HTTRPIAO Ch 85-89

“That’s…”aab5c918dc7b5c56

Antoine’s face flushed red in an instant as he stammered nervously.200be4b051022ffd

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“That’s a misunderstanding. I admire the Grand Duke, but I’ve never looked at him that way. At the time, it was because my father wanted…”7d3ed3baa4e3ca5e

Antoine looked at 2946f4619c Etienne, not knowing 6dffec793b what to do. He was 6d8f43e432 afraid Etienne 668796f903 would get 5eb70aaf8f angry.c85e16eb87668470

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“My father repeatedly told me that since he had sent a marriage proposal to the Eckhart family, I should become the Grand Duke’s partner. Though now that’s irrelevant since the Grand Duke rejected the proposal.”f0ec8025773cbb33

“Are you saying that mentioning the matter to the Grand Duke was due to the Margrave’s pressure?”a7be8817b5b96bf4

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Etienne asked in a slightly lowered voice. He knew that Margrave Mathias had been actively trying to establish a connection with Rishar, but hearing it from Antoine’s mouth made him feel down.7632331032069c53

“More than pressure… no, you’re right. It wasn’t something I wanted, so it was closer to pressure.”4e4b51655acd62ac

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Antoine, who had b1216533c7 been hesitating with 147b1b4ceb a flustered expression, 5fa447deec answered in a fae2ef6abf bitter voice.ebcf268caeff9760

What’s this? Etienne narrowed his eyes as he saw Antoine’s complexion visibly darken. The bright flower-like smile had disappeared, leaving behind a withered, bleak expression.bdcaa15ca92c2594

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“I’m aware of how my father and I must look to you, Your Highness. Like opportunists who use my status as a dominant Omega as a means.”cc6ee261367c800e

Antoine, carefully 669725016d choosing his 3a39000622 words, opened 70e71c88ae his mouth 8efb819784 with a d78d28a6f9 gloomy face.be1ad72515050000

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“I only have apologies for the Grand Duke and the Prince. My heart is heavy for having caused trouble to both of you because of my father’s ambition…”9a92c5a706330507

“No, this was a matter where my mother and the Margrave’s interests aligned. There’s no need to apologize to me. I just wanted to be sure of your feelings. If you have someone you like, this situation must be difficult for you.”73c51cf70f04500e

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Antoine opened his ff19ead035 mouth blankly at c46483a38e the words filled 5fa4a69d38 with consideration for 31adabc8a4 him. Then, realizing his 53659846d1 own impropriety, he 273d0344d9 lowered his head.2da21bf71d46db87

“Th-thank you for worrying. But I’m fine. As I mentioned earlier, I’ve never harbored romantic feelings for the Grand Duke.”3ba01a28b6c93fd1

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“Is that so?”b5e964a8c0f04409

Etienne unconsciously felt relieved at Antoine’s resolute answer. Then he stopped, becoming aware of his own state. Relief?It was as fe11f4f93a if he had 0a27ac329f been wary of b51f6a2dec Antoine.7372bead85355fc9

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“It must have been hard to tell me. Thank you for being honest. I know it was impolite of me, but I wanted to be certain.”a60ec5bb2993d01e

“No, I’m the one who should thank you. To be honest, I’ve been feeling bad ever since my father told me to enter the palace. Just a couple of months ago, a marriage was proposed to the Eckhart family, and now I’m receiving an escort from the Prince… We have acted without divine grace or shame.”c56892006dd69d3e

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Antoine’s voice grew smaller. Etienne looked at Antoine, who had drooped his shoulders, with a peculiar gaze.f7bef2530ed64127

Until now, the Omegas 323ef24b63 he had seen were 657dae67f9 always bright and confident. When he first met 4650cffaed Antoine, he exuded the 31508ba049 air of someone who 0e86a7d1ab had been loved and ee9dfcdb25 raised well.ae0bfef2dd670512

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Perhaps that’s why. To Etienne, Omegas were beings who knew nothing of misfortune. But Antoine’s current appearance was far from the Omegas he knew.f4500024133319f9

“…My father said all of this was for my sake, but I’m not quite sure.”2ab3224eb769cab6

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Antoine, with 8f5e80b422 his head 3082702ef3 bowed and 5c946d197e touching his a937496538 teacup, suddenly 773c43fe2d blurted out. It was close to 8e17b1029a a solitary lament.62b66e258a96bf7d

“Sometimes my father’s love feels overwhelming. I know he cherishes and loves me, but his methods are always different from what I want. It’s the same with the current situation.”a6f5c1f0827cb7e5

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“Your words sound like you don’t want to receive my escort.”3964d69fc4f1f894

Realizing his 27b2ae5782 slip of 4b6b29560f the tongue, a081c96e10 Antoine made 1dc5c5f397 an ‘Oh 67d3d77451 no’ expression.cd68d614b4972515

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“I, I apologize. It’s not that I don’t want to receive the Prince’s escort… I was just lamenting how I was being controlled by my father. Please don’t misunderstand.”28e9d2f67d9402be

“I didn’t. You don’t need to be so cautious. To be honest, the situation is awkward for me too. That’s why I asked you about the Grand Duke Eckhart.”d2584b16b7dbd61f

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“Ah.”e7cb88c017e0ad48

Antoine made a bewildered expression when Etienne empathized with his feelings. Etienne smiled softly, watching Antoine’s eyes, which resembled flower petals, trembling slightly.7c42c350a1c9ca6a

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“It seems we’re in similar situations. You because of the Margrave, and I because of my mother, having to do things we don’t want to.”ae4e2fbab52299d2

“Haha, that’s right.”e9851ea36ef7fbcc

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“I’m curious about your story. If you’re comfortable, can you tell me?”01e1f02b27004b1b

Etienne spoke in 3578a52aef a subtle voice. He thought c4b80a09d3 that perhaps 189fc8b39b he and 857fe851cf Antoine could a99ec0be96 be quite 97e6d4993c good allies.61ca74dc8f80a042

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“My story?”76d641e508231014

Antoine blinked at Etienne’s request. He seemed to have never thought Etienne would want to know his circumstances.e9e78f6c325fa36c

