the emperor.

'That's why I purposely tested Mikhail during Max's absence...'

Max's handsome face looking at me was full of discontent. I was sighing for a moment because I thought I'd hear another word, but I soon mumbled with a smile.

"No, I believe my person."

***

Mikhail gritted his teeth and stared at Juvelian's back.

'Dumb girl! How could she not listen to me even when I already said this much...'

He wanted to grab that slender wrist right away and embrace it in his arms. But the reason he didn't do that...

'If I hold it in, she'll walk into my arms on her own.'

Mikhail stared at the Duke of Floyen and the Crown Prince approaching Juvelian.

'Now all the annoying obstacles will be gone at once...

Thinking about it, Mikhail raised the corners of his mouth.

* * *

"Juvelian, are you okay?" I thought he would say something, but for the sake of other people, all he had to do was ask extra questions. I replied with a smile on my face, thinking that it was a relief.

"Yes, I'm fine. But why did you come so early?" Max's eyes sharpened at my question.

"There was an abnormality in the tomb of the Founding Emperor."

"Abnormality? What dobyou mean by that..."

"Suddenly, the fire of the sunlight on the altar rises fiercely. His Imperial Majesty thought it was ominous and decided not to inspect the system." And Max's face, which he said, was filled with discontent.

'It's probably because you haven't been able to see the Founding Emperor.'

There is a strong backlash against the emperor across the country. And perhaps because of his inferiority complex, the emperor was rarely giving him a chance. For that reason, Max had placed agitators throughout the system to sway the emperor.

"Don't be disappointed. It's just a matter of time anyway. And today, it's National Foundation Day." As I whispered, he smiled and stared at me.

"Shall we dance in that sense?" When I was about to nod my head in yes, someone cut in on our conversation.

"Juvelian-nim.''

"Oh, Rose." And for a moment, I hardened my face. That's because Rose's expression was unusually serious. "What's the matter?" She nodded to me and whispered to me.

"Just a while ago, I saw the Princess and her captain, Lord Kaylen, following the knights of the Empress. But the atmosphere was so bad..." And I opened my eyes in amazement.

<Don't worry. I'll be careful on my own.>

I couldn't understand why you said that and followed the knights of the Empress. But that too, for a moment, I realized my mistake.

'Yes, Liche doesn't know that the Empress is the one who poisoned her...'

At the time of her determination, Rose was seen staring at me.

"Thanks for noticing, Rose." She said, nodding her head at my greeting.

"You're welcome. And if there's anything I can do for you, please let me know. I'm on Juvelian-nim's side." And I felt my heart moving.

"Thank you." When Rose left, I stared at Max.

"Max, we..." It was before I even finished talking. Max shook his head and whispered.

"She said she'd take care of her own business. Let's trust and wait."

"What? But..."When I was about to rebuke Max, I realized something and hardened my face.

'Did you tell her?'

And Max lowered his eyes slightly. A low voice that came before long.

"No, she came first and asked. Where did Mikhail say the poison came from? So I told her the truth." I clenched my fist at the answer. Because I couldn't imagine the pain she would have had alone.

'Are you okay? Liche.'

* * *

"Everyone get out. I want to say something with my daughter."

And Beatrice turned his head. Kaylen, who was standing behind her, was asking with his eyes.

'It's all right. Don't worry.'

As Beatrice nodded with that thought, Kaylen sighed and whispered.

"Be careful." Eventually, the two men and the empress kept arsenic in the room.

"After playing commoners, he looks like he's easy to handle unlike his father. Yeah, he's like an obedient dog." Beatrice clenched her fist as she looked at the empress.

'Yes, as expected, you called me to hurt me.'

Today, the empress informed her that she would not attend the National Foundation under the pretext of pregnancy. The Empress' complexion was obviously not good, but Beatrice's eyes staring at her were as cold as ice. That's why the Empress' eyes were so spiteful that she called her daughter because she was sick.

"I hear you're ill.'' The empress nodded slowly at her daughter's words.

"Can't you see?" Then Liche bit her lips and stared at the empress with tearful eyes.

"Why'd you do that?''

"I don't know what you're talking about.''

"Poison. Who the hell did you bring it for?'' She hoped the Empress would deny it.

"Floyen's Little Duke, what a cheap mouth. If you keep it near you, she'll tell others about you someday, so be careful." The words from those dry lips were ridiculing. Liche twisted her face.

"In the end, it was you."

'The person who poisoned me, framed Juvelian.'

Her heart was stuffy and her whole body was hurt as if she had been hit. Liche swallowed the agony and said calmly.

"What's your purpose to do that?''

"My purpose... Well, you wouldn't understand... Kah!" At that moment, the empress stopped talking and bloodshot. And surprised by the look, Beatrice approached her and soon rolled up her fist and said.

"Speak! If you think of me as your daughter!" Then the empress took a sneer and said.

"Well, you don't expect me to be your mother, do you?" At the words, Liche shook her head, shaking her head.

"No, I wouldn't have come to visit you knowing everything." Soon tears filled her red jeweled eyes.

"I just... If my mother sincerely begged Maximilian for forgiveness, I and my three younger siblings* would live happily. But my mother... You're using us both to satisfy your self-interest!" The empress clenched her fist and then laughed.

(*I conclude that her Mom did abortion when she found out she's carrying a girl)

"You are such a wicked daughter to try to teach this mother. So you're gonna have to take the punishment." The empress raised her voice, glaring at her daughter. "Keep Beatrice in the Shadow's Room with her knight!" As she tried to spell it out, Beatrice realized something.

'Can't believe you're going to lock me in the shadow's room...'

Beatrice looked at the empress with trembling eyes and opened her mouth.

"Mother, I can't...? " At that moment, the empress vomited blood again.

<It's a symptom of poison... My mother died after repeating bloodshot.>

"Be quiet there until it's safe."

***

Mikhail sang and waited for the Empress.

'That woman, by now, she must have poisoned the princess, right?'

If diluted, it can last for several months, but if you consume the undiluted solution, you will fall into a state of delusion within two or three hours as soon as possible.

'Now, when the Princess returns, she will try to drink something other than the drinks in this banquet hall. And the most reassuring thing is the relics she normally drank.'

For that reason, Mikhail was given a tea gift to the Princess by the Crown Prince. It was instructed to put poison on the skin of the tea leaves.

'Now there is only one thing left for the Crown Prince to be the culprit...'

It was when Mikhail was smiling happily.

"Her, Her Imperial Majesty? How are you going..." People's attention was drawn to the entrance at the words of the chief of staff, who sang the stance. There was a figure of the Empress standing in blood.

"The Empress, Why did you come without recuperating?" The empress twisted her mouth and then sat down, vomiting blood, when the surprised nobles flocked to support her.

"How dare you abandon me like this! Your Imperial Majesty!" Mikhail and the Emperor's face were wrinkled by the unexpected behavior of the empress.

How silent was he? As if he had come to his senses, the emperor said, glaring at the empress.

"What does that mean? Empress, you seem to be out of your mind because you're sick..." Then the empress glared at the emperor with a venomous look.

"Yes, it hurts a lot because I was betrayed by someone I trusted and I am very sick. Your Imperial Majesty has suspected my injustice and did not try to get rid of the child!" The emperor was perplexed. Because he didn't know that a woman who was always trying to save her seat would reveal her disgrace.

"What, what are you talking about? Isn't it true that you cheated!" Looking at such an emperor, the empress held a arsenic in her heart.

'How come I've been... Did we have to be wary of such a low-key person?'

When she was the emperor's mistress, Isabelle was always terrified she might be abandoned. The emperor's eyes on his daughter Beatrice were cold, and the emperor's love for her was just a short-haired sex. So she wanted to be the empress. When she got there, she had a vague expectation that she would no longer have to suffer from this anxiety. But after Isabel became the empress, the emperor still turned away from Beatrice. And he raised Maximilian, the Prince, as the Crown Prince.

<Mother, I'll do better. So don't cry.>

Listening to her little daughter's comfort, she clenched her fist tightly.

'It's because I don't have a son yet. And... As long as Maximilian's there, my children will be unhappy.'

She attributed all causes to Maximilian. This is why it was more easy to get rid of the boy who lost his mother rather than confront the emperor. And that was the emperor's intention that he wanted her to check the Crown Prince instead of herself.

<Isabelle, you always blame others..>

'Yes, as you said. Latisha, everything was my fault.'

Then the Empress laughed with tears falling...

<Feed poison to your daughter.>

The reason why she became the empress in the first place was because she wanted to be happy with her little daughter.

What do you mean, poison her? It was nonsense to say that there was an antidote. And...

<Don't get excited. Shouldn't you be thinking about the baby in your belly? He'll be the next emperor.>

She was blinded by the thought of turning her child in her belly into an Emperor. One day, the fact that he hasn't even moved...

'I'm just saying I'm proud of you for being easy on me. Foolishly, the next emperor was useless.'

The empress looked at the emperor with red-faced eyes.

"Your Imperial Majesty is a scary person. Surely, did you send your son Maximilian to war? For fear that he might grow up quickly and threaten your place!" When the empress spoke of what everyone knew the truth but was silent, the emperor roared.

"What a fool! I'm saving Maximilian... What are you talking about?"

"Oh, by the way, the Crown Prince isn't the only one who you tried to get rid of of, is he?" The Emperor raised his voice in response.

"I don't know what you're trying to say, but if you speak any more lies, you'll have to take responsibility for the felonies you've committed today!" When the emperor stared at her and threatened her, the corners of her mouth twisted.

"Then the Emperor will have to take responsibility for what he did, too."

"Hah, I don't know where you're trying to separate my son from me without grounds, but I guess who'll believe you...!"

"The evidence... The grounds that your Majesty is crazy about power?" The emperor, angry at the Empress's remorse, opened his mouth, staring at Mikhail.

"Right now, get that woman out!" It was then.

"At least, the fact that the wizard disappeared from the Imperial Palace can be seen from the entry and exit records..." The emperor's face was stiffened by her. Looking at him staring at her, the empress smiled.

'You must have treated me like a fool, but it wasn't because I was stupid. I kept quiet for fear that my safety would be in danger.'

And the nobles began to rattle.

"Is His Imperial Majesty really...?"

"It's certainly strange. Obviously there used to be a wizard, but now it's hard to see beyond the outskirts of the system, huh?"

"From the fact that we haven't had any succession education for the Crown Prince..."

As the buzz grew, the emperor panicked and soon glared at the empress.

"You're such a pussy..." The Empress, let alone fear, cast an angry look on the emperor's body.

"Is your seat preservation so important? Not only did you remove the wizard from this country, but you poisoned me to get rid of a child who was not yet born!" Most people now seemed incited by the words of the empress.

'I can't leave it as it is. I'll make a scene of me being framed...'

The emperor shouted with his fist clenched.

"Shut up! You instigated me with nonsense, you put me to death..." The emperor could not finish his words.

Kwoong!

That's why the empress collapsed in blood.

"Your, Your Imperial Majesty!"

"She really must have taken poison!" Soon, when the emperor's face was embarrassed, the empress stared at Maximilian with a smile.

'Now I'm reading your little girl's countenance, but as long as I'm alive, you may not give up your revenge and try to get rid of my daughter. In that case...'

The moment she was meeting the death she met, someone ran towards her...

"Sister!" It was her younger brother, Count Meissen.

'I used you, but you have a sad face...'

However, even if she regret it, it is already too late, so she had to ask for a favor instead of regretting.

"Count, please, my daughter Liche..." At that time, the Emoress' vision was filled with a quick, familiar face.

"No, Mother!" When she saw her daughter's white face, she curled her face up...

'I didn't want you to see me like this...'

The face of Latisha, who was suddenly advising her, shrieking.

<Isabelle, it's not too late. I'll guarantee the comfort of my princess and yours... Please stop even now.>

'Should I have listened to you?'

Isabelle took her last breath with regret.

* * *

Even if she go to the Shadow Room, she can come out when she want, but she didn't feel good for some reason. So Beatrice and Kaylen defeated the knights.

"Your, Your Imperial Highness. No way this is..."

"Yes, it's magic." After capturing the knights, Beatrice stared at Kaylen. "Let's go back."

"Yes." While going to the banquet hall like that, her heart kept getting hurried.

'Nothing's gonna happen.'

She had no choice but to rush her steps while reassuring herself. But as soon as she entered the entrance, Beatrice lost her mind at the sight she saw.

"Mother, mother. No. Oh!" Beatrice, who was unconsciously using magic, quickly moved to the empress's side, and held her hand. "Mother, wake up. Please..." The appearance of the princess crying sadly aroused people's sympathy. At the same time, the question of the emperor began to expand.

At last...

"Your Imperial Majesty, please explain!" Several high-ranking aristocrats have called on the emperor to explain. Realizing that the situation had grown out of control, the emperor trembled.

'That damn thing... To whom!'

Then, someone stepped in.

"Father, did you really send me to war with that intention?" Sadly, his son was acting, pretending to be shocked.

'That damn man is now trying to bring me down openly.'

But for those who doesn't know the Crown Prince's thoughts, Maximilian was just a regretful victim. The emperor, rushing to the corner, sharpened his teeth, looked at his fingers, and raised the tail of his mouth...

'Yes, I'm powerful, but I doesn't have to be careful.'

Soon an ominous light came from the ring the emperor was wearing.

"The Duke of Floyen." Regis replied, who was quietly watching the situation, calmly.

"Yes, Your Imperial Majesty."

"Let us slaughter all who are here..." The nobles were astonished at the ridiculous order. But what was more alarming was the answer of the Duke of Floyen.

"Yes, I will follow the command." Soon, when the new style of Regis disappeared, the emperor smiled contentedly.

'Yes, this is reform! We have to change all the useless nobles and refill them with usable ones.'

In that sense, he thought that the unarmed banquet hall was a suitable place for the revolution...

"Go ahead and wipe it out! Regis!" Before long, Regis appeared, and people were puzzled. His sword, which stood upright, had a deep blue sword, a symbol of transcendence. But he stood still without attacking.

'Why don't you attack?'

Somebody who was looking at it looked up. It was Count Arlo, Rose's father.

"I don't think that's... The technique of cutting down dozens of Tegeria mounted soldiers in armor..." And his voice soon became urgent. "He's preparing to fly the sword! Everybody avoid it!"

It was when people were rushing back with a scream. Someone stepped forward before the Duke's sword. It was Juvelian, the only daughter of the Duke of Floyen.

"Daddy." She expected to recognize her daughter, but the Duke only swung the sword at her with a cold face. Looking at the surging blackness, those who participated in the war thought they, too, would collapse with their upper and lower bodies separated.

"Everyone stay still!" As soon as she finished speaking, a clear, long silver energy surrounded her. And those who saw it could not hide their surprise.

"That, that's magic?"

"The Little Duke of Floyen is a wizard?" At that moment, the magic barrier and the sword collided, causing a huge explosion.

***

Kwang!

Is it because it's a physical attack? Dad's sword was harder to stop than Paphnil's attack. With the reaction, I clenched my teeth.

'It's all right. I can stand this much.'

I stared at my dad. Maybe he was obsessed with a stronger hint than last time, or even a strange glare was flowing out of my Daddy's eyes.

'Because Dad is having a harder time.'

When making a plan, I was worried about what to do if my dad was manipulated.

'Even if Max stops Dad, one of them will get hurt. Because this is not a battle.'

After worrying, I was able to come up with an answer soon.

'All magic items were obviously limited in number or time. Because there is a limit to the mana that the magic stone can hold on to.'

I glared at the emperor looking at me with greed. The ring he's wearing, to be exact.

'So until the ring's mana runs out, I'll stop him.'

Chapter 188

27. Eye of Storm

The emperor glared at Juvelian with glistening eyes.

'By all means, it's worth making the ring's mana permanent.'

It was a powerful mana that would neutralize the attack of the transcendent, a force that matched God.

'If that would be mine...'

The first emperor Altair was an archmage with unprecedented power, so he sealed his father Paphnil and subjugated the entire continent. He will be able to bring not only the nobles but also the whole continent to kneel. Even the emperor felt joy boil.

'The question is, how do I take that girl's power...'

It was practically impossible to destroy a barrier that even the Duke of Floyen could not.

'But there will be other ways. How can that girl lift her own barrier and get out.'

That thought was when the emperor was rolling his head.

[You must be covetous of that power.]

Paphnil's voice echoed in his head, and the emperor contained arsenic.

'Of course, if you get that power, you won't have to please a monster like him.'

But right now, with Paphnil's help, nothing was bad.

"Isn't there any good way?" When asked by the emperor, Paphnil replied with a voice full of laughter.

[Aren't there nothing to go far? The power that can be eaten right away is in the immediate vicinity.]

'Right nearby?'

For a while, the emperor's gaze stopped at his daughter who was crying next to the Empress's body.

'Yes, it turns out that... you were there.'

It was when he was reminded of the existence of the Princess.

[If you bring the princess, I'll inject that mana into you.]

At that thoughtful remark, the emperor lifted the tail of his mouth...

'I will finally become a wizard!'

In addition, a good plan came up in connection with the agony.

'Yes, Regis's daughter will not sit still and watch when her friend Beatrice is attacked.'

The emperor stared at Mikhail, who was watching him, and closed his mouth.

'No, he liked Beatrice, so... He might disobey orders.'

So the emperor ordered Dragon Knight to stand by him.

"Draw Beatrice in front of me." As a result, a new dragon knight was shot towards Beatrice. Beatrice, who was just crying without knowing that she was in danger, seemed like a defenseless prey.

'Yes, now your power will be mine.'

When the emperor had a smile of remorse.

Changgang!

The body of the Dragon Knight, who was inundated with the Princess, pierced.

'That guy...!'

It was the work of Kaylen, the son of the Marquis Perdal and lover of Beatrice.

'I thought he was a mess. Was he such a powerful man?'

For a moment, the emperor raised one corner of his mouth.

'I don't care. The nobles were going to be wiped out anyway.'

Soon the emperor ordered Gail, the leader of the Dragon Night, who was standing behind him.

"Defeat him." Gale replied with a wry smile.

"In the name of your honor!"

***

Kaylen gritted his teeth as he watched the five or six Dragon Knights coming this way.

'Fuck it, there's too many.'

Dragon Knight, a subordinate organization of the Imperial Guard, was actually a group of the highest elites in the Empire. Among them, Gale, the leader of Dragon Knight, was so good that even Kaylen could hardly guarantee a win or loss if he joined forces with other top prosecutors.

'It would be easier if Liche helped, but the problem is that it's hard to use magic now because of the shock...'

Kaylen soon made a decision.

"Liche! This is where I'm blocking you, so get out of here!" Beatrice, who had been grieving the whole time, felt her lover's voice come to her senses.

'Is Dragon Knight coming towards me?'

Then Beatrice clenched hee fist.

'Why did you... Why are you so happy?'

She didn't want her to be loved. She just wanted to make sure he didn't betray humanity. So, even if this happened, she has no confidence in killing the emperor... Because whatever she'll do, she was still his blood daughter (biological daughter). However, Beatrice's patience ran out due to the emperor's bottom that she just saw.

'If it hadn't been for you... My mother wouldn't have died.'

Beatrice clenched hee fists without knowing it, and glared at the emperor with her humble hatred. She hoped there was a little bit of guilt in him, but there was a smile hanging around his mouth.

'It's better to get rid of a monster like you!'

Soon, her eyes were black.

***

Kwang!

Every time my Dad's sword was knocked down to break my barrier, I pulled up my mana and threw it away. Magic is shaped through concentration and meditation, so I becomes defenseless during implementing. So I had asked Max to cover me. But even though I had the upper hand, I was in pain.

"Juvel, are you all right?" I forced a smile at Max asking behind me.

'There is plenty of time for mana...'

I repeated countless times when I saw my Daddy giving off his life to me with his eyes that lost focus lost. That's not you. I know that, but I'm still heartbroken because I guessed how much pain my Dad have suffered.

'...I'm running out of energy watching my Daddy.'

Veronica's voice came as I was looking at him and praying in my heart that the emperor's ring would soon be in full force.

"Her, Her Imperial Highness..." Come to think of it, I couldn't even afford to check on Liche's safety because I was too busy trying to make up my mind. When I rolled my eyes unconsciously, I could see Lietzsche, who was stable and had an eerie mana.

'That's...?'

Liche soon released a thorn-like mana and pierced the Dragon Knights approaching her.

"I will kill you with my hands, Emperor!"

An angry look, as in the original work, but as a wizard, I was able to recognize its true nature.

'That's the explosion of mana caused by the breakdown of the mind.'

Magic is a highly advanced technique that is based on the mind. It is hard to embody magic with a broken mind.

'But if you force that magic out and implement it...'

"Her Imperial Highness also bought a very strong magic!" I shook my head in Rose's admiration.

Seemingly, it seemed to be manifesting its power, but the reality was that it was just indiscriminately exhausting its mana and vitality, as the sky just before sunset was bright for a moment.

'If I leave Liche as it is, she will ram out of life.'

At the moment, I'm blocking my dad. If I cancel the barrier and go to Liche, many people might get hurt...

'But I can't turn away from Liche when the emperor is attacking...'

It was unclear what would happen to Liche if he was still dealing with his father. When I twisted my face in agony. I could hear Max's voice next to me.

"Teacher said that I would induce him to stop him." Surprised at his words, I stared at him.

'Of course, Max would be able to deal with my dad for a long time, but I'm afraid even someone like him might get hurt.'

Then, he said in a serious voice.

"Juvel, trust me." I stared at him with trembling eyes. His red eyes were colder than usual. "I will never hurt him, I won't be hurt." How can I not trust this person? I laughed and nodded.

"Yes, please." Then Max had a gentle smile and then said to someone.

"You said you wanted to repay the light, right? I'm asking for her..." Who the hell was he talking to? I looked around, but there was no one to talk to. When I was wondering, Max looked at me and said. "Juvel, don't worry about using magic.*" I nodded to him.

(*she needs someone to protect her so that she can concentrate using magic)

'Yes, there must be someone hiding in the banquet hall.'

I stepped back and lifted the barrier. At the same time, my dad ran up to me and swung his sword, but Max blocked him in front of me at a moment's notice and put the sword together with my Daddy.

Chaeng-gang!

He used to be a certain impression that Max was behind, but now Max was naturally taking my Dad's sword.

'Do your best!'

I watched the scene and headed to Liche.

* * *

Just a moment ago, the Emperor, who ordered them to seize and bring her, was now rigid.

'This, this is magic...'

As the fine thorn-shaped mana rose rapidly from the ground, the Dragon Knights managed to avoid it. They were barely against the Princess' magic.

'It's not comparable to the Transcendental, but they're still top-notch swordsmen who can spill mana.'

In time, the emperor's mouth soared.

'That you can fight against a large number of people alone...'

She's almost comparable to those of the Transcendental.

'Come on!'

And with that relaxed look, Beatrice's eyes, who was staring at him, grew more alive.

'I have to kill the Emperor.'

She thought she would never have held it before, but now there was only hatred toward the emperor in Beatrice's head. To the point where the pain that's squeezing her heart is overwhelming.

'I have to kill the Emperor, destroy everything...'

That's when.

"Liche!" A glimmering light revealed a dim vision. A sad voice soon heard. "Liche, do you recognize me?" Beatrice nodded at the look of Kaylen looking at her with tearful eyes. Then he distorted his face and said in a subdued voice. "I was scared that you couldn't hear my voice even if I called out again and agaian." When Beatrice heard that, she just realized what she was doing.

'I was eaten by the mana inside me because of my hatred for the Emperor.'

When Beatrice was smiling bitterly, she could see Kaylen looking at her with a stiff face.

'I've caused you to worry about my performance. Sorry.' Beatrice smiled faintly.

At that time, she was embarrassed when Kaylen suddenly fled and hugged her.

'No matter how emotional you are, in such a crowded place...'

For a moment, she had no choice but to turn her eyes to shame and harden her face. A dark purple sword extending from Mikhail's sword was flying towards her.

***

The two were barely able to escape the sword thanks to Kaylen, who rolled with Beatrice. However, the problem was that the sword was rubbed on his shoulder and a sword wound was formed.

"Kay!" When Beatrice looked worried, he smiled and answered.

"I'm fine." Then there was a laugh.

"Khahaha, Mikhail. As expected, you were my loyal subject! Come on, bring the Princess to me!" Kaylen felt the murderousness in the voice of the Emperor, who suddenly popped out.

'That goddamn guy, he's talking about this situation.'

Kaylen sent the anxious woman behind him, and then glared at Mikhail with a distorted face.

'I didn't think he was a transcendent.'

And Mikhail, who was looking at him, stared at the princess.

'I should be careful because she can use magic.'

Then the sword trembled and whispered.

[You won't be able to use magic right now in the aftermath of the recent binge. Come on. Poke me into that heart.]

It was strange to rush in an unknowingly hurry, unlike usual, but Mikhail did not dwell on the expectation that he could gain strength.

'Finally, we can make my own strength. But before that...'

Mikhail's fierce gaze turned to Kaylen.

'Wouldn't it be fun to play with that cocky guy?'

Mikhail opened his mouth, recalling the humiliation he had suffered last time.

"Your Imperial Highness, if you surrender, I will save your lover's life." The sword of Mikhail, who had finished speaking, was re-igniting. Kaylen grated his teeth.

'You're a bastard!'

That's when it happened.

"Hold on!" As soon as a thin beauty was heard, a barrier was formed around Kaylen and Beatrice.

'This is...'

Before Kaylen could confirm, there was someone who welcomed the owner of the voice.

"Juvelian!" Mikhail, who had just been in the flesh, had a bright smile on his face.

***

I looked at Liche as soon as I formed the barrier.

'You look fine now, but you've run out of mana.'

I stared at Mikhail, solidifying the barrier.

'And just a moment ago... If I wasn't mistaken, Mikhail's sword was aiming for Liche.'

Then, he stared at me with his eyes bent.

"Come here. Juvelian, I'll protect you from now on."

'You're going to protect me?'

That's the word from the mouth of the most dangerous villain in this situation. Frankly speaking, it was ridiculous. When I was about to say I didn't need it...

"What are you doing? Magic is impossible to cast simultaneously! Bring her to me! Lord Mikhail!" I frowned at the sight of the roaring emperor.

'How can a person do that?'

I was furious at the emperor's behavior of manipulating my Dad and now trying to hurt me for being a wizard. Soon I could see the Dragon Knights coming towards me.

"Beautiful princess, if you don't want to get hurt, stay calm." I frowned at the sight of a knight I once saw in the garden smiling fishy. It was then. With the screeching, the knight's head and body seemed to separate in an instant.

"Well, are you going to touch mine?" Mikhail's blood dripping sword looked like a madman. Soon his purple eyes clung tenaciously to me, and I shuddered. The sullen stare seemed to be looking for a scratch on his stuff.

'This is love?'

When I was fed up with it, I heard the emperor shouting.

"Mikhail, what the hell is this about? Killing my knights, Gail." Before long, Mikhail had arsenic.

"Don't you see? You're trying to take care of my own."

"How dare you...?!" The emperor raised his voice for a moment when he was gripped by anger. "Regis! Stop him!" The ring shone on him, and I could see my Daddy nodding his head. But at that moment, Max stood in the way. "Maximilian, get out of the way now!"

The emperor shouted in embarrassment and anger, but Max was dealing with his father as if he could not hear the emperor. And it was stable as if it was a fight.

"You worthless fellow!" It was when I was frowning at the emperor's words. I heard a cold voice.

"Now, that the Crown Prince will block the Duke of Floyen, I can safely kill you." Mikhail was staring at the Emperor with fierce eyes.

* * *

He didn't fully trust Mikhail, but ge never thought he'd come out like that. Out of anger, the emperor gnashed his teeth.

'Is that what you planned?'

The emperor glared at the dragon knight guarding his side.

"What! Stop him!" When half of the soldiers of the guard fired at Mikhail, the emperor accompanied the remaining guard knights and said... "I intend to evacuate, cover me!"

"Yes!" Before long, it was when the emperor tried to escape.

[Darius.]

At the low voice calling his name, the emperor became angry and called him.

"Paphnil-nim! I was glad to help you, but...

[Are you thinking of running away like a dog that has been defeated in a fight?]

The emperor frowned at the sarcastic voice heard in his head.

'You don't mean to tell me to confront them, do you?'

Normally, he would have been soft-hearted, but now the emperor couldn't afford it.

"If you're not going to help, shut up." Paphnil's voice dropped when the emperor gave a cold answer.

[I was trying to help, but you're being so mean to me... Don't you need my help?]

The emperor's forehead, which had been crumpled in it, was opened.

"My thoughts were short. Please help me, great being." Paphnil raised the corners of his mouth in the sudden change of attitude of the emperor.

[Yes, I'll have to help you since you're coming this far. However, there is a condition.]

In the midst of a crisis, the nervous emperor asked, swallowing his dry saliva.

"What are the conditions?" Then Paphnil opened his mouth, staring at the orb held by the emperor.

[Let me free me from that orb.]

At that, the emperor opened his eyes wide. That is why the Orb had the ability to freely control the chain of power that hung the shackles, as well as the restriction that it could not kill the imperial family. This was the consideration of the first emperor to protect his descendants from Paphnil.

'Of course, the shackles will not be released, so the constraints on power will still remain... The problem is that he can kill the Imperial Family.'

It was when the Emperor was hardening his face just in case. Paphnil, who appeared in translucent form, smiled.

[I'm just trying to kill your son and daughter, so it's okay to be relieved. If you still don't... I promise you that I will not do any harm to you under my name.]

The fact that the dragon made a pledge under his own name was true with the words that he would surely keep it. This is because if he violate it, he will lose himself and get stained with madness.

'Yes, I don't think he want to go crazy by himself.'

The emperor, who made the judgment, nodded.

"Okay." Then the tail of Paphnil's mouth soared...

***

I frowned at the sight of the Emperor's Knights in conflict with Mikhail. Just as trust did not exist in the first place, it was disillusioned to see each other attacking each other.

'You were one of them just now...'

And for a moment, I stared at Liche, who was on my side.

'It's too early for you to use magic, so you'd better take refuge.'

Just before, as I canceled the barrier, many people had left the banquet hall.

'You must have been afraid to die in the dark.'

As it was a battle between transcendentalists, the banquet hall was not a safe place because of Max and Dad's brawl. With the exception of some of the servants who seemed to have failed to escape, the only people who remained in the banquet hall were our combat-ready people and enemy troops.

I quickly moved to our camp. My friend Fred and his knights, our family's knights, and Max's knights were dealing with the Imperial Guard and the knights of the Marquis of Hessen.

'Somehow the confrontation seems to be an extension of the hunting competition, but... They'll protect Liche, won't they?'

A dark purple sword brushed past me as I stepped toward Liche with that thought.

"Stay where you are. If you don't want to get hurt." For a moment I was staring at Mikhail, who was talking nonsense, I winked at Liche.

'Now it's your chance.'

Whether she understood what I said to run away, it seemed that she was nodding her head.

'Maybe it's not good if Mikhail gives Liche an eye.'

I quickly looked at Mikhail. He was constantly watching my side while fighting.

'Thank God, but there's still a chance he'll notice... I need something to draw attention to.'

That's why I started running in the opposite direction from Liche.

"Juvelian!" Then came the angry voice of Mikhail, but I ignored it. Then a terrible sword passed by me.

Kwarang! Kwang!

I heard a terrible binge, but I didn't care. Because I realized one thing from Mikhail's attitude toward me.

'As I am a human being who was regarded by him as an object, he is not going to scratch me.'

Even for a while, when I reached the wall of the banquet hall, I saw servants who couldn't run away. I was in a hurry to run away in the other direction in the hopes of causing damage. At that time, something round and dull passed by my side went. Having confirmed it, I took a breath.

'Isn't it a human head?'

Unless you're a killer who enjoys murder, you can't be insensitive to such a terrible thing. I soon fell down shivering. Then came the sound of someone walking.

"Didn't I have told you to stay calm?" Mikhail, with a demonic face, stood alone and glared at me, when he had finished all the imperial knights. "Juvelian." He approached slowly, and I closed my eyes tightly and opened.

Then I moved my eyes to check Liche and Lord Kaylen. Fortunately, they were with the people of our camp. At the time when I was relieved, Mikhail kindly said if he thought I was scared.

"You wonder if I'll make someone I love like that?" As I watched him approaching, I clenched my fists.

'Liche is also safe, so I should protect myself from now on.'

As I hurried to put a barrier around me, I saw amazement in his eyes.

"Is it a magic barrier? But how can you do it in the situation where you are protecting the princess..." He said with a smile after looking around the banquet hall. "Yeah, did you do this cute thing to keep the princess away from me?" It was when I lifted the tail of my mouth thinking I thought I'd given him a blow. "This impudent girl!"

Eventually, his sword struck my barrier as if he were angry. But the barrier that endured my Dad's attack couldn't be broken by Mikhail's attack.