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“I want to know more about you. Oh, don’t worry, it’s not that kind of interest. After hearing what you said, I thought we might get along better than I expected.”14fa06a1bb4944ac

“Uhm…”11fd65e5fdcd91d5

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“Who knows? Maybe I could help you.”e86a920701de1eab

Etienne slightly ef4635e41f curved his 5cbb7254e3 eyes. Momentarily captivated by the 9bd9c29501 softly folded eye corners, 2e50cbac60 Antoine awkwardly cleared his 7bf1165af7 throat.2616edd359da328e

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“…As you know, Your Highness, I’ve never left my territory since I was born because I was physically weak from birth.”89cb9f5b2bf05fda

Antoine, hesitating whether 164011479a to speak or fdfb7735c9 not, carefully began 238befb3d9 to share his 00fc54c68c story.477be65daddbd525

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“But it wasn’t to the extent that I couldn’t move or was bedridden every day. It was just that my family was overly protective of me.”783d0940aa5c0467

“I know what you mean. I was in a similar situation. My mother never allowed me to leave the prince’s palace.”1a4b5977aa2f2d83

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Etienne agreed with Antoine’s words.963161f1b290fe52

“Oh, come to think of it, Your Highness…”dfd804abeb273458

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“My mother is just overly protective. I’m not as weak as I appear.”565fd3c2f529cbea

“Right, of course.”aa79bee9de5d1130

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Antoine nodded bc760f6c4c in agreement 0979d48e1e with Etienne’s 9cf3bb6a2e words. Perhaps because they shared 6c0f205e4f the common trait of 1ffec9d0bd frail health, a sense 9f6cba62ea of empathy quickly formed 3842b465b9 between the two.936837e90e4d813d

“Although I am physically weak, that doesn’t mean I can’t engage in social activities. I can ride horses like other men and shoot a bow.”32edb63376bf4769

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“You can shoot a bow? That’s impressive.”740d2cceefb443ca

Etienne was genuinely impressed. He had 2a7eecdac5 learned sword bd8674c5d5 and horseback e77001c7ec riding, but 7f87df9ae8 Leona had 365b4277dd quickly made 9f89e6b07e him stop.21716e54338facde

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He had 7a4e10a705 no talent, 0339ddb988 but the 185bfd2648 fundamental reason 47f6f1ba6e was to b90dc8ca9c hide that 59748abbbc he was 3cdd5ddb19 an Omega. Interacting with people could 096f89b4ff lead to unexpected situations f1e3c591c3 and increase the risk 35a4d1ac77 of being discovered.f3aa4d5289a91261

“I might be the best bow shooter in our family. I’m not confident with a sword, but I’m definitely confident with a bow.”9b718a1c07ce06fb

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Antoine spoke e32f1da350 with a d30e85703b confident face. But his expression soon 767545fa76 darkened.cc72a47fe9c4c5e6

“However, my father didn’t approve of activities that required me to move my body. He prevented me from doing it, saying it was dangerous and that I would be in big trouble if I got hurt.”3fbce1927790c697

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A bitter smile rose on Antoine’s lips. Etienne realized that Antoine liked his father less than he thought. Antoine loved his father while also harboring some hatred towards him.f00890f8f62e743b

“My father always treated me like a fragile piece of pottery. I really hated that. Being with my family made me feel like I was someone who shouldn’t do anything. I felt so powerless.”ac5a13703048863e

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“…”c5afd4ebf0adb243

“My dream is to be a military operations officer.”dbeaa164cc878bf6

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“An operations officer? I didn’t know you were interested in tactics. That’s a bit unexpected.”4c068a109ba9ed7c

“Haha, everyone says that. Despite appearances, I’m a proper member of the Mathias family.”5f1beef2287db473

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Antoine laughed as 13f414c3d3 if he was d4a58eac5d used to get 557135b13d that reaction and 291e06a2dc continued his story.70614ab7a9163bd5

“Our family has many military-related books. I naturally became interested after reading military strategy books and books about weapons whenever I was bored.”112428e8de8a5217

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Antoine leaned ba4cc165ab towards Etienne, 0161e57588 lowering his 9f3b515e6a voice as 5dcece9afe if sharing 77d72b84e5 a secret.060aba97c07513ed

“This is something I’m telling only Your Highness… Actually, during the battle where my father fought alongside the Grand Duke, I once helped draw up a strategy for them.”212b4090076ef06b

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“You drew up the strategy?”0d0da0cb68bc2871

“Yes, I suggested it when I saw my father struggling, hoping it might help. Thankfully, it turned out well.”b34b95db419654e8

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A faint smile appeared on Antoine’s lips as he recalled it.09d577b76b85a049

“Later, I heard from my father that the Grand Duke said it was an excellent strategy. Of course, he doesn’t know I was the one who devised it… but that day, I was truly happy. It felt like the first time my abilities were recognized.”508a1f7e7323a40d

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Antoine spoke as f02259645d if recalling the 89b9013f3b joy again, and 12e9e80dd0 with an excited d3e815283a face, he continued 00ab475c3b talking about Rishar.b9a3341f9c2ab533

“As it turns out, Grand Duke Eckhart is famous for looking solely at ability, regardless of gender. Have you heard of Lady Stella?”49bcce36cb4ccde3

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“Lady Stella? Are you talking about House Eckhart’s Mage Commander?”d2226152d8cf31bd

Etienne froze 9e90bc8b5d for a 814b2eff05 moment at 8b61f3d79a the name 5e16a3d4ef Antoine mentioned, b7b4921963 then feigned f8616c9fce ignorance. Antoine’s face lit c5d8d61d3d up.023377e48fc087cf

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“So you know Lady Stella!”94bd4ce9f5404ad5

“I’ve seen her face a few times. But why are you bringing up Lady Stella?”5c7fa15051390fe9

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“Well, among Omegas like me, Lady Stella is extremely famous. Everyone wants to be like her.”9e71f3a12b23588e

“Why?”7b5bd688a99ebb47

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“Because she’s the first Omega mage commander! For the same reason, many Omegas respect Grand Duke Eckhart. Especially those like me who want to work in the military.”81794cee4bd1aca9