"Stop giving up, Mikhail. It's impossible for you to break my barrier."

"Yeah, it would be impossible to break the barrier. But..." Soon there was a mockery on Mikhail's bright face. "You'll have to watch your father and your fiance fight and destroy them." Understanding the meaning, I clenched my fist.

'You were aiming for the right timing!'

In other words, Mikhail was waiting for the two to lose strength. I stared at Dad and Max with trembling eyes.

Spoiler: Chapter 190

Max clenched his teeth when his arm was lowered to the point of numbness.

'You lost your intellect, but you're still so strong...!"

He didn't realize it at the time of the battle, but now he was feeling it for sure now. The fact that his Teacher looked at him a lot during battle... Max opened his eyes narrowly as he stared at the trajectory of the sword that flew constantly aiming at his neck.

'If I attack like you too, it would be easier than now...'

Max quickly struck the attack with agility.

<I will never hurt him, I won't be hurt.>

What he do now is not fight to win, but defense warfare... For that reason, Max was more cautious than usual. But...

'Juvelian, are you okay?'

Max was going crazy because he was worried about the Juvelian's safety right now.

'I put an escort with her, but I'm still worried...'

He was sighing for a while, urgently taking his upper body back. He just saw his teacher's sword passing by the place where Max's neck was.

'As long as he's my opponent, I'm going to lose my neck if I look away.'

Soon, Max lifted the sword.

Chaeng!

The Regis' sword, who was quickly stabbing at Max's heart, was tinged out.

'But now I know where the attack will come from.'

Unlike before, when he was in a hurry to stop his attack, he now consumes less physical strength than usual thanks to predicting his teacher's attack in advance.

'At this rate, we'll succeed in dragging his feet.'

It was when Max was smiling. The teacher's sword glowed blue again.

'You're trying to use the sword.'

Max also drew red energy to the sword.

'I'll deal with you as much as I can. Teacher.'

At that time, Max almost turned his head unknowingly when he heard a heavy sound. But he soon stared at his teacher, who rushed towards him.

'Yes, let's believe in Juvelian. And in one case, I'll protect her.'

Max, who was in anguish, clasped his sword tightly. Soon they bumped into each other, painting the trajectory of the sword of the two transcendents.

***

I bit my lips and soon laughed.

<Juvel, trust me.>

Yes, I believe Max will keep Dad safe. Max won't get hurt either, and above all, I can stop Mikhail.

'It's a new attempt, so I don't know if it'll work, but I'll try.'

I glared at Mikhail and smiled.

"Do it if you can." As I spoke, Mikhail smiled when I removed the barrier.

"Yeah. You should come out so cutely. My love." It gave me goosebumps, but I focused my mind looking at Mikhail coming to me.

<Juvel, don't worry about using magic.>

Someone stood in front of me when I was concentrating while thinking of Max's words.

'A servant?'

Among the imperial servants, a young man dressed in the clothes of a low-ranking servant was quite large. And there was a sword in his hand.

"Come on, complete the magic." His gentle voice was somehow familiar. It was then.

"Dare, you're in the way of me..." Soon Mikhail swung his sword at the servant.

'The barrier...'

At the moment when I was trying to create a barrier by focusing my mind quickly, a white sword stood in a whimpering sword like a club held by a man.

'Transcendental?'

It was when I was amazed by the unexpected man's ability...

Hwang!

The man's sword, which looked like a club, struck Mikhail's sword roughly, and the swelling caused by the collision of the sword struck. Soon a heavy low voice came from the man's mouth.

"You're playing the emperor's captain with just that skill, Mikhail." Before long, Mikhail distorted his face and muttered.

"You, no way... Count Pyrex?" When the name of the person I thought was dead was called, I was amazed.

'When I heard that, they looked really alike, but Count Pyrex was definitely older than that man.'

When I was in doubt, the man smiled and affirmed.

"I'm not the Count anymore, but my last name is Pyrex." I recalled the contents of a book I had read one day.

<The reason that the aging of the Transcendental is slow is because he tries to maintain his body reconstructed from his heyday.>

The current man seems to be a young man in his twenties. Count Pyrex had no heirs, so he's probably right. At that time, I heard a squeak of teeth.

"You're the transcendent?" Is it because he didn't become a transcendent by hinself? Mikhail's eyes were filled with venom. Soon Mikhail continued. "I never thought a traitor like you would be a transcendent. I can't believe it. What trick did you use to become a transcendent?" Count Pyrex shook his head at that low question.

"The sword was polished with the intention of atonement and gratitude, and a new path was opened." Unlike Mikhail, it was when I was admiring his voice, which was enlightened.

"Don't make me laugh!" I frowned at Mikhail, and stared at the sword in his hand.

'I originally thought we should get closer and push... I think I can break it without having to approach it.'

After I finished thinking, I shouted at the back of Count Pyrex.

"I know it's going to be hard for a while, Count, but trust me and attack Mikhail!" I said, and then he stammered.

"Of, of course! You're the next empress!"

'The next empress, I think you're going too far.'

I do a little sigh for a moment, and I thought again what I had just thought.

'I can't do attack magic, but I can still do defensive magic. And if you apply this well...'

I soon closed my eyes and focused my mind.

* * *

Beatrice tried to concentrate her mind. However, due to her depleted mana, she could no longer use magic.

'Am Ionly a hindrance now?'

Kaylen said senselessly.

"Don't worry. The Marquis Hessen is not able to attack us. And even if the enemy is rushing, I will take responsibility and protect you." Maybe Kaylen thought she was frightened by the enemy's overexposure.

'That's not it.'

It was when she sighed in frustration. In Juvelian's direction, there was a strong mana cohesion.

'This is...'

Soon Beatrice frowned upon Juvelian.

'Why?'

Currently, Jubelian was unable to use magic except defensive magic. So she couldn't understand it at all. The silver mana that came out of Juvelian's hand was covering Mikhail's body, not Count Pyrex.

'Why did you put a barrier on Mikhail?'

At that moment, Beatrice opened her eyes.

'That's...!'

The barrier created by Juvelian soon changed into several lines, and Mikhail and the sword he was holding were bound. Before long, Beatrice's mind recalled a story she had seen in a book when she was a child.

<The first emperor was a wizard who was better at defense magic than attack magic.>

In time, she stared at Mikhail again.

"What, what's this all of a sudden... Ah...!" Just a moment ago, he was seen falling down with a painful look, as he was constantly flying the sword. Mikhail's body was intertwined with a string of mana, like a cannonball. At that moment, Beatrice shuddered at the realization that crossed her mind.

'Yes, seal magic is... It was a defensive magic variant!'

* * *

I stared at Mikhail.

The mana that had just covered his body soon penetrated Mikhail's skin and left a trace.

'Seal is, after all, confining. So I put a shield on him and put the sword that governs him under my influence to neutralize his mana.'

The reason he suffers now is that the magical sword has been parasitic and sucks up Mikhail's life force by metallurgy, and the magical power that he put in its place is extinguished.

'In the end, it's self-profit.*'

(*it means the sword is justnusing Mikhail, not the other way around)

When I stared at Mikhail, he stared at me bitterly after suffering all the time.

"What have you done to me, you damn bitch!" I sighed and said coldly.

"I'm just trying not to let you kill people." He flinched as if he wanted to come at me, but that was all.

"Ahhhhhh...! How can you do it to me...!" At his words I said, crumpling my eyes.

"I told you. It's my last greeting to you. It's you who broke the word. Don't approach me anymore."

Chaengkang!

Mikhail soon lost his grip on the sword. I soon picked up the sword that Mikhail had dropped.

[Wo, woman. I'll give you great power and wealth. Surely, I'm telling you...]

I could hear the voice of the sword, but I ignored it and stared at the crack in my eye.

'If I send my mana through this part and expand it... It won't last. It'll break.'

Soon I sent my mana exploding into the crack as I thought.

[Oh ahhh! Please stop...!]

Before long, the magic sword was destroyed with a terrible flurry. As I looked at the trace, I laughed in vain, remembering what the sword had just said.

"I've already achieved a lot with my own strength. More precious things than riches and great powers..."

I was enjoying wealth in the first place, and I had potential, but I was a person whose soul was broken so that I couldn't really recognize it. But as I met Max and got to know my precious people, I learned how to use that power. And it's not something I've entrusted to others, it's what I've achieved myself. I looked down at Mikhail and said...

"I don't know if you'll realize it, thinking only of using someone else in the first place." I stared at Max and smiled.

'Both of them still haven't been hurt. Like in a battle.'

And for a moment, I soon opened my eyes.

'What's this energy?

Somehow I was used to it, but I closed my eyes and looked at it with a little fear.

'Oh?'

But like an illusion, the energy disappeared without a trace. And that moment.

"Teacher! Have you come to your senses!" At Max's loud voice, I turned my head. Before long, my dad was staring at me with clear eyes.

'No way, the ring running out of magic?'

I was thinking about it for a while. I felt tears reflexively coming out of my dad's face smiling at me.

"It's my Daddy." I soon started running towards him..

***

A bloody emperor with his legs and fingers cut off was crawling on the floor and running away from something.

"The, the pledge. We made a pledge... ugh!" The man with the ring on him replied with a bloody smile.

"Ah, that's what... I've already lost my name? Besides, it doesn't matter if I'm suffering from madness. Because..." Incontinence was drawn on the emperor's neck. Soon, as the blood fountain sprouted from the Emperor's neck, Paphnil laughed and said. "Because I'm already crazy."

Chapter 191

Regis swung his sword at the black figure. His reason for fighting it was unknown, but what was certain was that the enemy in front of him was powerful every time. Regis sharpened his teeth without knowing, blocking the enemy's sword attack like a ferocious heavy rain.

'You have to keep her.'

What? That question arose, but Regis couldn't answer. Every time he tried to think of what it was, it hurts like his head was breaking. It was then. That precious thing loomed in the consciousness that was all darkened...

<Daddy!>

The little child smiling innocently was like a light. Regis unwittingly relieves his hand from holding the sword. And at that moment.

"Teacher!" Regis' consciousness sank deeply by someone's call came to his mind. And he saw the face of his disciple looking at him in the darkly colored view. "Have you come to your senses!"

It was a strange feeling. It feels like he have been asleep for a long time and then suddenly woke up. Yet, on the other hand, he felt a sense of freedom. Max saw such Regis and continued to talk.

"Why haven't you answering? Father-in-law?" Regis, who almost inadvertently answered, "the thief," looked around with a clenched fist.

'Is it really over? Where is Juvel?'

And at that moment, his daughter and his eyes met. Soon afterwards, as Juvelian was crying and running, Regis tried to run towards his daughter. However, there was someone ahead of him.

"Juvel!" He thought it was his own nickname, but his naughty disciple was running towards his daughter, calling the nickname his. Then he hugged Juvelian as if it were natural. At first, Juvelian, whose eyes were wide open, smiled and hugged him.

"Good work."

Regis, who was watching him, was captivated by a subtle emotion. He still hated to see his disciple with her, but still, seeing his daughter smiling as if she was happy, it seemed that warmth spread in his heart.

When Regis sighed with his eyes down a little, a loud voice came in...

"Daddy!" When she got out of his disciple's arms, his daughter was approaching him. Regis smiled and opened his arms to hug Juvelian.

* * *

For a while, we faced the reality of the victory. Because the emperor has not yet been caught, and the Marquis of Hessen and his knights have fled. That is why Max, the first in line to succeed to the throne, became regent and gave instructions.

"If the nobles return home, the emperor or the marquis may secretly contact someone. Surely, first, let's stay in the imperial palace until the situation is settled." The Marquis of Hessen maintains friendly relations with many aristocrats. But... "What? The emperor is nowhere in the palace?" Sir Dennis nodded at Max's angry voice.

"That's right." At that, Max stared at the window with a biting glance.

"He must have been out of the way, right?"

"Fresia-nim, who was guarding the outside, swears that no one came out." Currently, the situation outside the Imperial Palace is guarded by Lennox Byeongbaek* along with Yuri... It would not be easy to get out of the sewers, as well as in the holes.

(*I still don't know what it means)

"Are there any nobles who show suspicious feelings?"

"No."

"Just in case, keep a close eye on them." As I was listening to the conversation next to Max, I crippled my eyes and thought.

'No matter how I think about it, it's weird. That ring, if it's a magic item...'

I stared at the bracelet that Liche and Max gave me. It was insignificant in the bracelet, but the magic was clearly felt...

'And why isn't Paphnil showing up?'

When I was sighing with anxiety, Max, sitting on my right side, straightened my forehead with his fingers.

"Don't worry, even if the Emperor and the Marquis Hessen run away, they won't be able to do anything." Of course, that's true, but I still ponder over it.

'I'm worried about Paphnil. And Liche...'

<Brother, I will be in charge of the general supervision of the servants and nobles. Brother, please focus on what's important.>

She pretended to be okay, but Liche is still struggling. Because the mana rush doesn't happen with a tolerable mental shock...

'I have to go to her.'

"Max, I..." When I was about to break my luck, Max gently stroked my cheek with his finger, then whispered.

"All will be caught soon. My hound are finding them."

'A hound? Did Max have a dog?'

I've seen his pigeon, but it was the first time I heard he has a dog. I was puzzled for a while, and I was able to solve the question soon.

"Your Imperial Highness, I have captured the Marquis Hessen and his knights who were hiding!"

"Good work, Sir Pyrex. I will restore you soon." Sir Pyrex smiled contentedly, but I couldn't laugh.

'The hound... Was it him?'

As I looked at Max resentfully, he laughed and whispered to me.

"See? He have already caught one."

'How do I teach him again?'

The time when I sighed as I saw my lover who did not respect people as a person. Max looked at me seriously and said.

"Everyone go out. I have something to talk about closely with the Little Duke." As they all left the office, Max touched my hand and asked. "So, what were you just going to say?" And then I thought of Liche, and then I looked at Max.

'For Max, that's not right, is it?'

She was a mother to Liche, but from Max's point of view, she deserved to die. The Empress murdered his mother.

'It's better not to say it.'

When I made that decision, he said.

"Speak honestly. I hate that you don't want to see my eyes..." Then I opened my mouth with a gulp of my saliva.

"Well, Max. How does the Empress..." Max said, with firm determination, cutting off my words.

"It's her own fault that she died." The cold voice gave me a sigh. Then, Max said. "So she should be grateful for being able to die as the empress." I stared at him with astonished eyes, and soon hugged him.

"You've made a tough decision.''

"Not very." I laughed at his words and soon kissed Max on his cheek as if to console him. Then he stared at me with hot eyes. "Are you seducing me now?" Soon his lips hit my lips. The slightly prickly liquor of his mouth covered my lips and his tongue touched my lips. When I opened my lips.

"Your Imperial Highness the Crown Prince, I heard you were with my daughter..." The voice of my Dad from outside the door struck me.

"Ma, Max! Come on, let go of my hand!" He sighed at my words and soon muttered, looking at the entrance with cold eyes.

"I think we should get married soon. To keep your father from disturbing us." When I was blushing at that remark, the door opened with a 'gwang!' My Dad, who opened the door and entered with a graceful figure, soon reached out his hand at me.

"Juvelian, come here." He said, and I walked towards Dad. Then Dad sighed and handed me something. As soon as I saw it, I was amazed and asked, wide open my eyes...

"This, this is...?" Dad nodded.

"Yes, it's the emperor's ring." Kirke's eyes, the ring that controls people, couldn't feel anything like a normal ring, perhaps because it lost it's magic.

'But, isn't it weird? The emperor can't give up the only way to reinstate him and escape...'

When I was thinking so, my dad said.

"He was stabbed and found dead in front of the shadow room.." I frowned at him.

'Why? Did an infight arise while he was trying to enter the shadow room?'

At that time, Max smiled and rose up.

"Now, we don't have to worry that the emperor will do his tricks..."

"But it's too early to be vigilant." That's what he was saying, but my dad looked lighter, maybe the same way. Then, Max smiled and said.

"Now that things are going to be sorted out soon, all we have to do is talk about our marriage without a hitch."

'Marriage? All of a sudden?'

It was when I was embarrassed by Max's words. My dad smiled graciously, covering my shoulder.

"Juvel, the princess and your friends seem to be looking for you. Wouldn't it be nice to go?"

'I was wondering about Liche anyway...'

When I look after Max, he sighed, crumpling his eyebrows...

"What did I say? Little Duke, didn't I told you not to look after me while you're in front of me?"

"Max, I'll be back." Then he opened his mouth, looking at me with gentle eyes.

"Yes."

***

Under Liche direction, the nobles had been using spare rooms, including the knights barracks.

'That's like Liche.'

When I was admiring the well-controlled atmosphere.

"Juvelian, you're here." Looking tired, but with a relatively serene face, Liche spoke to me. When I was trying to approach her with a smile.

"Jubelian-nim!"

"I'm glad to see with my own eyes that you're so safe." I felt warm inside my heart at the sight of my friends standing by my side. At that time, Veronica said with a slight pout of her mouth.

"It was too much to hide that you're a magician."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to hide it..." She smiled and grabbed my hand.

"If I had known, I would have borrowed a lot of help from our business." Her words, which came out as a joke, soon I burst into laughter. At that time, Catherine whispering.

"Juvelian-nim, I've wanted to ask you something before..."

"What is it?"

"When will you marry the Crown Prince?" I blushed and waved my hand.

"We, we haven't thought about it yet." Marien sighed.

"Even if I wanted to hang out with Juvelian-nim, I couldn't raise my face because we had something to say in front of the Crown Prince before. But when you get married, you can choose us as your lady-in-waiting!"

'I didn't expect you to draw this big picture to hangout with me.'

It was when I was sighing.

'Oh, this enormous mana...?'

For a moment when my eyes were glaring unknowingly, I hurriedly set up the barrier. Soon I heard a gruesome laugh.

"Kwahahaha!" I moved my eyes and called out the name of the person who suddenly appeared.

"Paphnil." Then his pupils narrowed vertically.

"That's great! I can't believe you noticed me so soon!" I frowned as that terrible mad mana touched the barrier.

'How can he possibly have this kind of mana? That's...!'

The ring on his finger was tingling with red.

"How delicious is your magic? Juvelian."

I thought it was quiet, but I could tell only then. I was in the eye of the storm, and now it's just been revealed.

Spoiler: Chapter 192

28. May everyone be happy

When Juvelian left the room, Regis glared at Max.

"Marriage, you're dreaming a crazy dream. Maximilian." And Max also looked at his teacher with fierce eyes, and then laughed.

"Crazy dreams, we're already engaged. My father-in-law."

"You're engaged, but the decision on when the two of you will marry will be done by mutual agreement, right? And she'll get permission from me, her father."

"I can't believe you changed your attitude because the urgent matter has been settled. Are you going to come out this cowardly?" Max's eyes were filled with anger, but on the other hand, they looked nervous. Regis slowly lifted the tail of his mouth.

"It's not being cowardly, it's being realistic, but..." Max raised his body while sharpening his teeth.

"You really are like this...!" When Max was trying to protest against his temper, a knock came in...

"Your Imperial Highness, this is Dennis."

"Come in." Before long, Dennis entered the office... "What's going on?" Dennis said, sighing and bowing at Max's cold voice as if to vent his anger.

"I'm sorry to interrupt, but I thought I'd have to let you know."

"What is it?"

"The guard who was watching Mikhail said he was out of his mind." At Dennis's words, Max replied with a wry smile. "And he have something to say, so he asked him to call the Duke of Floyen." At that, Max stiffened his face and stared at Regis...

"Teacher, maybe together..." Then Regis shook his head and replied.

"If Paphnil is involved, Your Imperial Highness could be in danger."

"But...!'' Even with Max's protest, Regis was determined not to bend over.

"I've made a pledge with Paphnil, so he can't hurt me. I'll see you, Your Imperial Highness, keep this place."

* * *

On the other hand, Mikhail was frantic alone in prison.

'I thought the emperor was crazy. I never thought evil dragons actually existed...'

And as he recalled his suggestion, Mikhail smiled.

[Do whatever I tell you to lure Duke of Floyen to this place. Then I'll let you go and give you strength.]

Originally, his pride would not have tolerated pretending to be crazy, but now that he's down to the bottom, he thought it didn't matter... And the result was satisfactory. His strength wasn't completely restored, but he's back to the top prosecutor level. Mikhail held a smile when he said that he clenched and opened my fist.

'Yes, if I have a chance to get you again... I can do anything. Juvelian.'

It was then.

"Here you are." As the guard's voice was heard, Mikhail stared at the entrance without knowing it. Before long, a man shining like a star appeared in a dark prison.

"Are you here?" Although he greeted him softly, the Duke of Floyen was looking down at Mikhail as if he were dealing with a small and insignificant being.

"You're so arrogant. That's why you're in a trap, but..."

"What's that..." When Regis was about to ask, a well-earthed voice rang in his head...

[Slave of the Ring, come to me right now.]

It was then that Regis realized that Paphnil had used Mikhail to separate him from Max. And the reason is probably because he thinks Max is in the way.

'I have to tell Max!'

But at that moment, his tongue was hardened, his vision was blurred, and he began to be eaten by the increasing darkness. It was the moment when he was eroded by the power of the ring he had experienced.

'No.'

Regis tried to refuse, clenching his fists to the point of bleeding. But...

[It's no use rejecting it.]

Ignoring Paphneil's arsenic, Regis resisted desperately. But it was his limit.

'Juvelian.'

Soon his vision was covered with darkness.

* * *

Fear arose at Paphnil's stronger appearance than before, but soon I took control of my heart...

'It's okay. He can't break my barrier if it's that much.'

But the problem was then, Paphnil looked at me and twisted his mouth...

"Surely, with that mana, you can be safe from my attack. Pretty..."

"Yes. Because my mana is much higher than you.." So when I tried to tell him to go back without laboring in vain, he tore his mouth and laughed.

"Yes, but did you forget the power of this ring..." The ring on his index finger, I could see from a distance. That was the eye of Kirke, who was joking with my dad in the hands of the emperor.?

"How can you...?!" It was when I was staring at Paphnil with anger...

"You're here." At that, I turned my head and almost hesitated.

'Daddy!'

I thought he woukd be freed if only the emperor was removed, but my dad was being manipulated by the ring again, and my heart was torn. When I was biting my lips.

"Did you think that it would be solved by only killing the emperor, the owner of the ring?" Paphnil came right in front of the barrier and stared at me... "Yes, that's the limit of you humans. How can I not use the ring if I made it?"

Before long, the hateful evil dragon spoke to my Dad.

"Regis, pull out the sword and put it on your neck." I saw my Dad pull out his sword and put it on his neck. "If I do this, I'm not killing him myself, but isn't it suicide?" Ashes were scattered on my happiness and I felt anger soaring at the evil dragon laughing at me.

"Papnil!" But he talked blatantly with a casual face.

"My pretty, would you like to watch in there, even if your father dies?" The cruel mockery shook my whole body. But when I lift the barrier, the people in here are in danger. Also, if the barrier is not lifted, people outside the barrier, including my father, will be in danger. There was only one choice I could make in a situation where extreme choices were pushed. I squeezed my fist and said...

"I will release the barrier. However, there are conditions."

* * *

It was easy to escape the jail thanks to the Duke of Floyen defeating the guard. Mikhail lifted the corners of his mouth and soon clenched his fist tightly.

'Juvelian, if you thought it would end like this, you'd be wrong.'

By now, Paphnil would have done something. He wanted to run and see the Crown Prince's miserable begging and Juvelian's regret watching him.

'But I can't let you die because you're my girl.'

That's why Mikhail followed the Duke of Floyen in the distance. When the Duke of Floyen entered the annex, Mikhail smiled.

'Okay, there you are.'

It was when Mikhail was about to enter the annex.

"Mikhail, you punk! How did you get out of jail?!" Mikhail sharpened his teeth at the appearance of Count Pyrex approaching him with a piercing look.

'Goddamn it!'

As long as the power returned, it was helpless in front of the Transcendental. Soon Mikhail began to run away.

* * *

At Juvelian's words, Paphnil opened his mouth, tearing his pupil vertically...

"What is it? Tell me." People here were barely exhaling because of the peers that made all living things, including humans, fearful. However, Juvelian's reaction was grim.

"I'll ask first before that. Why are you obsessed with my mana?" And Paphnil looked at Juvelian and soon lifted the corners of his mouth.

"Do you think I'll tell you that?" Juvelian sighed as if she knew it, and then stared at Paphnil.

"Yes, thanks to you, I knew that all you wanted was me.''

"Hahaha, what a cute little girl! So what are you trying to say when you find out?" And then Juvelian closed hee eyes and then stared at Paphnil.

"You swear not to touch anyone except me." Beatrice, upon hearing that, stared at Juvelian with trembling eyes.

'Juvelian, what are you talking about? That monster wouldn't listen to you!'

It was at the time Beatrice suppressed her fear and headed for Juvelian.

"Okay, I swear on my name." Beatrice clenched her teeth at the answer from Paphnil.

'It's a trap. Dragon's taking a vow under his name means he'll bet his own self*, but...'

(*he'll be batshit crazy)

<My father became a monster who indiscriminately killed wizards, so I had no choice but to seal him.>

'Paphnil is already crazy then!'

History is the record of the winner*.

(*only wins are recorded, the defeats/loses, aren't)

Even if it is a false history, it is true if there are many people who believe it. And in the case of Paphnil, who was betrayed by his son and sealed for about a thousand years, there was a good chance that he was already crazy..

"Juvelian." Barely grabbed Juvelian's collar, she whispered with a smile to Beatrice.

"I'm fine, Liche." Her face was like the day of the hunting competition, so Beatrice had no choice but to look at her blankly. Before long, Juvelian glared at Paphnil and said. "Shining Dragon, your name is meaningless, so call the magical god. You put Kirke's name on it..." Papnil's mouth, which was on him, went down. But for a while, he burst into laughter.

"Hahahaha! It's fun.. It's very fun!" Before long, Paphnil said, staring at Jubelian with serious eyes. "Okay, it's just the princess and your father. Your lover has to be killed to cut off the empire!" Then Juvelian trembled, staring at Beatrice, and smiling soon.

"I'll do it somehow, so I'll ask you for the backwork, Liche." Only then could Beatrice know what she was going to do.

'This fool again...!'

Juvelian, who tries to sacrifice herself at will, is resentful, but disillusionment arose at herself, who had no choice but to watch it again.

'I can't do anything on the subject I've been proud of for gaining strength, and at really important moments!'

Beatrice immediately trembled and stared at Juvelian. The back of the person that tried to hold everything was so small that her tears soared.

'If I had only been chosen by the ring, you wouldn't have done this...'

Beatrice stared at Jubelian for a moment.

'Yes, it doesn't matter if you're strong or not. I won't let you handle it alone this time!'

Beatrice, when she was determined, held Juvelian's hand trying to lift the barrier and shouted...

"Don't do it!" And at that moment, Kirke's eyes on Paphnil's finger glowed blue.

Spoiler: Chapter 193-194

Max stared with cold eyes at Mikhail, who was getting trapped and kneeling.

"How did you escape from prison? And what did you do to the Duke of Floyen?" In response, Mikhail twisted his mouth and said...

"I think I'll tell you that..." It was before Mikhail's words were over. Count Pyrex kicked him in the back.

"What disrespect to the Lord! Come on, have an example!"

"Kuk, you traitor...!" It was then.

"Sir Pirex, back away." When Hampton backed away at the order, Max came slowly towards Mikhail. Mikhail glared at the Crown Prince.

'If it weren't for you... I wouldn't be like this.'

It was when Mikhail was in the midst of killing someone. Max put his feet on his head and said, smacking him down.

"One of the rumors about me is correct. No one has ever been questioned and hasn't blown." It was the gruesome life that will seem to cut his throat right away, and the feeling of gross arrogance that Max had hidden in front of Juvelian.

'I want to kill this guy right now, but I still don't know where Teacher is...'

It may be an unfounded worry, but his teacher who went to see Mikhail suddenly disappeared, and Mikhail, who was troubled, got out of jail in a fine form. Besides...

'The wound of the guard, if I'm right, my teacher...'

It was at the time when Max was clenching his fist without his knowledge.

"Your Imperial Highness!" As the door opened with an urgent voice, Max turned to dark eyes. It was Dennis who he ordered to check Juvelian's safety. "Your Imperial Highness! I'm sorry!" As soon as he saw Max, he kneeled on one knee and said in a sorrowful voice. "I tried to enter the Imperial Palace in the annex to carry out my order, but I couldn't!"

"Why?" It was cool, but a small tremor fell into Max's voice.

Dennis swallowed and opened his mouth.

"It seems that the Little Duke Floyen... Hit the barrier*." In response, Max pulled himself up and then stopped. It was because Juvelian's voice that he heard once lingered around.

(*it means that she made a magic barrier, it means something bad was happening)

<Max, didn't you say you're here because of something? As I said before, the duty of a crown prince comes first. Okay?>

At the time, he felt sorry for her words, but he understood why she said that.

'Because you respected my goals.'

Becoming an emperor, that was the goal that young Max had cherished from the moment his mother left him. And after a long effort, the goal was just around the corner. But...

<Good job.>

'I don't need you to praise me, what good is being the Emperor!'

The Emperor whom he had dreamed of was about to come, but now Max thought it was fine. Even if he lost everything, he wanted to protect her.

"Dennis, if... If I can't come back, you'll look after me."

"Your, Your Imperial Highness! What's that..." He could hear Dennis dissuading, but Max ignored him and ran.

'Juvelian, hang in there.'

He eagerly wish that his beloved would be safe.

* * *

Papnil glared at Kirke's eyes shining from his fingers. The jeweled ring given to Kirke, the God of Magic, was of course a creation made by Paphnil. But it was now rejecting it's creator.

'Why?'

Kirke's eyes is the treasure that decides it's own master. He was relieved that it's former master, the emperor, did not admit him and did not share it's power. If the owner hasn't been chosen, the creator himself can use the original power of the ring. So Paphnil had given his mana to the hungry ring, and it had followed his words. But the ring was collecting the strength it had given away a while ago.

'Is that not enough for you!'

Papnil clenched his fist to avoid missing the ring, but the ring shattered and turned into light as if rejecting him. It was the true image of the jewel that formed the ring, the power that Kirke gave herself.

"Damn it!" Paphnil reached out in a hurry, but it broke through the barrier created by Kirke's only priest and settled on the back of Beatrice's hand.

* * *

<Okay, it's just the princess and your father. Your lover has to be killed to cut off the empire!>

The moment I found out that Paphnil's words were trying to kill my loved one, my heart felt like it was breaking. I stared at Papnil with anger.

'Yes, maybe I'm...'

While sealing Mikhail, I instinctively sensed it. The reason why I started using defense magic instead of attack magic, and that my magic power is so enormous... The goddess may have given me the mission to seal Paphnil.

'If I use up all my magic and lock Paphnil in the barrier... At least the others will be fine. But... I'm going to die.'

After examining Paphnil, even though he was sealed, his mana overwhelmed me. The only way I can seal him completely is to risk my life and replace all my life with mana. Honestly, if I say I don't want to live, I'm lying. But more than that, I wanted my precious people to live.

'Now that it's like this, I'm sealing that dragon with everything I've got.'

So suppressing my fears, I tried to lift the barrier. But...

"Don't do it!" Liche held my trembling hand and stopped me. At that moment, I was frustrated at her words, but I tried to shake off her hand.

"Liche, I..." At that moment, the color of the ring on Paphnil's finger changed.

'What's going on?'

Soon it turned into a light and escaped from Paphnil. And when it suddenly tried to break through my barrier, I was amazed and tried to stop it... That was the time. I felt a familiar, warm power that I don't know for some reason.

'I don't know anything else, but this is not a harmful force. And maybe...'

When I was convinced, I passed it. Then, it penetrated into the back of Liche's hand and painted a pattern in the shape of the eye.

"This, this is...!" For a moment, I stared at my Dad.

'Daddy.'

He looked at me with clear eyes, not as dazed as he had just been.

'I'm so glad.'

I soon looked at Liche and cried.

"Thank you. Liche, I will think of you as my benefactor for the rest of my life." Kirke's eyes picked a new owner.

'Now Dad is really free.'

The troubles that bothered me and my dad for a long time have finally been solved. At the thought, I couldn't contain my sense of freedom and shed tears. But Liche, who actually did the great job, looked dumbfounded.

"Did I really... do it?" I was laughing at her muttering like that for a while, and I glared at Paphnil.

'But it's not over yet.'

Dad was aiming his sword at Paphnil as if he was thinking the same as me. And Paphnil said...

"Congratulations. You are finally free, Regis!" He laughed like a mockery, and then immediately released his words. "But you are no match for me." Others were already panicked, and even Sir Kaylen, the owner of considerable skill, was seen shaking. And my Dad was staring at the dragon with a nervous face.