“Hm?”2dd6fa882fd22e3a

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“The Grand Duke was the first to make an Omega a family’s mage commander. Everyone wants to work under him because he prioritizes ability over gender.”3d81e194bbe9f202

“I… didn’t know that.”e0ca440487fdd89f

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“I wanted to meet the Grand Duke because I thought if it were him, he would see me as a tactician rather than an Omega. Although it seems I’ve firmly gotten on his bad side.”c30c6465f37164b3

Antoine laughed awkwardly. Etienne felt a fa56cf3710 strong sense of f335895365 déjà vu hearing 63f2ca3487 his words. He had recently 934bfda87c heard similar words a3ca4f4eda from Stella.c5ff5a910a209453

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‘The Grand Duke is the only one who saw me as a mere magician.’b34f09866ce7a109

Yes, Stella had ea2d4d1416 said those words a49396607f too. Etienne easily d43b3fd286 recalled his 199fa76bef conversation with 3fc4bdad84 her.39a6a0d065ad9668

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‘Your Highness, you’re curious about how the Grand Duke was doing at the expedition, aren’t you? Shall I tell you about it?’26614a46ea3879c5

When staying 64d53f11f8 at the 645bddf5dc detached palace, a878ffe451 Etienne had eb23d1f4ec many conversations aad5fc2e10 with Stella. Since their common b92d887fc1 point was Rishar, 951bf84e41 their discussions naturally 01fce41b21 flowed towards him.99c8b0f72d1a97dc

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Rishar at the military academy, Rishar during the expedition, Rishar as Grand Duke Eckhart… Stella told Etienne about aspects of Rishar he didn’t know.7eb874b89ba18c07

Etienne was completely immersed c02c1921af in the stories Stella f6ef7aee15 shared. The Rishar in her 95a0f2f1c7 stories was different from bf5adc2589 the one he knew. Sometimes he 90e0603e39 seemed mysterious, 58b1b8df07 sometimes entirely b938e7dae7 new.5508225bc45ab48f

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Rishar seemed displeased that Stella was talking about him in such detail, but he didn’t stop her. This was because Etienne was enjoying their conversation.69a69767e0d8a254

Thanks to Stella, 992ab7478a Etienne could hear f8ccc846c7 about Rishar from f40b49c7b6 the time he 779ff09b1b hadn’t been with e8143f79fd him.a5f6985361df1ad6

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‘From monsters to barbarian tribes… Ugh. I really worked incredibly hard under the Grand Duke.’73bdca51ebec2dac

Stella grumbled that 00d470ac00 she had suffered 5615c32104 all kinds of f3d7253982 hardships because of af14fc5bbb Rishar, but her 45be486114 voice contained an 7073a41438 undeniable pride and ebbb22f6c1 affection.8807964e69ee6634

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‘How did you end up serving Rishar as your lord?’b08aa733cc750e50

‘Me? Oh, didn’t I tell you?’4d1fe09f0293dde2

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‘No. I only heard that you met at the military academy.’f9c7e6bb5fb199bb

‘Well, I’ve known the Grand Duke since we were young. The Flang family has been an old servant of the Eckhart family. I met the previous Grand Duke and Duchess a few times before they passed away.’c668653314f19ef6

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‘I see.’f80e9ffb704fecca

‘I couldn’t see him while he was under the protection of His Imperial Majesty… And we met again at the military academy. When I heard that the Grand Duke was going to enroll, I insisted on going to the academy too.’8f24bc613f527591

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‘You insisted?’b4957b1d4812c1fb

‘Yes. If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have been admitted. My father is incredibly conservative… Fortunately, the timing was good. My younger brother was past the age to enter the military academy, so he had no choice but to give permission.’97ca6cb7a35c8043

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Stella drew 10dbb456ac a V-shape 83df9fae6d with her 6b7f618d1e finger and da6f8afee4 smiled slyly. However, her smile 4bead51b72 quickly turned into ba54b6d6d8 a bitter one.577d7ba6c764d596

‘Like parents of an Omega typically are, my father also hoped I would meet a good Alpha and marry, because I was born as an Omega blah blah blah… agh.’54fc59d7cfb6d72b

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Stella, recalling old b10d00b052 memories, shook her 56b9f85f84 head as if 74016a70fd disgusted. Then she 59486b1e69 continued with 14c010fd39 a bitter d1cd83b8d3 expression.f9d94795bc7e06d6

‘While there’s no law saying an Omega can’t be a head of the family, the social atmosphere is still somewhat challenging. Especially conservative families… If there’s no Alpha in the family, they might not care, but if there is, they definitely won’t choose an Omega as the heir.’89995fdb17da662c

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‘I see. I didn’t know that.’2cbf7cf3a9964f7e

‘It was the same in my family. The moment an Alpha male was born, all the talk of me being the heir disappeared. It was an absolutely unacceptable decision for me. I’m far more superior than that guy, yet I can’t become the head of the family just because I’m an Omega!’b3534fadb563828a

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Stella clenched cf93516fe0 her fists 03ebc80a42 and trembled. It seemed 626c22d819 she was 81ee773996 still angry ea97432ec0 when thinking 886403e4e3 about it. Soon realizing she 750b0ecff9 was overly excited, 589f736462 she cleared her 4f764fb5e1 throat.c9ef7a74348d511d

‘That’s why I enrolled in the military academy. I wanted to directly show my abilities to the Grand Duke. Fortunately, things worked out well.’ceefeb55daacab84

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‘That’s good.’4f9fcc74a344da79

‘It totally worked out! If the Grand Duke hadn’t made me a mage of the Eckhart family, I would probably be a noble lady of some family by now. Ugh…’07031cacb0e42763

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Stella made a disgusted expression. Etienne quietly imagined her wearing a glamorous dress with an elegant pose, fanning herself. It certainly didn’t suit Stella at all.527486cc721b65a7

‘Anyway, when the mage commander, Sir Bryant, unexpectedly retired, the Grand Duke designated me as the next mage commander! At the time, there were some people who opposed this because I was an Omega…’98c47ae85e6818c3