"What the hell are you up to, Paphnil?" When the Evil Dragon looked at my Dad, he soon smiled and opened his mouth.

"If I ask you to release my restraint for a long time, you won't, will you?" And when Dad didn't answer, Paphnil soon twisted his face. "Yes, so I'm going to absorb your daughter's magic and release the shackles! When I become free, I will destroy this empire..." The other words were faint, so I couldn't hear them well, but a sad madness was flowing from his eyes. As I saw it, I recalled my mission.

'Now all I have to do is... Seal Paphnil. But...'

Honestly, I'm not confident yet. Can I really seal that powerful dragon? And now I'm finally ready to be happy with my dad. I don't know if I can die without hesitation. When I was shaking my hand without realizing it, Liche held my hand.

"Don't worry. Because we're going to win." As soon as Liche spoke, the pattern on the back of her hand shone. Before long, fear began to fade from the faces of Lord Kailen and others.

"That's right. We have the Duke of Ploen, and the Little Duke is also protecting us!" People sympathized with someone's words, and Sir Kaylen whispered in a small, embarassed face.

"It looks like I couldn't see it, Liche."

"It's okay. It's only now that it's in it's full-scale." At that, Lord Kaylen nodded and laughed.

"Yes, from now on, I will work with the thought of helping Duke Floyen defeat that dragon." Now, somehow, I felt confident in his voice. However, it wasn't just a shameful confidence. It was because the mana that came out of Liche was raising his power.

'This is... the true power of Kirke's eyes.'

Until now, the emperor used to manipulate a person according to their own will, but originally, I thought it was a ring made for the purpose of controlling allies and doubling their abilities.

'And I too...'

I stared at my people one by one.

'Dad, Liche, my friends and people who are grateful. And...'

"Juvelian!" I stared at Max and smiled.

'Happiness with the one I love the most... I'll never give up.'

A voice came in.

[Yes, that's the answer. That's my child.]

It was the voice of Kirke, my god who has always been with me, warm and familiar.

[I won't have to turn around for you this time, so I'll lend you a hand instead.]

Soon my body was wrapped in a brilliant radiance.

***

Paphnil, staring at the humans who were energized by the power of the ring, immediately felt nausea rising.

'Disgusting things.'

It was Altair who killed the wizards, but it was Paphnil who urged it. This was because all the wizards who were interested in Kirke were hateful. But the fear of his son was an unexpected variable for him.

'Because he was half a human in the end.'

Soon, a familiar face escaped the barrier and entered the palace. He was Maximilian, a distant descendant of Altair and the Crown Prince who would succeed to the throne.

'Yes, like that guy.'

Anyway, he is a transcendental human. Even if all humans, including Regis and Maximilian, Jubelian and Beatrice, attacked, he had the confidence to win. Paphnil gazed greedyly at Juvelian in the barrier and recalled his hidden plot.

'If I absorb your power and bring her down to that beautiful body, I will be able to see her again.'

Confining God to the human body. Although he couldn't even try it a long time ago due to Altair's apostasy, this time he was convinced that he would succeed. At that moment, Juvelian's body shone brightly. And Paphnil, looking at the light, lifted the tail of his mouth without knowing it.

'No way, you...!'

The awaited manifestation of the god, Papnil could not control his trembling heart.

***

It was natural for Kirke to regard the designer of magic and the dragon, the bridge connecting the middle world.. Among them, Paphnil, who was outstanding among them, had the cuteness of Kirke.

<Paphnil, I can't believe you came up with such a magic trick... That's very clever.>

The Juvelian's appearance floating in the light was as bright as her. Soon Juvelian slowly opened her eyes.

"Kirke-nim." Paphnil repressed his trembling heart and called her. But...

"Paphnil, I'm going to stop you." The cold words from her disappointed him.

* * *

It was a very short time, but through the inoculation, I was able to understand the cause and effect of everything. The magic god was generous to all who were gifted with magic, and Dragon mistook her kindness for love. So he wanted to kill all her beloved creatures and monopolize her love.

'That dragon... You were like me in the past.'

The life of the modern man I lived in was a distant past life I didn't remember, and what I thought was a story in a book, as expected, was my past. And at that time I was dumped by Mikhail, and I was living a wasted time, even losing the will to live.

'But I didn't think of restraining the other person like that. I let him go. So she had no choice but to save me even if it was impossible.'

In the past, Kirke was forced to overlook the emperor's killing of the wizard because of the causality imposed by the Lord. But like any god, she couldn't turn a blind eye to the deaths of her children. So she thought of a way to protect the wizards so that they wouldn't go against the law of causality, and that was to have a priest.

'Cause giving priests power, it's not against causality.'

But there was a limit to the power God could give to the priest, so instead of having several priests, she had only one priest. It's a precious body that's born once every 100 years.

'But since I, her priest, chose to commit suicide without even developing my magic talent... From her point of view, it must have been frustrating.'

So she turned the clock back using Liche, the wizard. It is difficult for humans to use time magic as it is. The mortal who lives in a finite time cannot understand the profound principle. But the probability was met by my transcendent Dad risking his life to make a wish on a new pendant, and she was able to turn back time to Liche.

'But that wasn't the end.'

My dad's wish was to give me a chance to live happily. She arranged for me to recognize the past in the form of "the original" vaguely so as not to make my own mistakes.

'That's why I misunderstood Max and my Dad, but...'

When I sighed while thinking like that, I clenched my fists.

'At least, I can not give up as I did then.'

I opened my eyes and glared at Paphnil, the origin of all this. He was staring at me as if I were Kirke.

'And I didn't know before, but now I know that gaze is violence.'

Kirke borrowed the Emperor's hand and sealed Paphnil. Hoping that the young dragon, who she once considered as cute, would realize his own faults... And this time, she gave me strength as her priest. I'm sure you're trying to give me another chance.

'Even if it was modified, the seal is another form of a barrier.'

Finally I opened my mouth.

"Paphnil, I'm going to stop you... And realize your mistakes..." He cast a flurried rage in his red eyes.

"What can you do to stop me?" After a while, he put an eerie energy on his whole body and immediately became his true body.

[Khahaha, I will make all your power mine!]

People were surprised by the mighty dragon's threat, but soon Liche said, invoking magic.

"Everybody, don't be scared. The shackles that bind the dragon have not yet been released!" But the words seemed to have offended Paphnil. And before long, Paphnil opened his mouth.

[How dare you, Altair's blood, speak of my shackles!]

Before long, Paphnil opened his mouth. A terrifying red energy was created inside his sharply stretched teeth.

[Insignificant human beings, I'll put them all away!]

The breath* he shot struck my barrier roughly. There was no problem preventing his attack, but the problem was that the attack that Paphnil fired could not lift the barrier.

(*like how dragons breath fire)

'If I lift the barrier like this, others will be hurt by Paphnil's attack.'

As I clenched my teeth, I heard a voice calling me.

"Juvelian, don't worry. Because you're not alone..." And I smiled openly.

'Yes, I'm glad you're here.'

Through the opportunity Kirke gave me again, I learned to trust the precious people, to support each other and to unite. And now my two most trusted men, Dad and Max, were holding swords, attacking the immortal dragon.

[Regis, you bastard...!]

An indignant dragon roared with life, but thanks to the power of Liche, people were cheering for Dad and Max instead of being frightened. I soon looked back at them and said.

"I'm going to lift the barrier soon, so please take refuge in a safe place." At my words, people nodded and started moving slowly. I turned my head back and stared at Paphnil and the two.

'Give me a little time.'

As people went towards the entrance, I lifted the barrier. And at the moment when people were about to get out, Paphnil noticed and shouted like his ears seemed to be torn*.

(*like his deaf)

[You think I'll let you get away with it!]

Red energy gathered in his mouth again. And I quickly formed a barrier and covered it over his body. But... At that moment, the dragon's body disappeared.

'It's a momentary movement magic.'

When I was quickly pursuing the flow of Paphnil's magic, he revealed himself towards the entrance. I quickly formed barriers and covered people, but the barriers were still incomplete, so it was not enough to prevent Paphnil's breath.

'If I had known this would have happened, I would have given them my sword of defense...'

I was regretting it.

"Initiate." With a gentle voice, I could feel the mana overlaid on the barrier and became solid. And at that moment, Paphnil's breath was furious.

Boom!

I felt it was a great force, but the barrier survived the attack without shaking. After a while, I could see the person inside the barrier.

'Fred? And those on the floor... Magic items?'

It was okay to say that it was an astronomical price. When I was surprised at the appearance of countless magical items, Liche muttered next to me.

"Of course, it was the man who raised the price at the auction that day." For a moment when she was saying something in the dark, she spoke to me in a low voice.

"Thanks to Prince Elios' wit we're all getting out. And Paphneil's poisoned..."

[Argh! How dare you you trifling being!]

I nodded and stared at my Dad and Max standing next to me.

"I ask you to make sure that Paphnil doesn't have time to use teleportation." Then they nodded and rushed towards Paphnil.

'Please be safe.'

Even with that thought for a while, I immediately closed my eyes and concentrated...

'Altair also succeeded in sealing Paphnil. And to keep him from running away...'

I immediately opened my eyes and reached out...

'That's what I'm aming for!'

As my mana turned to him again, Paphnil tried to teleport, twisting one of his lips. But he couldn't be even.

[Wha, what? What did you do to me?]

After a while, he recognized the situation and stared at me with his angry red eyes.

[You, my shackles...!]

It was because I made it impossible for him to use teleportation by attaching my mana to his shackles.

[I will kill you!]

I could see him coming towards me, but I was faster.

"Daddy, Max! Get away from Paphnil!" I said, and they rushed off to Paphnil.

'This time I will seal you!'

At the same time, my mana that stretched out of my hand climbed up to his shackles and moved to his body like a chain. Paphnil struggled and began to struggle to get out of my trap.

[Argh! You god-damned bitch!]

I didn't think it would be easy to seal him, but he was definitely a dragon that touched the gods, so unlike Mikhail, my heart started to hurt. And I'm feeling the dwindling mana, I trembled slightly.

'I have to hold on.'

I tried to withstand that, but because of the backflow, I spilled blood from my mouth.

"Juvelian!" I felt my dad and Max stare at me with anxiety, but I said, pretending to be calm.

"It's okay. Don't touch me as the magic might break." I said grimly, but in reality it seemed like my insides were burning.

'As expected, my mana alone is not enough to seal Paphnil!'

For a while I was feeling despair like a fishy blood taste. I grabbed the string of weak possibilities.

'But it might be possible if I replace all my life with magic.'

I stared at Dad and Max.

'We all tried to be happy together...'

When I felt the taste of blood on my slightly bite lips, I laughed.

'It seems impossible to me.'

Did you read strangeness on my face? I saw Dad and Max approaching me...

"Juvelian, what are you thinking...!" But I activated the Sword of Protection to keep them away.

'I'm sorry, I used it to die again...'

Max shouted at me as I was apologizing to the slightly throbbing sword.

"No! Please, stop. Juvelian!" I cried too, looking at his tearful face.

'I wanted to be with you for the rest of my life... I'm sorry.'

Did my Mom, who died protecting me, feel this way? Scary and fearful, unable to back down to protect someone. I soon began to pluck the mana out of my heart and use it.

'It hurts...!'

The strange pain brought tears, but I clenched mu teeth.

'If only I disappear, everyone can be happy!'

At that time, I felt the warmth of someone's touching my hands. When I turned my head, I saw a person staring at me...

"Liche? How, my barriers..." And for a moment, I recalled the fact that I had forgotten, and I was amazed.

'Rather, this is not the time. If Paphnil gets out of restraint while I glance at her...!'

Then, she said in a cold voice...

"Look around." I turned my eyes away from her, and I flinched.

'Did they all stopped?'

When I stared at Liche in amazement, she glared at me with an angry, stiff face.

"Juvelian, didn't you promise me that you wouldn't give up?" Liche's eyes, saying so, were inside a wall of purple and blue like me.

"Kirke?" However, as if it was my illusion, Liche's eyes were back in their original color red.

"I'll share my mana. Let's seal it together." I had a hunch that the pattern on the back of her hand shone.

'Yes, the Goddess is on our side and there is nothing to be afraid of.'

Regained courage, I poured out magic at Paphnil. Paphnil, whose whole body was covered with dew, trembled and groaned and cried as he stared at me.

[Argh! Kirke-nim...!]

Before long, the whole world turned white.

'We... won.'

I was able to laugh until I was engulfed by the calm energy.

"Ju...an!" I could hear someone faintly calling me, but I closed my eyes with the rush of fatigue.

Chapter 195:

Hr could see it just by looking in Juvelian's eyes. What was she thinking of having such a face?

'You prepared to die, leaving me...'

Max looked at her and begged silently.

If you're going to die, I'd rather die with you, so please open the barrier.

Then she smiled and turned her head in tears. As soon as she disappeared from being seen, wrapped in a wave of intense magic, Max, desperate, cried.

"No! Please, stop. Juvelian!" Shortly thereafter, a huge brilliance emanating from Juvelian's body covered Paphnil's body. The evil dragon shook and screamed...

[Argh! Kirke-nim...!]

At the end of his call of mourning, Paphnil's body turned red and disappeared from view. But he didn't even get into Max's eyes...

'Juvelian, where is Juvelian??'

At that time, the figure of his fallen lover and his sister, holding hands, in Max's eyes, came in... Max quickly ran towards them.

'Is she safe?'

That's how he was looking at her. Someone coughed with a clatter.

"Liche!" Max breathed a sigh of relief at the sight of Kaylen running to her and looking.

'Good thing, I think you're all right. Now...'

Soon Max, who was checking out Juvelian, hardened his face.

'She's not breathing.'

Someone collapsed when Max was rubbing her hand and stroking her face.

"Juvelian." His teacher with empty eyes was staring at his daughter.

***

She was so tired that she couldn't open her eyes, but she couldn't sleep because of the loud noise.

"Mental...!" At the familiar voice, Liche inadvertently tried to mutter, 'Be quiet..' But instead of answering, a cough broke out...

'What's this...'

While embarrassed by the taste of blood that filled her mouth, she opened her eyes with a loud noise ringing her ears.

"Are you crazy? Do you think Juvelian would like this?"

"Don't stop me! I have to make a wish!"

"I'll make a wish, so Teacher stay still!" When she saw the Duke of Floyen trying to kill himself and Max stopping him, her mind flashed and the hazy energy was gone.

'What's going on here? Ju, Juvelian.'

Liche crawled in a hurry as she fell right next to her. Soon she was shocked to see Juvelian.

'Not only her mana, but also her life?'

In the case of mana, complete consumption would restore over time, but exhausting life would mean death.

'Juvelian, what makes you think like this, you're so reckless...'

But soon Liche's face brightened.

'No, it's insignificant, but her vitality still remains!'

She shouted, unable to control her joy.

"She's alive!" Max's and Duke of Floyen's eyes, who were in a tearful scuffle, opened their eyes wide.

* * *

'Wow, I'm tired. But it looks like it's time to get up?'

It was a time when I was trying to open my eyes to the bright light that I felt even when I closed my eyes. Someone said, stroking my head.

<You can sleep more.>

Strange. It was certainly not the voice I heard recently, but it felt familiar.

'Who is it?'

It was then. The familiar lullaby came from her mouth.

<Mommy?>

When I looked up and checked her face, I was right. I was glad to see her and I miss her, and I was frustrated at the thought that this was a dream.

<What's wrong with you?>

Yes, it must be a dream. She can't look at me with such a friendly face and worry.

<No, it's nothing.>

When I got my memory back, she made a face like that. What would it be like if my mom didn't die and she lived with me? Maybe it was because of my lingering feelings. Because of such an absurd miseries that if she had been alive, we might have been good mother and daughter. Then, she stroked my face.

<You grew up like this. You look a lot like your father.>

Her affectionate face was unfamiliar and familiar, so I replied, stifling my agitated feelings.

<Is that so? I'm not really sure...>

Then she said firmly.

<Yes, don't worry because you're very pretty because you resembles your dad.>

I laughed.

<Don't you think that I and my Mommy is alike?>

<Why do you think so?>

<When I sealed Papnil, I was really scared. If I fail, what about the rest of the people? I think I threw it away with that idea. At that time, I thought of my mom for a moment. I thought my mom would have done that, too.>

Her eyes shook and soon sank.

<No, I don't deserve...>

It's a dream anyway, so it doesn't it matter? I hugged her in that spirit. Then I felt her stiffening up.

'Dream mom is a cute person, I don't know where she is.'