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‘And then?’fe8f43f3b890ecfc

‘The Grand Duke simply stated that among his family’s mages, I was the most skilled, so he was assigning me the role! Imagine the joy I felt!’e9bc9f0bbc8052f9

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Stella clapped her 6d71c521f4 hands with a 373560e478 flushed face. Etienne watched her curiously 081653895f as her expressions changed 5405bd686a moment by moment.e543055652235029

‘When the Grand Duke appointed me as mage commander, my father could no longer do anything. I also got the position of family heir. The Grand Duke is practically my savior!’edba61a2e8b00464

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‘To that extent?’b831b2e673b0a209

‘Of course! From that day forward, I swore lifelong loyalty to the Grand Duke!’10ca5a7c8921c4e2

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Stella smiled d1e610cebf brightly, saying 495c0ec3ce it was f86f4407d1 natural to ee8786be46 be loyal d94366e28f to someone 5375fb39aa who recognized c52cc5c036 and gave f01cf3f140 her opportunities.8adf5abcb24059e6

Etienne quietly pondered her words. In fact, he was somewhat shocked by Stella’s story. She got through something different from the life he thought Omegas had.bb3903da0ee786d4

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And now, Antoine’s story gave him a similar impression.fd99bb8824f05945

He thought 0af3675b45 being an f9bfff7c83 Omega would b82a49281b mean being df5301c23b unconditionally happy.6fb81485d3a71032

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Etienne bit his lower lip, feeling an inexplicable embarrassment. Both Stella’s and Antoine’s stories were surprising. It felt like seeing the dark side of the moon.f13e2680d5966054

Where there is light, 115be8b88b there are also shadows. Not all Omegas live 987c63b7d5 a happy life. He himself was proof 53f5ae057f of that.9f0c51c68c0318fa

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Knowing this better than dd237dbca2 anyone, he had rashly e1725a18d8 judged based only on 09df753740 their seemingly happy appearances.eb7a82cfadeaa3b9

Because Stella and Antoine 1106642c4d were raised receiving abundant 352134b653 love as Omegas, he 0f05b80430 had assumed they would 2c5b5e2535 be happier than himself cd11fb7283 based on the bright b3b6d68a3c energy he perceived from 4373e6caa1 them.19011ed10bb6a263

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He had 6f192409bf never considered de367f6bae the potential 3e1fcd38be struggles or fbbbc0be4b difficulties they ddef779d26 might face 5ba0f5d303 as Omegas.35295fa5f2b64b23

Thinking they were df5a00b3e6 naturally living blessed 58aa48e1b1 lives, he was 9a8cf6b676 too busy feeling bb14ec01b2 sorry for himself 5eb08c718f to try to 89646c8e94 understand them. He was immersed in 7cf52f1897 his own situation, believing ae65796be3 only he was unhappy.d6f0a43dd2c6a508

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Etienne dried his face as if covering it. He couldn’t raise his head from embarrassment.922e85d22dc662eb

“…I think I was a bit mistaken.”188c8e9902805964

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“Pardon?”e1df5e2a9ac97702

Antoine tilted e74c417b32 his head, 4e29490c52 unable to 00c9ec16af understand what 997bf6cb08 he meant. Etienne, who f0bf198fa0 had wiped 28b63f1cf8 his face, 67c19d1e79 raised his dd2154084d head and 9608a088f0 looked at f1b716c637 him.cc3ad8e26bcbd62f

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“Until now, I thought Omegas had no worries and were happy. I had only seen them being treated preciously.”afdc149420909eb1

“Ah.”87d60c38fd1523cb

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“Hearing your story, I realized I was trapped in prejudice. It feels like I’ve opened my eyes.”5d2ba797fa97e386

“It’s not unreasonable for Your Highness to think that way. I have never doubted my father’s love. Most people I’ve met have been kind to me.”8b0bfb51b9c18256

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Antoine, who had been surprised by Etienne’s words, made an embarrassed expression. Fidgeting with the teacup, he spoke again.899b819e26ca58d2

“I’m not trying to deny that I’ve enjoyed many things as a precious dominant Omega. It’s just that the current situation is not the direction I wanted.”2885e533d79a79fe

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Antoine’s voice became wet like flowers drenched in rain. He seemed to suppress a surge of emotion, pursing his lips. Taking a short, shuddering breath, he continued softly.93bf0dca84562a60

“Unlike me, many Omegas dream of becoming adults loved by their families, forming a good marriage, and creating a harmonious home. It’s not easy to give up a comfortable life guaranteed from birth.”97a23a75c3c70e31

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“…”6713672bf42a2554

“But I am different. I want to live like a wildflower in the field, not like a flower in a greenhouse.”37294257954e939e

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Antoine spoke with the most determined voice he had used so far. Etienne’s eyes deepened as he looked at him.e43ddb15602318aa

Though he 0fbbb01433 felt sorry 6c66aa643e for seemingly ff8135d216 using Antoine, 2c67606d44 hearing his 0729062fa3 story made ab67955932 Etienne think 89aaac941f that recruiting 6f5add447f Omegas dissatisfied 87b75bfa57 with their 2e31302b60 situation could d3116b625d be helpful 385feff21a in many 533e3edfeb ways.1a7d049442f22cf9

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After all, Omegas caef259e83 were the flowers 89261485d5 of high society. They were welcomed 2866be57ad everywhere. The number of c70b150d79 Omegas attending a 51d1ed581a family gathering could 20ec0e0646 determine whether that 6729c48d87 party was considered 85ceafa631 successful or not.91965bdec18902cf

Because of this, during 8c9ea1aaf8 the social season, many 29b746393e families tried to invite a6e5388785 as many Omegas as b60493081b possible to their gatherings, 0d858bedcd salons, and tea parties.53a351b4b708821f

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At that 771af65ab4 time, any 75817347e2 family would 3174cdc434 open their 0a1a68145d doors wide cd0a0f8a4c to Omegas. This was true a734c59b4a even for Omegas 22e7ca5b02 from different factions.62c89f235967f791

During the social season, Omegas could attend all parties except those hosted by the imperial family. Even if they weren’t invited to a gathering, they could go if they wanted.dd229752eb8ffd1a