It was when I was smiling like that. As she hugged me, I immediately felt her tears.

<Mom, Mommy?>

As I called her in embarrassment, a trembling voice came.

<I'm sorry. Baby, meanwhile... I've been hard on...>

I said, hugging her shoulder.

<I don't know why I was shunned, why... I once thought of that. When I'm about my mom's age, can I understand her?>

Soon I stared at my Mommy. Seeing her young figure not much older than me, I could understand her immaturity a little.

<But actually... I could tell by looking at my past memories. You didn't turn away from me, you were a clumsy person who didn't know how to treat me.>

Soon, my mother shed tears and cried.

<Sorry, I wanted to love you as much as I could.>

I could see instinctively. This was the truth she've been wanting to tell me all along. The fact that I was her last regret, not my Daddy.

'This alone leaves me with a lot of sadness.'

I was smiling for a moment, and I said what I always wanted to say to her, who hinted at her true intention to me.

<Mommy, thank you for protecting me. I'm going to miss you.>

She dropped her tears and smiled and said.

<Thank you for sleeping with me as such a good girl. And I'll see you in a very distant future.>

After she finished talking, she pushed me.

<Please be happy.>

Soon my body fell down.

***

'Juvel.'

Regis stared at his daughter with quasping eyes, and soon bit his lips.

'If you can't get up, I'll...'

Regis closed his eyes patting the pendant in his pocket.

'Yes, even if your wish didn't come true, you wouldn't be lonely.'

It was when he had such extreme thoughts.

"You can't. No matter how much you think about it, I'd better try the way I said it." Max stared at her, crumpled his forehead at the Princess' words.

"You'd better give up if you're talking about the nonsense of applying full magic to her chest, Beatrice." And Beatrice glanced at his face and opened her mouth, looking carefully at Regis.

"Duke, I know it sounds absurd in the midst of your panic. But as a wizard, I can assure you that it will work." How silent was it? Regis sighed, then said with my disastrous feelings.

"Okay, I'll trust you because you're the one who told us that there's a weak lifeline at my child." In response, Beatrice nodded and stared at Juvelian.

"I will save her." Regis had a faint hope in the words of will. But...

"Oh oh!" After having a seizure from the magic, Juvelian, who woke up as if tossing her upper body, fell shortly. After long, Regis felt as if his heart was frozen at the Juvelian's appearance who was having a seizure.

"Juvel, Juvel! Get a hold of yourself! " Regis eagerly called his daughter, but Juvelian wasn't even fine. When he saw the Jubelian sighing quietly, Max opened his eyes and called her anxiously.

"Juvel, Juvel! Get up your mind!" But, staring at her seldom finding consciousness, Max fell into a blitz. "Don't you think she will never wake up like this?" In response, Beatrice screamed and said...

"Don't be ridiculous!"

Seeing that the siblings were fighting, Regis quickly fiddled with the pendant and stared at Jubelian with a clear eye. He had a slightly raised mouth to see if she had a good dream, but even so, it was self-evident that he could not be said to be happy unless she was conscious.

'I'm sure there'll be no other way but to kill myself.'

It was then. As her eyelids with long eyelashes raised slowly lifted, Max and the Princess stopped having an argument.

"Ju, Juvelian!"

"Juvel!"

The two siblings called her with an dying voices, but the first thing that Juvelian, who looked around with hazy eyes, saw was Regis.

"Daddy?" He hugged his daughter and shed tears.

'Thank you, God.'

He was afraid he would never see these lovely eyes again. But the fact that he could embrace his daughter again like this made Regis think he had no regrets. At that time, Juvelian said with a bashful smile.

"I had a dream."

"What dream?" His daughter said with a faint smile.

"It is a dream that allows me to move forward freely with happiness in the future." It was also for a while that he had a blank expression at his daughter's words that he could not understand. "Daddy, we're all happy now." At his daughter's words, Regis nodded slowly with a bright smile.

Spoiler: Chapter 196

A series of events at the palace led to an extraordinary meeting of state affairs at the request of heads of ministries and the finance minister. And Max declared this as a conspiracy between Paphnil, the Evil Dragon and Darius, the Emperor.

"My father, the Emperor Darius, had sinned, so I will dethrone him and put him in the ground as a sinner, not as an emperor."

Of course, no nobles protested against him, because no one was there. That's because the Marquis of Hessen and the minority of the aristocrats, who were involved in the treason, watched all their property confiscated and demoted to commoners.

The nobles, who were members of the Emperor's faction, turned their backs on the Emperor, and most of the nobles seemed to welcome the current situation in which the Crown Prince took power without a coup.

"Your Imperial Highness, do you have the schedule to the coronation?" At the extraordinary state affairs meeting, Max shook his head at the words given by the Prime Minister, the Duke of Elios.

"The director comes first." In response, Duke Elios flinched and nodded slowly.

"Yes, then I will proceed without a hitch."

The director was not magnificent, but it was carried out in a proper way. And it was only the Empress, Isabelle, who received the memorial. All the nobles greeted the empress, and it was time for the burial to proceed. When the knights in conquest were trying to lift the coffin, giving examples to the empress's coffin, someone stood in front of the coffin and said.

"I want to say my last greeting to my mother." The knights fell from the coffin one step at a time when the Princess in a black dress spoke with a dull voice. Beatrice looked at the empress's face under the veil as if imprinting it.

'Actually... I still don't understand my mother. Not only the evils committed you commited, but also your extreme choices at the end. But...'

<Stay quiet there until you are safe.>

Beatrice couldn't stand the rising tears and dropped her tears.

'Thank you for being my mother for the last time.'

Before long, the lid of the coffin was closed, and the burial began. As a result, the nobles withdrew, and only the Imperial siblings remained looking at it. For a while, seeing the coffin buried in the soil, Beatrice stared at Maximilian. There was no expression on his face, looking at the coffin with a stiff face.

'What made you feel like holding a funeral for the person who killed your mother?'

She was embarrassed and sorry because she didn't think he'd do this for her. And she couldn't shed tears because she was ashamed of herself.

'I don't know how to look at your face. Maximilian.'

It was when she was slowly lowering her head.

"Take it." Suddenly, Maximilian's act of handing a handkerchief raised Beatrice's head again. His face was still blunt, but she still felt a slight warmth in his eyes. Although she still felt sorry, Beatrice decided to express gratitude first.

"Thank you, Brother Max." Instead of answering, Maximilian gave her a slight smile and patted Beatrice on her shoulder. His face, as if hate no longer existed, seemed to say that she could cry freely. Beatrice was relieved and at the same time felt the pent-up tears flow out.

Listening to his half-sister's little sobbing, Max recalled what his mother had said as she was getting weaker day by day.

<Don't forget, Max. Your happiness comes before revenge.>

He thought it was nonsense at that time. But now it seemed to him vaguely knowing her meaning. While he was feeling vengeful, he was eaten by his vengeance, rejecting others, and trying to enter a path that no one could trust. Even knowing how lonely it is. Max thought, tapping slowly on the delicate shoulders of his crying half-sister.

'If it was the way it was, I would have to hate you, her daughter, until the end.'

Of course, he can do whatever he want. But Max wanted to be happy.

'Mother. I'm sorry, but it's hard to hate now, so I'll put it down*.'

(*to put down something one has been holding)

Is it because he put it down like that? Max felt a little gone from the fatigue that had plagued him for a long time.

* * *

After the director's funeral, I stared at Max and Liche from the cemetery. I was worried that the atmosphere of the two person in the chapel of the imperial palace where the funeral was held was somehow disconnected, but I felt my heart throbbing at his affectionate figure surrounding the shoulders of the red-eyed Liche.

'I'm so happy.'

If it had not been reconciled like this, Liche would not have been able to get rid of the feelings of debt caused by her mother's sins and the guilt that Max could not protect his mother. However, the faces of the two, who seemed to have shaken off the bad relations of the past, looked relatively relieved.

'Now we are all ready to move on to a new future for happiness...'

I approached them.

"Juvelian?" Liche, who looked at me with a surprised face, and Max, who had already discovered and watched me, spoke silently, holding my hand.

"Everyone, we've had a hard time." Liche hugged me terrifyingly to say that.

"Thank you." For a while, I was reminded that there is something I haven't solved yet. I opened my mouth as I stared at Max.

"Max, I have a request."

* * *

A familiar face was seen in front of Mikhail's eyes.

'Juvelian?'

She couldn't help but to look at his eyes with tears. But a cold voice came out of Mikhail's mouth.

<You! Did you try to hurt her in the end?>

Then Juvelian said, shivering with a pale face.

<No, I really am not!>

He knew. That she's not the one who assassinate the Princess.

'Because I'm the one who poisoned her. I stole what the Empress was trying to send to the Crown Prince.'

Soon, Mikhail's eyes, looking at the princess in his arms, turned cold.

'I'm sick and tired of trying to please this cheeky little girl.'

The reason why he became the lover of the Princess was because he was wondering if he could go up to a higher position. But the Princess, who had only venom to the imperial family, had no real value.

'On the other hand...'

The shivering Juvelian always gave him a lot.

'You will sacrifice for me again this time. Because you love me.'

If Jubelian is stigmatized as a poison killer, the Crown Prince, who is said to be vicious, will try to kill her because he thinks that the beast that sent him poison is her, not the Empress.

'Of course the soldier I brought will stop you, and it will only be an attempt, but... If he knew his daughter was attacked, he wouldn't stay still.'

Mikhail glared at someone.

'The Duke of Floyen.'

It was actually like insurance that he could not find a farewell to Jubvelian while dating the princess. But...

<You punk, how long are you going to play tricks on my daughter?>

Due to Duke of Floyen's blackmail, Mikhail had to break up with Juvelian.

'Duke of Floyen, this time, even you can't interfere, right?'

His outward appearance but inwardly caring for his daughter, he will not just sit there and watch. And then, Mikhail would take Juvelian as a hostage and defeat the Duke of Floyen

'If I kill the Duke of Floyen as a rebel, the missing Duke position may be in the possession of our family.'

When Mikhail was smiling inside, the world was distorted.

* * *

Mikhail slowly opened his eyes in the cool cold weather that covered his whole body.

'Here's...'

The damp, dreary underground prison was infested with rats and worms, and smelled stale. Mikhail, who woke up completely from his dream and recalled the reality, clenched his teeth.

'Why should I be in a place like this?'

For a moment he was thinking about the reason, he recalled what he had just had a dream.

'If... if I'd been more affectionate to you, wouldn't you have done this?'

He have never regretted being so cold to her in his life.

"Juvelian, look... I want to." Mikhail seemed to be able to do anything if he could see the beautiful eyes that once looked at him again.

'But now there will be no chance.'

That's when Mikhail shed tears of regret.

"Looking at your status, you're very funny." Mikhail stood up at a voice filled with cold living and stared at the man who had found the prison.

'The Crown Prince.'

Still, Mikhail felt that the most disgusting guy came to him right now. Then, Max whispered to Mikhail.

"I wish I could kill you right away, but she gave you a chance... So I have to endure it." Mikhail looked blank when he said chance.

'A chance for me?'

For a while, he saw with desperation what the Crown Prince had brought into the prison.

'Potion?'

And the Crown Prince opened his mouth.

"It's a potion with magic that can forget everything. Jubelian said, it will make you forget what you really want to forget." To him, Mikhail hardened his face.

"Forget?" When Mikhail muttered, Max nodded.

"Yes. Juvelian wants me to give you a chance to live with your family if you forget everything." At that, Mikhail's purple eyes shook violently.

<I am only for you. So, don't hate me.>

<I love you. Mikhail.>

A beautiful girl who was desperately clinging to him and shyly talking about love.

'To forget all those moments with you. I won't be able to be with you in the future.'

Then, the man who will be with her in the future said mockingly.

"If you have any last words you want to leave to her, tell me. I'll give it to her with good heart." Soon Mikhail's purple eyes filled with anger.

Jjigang!

Mikhail, who picked up the fragments of the broken potion, screamed in spite of the evil.

"Don't make me laugh. So you're trying to forget about me and live a comfortable life! I don't think it's..." Mikhail continued with a demonic smile. "Juvelian will never forget me." As soon as he finished speaking, Mikhail penetrated his throat deeply with shrapnel in his hand.

Thud!

Mikhail, who fell on the floor, soon smiled powerlessly.

'Oh, this will keep Juvelian from my shadow forever.'

It was when he was hurling curses at the Crown Prince, who had taken her away from him.

"Yes, I knew your will to forget everything and wish her happiness. I'll tell her you're back in the arms of your family." Mikhail reached out at Max's words, which came with mockery.

"Argh!" He wanted to ask what that meant, but his words didn't come out as he thought because of the deep damage to his vocal cords. Mikhail stared at Max with bloodshot eyes. Then Max said quietly to him.

"My love is weak-hearted, so even if it's a guy like you, she would surely shed tears from those pretty eyes." Before long, a cruel smile caught on Max's mouth. "But when I think of my cute snow rabbit crying over another guy, I get so mad. So, that's what I'm going to deliver to her so she doesn't cry."

In short, no matter what choice Mikhail made from the beginning, the ending was decided.

"I'm good enough to pretend to be nice in front of her." Mikhail extended his hand to the Crown Prince's words and cursed.

'You damned bastard!'

But soon his whole body was drained. As his dying breath died away, Max said in a faint, ungrateful voice.

"Take care of yourself so that she don't get upset."

Spoiler: Chapter 197

I gave a deep sigh.

'Will it be okay?'

Originally, I asked Max if he would mind if he deliver my potion to Mikhail. Of course, I don't have any lingering feelings for Mikhail, but I wanted to use it to give him a chance to shake off the guilt inside me. But...

<He's too dangerous, so I'll be right back.>

Max's face was smiling, but he looked somewhat awkward.

'Maybe I shouldn't have said something that made you feel uncomfortable? Besides, we haven't talked about it yet...'

At that time, I turned my head at the sound of the door of the office opening.

"Juvel, how are you?" In the appearance of Max, I approached him.

"How did it go?" At my question, Max hardened his face and asked coldly.

"Are you so curious about his news?"

"Not that..." When I was panicking without my knowledge, a gentle touch stroked my cheek.

"Don't worry. He took the potion to wish you happiness." I felt a little relieved.

'Good thing.'

After going to the brink of death in the battle against Paphnil, I now realized the principle and could use some other magic. Potion is a magic that works the same way he did when I put my memory to Paphnil, and he will now be able to forget me and live a new life.

'Although it was a bad luck, I hope you can live happily now.'

It was when I was thinking about that. Max said with a sulky face.

"You personally asked for a request, but will you not give me a prize?" At that, I smiled and hugged Max.

"Thank you." Then Max said, kissing my lips lightly.

"By the way, when will we get married? I think it would be good to do it with the coronation." Then I turned my eyes and got lucky to say what I was trying to say to him.

"Max, I have something to say."

"What?" I was hesitant to see his smiling face, but it was something I had to say anyway. I opened my mouth while swallowing dry saliva.

"That's... Daddy told me to go down to our estate together." Max remained silent for a long time with a stiff face. I thought he wouldn't welcome it, but I didn't know he would be this unresponsive, so I started to worry. "Max?" It was then. He hugged me tightly and said.

"Can you not go?" I was shaken by his babbling words, but I recalled what my Dad had said.

<I think I should check Paphnil's seal.>

Speaking of all my things, I can affirm that he was sealed. But I also understood my Daddy's heart...

'For Dad, Paphnil must have been an entity representing the last nightmare or something.'

So I didn't want to let my dad go alone. When he broke up with the pain he had suffered for a long time, I wanted to be there.

"Actually... I think I should come see Paphnil." As for the end of my words, I saw Max crumpling his eyebrows. Before long, anger began to grow in his eyes.

"If I had been a little stronger, I would have killed that damn lizard..." He was anxious that I would be in a dangerous situation like the last time.

"Max, don't worry. I'm just trying to check. And you know. I'm super strong." At my words, he looked at me with shaking eyes and stroked my face.

"I know." When I smiled unknowingly at his affirmation, he whispered, putting his forehead to my forehead. "But no matter how strong you are... It's natural to be worried."

That's right. I'm always worried that Max or my dad aren't the ones who would never go anywhere. When he sighed slightly, he stroked my cheek and called me in my nickname.

"Jubel, when are you leaving?"

"Today."

"How long are you going to stay?" He reminded me of what my Daddy had said.

<After checking out Paphnil, I'd like to stay in the land for a while as the lord. Will you follow me?>

"It will take a few days to see the results of the last inspection." He changed his expression subtly.

'Do you think you want to follow me anyway?'

In fact, I feel the same way, but he's no longer supposed to just stand.

'It would be crazy to say that the next emperor had been just anstand-up in a chaotic situation.'

So I tried to comfort him. At that time, he said with a slight pinch on my cheek.

"I can't help it. Let's discuss the wedding after the coronation." I couldn't help but laugh because he was so lovely to listen to me.

"Thank..." When I was about to say thank you, he devour my lips softly. While I was thrilled by Max's kiss, which felt like an adult for some reason, his gaze, which seemed somewhat sad, caught my mind.

'Next time, I'll discuss with Liche and make something like a communication device that can be reached even over long distances.'

***

"Even if you don't have me, should you take good care of you meals?" If someone else had interfered like that, he would have glared coldly, saying that she was arrogant, but he felt like he was blaming her because she was the one who spoke. Max stared at his loving lover looking at him.

'Can you just not go?'

The words ran to the bottom of his neck, but Max struggled to suppress his true intentions.

"... Yes." There was a satisfactory smile on Juvelian's face in his answer, but Max seemed to be burning up.

'I can't believe I have to let you go like this.'

He didn't want to spend the wedding later on her side. But Max finally saw her off with a smile.

"Good-bye." Then she kissed Max on the cheek and said shyly. "I love you, Max." When Jubelian left quickly, Max touched his cheek without knowing it, and then began to laugh without holding back his joy.

"Hahaha!" Then some of the knights who were accompanying him looked at their Lord as if they were afraid, but Max laughed only because he was stuck in his thoughts.

'Juvel told me that she loves me first.'

Since he was always in a position that he is always that one who says that he loves her first, he felt as if he had the world right now.

'Will I declare today as an anniversary when I become the Emperor?'

For a moment, Max felt his worries rising.

For a moment, even with such a ridiculous thought, Max felt anxiety rising.

'She's so cute and lovely, but maybe a guy like Mikhail will stick to her. Besides...'

<It's okay. Don't touch me as the magic might break.>

He was afraid that if Paphnil's seal was sloppy, she would sacrifice herself as it was then.

'But I can't leave my seat.'

For a moment, Max soon lifted his lip.

'No, come to think of it, I am obliged to check the seal of the dragon as the new emperor of the Ashett Empire...'

Max opened his mouth.

"Call a meeting of state affairs right now." But there was a chilling voice to him.

"Your Imperial Majesty, as I have said many times, you must notify at least three days in advance to call heads of each department except in case of emergency." Dennis agreed with Hampton.

"The late Emperor violated it and hated the heads of each department, so the Lord should be careful as well." But the truth was that Max kept his mouth shut and gnawed his teeth.

'Damn it, it's not always good to be an emperor.'

* * *

The reclaimed land was still calm. To the point where what we've been through feels like a dream. Then, my dad reached out his hand to me.

"Let's go to the Forbidden first." At the nervous look, I held my Daddy's hand tightly and brightened my eyes.

'Yes, I can't ignore one possibility in ten thousand*.'

(*like it's better to be sure than sorry)

When I came up to a ban in a remote place like that.

[Argh! Damn it, trap me in a place like this!]

I stiffened my shoulders at Paphnil's fiercely roaring voice...

'Why is Paphnil's consciousness awake?'

I was so amazed that I stepped back without knowing. It was then.

"Juvel! What's wrong?" My father looked at me with a surprised face, and he seemed to have no idea.

'Don't tell me...'

I asked my dad just in case.

"Oh, I'm scared because the Forbidden is so quiet." Then Dad smiled and held my hand tight.

"What were you afraid of when I would protect you?" Dad, who said so, looked around the Forbidden and said. "But it's certainly so quiet that I'm surprised. Yeah, it's like he's gone back before he woke up."

[Regis, Juvelian! I'll curse you all my life!]

At the same time, when I heard Papnil's voice, it was vigorous. I laughed.

'No, Dad, not at all.'

I let go of my dad's hand and walk slowly towards the sound. As if he had exhausted a lot of energy, Paphnil was sitting up in the form of a child and shedding tears of blood.

[I just want to receive your love, and... I'm alone..]

It seems like my God's punishment on the dragon was loneliness.

'It was like this in the end.'

Instead of extinction to Paphnil for committing evil deeds, punishing him would be the last mercy of my God, hoping that he would realize his fault. I muttered as I left.

"I hope you can understand that broad meaning.''

"Why? Jubelian?'' I laughed brightly, turning my head towards my dad who called me in a strange and puzzled voice.

"It's nothing." Nightmares are terrifying and difficult at the time, but it doesn't take a long time to realize that it's nothing. I also did the same.

'But my dad hasn't come off yet...'

I said, holding my dad's hand tight.

"We are going to see Mommy now. We're gonna pick lots of lily flowers." My dad stared at me with a blank face and then nodded.

"Yes, let's do it."

It is more efficient to paint the future with my precious people than to care about the nightmares that I never know when I will have. I was so free from nightmares that I rose back to reality.

* * *

Amelia's grave, which was seen after a long time, still looked peaceful. But Regis felt uncomfortable with himself looking at the place. The guilt of failing to protect her was still hurting his heart. At that time, an armful of white flowers was laid down in the tomb using her white hands.

"Mommy, we're here." Unlike himself, who couldn't lift his head, Regis felt strange when his daughter said her greetings without hesitation. At that time, Juvelian said, holding Regis' hand tight. "I'm sorry we're late. We'll come often from now on."

There was no return answer, but the ghastly wind tickled the Juvelian's and Regis' hairs. He don't know why, but Regis smiled in a mood where his chest, which had always been heavy, seemed a little lighter.

Chapter 198

29. Dad, I want to get married!

Beatrice distorted her face when she read the letter.

'Marquis Perdal, you are very polite to say you don't want to meet me. Maybe it's an expression of your will not to allow me and Kay to get married.'

It was just a moment that she kicked her tongue saying that he was really sly.

"Liche, are you angry?" As the giant dog looked at her, Liche raised the tail of her mouth.

'Isn't he so cute?'

She felt like she wanted to hug Kay and stroke that soft hair, but Liche barely suppressed her heart. It was then. Kay buried his head in Liche's knee, where she was sitting, and slowly raised his head.

"Get angry. I'll try to persuade him well." When he finished speaking, Kay kissed the back of Liche's hand, then snapped. With the strange touch, Liche felt the heat soar.

'What a beast!' Liche couldn't resist her desire and called her lover.

"Kay."

"Yes."

"Take it off." In simple words, Kay nodded with a shy face and unbuttoned.

"Yes." Eventually, his neckline and collarbone hidden under his uniform were revealed, and Liche swallowed.

'Would he have a body that I wanted so much?'

When she is looking forward to a superb view to see later.

Knock knock.

"Your Imperial Highness, we are in trouble!" Suddenly, the voice of the intruder, Liche, crumpled his brow.

***

It's been five days since we came down to our land. I was happy to see our land reflecting the opinion of the last inspection.

'At this rate, our land will be as rich as any other place.'

It reminded me of Max who was smiling so happily for a moment ago.

'By the way, I keep saying that I miss him through letters, so I think I have to get ready to go back.'

When I was lost in thought, my dad called me.

"Juvel.''

"Yes?"

"I can't believe you're running our land so efficiently. You're a better lord than I am." Somehow I was embarrassed by that compliment.

"Oh, no! Dad, you were too busy to see our territory properly."

"Yes, so I'm thinking of using it more carefully now." It was when I was laughing with my dad's fresh smile. "And it would be a great pleasure if you could help me with it." Max must be waiting, but he's running a territory. To be honest, I was embarrassed. But... "Of course it's not forced, so you don't have to force it. It's just my greed..." I shook my head in a hurry to see my father look somewhat bitter.

"No! I'm glad I'm a help!" And my Daddy stroked my head with a soft smile.

"Thank you. I feel very reassured because my daughter, who is as smart as you, is my successor." I didn't know I would get this compliment from my Daddy before, but frankly, I felt so good that my heart was lifted up. And I wanted to live up to my dad's expectations.

"Don't worry! I'll help you develop our territory into the best!"

"Thank you." Looking at my dad smiling brightly as if he were happy, my heart was overflowing. And I was reminded that there are many things I can do if I don't interact with the past.

'I'm going to use magic to help my dad!'

* * *

Max, who read the letter from Juvelian, dabbed at the desk in his office with nervous eyes.

'My snow bunny's gonna stay longer on their land. It's ominous.'

He don't know why, but he remembered his teacher he saw that day.

<Marriage, you're dreaming a crazy dream. Maximilian.>

<You're engaged, but the decision on when the two of you will marry will be done by mutual agreement, right? And she'll get permission from me, her father.>

Max gritted his teeth, recalling the abominable appearance of his teacher who changed his attitude in an instant like turning his palm upside down.

'No way, did he do something?'

Of course, it's not that he doesn't understand his teacher. It was natural that he wanted to stay longer with her because he could finally achieve his long-cherished desire and stay with his daughter. But...

'If I am my teacher, I'd want to spend as much time with Juvelian as I haven't been with her, and maybe he'd want to live with her for the rest of his life?'

That's where he thought, and his head started heating up.

'Yes, it takes about four hours to get to Floyen, so let's take a look at Juvel's face for a momentarily. Then she'll come back quickly because she'll be shaken.'

It was when Max, who had run out of patience, started to do his business.

"Lord! Where are you going! You're not going to say you miss Little Duke Floyen, are you?" Max flinched and clenched his fist when Dennis reacted shrewdly.

'No, I don't have to look at my subordinates' attention, right?'

At that time, the door opened, and Fresia, Hampton, and Lennox entered together.

"Hmm? What happened to you?" When Fresia asked with a puzzled look at the confrontation of the two, Dennis nodded and answered.

"Yes, it seems like the lord is trying to escape." The expressions of everyone who entered the room looked stiff.

"Your Imperial Majesty! What the hell is that...?" Max replied, with a serious look at Hampton's call.

"I haven't raised the coronation yet, so I'm not an emperor." Max, who finished speaking, quickly left the door, leaving people behind. But only one, the transcendent Hampton, doggedly followed.

"Your Imperial Majesty! You can't do this! You said you would create a peaceful empire!" Max said, crumpling his forehead.

"... I never said that." It was then. Hampton answered, raising the corners of his mouth.

"Yes. You didn't say that." And Hampton's fist flew at Max as soon as it was over. Max crumpled his face when he stopped the powerful fist.

"Do you want to die, attacking me?" Hampton answered with a smile.

"I did it from the bottom of my heart. Your reputation will fall to the ground." And Max stared at Hampton with a fierce smile.

"Okay, if it's your wish to be beaten, I'll do it." So the two transcendentalists began to exchange bickering. Hampton purely admired Max's ability.

'It's amazing too.'

There is one difference between the same transcendental person. And the Crown Prince Maximilian was way more stronger than the Hampton.

'If it is this way, I will have no choice but to open the way.'

It was when Hampton was wearing a small tongue.

"Maximilian!" With annoyance, Hampton raised the corners of his mouth to the voice of the next emperor.

'My role was a drag in the first place...'

At the same time, Hampton quickly fell from Max.

Kwang!

In time Hampton swallowed a dry saliva in the form of a fierce lightning bolt that was down at Max.

"Well, you're interrupting my pleasant break!" Liche, who looked at Max with angry eyes, was in a fit of rage.

'Magic people are definitely monsters. But...'

"Beatrice, how dare you use magic to your brother?" Maximilian, who was safe from the terrible thunderstorm, was more like a monster.

'Well, I think our Majesty is going to make it.'

Soon the two siblings confronted each other, glaring at each other.

"How much work do you do now, and you're running away? Besides, do you think Juvelian would welcome you even if she knew that?" Max snorted at Beatrice's words.

"Wouldn't it be any use whatever you say? I'll already be with Juvel by then." Then Beatrice lifted one lip.

"Will you ever be?" The moment Beatrice finished speaking, her fingers were tinged, and the light gathered in front of her and formed a round shape.

'A sphere of light? Is it attack magic?'

It was when Max was on guard. A fan-shaped faint shape began to appear blurry over the round sphere. After a while, when it took a distinct shape, Max opened his eyes wide.

'My snow bunny...'

[Liche, what's wrong?]

Jubelian in her pajamas sat in bed, rubbing her eyes. For a moment, he looked at the cute figure blankly, and Max was silently worried with a bloody voice.

"Put your eyes down. Sir Pyrex." Hampton said, turning his back.

"I haven't seen anything!" Then, he saw Beatrice talking to Juvelian.

"Juvelian, it's no different, my brother just..." Just before his sister snitched, Max spoke to Jubelian with a smile on his face.

"Juvel, can you hear me?" There was a surprise in Juvelian's face, who was sitting with a blank face.

[Oh, there's Max, too?]

He was sad to have been treated as just a component, but after a long time seeing his lover, he felt his irritation that had accumulated over time was gradually diminishing.

"How have you been?" In response, Jubelian nodded.

[I'm doing well. But Max, you have a bad expression. What happened?]

Max shook his head at her.

"No, nothing happened. I just miss you..."

Nothing happened. Beatrice made it obvious that she didn't like the shameless lie that came out of Max's mouth, and Hampton, who was turning around, too, clicked his tongue.

And those who arrived later and watched the situation crumpled their eyes because they could not believe the Crown Prince turned into a gentle sheep. But Juvelian said in a friendly voice that Max felt sorry for.

[I miss you too. Still, we are doing our respective duties now, so let's do our best.]

And Max nodded and laughed naively.

"Yes, I'll cheer up and work hard. And love..."

It was then.

"Juvelian, I'm going to cut off the communication because I have to deal with something urgent." At Beatrice's words, Juvelian nodded with a big smile.

[Yes, I got it. Liche, thank you for letting me communicate with Max today.]

Beatrice gnawed her teeth at her words. But she soon smiled and said goodbye.

"You're welcome, next time, let's have a conversation between the two of us." Before long, communication was cut off, and Beatrice glared at Max.

'I was going to tell you, but this is how you let him do the good thing, right?'

After a while, Max said with a pleasant smile.

"Yes, Beatrice. I'll work hard as she say. So you know next time, right?"

Beatrice crumpled her forehead more intensely.

* * *

I sighed when the communication was cut off.

'It looks like Max was trying to escape the palace...'

Still, thanks to my calming, I thought he'd stay calm for a few days. But...

'I'm sure that won't last long either.'

When I was so sure, I had no choice but to make up my mind.

'I can't help it. I have no choice but to convince my Dad...'

That thought was for a moment, and I sighed again.

'But I'm sure you'll be disappointed...'

For the last few days with me, Daddy looked very happy. So even after trying to talk a few times, I had to shut up.

'By the way... Marrying Max. I never thought I would be like this.'

In the midst of an uproar, laughter came up. I would be like that, because I was afraid of marrying him just half a year ago, so I did everything to avoid him.

'At that time, I was trying to avoid getting married, but now I'm going to tell my dad that I'm going to get married.'

In the meantime, I was thinking about how to soothe Max. Something passed through my head.

'Oh, yes. I'll have to talk to Ian and Liche once.'

***

"Lord, you must be in a good mood." At Viscountess Ronnel's words, Regis said with a sip of tea.

"It's great to be able to be with my daughter like this." It's been just a short time, but it's been a long time since she have seen his face so comfortable.

'Now I too can close my eyes at ease. Amel.'

It was also for a while when he call the name of a friend inside of him.

"What, do you have anything to say? Helena." She laughed lightly at Regis' question.

"By the way, our Little Lord will marry His Imperial Majesty the Emperor soon." Then Regis changed his complexion and said.

"Well, we'll have to wait and see."

"But, will it be the coronation soon? After seeing His Imperial Majesty's good figure, why don't our Little Lord ask you to marry soon?" Regis' eyes were frozen.

'You want me to let her go already?'

Was this the feeling of the Goddess of Agriculture who suddenly lost her daughter to the God of the Underworld*? Regis squeezed his fists and squeezed in his heart...

(*it was said as God of Earth but it can be God of Agriculture too as 대지, which was the word used, means the vast land of Mother Nature... And if you are familiar with Greek Mythology, I think you know the story of the Goddess of Agriculture, Demeter who has a daughter named Persephone who was literally taken by the God of the Underworld, Hades.

Spoiler: Hades, Persephone, Demeter, Story

'No, I don't want to send her yet.'

During that time, due to the tricks of the former emperor Darius, it was too long that he did not do well to his daughter. He wanted to leave her by his side for at least 3 years and pour out the affection he couldn't give to his daughter.