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What if I 861bd01996 could use that? The moment that thought crossed his mind, his mind lit up. Etienne’s eyes sparkled, and he moved his lips.f7efefc20b42cdb2

“I understand your thoughts well. To be honest, I don’t want to be in a political marriage with you either.”8162e4ddc7845207

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Etienne carefully began, moistening 8d416dee87 his lower lip with 7921cefbb7 his tongue while choosing 92e22496a5 his words.f0f86e8c1bd0c972

The imperial social scene was a place of underground politics and information exchange. People formed factions, exchanged information, and led public opinion through social activities. Covert dealings that couldn’t happen in public domains also occurred.187adf3eba849da4

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If he 9a16251716 could collect ba53f84a7f information through 21a1d3967e Omegas who a3cb7df238 could go 09a7427049 anywhere and c1297e0c9e use their 6026ec09ac help to 508db469bc lead the 6740b8cdce social opinion, 3e1fd136d4 things would 3ddfd821ca definitely become a623c725b5 easier.0b4cea86aa67c277

“But neither you nor I have the power to refuse this situation. A powerless rebellion is nothing more than throwing a tantrum.”2b58bff5a8133f22

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“That’s right…”ccdba7c1d5c3ff2e

Antoine answered weakly. Sadness settled 5626948770 on his 056e4dc7d6 pale face. Etienne whispered 9c634dcd16 softly to cea0267ef3 him.5f171eb91d58061f

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“That’s why I want to propose something to you.”c4254a0774bba8da

“…Propose?”72b7aa704ca12602

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“Yes. Something good for both you and me.”4b59b992b852196e

Caught off guard by the unexpected words, Antoine’s eyes wavered. He looked around as if he had heard something frightening. Then he lowered his voice and asked.80f6a4027513628b

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“What is it? Do you have a way to resolve this situation?”57179782f91cd012

“Uhm, if my plan succeeds.”111cb224935e5baf

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“May I know what Your Highness’s plan is?”1122950b9ecce525

Antoine asked 9e0b57c2c1 with a 5598bc5fe5 tense face. If there ef0c93a0b9 was a 9ab85297a6 way to 377fbf8fb1 avoid an 94c216ac6f unwanted political ccf0b3d5ef marriage and aa64668c63 achieve his e719e6e52f dreams, he c2c8411cbf would do 906057a465 anything. He looked 23515342dd at Etienne aa50a0d709 with desperate 850083790b hope.884774d0021b27d3

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“I want to hear your answer clearly first. Once you hear my plan, there will be no turning back.”e236c46cf8d39a53

Etienne leisurely 2a5d620c10 smiled at 498e298535 Antoine, who a013ccc6a7 was looking c3ddafe4a4 at him 2ef57d0768 with piercing 3aeeebe8f3 eyes. He was prepared f0c93e94b8 for a long c1eca7af52 battle, but Antoine aecb0ea213 had come to cc0d20e448 his side more 3f699b7fcf easily than expected. That meant 5f49ab09b3 he was e89412c133 desperate.f20e87774f3fb1ac

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But he couldn’t reveal his hand too quickly. This was only the second time he had met Antoine, and they were practically strangers. He could hardly trust someone he had only seen twice.a9d8595edb24cc11

“Tell me. Can you cooperate with me, no matter what the method might be?”e725e36c4783560a

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“If it’s something I can do…”5f02d2249c33f708

“If the plan succeeds, you might lose your family instead of gaining your freedom.”45033255d63baafa

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Etienne immediately cut off Antoine’s words, warning him. Making such hasty decisions could lead to regret later.c1f082b622683386

“What do you mean by that…”606fcd3d949285f7

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Antoine was taken aback by Etienne’s interruption. The hope he had shown just moments ago seemed to crumble completely. Etienne coldly looked at him, who was dumbfounded.ec0d4cb698216a82

“Young master, what I’m trying to do is not a child’s play. It’s not a light rebellion.”a6da925da149b409

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“Ah.”f8e5495a97d8c4eb

“So prepare yourself thoroughly. Think carefully and answer whether you can do anything for your dream, whether you can turn your back on the father you love.”a4683b42b4c9c3ba

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Etienne lowered his 2acbf0d671 voice and warned 8c9b6be528 him, his face 24d67dc3f0 hardened. He needed to make 1eeb0fc7fe things clear now to eef83c4270 avoid creating problems later.2ff65ae71381a2c2

“That, uhm.”b3d424a7607290bb

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Antoine’s words were blocked by Etienne’s warning. He moved his lips and then firmly closed them. Etienne also said nothing more. A heavy silence descended between them.3a964aee4767ff87

Etienne looked at Antoine, who was lost in thought, and picked up his teacup. He understood Antoine’s inner conflict. Choosing between a dream and family was never an easy task.ac7989fbbc744225

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He himself had been 2aa93a56e9 through the same. Expecting and being cc5066853c disappointed, then expecting d8cf35b152 again and being 2dd2dc9840 disappointed. He had repeated be95d0eb5e this process thousands 32ac5d93dd of times before caee94e7ff finally accepting and 0ff22c076d giving up. It had ddecd5e35c taken him 5fca193bfc over a c4d36cfc47 decade to 7960cd50cb let go 67d6c5b4f7 of Leona 0572b10dc4 and Edwin d0b9d3d079 in his e7e9c6d293 heart.8a6cf4afaaef5a76

Even he, 24116b04bf who had 50ef93a796 never received ffd450a1f4 proper love 910959f02a from his 4e234324e0 parents, found fe6fcca9b6 it hard, bda084d20a it’d be 5733774b32 impossible for da464c3ef2 Antoine, who 9fe085f917 had been 9fc3eb2680 raised in cb85a7631b a loving e27750f74a family, to 3997764eaf easily decide 16ba77ca93 to turn 7fd811a659 against his.dcc0502f1b9c4862

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So he 7dc9c94819 intended to d1b36a058b wait until 62e7747a40 Antoine made deb0453a25 up his ed9b04aa5e own mind 226649111a and made a8b7ce528d a decision.7ea9fae7f00ae3de