<I won't marry a man whose money, honor, family, wealth and ability are all at the top.>

'And the reality is that Max doesn't meet all of those conditions yet. Because his personality is very poor.'

Regis justified that and opened his mouth.

"We'll just come down right after the coronation. Above all, my daughter won't even be so thirsty for marriage." In a cold voice with an unpleasant look, Viscountess Rinnel laughed as if it were fun.

'Maybe the His Imperial Majesty the Emperor is invading this way.'

Thinking that she could see the showdown of the century, she was seriously thinking about holding a banquet for spectators that day.

"Daddy, are you there?" Viscountess Ronnel curled her eyes and laughed at Juvelian's voice heard outside the door.

'When he said she wouldn't be thirsty, I guess he wasn't in a hurry to give our Little Lord?'

She wanted to watch their arguments a little later. But...

"Helena, get out of here." Regis' order forced her to rise from her seat.

* * *

Upon entering the room, I first delivered the good news.

"So, with the help of Fyodor's workshop, I decided to run a magical goods shop with the craftsmen in our estate." In response, my dad looked at me as if he was proud of me. "Yes, that's great." Dad said, with such affection in his eyes that he couldn't speak easily. But I soon swallowed my saliva.

'Yes, I have to say it.'

After I had made up my mind, I stared at my dad and got lucky.

"Daddy, you know. I'll tell you the truth..." Then, Dad suddenly rose up.

"I think there's an intruder right now. I'll be right back."

"What? An intruder? But..." By magic, the only thing that came around my house was a small creature that looked like a mouse.

"I'll let you go away because you're a disliked guest." Dad jumped out of the open window. I pouted my mouth when I was looking at the scene in a puzzled way.

'You're not doing that on purpose, are you?'

* * *

Regis, who released the little mouse into the field, spoke like a warning.

"My daughter is afraid of you, so don't ever dangle over there again." The mouse turned his back after looking at Regis for a long time and disappeared. Regis sighed.

'You're gonna be okay, right?'

The expression of his daughter staring at him caught on, but he had passed the hurdle.

'The problem is on the day of the coronation, but we must take steps to return to the estate as soon as the coronation is over so that Juvel and Max have no time to talk.

"Dad." Regis flinched at a voice coming from behind his back.

'Why are you here... Oh, magic?'

Regis, who was trying to receive his daughter calmly, was soon forced to harden. Because his daughter was hugging him from behind.

"I know you're upset. But please listen to my story." At last, she came, and at the thought of it, Regis lowered his eyes bitterly.

'I wanted to stay with you longer...'

At that time, Jubelian said, as if she had seen through him.

"I want to be with my dad for as long as possible, but..." The voice of his daughter, who had been fading, came out trembling around him. "It's scary on the one hand. I'm afraid that Max will not wait for me and meet someone else..." And Regis turned and stared at his daughter. Regis felt the inside of his chest to see his daughter with her big eyes in tears.

"Don't you know well that Max can't do that? And... if he do that, I will never let him go." Juvelian grinned at him.

"Yes, I'm always reassured because of my Daddy. But people don't like it. And so did my heart..." And then Jubelian said, holding Regis' hand. "Daddy, I want to get married. I want to live with the person I love, have a child, and live like that." When her daughter spoke her true heart out, Regis felt sick.

'Yes, I've been too greedy.'

Even though he thought so, it seemed that his strength had collapsed when he thought of sending his lovely daughter who would not hurt even if he put her in his eyes. At that time, she held his hand and opened her mouth.

"But I don't want to break up* with my dad either."

(*not all break up are for love relationships, it also means: To cut off one's relationship with someone one is on close terms with.)

At the unexpected words given by her daughter, Regis felt emotional and hot.

'So do I. Me too, baby*.'

(*(children's term) A baby. Like the endearment of parents/elders to their little ones)

Whenever possible, he wanted to see his daughter happy with him.

'That's why I wanted to get my son-in-law... I couldn't even think that my useless disciple would take you.'

It was when Regis was burning hostility towards Max. His daughter hugged him and said.

"So I'm thinking of installing a mobile magic circle that leads to the system in our territory, but is it okay?"

"What?" When he didn't think about it, Regis got dozed off a little. Juvelian laughed at his father.

"I'm a greedy person. I didn't want to miss both my dad and Max. Besides, we want to keep developing our territory. So I rolled my head a little." Regis, who was listening to his daughter, smiled.

'I heard there are no parents who can beat their children...'

Again, it was his defeat.

'Yes, I'd better stop now.'

But soon he frowned a little.

<The thief, you go too far. Father-in-law.>

<Isn't it time for you to admit? My father-in-law.>

When he thought of his disciple who came at a late hour one day and was being obnoxious, Regis felt low.

'I can't let that bastard go so easily.'

Soon, Regis touched his lovely daughter's face and opened his mouth.

"The magic will be installed after the coronation."

"Daddy!" His daughter called him out with resentment, but Regis soon looked at her as if she was lovable.

* * *

At night, Max tossed and turned nervously and soon sighed.

<Max, can you wait a little longer?>

'Juvelian asked me to believe in her and wait for her...'

There was a reason why Max could not endure even that, with about three weeks left until the coronation.

'Because I want to have a coronation with you.'

Most of the aristocrats wanted Max to have a coronation ceremony soon, but he had delayed it as much as he could because he wanted to have a coronation with Juvelian.

'All the arrangements are already made, and all I need is you. It's not as easy as I thought.'

Max, who was thinking of his teacher, soon clenched his fist.

'Yes, I don't want to wait like this!'

Max looked at his watch.

'11 o'clock. Now, no one would know if I went to Floyen.'

Max quickly changed his mind and left the room. As Max was quickly leaving the palace, Beatrice was seen drawing something with a tired face.

'What is she doing...? No.'

Normally, he would stop and ask, but now it was an urgent time. Max thought with his eyes shining cool.

'Please wait. Teacher, soon I will... kneel my knees in front of you again and again!'

***

At first, he told me to set up a magic circle after the coronation, but my father declared defeat in less than a day. And I was in a situation where I was drawing a magic circle.

"Juvel, will you be all right?" I replied with a smile when my father asked with concern.

"Yes!" Now my mana had come back about as much as before I had sealed Paphnil. Our territory and system are not so far away, so I will not use up all my mana.

'Is Liche doing well?'

Even with that thought for a while, I completed the magic circle with paints using magic stone powder.

'Done!'

The magic circle was a high degree of magic, and Liche's help to understand this was great, but I felt proud that I could now use such complex magic.

'Now, we just need to link the arrival coordinates to Liche.'

At that time, someone talked from my inside.

[This side is ready!]

I nodded at Liche's telepathy and began to inject mana into the magic circle.

'I hope it works out well...'

For a moment, I smiled at the fact that I could see Max soon.

'Wait. I'll come.'

As soon as I prayed for that earnest wish, my body was bathed in a white light.

Spoiler: Chapter 200

When I opened my eyes, the scenery changed.

'It's really the Imperial Palace.'

I admired it for a while, and someone hugged me strongly.

"Juvelian!" An exuberant voice, and her arms that held me, were slightly trembling.

"I can't believe I'm seeing you like this." I replied with a smile.

"So am I, Liche." Then she said, looking at me with tearful eyes.

"I was worried that I might fail, but it's a real relief."

* * *

Max, who broke through the rough road and finally entered Floyen, breathed. Looking at the sky, it was still a dim dawn.

'She must be sleeping.'

His original purpose was to change the Duke of Floyen's mind, but Max, tired physically and mentally, wanted to see her face right away.

'Yes, let's see even her sleeping face and come out.'

With that thought, as he was about to head to Juvelian's room, when he felt a stealthy appearance, Max lowered his head quickly, lifting one corner of his mouth. Before long, a stone passed by the place where Max's head was.

'You also came to meet me.'

<Which father will welcome the thief who visits his daughter late at night?>

Max lowered his head at the appearance of the teacher staring at himself like that day.

"It's been a while, Teacher." So Regis raised his head and stared at his disciple.

"Your attitude is better than before."

"Of course..." It was even before Max's words were over. As the quick-swordsman swung his sword, Max quickly evaded and forced to laugh. "You're still the same, Teacher." Then Regis replied coldly, raising one corner of his mouth.

"Which father will welcome the thief who visits his daughter late at night?" As he watched the teacher put the same words in his mouth, Max pulled out his sword. "Of course I will, but it's not gonna be like that." Regis grinned and swung his sword.

* * *

"What? Is he still against?" At my question, she nodded.

"I intend to negotiate with the Marquis Perdal in the near future." I already knew that the Marquis of Perdal was a different person on the outside, but I didn't know he would be shouting the opposition like that.

"I hope you good luck." At me, she smiled instead of answering. Suddenly, I looked at the clock with a feeling of fatigue.

'It's already 2 a.m. Is Max sleeping?'

Honestly, I know it's late, but I missed him. Then, Liche grabbed my hand.

"You didn't forget to sleep with me today, did you?"

"Uh-huh." Then she grabbed my hand.

"I told the maids, so let's go change into our sleeping clothes." I followed Liche for a moment, and I said, pulling her hand slightly.

"Liche, I'd like to go to Max for a moment." Then she sighed and nodded.

"He's probably sleeping because it's late. Let's do that." It was when I went to Max's room with Liche. Sir Dennis, who was on a night watch, welcomed us.

"No, how did you get here...?"

"Oh, that's—" When I briefly talked about the situation, Sir Dennis said.

"I'll let him know. Please wait a moment." That's how I was waiting outside the door. Sir Dennis stood out of the room with a pale face. "His Imperial Highness is gone!" I shuddered unknowingly at the words that bolted all of a sudden.

* * *

Max clicked his tongue, blocking his teacher's sword.

'You seem to be attacking harder than usual...'

Max thought for a moment, hitting him with a flying sword.

'But now my skills are definitely above.'

When he exploded his sword and struck his sword, his teacher staggered slightly. In the moment, Max did not miss that short moment.

Changgang!

Regis was staring at the appearance of the sword drawing a line like a lie. Maybe it's a humiliation to himself. At that time, Max kneeled his knees.

"Teacher, I have kept my promise, and please, allow me to marry your daughter." Regis stared at the disciple's eager eyes for a while, then opened his mouth.

"If you take the tears out of her eyes, then you'll have to risk your life and stop me. Okay?"

"Yes, of course." As Max nodded with a determined expression, Regis relieved his expression. At that, Max said carefully.

"Can I come to her, then, Teacher?"

"Of course." Max stared at him blankly, and soon shouted loudly.

"Thank you! Father-in-law!"

"Well..." He saw Regis trying to say something, but Max didn't listen and quickly headed to her room.

'Juvel, I'm here!'

As he entered her room like that, Max frowned.

'Huh? Why isn't she here?'

Of course, it was when Max wondered about the empty bed and room.

"Why didn't you listen to me till the end? I was going to tell you the kid was gone, but you ran like that."

''What?''

"Jubelian left for the system with a mobile spell." At the teacher's words, Max looked depressed, then smiled. "You've been through it at the same time." When he finished speaking, Max said to his teacher.

"The marriage preparation is already perfectly finished, so you only need to come to the coronation." And before Regis responded, Max quickly left. Regis, who was displeased with his student's back, said with arsenic.

"If you used the magic circle, you would have gone right away, but you can't do it anymore."

* * *

"What if something happened to him?" Even if Max was raided, it was obvious to worry about the other party too. Everyone was thinking that way, but Juvelian's pale appearance was very poor.

"He will be safe!" Dennis said confidently, but Juvelian was still anxious.

"If he could go anywhere and get hurt, I..." They wanted to affirm that there was absolutely no such thing as in her heart, but everyone couldn't do that, and they shut up.

It was then.

"Ah, no way. If it's His Imperial Majesty I know, wouldn't it be the blood of others even if he was covered with blood?" At Kaylen's words, Juvelian trembled, and everyone stared at him.

"Let me see him for a moment." While the Princess dragged him out to join her lover, Dennis spoke carefully to Jubelian.

"I understand the worries of the Little Duke, but he will be back soon, so trust my lord and wait here." At that, Juvelian nodded slowly.

"Okay, thank you, Sir Dennis." Dennis sighed, seeing her powerlessness.

'Lord, come back soon.'

* * *

Max's empty room felt bigger than usual. I flung myself in his bed, wondering if I could feel his warmth. However, the feeling of emptiness only grew.

'Everyone might think I'm worried about his performance, but... Even if you're a transcendent, you don't know when and what will happen.'

My dad was also the strongest man in the empire, but he suffered such a hard time. I kept getting anxious over what might have happened to Max.

'Aren't they not coming back like this?'

Then I hurried up and shook my head violently.

'No, it can't be!'

I sighed because of the worries that I felt, and that thought suddenly passed.

'No way, you didn't go to our territory, did you?'

It was then.

Tak tak!

At the sound from the window, I opened my eyes wide and turned my head, and hurried over to it.

"Max!" As soon as I opened the window calling him, Max just hugged me.

"Here you are waiting for me, a surprise?" I grumbled, burying my head in his arms.

"Where have you been?" To my question he replied, avoiding my eyes.

"A short walk." He couldn't have gone out for a walk during this ambitious time, but he was suspicious of saying that. Likewise his face looks extremely exhausted.

"No way what's going on?" Max replied, kissing my cheek.

"Juvel, let's get married." Although he had already proposed to me, I was dumbfounded at that idea momentarily. Then, he said, clasping his fingers in my hand. "I've already got permission from my father-in-law." Then I realized that he had really done something ridiculous.

"I'm waiting...!" Before my words were over, Max devour my lips. When I was distracted by a persistent, dense kiss, he said with a slight lip.

"I can't wait now. I've been waiting too long." I saw him staring at me calmly waiting for my answer for a moment when I was flinching at the vivid desire I felt in his eyes.

'Maybe if I refuse, he'll hold it in again. But...'

I couldn't resist his temptation.

'I actually... wanted it, too.'

But it was a bit embarrassing to say what I was really thinking. As soon as I nodded slightly instead of answering, he kissed me on the lips and began to take off his clothes.

"Oh, shit!" He hugged me and did my neck at the time when I was laughing in a hurry. I shuddered at the spine-chilling tickling I felt after a long time, but he slowly began to lower his lips. He saw me shivering at the strange sensation spreading all over my body. He was taking my clothes off, and he smiled at me. And then...

Jjiiikk...

He tore my dress and said meanly.

"I've got your clothes ready to be changed." After completing his excuse, he attacked me like a loose beast.

Chapter 201

When I opened my eyes, it was past lunch time.

'I'm thirsty.'

When I was inadvertently trying to get up, the pain in my back made me feel numb.

'Isn't this... the Imperial Palace?'

When I glanced at the side in surprise, I saw Max closing his eyes. And when I saw his naked body exposed through the blankets, yesterday's events began to come to mind. The hot dawn between me and Max.

<Max, it's too fast. A little slower...>

Despite my dissuasion, Max pushed me among myself to the limit.

<It hurts, it hurts! You punk! I won't do it with you again! Wah*!>

(*she's crying, lmao)

When I remembered how I was sobbing in his arms, I felt ashamed.

'I'm crazy.'

I was ashamed before I got distressed. If I had known this would have happened, I would have endured the wedding. When I was thinking so, someone wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me into his arms.

"Are you awake?" At the same time as he said, kisses poured on my face. Somehow I was shy and unknowingly lowering my eyes, he whispered in my ear. "You said you'd never do it with me again, aren't you going to see my face?" I shouted at his sneaky words.

"When did I do that...!" At that moment, he kissed me. Suddenly, the heat that had cooled down began to rise again from the intense kiss. Soon he slowly took off his lips and smiled brightly.

"Have you ever said that?" For a moment when I stared blankly at his handsome face looking softly at me, I nodded slowly and he smiled brightly. "You don't mind if I do it again?" And I flinched and glared at him.

"Don't you work?"

"How can you get the job done with such a pretty thing? I can't stand up because I think of you all the time?" It was when I was blushing at those naked words. "And I didn't mean to do it again. If I did as my greed was, my father-in-law would tear me apart and kill me." And I glared at him.

"My dad isn't that kind of person. How kind of a man you are, wouldn't you keep looking at him like that?" I my words, Max crumpled his eyebrows slightly, then wrapped me around on a blanket. Then he princess hugged me.

"What, what are you doing?" He kissed me on my cheek and said.

"I'll wash you." Except for Marilyn, I haven't been able to take a bath with others. It was natural to feel uncomfortable about someone washing you.

"It's, it's okay. I'm going to wash...!"

"You can't even walk?" His smiling face was very nice to see, but I felt kind of like I was being teased.