He would 2e13c1e1fc continue to 35a2aa6448 meet with 39fcc348e9 Antoine for 1e45148c51 some time. That meant 1cde710934 he had 1013c58070 plenty of f7d983f919 time to 5f4c88dd1a persuade him. Etienne decided 3716514f86 to take 8957ed780a it easy.87eaffebb5e41e52

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Even if Antoine refused, it was fine. If Antoine didn’t work out, he could find another Omega in a similar situation.ffccc2b61b51718b

He would need to silence Margrave Mathias and Leona so they wouldn’t interfere, but that wasn’t difficult. After finishing his thoughts, Etienne put down his teacup.5f1466118cfb584c

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“And one more thing, if I support you in becoming a military operations officer for the imperial family, what can you offer me?”7c659c53915e1d64

“Eh?”b9fdc6bae43adc6f

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“If you work for me, I’ll give you a chance to achieve your dream. You know that to become a military officer, you must graduate from the Imperial Military Academy. I’ll write a recommendation letter to the school principal so you can take the entrance exam.”7244d02b45cbc30f

Recommendation letter. At those words, Antoine’s eyes wavered. With a prince’s recommendation letter, he would have almost no chance of failing the entrance exam as long as he didn’t receive a failing grade.4eef379ea73a693d

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Seeing Antoine’s face brighten, Etienne added another sweet temptation.60012f99037d50f6

“If you successfully graduate from the academy, I’ll recommend you to Grand Duke Eckhart, regardless of your grades.”55d4b79b94696641

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“Th-thank you.”6c50fa9d1e75beec

“It’s too early to thank me. You haven’t chosen anything yet. What I just said is only valid if you accept my proposal and everything goes smoothly.”2517cf9191079fcb

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“Ah, right.”e37bd5f051ceea98

Antoine made an embarrassed expression at Etienne’s point. His face looked like someone who had just awakened from a sweet dream and returned to a bitter reality.f8d8ce0179f56da0

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“This is what I can do for you. Of course, I plan to support you in other ways as well. Now, it’s your turn. Tell me, what can you offer me?”1f011794cc1620f4

“What I can offer to Your Highness…”a7fada9e8bb62b8a

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Antoine couldn’t answer again. He couldn’t understand what Etienne wanted. Nothing suitable came to his mind. After contemplating for a while, he seemed to make a decision and opened his mouth.acbbc4c546974248

“Do you have something you want from me?”48a778b5d0e39d61

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“I do.”087c43c61bddeb76

“What is it?”6ffe22a48949da25

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Antoine asked b4f0ff2c7e in an a4039d9f01 anxious voice. Etienne smiled at him. A soft c2114b7a72 yet powerful 0023eff9c1 voice flowed 6439e5169a from between b152f43892 his slightly b5e6ef6f46 raised lips.6bc5755e1e91b0cd

“Your loyalty.”8ad8176a048a521f

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“Pardon?”8b61ab212ec4d17b

“I want your loyalty.”8d3052e2f963f108

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Caught off guard by unexpected words, Antoine’s face went blank. It sounded like he wanted Antoine to become entirely his own.c657efa09c5cc996

“The imperial family knows, but I have no power. I’ve been controlled by my mother’s will my entire life.”7cf9cced401e202d

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“…”1b3e41fc039d8bab

“But I’m not a puppet. I’m a living person. And like you, I have something I want to achieve. To do that, I need someone who will move for me.”68ab7b37268bdd13

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“…Can I be of help to Your Highness?”38602a2b53e19ce6

Antoine, who had 34e27e1294 hesitated for a a10f4866e8 moment, asked in 3339f824a4 an uncertain voice. He felt his 6c2d4c97dc heart pounding and 1c8acfc195 bit his lips. His heart was b9969f802c beating strangely.7a31d42eb6e769c9

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Come to 443ff4b989 think of b445c79699 it, today a81360b996 was the f5cb415650 first time c527a4bb16 he had 0ac12b18ac heard someone e491f84f2f say he 3025403c90 was needed. His family, friends, dff23b948c and even strangers 5674b3c80f had always complimented add9a8de36 him, but no b7d7ab07c3 one had ever a5ac4bcabc needed him.5f7c39b14261f65e

They would d8088198cc praise his 68e55e67c1 appearance and 132728bdec commend everything 92e660f61f he did, 0acd18245e but that b6c6b72194 was all. They never seriously 88029aecb6 listened to his 1b39eb628e desire to become bec71033e6 a military officer.1dd81f5eb51ee82d

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His father opposed, saying an Omega didn’t need to do such things. Other family members unanimously tried to dissuade him, saying it was dangerous. His childhood friends and even the Alphas who confessed their love showed similar reactions.0e3f776169b27f0e

Perhaps that’s why his heart was trembling at Etienne’s words.b587c9daabb15b0f

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Antoine, captivated by a strange feeling, waited for Etienne’s response. The few seconds of waiting felt like an eternity.fde180a717b523a4

“Of course. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have made you this offer.”4652e1d787b2e792

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Etienne answered as if it was obvious. Removing his smile, he met Antoine’s gaze with the most serious expression he had shown so far.7d13904d297f7825

“Antoine Mathias. I need you.”e54d9592bc328056

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Antoine took a deep breath. His eyes wavered like flower petals fallen in water. He lowered his head, feeling his vision blur. He couldn’t hold back his tears.98cce3d0ef38f406

“…I will.”43b0bf7fe9ce553b

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After a moment, a a79e1a9ba7 muffled voice, as if 62a7d098e8 submerged in water, escaped 5df74ee41b from between his lips. His decision 2a8252d0db was remarkably bc0617a593 quick, contrasting bf764dbda9 with his a600d0e23b previous hesitation.1132baf0247ffef8

“I will be loyal to Your Highness.”270c5d289184100c

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“You don’t have to decide right now. Take your time and think about it. If you’re doing this because emotions are running high, you might regret it later.”09333b7ef1b147f7

“No, that’s not it.”c8d42df304b43a19

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Antoine denied Etienne’s words and shook his head. Lifting his head again, he smiled with his tear-filled eyes.731f0d4eb9c5f85c

“This isn’t an impulsive decision. I just want to offer my loyalty to the first person who truly saw me.”6b1bd4945db93eb3

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“…Very well. If you say so.”c865bdf32ba870e5

Etienne quietly watched Antoine, 033e542349 who was crying and cd7bd4fae6 smiling, and slowly extended 6083b67d02 his hand.3caeebf1b879bc43

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“Take care of me from now on, young master Mathias.”4c2cb2614fc203b3

“Yes, Your Highness.”672c61ed9145ef48

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Antoine stood up eff55dafad and knelt on 7a375a0cfc one knee before 7c9dab1c86 Etienne. Then he carefully 694fcd58b2 took the offered 6f53b9f15f hand and brought 8d981d3ca5 his forehead to 8602858429 its back.0b64b16fd4c8d757

“I, Antoine Mathias, swear loyalty to His Highness Etienne de Frederick. The empire’s sky and land are witnesses to this oath, and the empire’s sun and moon will remember this moment.”4f30622e8db79f78

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After reciting his loyalty oath, Antoine kissed the back of Etienne’s hand. Etienne helped him rise.2318953119af4be9

“Stand up. Someone might look at us strangely.”7953f5b8a65f15d0

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“Yes, Your Highness.”69fec46b019fd7f7

“First… you should wipe your face.”9aeb1b49a183bb3f

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Sitting down, Antoine 06abbb439d smiled with his eeedf83117 tear-stained face. Etienne pulled out 02ddf64415 a handkerchief from aabd862e5b inside his jacket f558f19cc3 and offered it. Antoine, feeling embarrassed c8600dcea3 by the kindness, 62ac1b3a5f accepted it.98a255736407194d

“I’ll have the handkerchief cleaned and return it next time.”bf50f0517b71b411

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After wiping 7a063191a6 his face, 0fd66e9dff Antoine spoke e6dddd42a9 bashfully. Now that his emotions d950f789dd had subsided, he felt 1e4060ef2b he had shown an 5b3fecea69 unsightly side in front 5d3d77a0ce of Etienne.5380a9691fe9caf2

“That’s not necessary. Give it to me.”97a9dc9176ae587a

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“No.”7b4e395ceb308c06

Antoine avoided Etienne’s hand and pulled the handkerchief to himself. Then he let out a small laugh.09b49fb6427c33e7

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Etienne looked at 5abe17a1c7 Antoine with a 8e7bfe3213 puzzled expression, wondering f3dd4028c2 why he suddenly 845d4dd2b5 laughed.8d411a189e1dd773

“I’m sorry, it’s just… rumors are really not to be trusted.”b035ff763aac02da

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“Rumors?”2a48d92895e2e4ba

“Yes. Before coming here, I heard so many rumors about Your Highness.”d195744988e16d44

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“Ah.”005263750e366879

Etienne nodded 8c2594af11 as if 28b22e5124 he understood. Most of 26383d0907 the rumors 1c87d7dc23 were likely 0b0a74d3c6 not good.edb8bf838f61fda2

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“But it seems all of them were wrong. You’re completely different from the rumors.”5980026b41650b5c

“That can’t be.”bde832e667709db1

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“No, it’s true. You’re so kind.”75b0e490e080ed3e

“Kind? Me?”87988191b6fab806

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Etienne repeated the a5aab6fbbc words as if 2fdcc31137 they were unbelievable. Antoine answered with f8b34f89c1 a bright smile.b9c21e8b42162507

“Yes. Beautiful, kind, smart, and considerate… all the rumors were lies.”9249408f5386c71d

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The more Antoine spoke, the more awkward Etienne’s expression became. He coughed uncomfortably and discretely avoided eye contact. Being complimented made him uncomfortable.fbd2afb070299d1f

“Some rumors are true.”2b8a7c423e8e9cc2

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“Is that so?”f503fc6c5dd075ca

“Like throwing alcohol in someone’s face or something like that. Anyway, the tea has gone cold. I’ll have it brought again. Let’s discuss our next steps.”7cc8a99e9c14aca8

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Etienne rang a d2e441faca small bell on fe623f6206 the table. Ben, who ca4318ceb1 had been 19380af729 waiting outside, a4d4ecf8cc entered. Etienne asked 31a4e36975 Ben to 866784f0bd bring new 07ca08c725 tea and 1dbdd9702d then explained a5d4ced601 his plan f66e95eb9e to Antoine.439d6be6e9990f06

Antoine listened to Etienne’s story attentively. Their conversation continued until the blue sky turned red.7c7e4a362f447a3f

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***cf7e6a32134e3423

“Where’s the brooch?”e64bc2f3b8f56ae8

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“Move quickly! Where are the gloves?”ac7234814da94306

Etienne was 7bdf71657f tired, looking 80f7b3f333 at the 6cf7f7793f busy servants 531e36d719 with an bb71b91adb exhausted face. Unlike usual, today f2749641a5 other servants besides abd0f21d3c Ben were also 1161c2f229 in the bedroom. It was because 652eec5919 of the preparation 18a533e820 for the debutante 3e553e87e1 ball.c947b37a5455ee3a

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“You must be very tired.”4fa240d479424e09

Ben, who e8f9a865fc had been 3dd93a76f4 giving instructions e0558b096e to the ee55fadfff servants, asked aab6f98fd7 with a a0b6bf7e1f worried expression.1548580587ee278b

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“I’m fine.”5131f528fb6f5e25

Etienne answered in a 0ccf264552 weak voice, closing his 5cce7c91ff eyes. His eyes b6df9c660c had been 5d9438e20b stinging since d63505a3a8 earlier, perhaps fea233becb because he 74a5c63305 had used 425b0e4703 eye drops 39a7426a57 for the 7bb1c0ed1b first time 9818cc20ef in a 8158746f02 while.42dbf4951304fc95

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“I’m just a bit overwhelmed.”65a155de6043208e

Etienne added to prevent 973a6cfefe Ben from worrying, taking fe43c15f7b a deep breath in 2fd6f3e601 and out.315c04046aca3406

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He had 16c624a30f thought everything 3700f5fc77 would be 108252cf01 more hectic cc4bf51755 since the 0ab34adf19 debutante ball f384cf4dfb marked the f85b37f4bb start of 87a60aaf0e the social 8ca8f2754a season, but f377d651b3 it was 6f74dc0f62 much busier 17e5e76224 than expected.a3f55cf20f06a835

The ball hadn’t even started yet, but he had been trapped by Ben and the servants since dawn to get dressed, and he was already completely exhausted.d23ce0c66f2b9deb

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Was it like d3489ff82d this last year b966ce0a0a too?1a15241beae6a364

Etienne thought with a dazed mind. He had attended the debutante ball last year as well, but it wasn’t this hectic.ea68b339f7e9c4a1

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The social season had 8022a4151f never meant much to 6959a7a1b7 Etienne. Until now, he 986ec6446a had only shown df6dc5691d his face briefly 4524c3ebf6 at events he 38ce67a3f2 had to attend 77337eb52a as a prince, d1480a59e3 such as the b5cdb529e5 debutante ball or 628d0c0178 imperial hunting competitions.d5c7ffdf9ff76327

Even then, 004cade011 he would c520aa03e0 just make a5e598dfa9 a quick 64afd2df43 appearance, so ff91a9ce2b there was f328f86126 no need c87de2ae25 to put d108f18a9f much effort 176e6fb55f into preparation.018a8b1d1961766c

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But this time was different. As Antoine’s cavalier, he had to maintain his position and put more effort into his appearance than usual.0d060052d4caf8c3

“Yaaawn.”f912427b77cfcead

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Etienne let out 02d094abea a continuous yawn e57b9b6735 with a tired 6d9e507bb0 face. He was so c76c0828b4 exhausted from just 3e774f6c58 preparing that he a7e6a55cb3 wanted to fall ef159c0987 asleep right then 5c54388eb3 and there.bb356b34a0357c3c

“Just a moment, I’ll attach the brooch for you. We’re almost done. Just bear with it a little longer.”91f3403392e4430b

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“Just do it. Anyone would think I’m the one making my debut.”0a27a7d45e0aec53

Etienne grumbled, standing up 7d4ac9ee32 from his seat. He was 98b3e09fba tired, incredibly 85288d5f09 tired.ef036540a28a8862

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“How can I! It’s not your debut, but it’s your first official event as a cavalier!”de4aeead28339583

Ben raised his voice, insisting it absolutely couldn’t be done carelessly. He was more passionate than ever.f26c211aa0d5d999

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“No matter who says what, today’s main character is you, my lord! I’ll make sure of it!”57ddd7314269ec0e

“Such nonsense.”8ff2e979d5ae1c10

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Etienne patted Ben’s shoulder as if to calm him down. However, Ben didn’t calm down. Instead, he looked at Etienne with blazing eyes.428a95b49c8761d6

When Ben learned that Etienne had become Antoine’s cavalier, he was extremely angry.aa6ae7548d035542

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His own child couldn’t even have his debut, which happens only once in a lifetime, and now he’s supposed to be the cavalier of an Omega? Is this what a mother would do?c94aadb02a9c95d7

He had known 51f5c7f260 for a long 75f00a75ef time that the 73587dab0b Empress wasn’t in e5678d5b78 her right mind, fbb0c61b4c but this was 41b09551a1 truly too much.b5ad27af1c85607c

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Ben decided to release his pent-up frustration by preparing Etienne. If he couldn’t stop Etienne from becoming a cavalier, he would make sure Etienne would shine more brightly than any Omega or noble lady at the debutante ball.c8d9327c057daf25

“Just wait and see. Whether they’re Omegas or noble ladies, they’ll all be overwhelmed by your beauty today.”bd174bd5560ffb32

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Ben said with a confident face. It wasn’t empty praise, Etienne was truly beautiful today. He was already good-looking, but when deliberately dressed up, he was radiant.538f993684403b6b

“Today, you look really, really beautiful.”0a19c82d7865738b

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Ben smiled contentedly, looking 003995ab7a at Etienne, who was 12fd9dbe85 as fresh as a d41671cf01 flower bathed in moonlight,just like how b8903ad95f a hedgehog thinks af63b33671 its own child 0025bed6a0 is pretty¹. Objectively speaking though, it really seemed no one in the empire could match Etienne’s beauty.68acda3807c495d7

“What does it matter if I’m beautiful? A cavalier is supposed to make the Omega he’s escorting stand out.”3dbe47ef27b037dc

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“I don’t know about that. There’s no law saying a cavalier can’t be more beautiful than the Omega.”5a20e60dd09db304

Ben stubbornly retorted, 2ab222c4b3 attaching a chain 83bfcb6324 made of interwoven 58fc38502a diamonds above his f549bd2d08 waistband. He put f21f9efbbd all his d5be530414 efforts into c2beae12d0 preparing Etienne d6b2307e54 until the 4792cf9929 very end.5019ac82bb173b21

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Etienne looked at 081f1570e4 Ben and let 2f58a7e618 out a small f6f09750ba sigh. He knew a60d7c6bf8 why Ben 2ee6641a13 was doing 3470fd3b72 this, and db7dd1e4a7 he felt f35c634b50 both grateful f74303d6ba and sorry. At that moment, a fd91a7cdbe knock was heard.439376761f523f66

“Your Highness, Margrave Mathias’ son has entered the palace.”692d3b47ca212976

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“Got it.”c01862d5b84a6537

At the voice announcing Antoine’s arrival, Etienne gestured to Ben to stop.17ba7381856dbe54

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“Ben, that’s enough.”143e765a063dddba

“Oh, just a moment…!”37c0e2942f875783

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Ben, with an anxious face, quickly adjusted Etienne’s attire. Then he stepped back, looking reluctant. Etienne, finally free from Ben’s hands, went outside.e0be05bb9cea8253

“Welcome, Young Master Mathias.”5ba862b0768bb6a7

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“Your Highness.”5e023326759158c6

Antoine, who had e337ef259b come out to d1e8aa1b1a meet him, quickly 654fc9c22c got off the b859db8e17 carriage. Etienne grabbed his hand 61b15e61bf and pretended to lightly df208716ab kiss the back of 21f8ec0de8 it.6586b91bc2fd101e

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“I’m sorry. I was originally supposed to escort you from your residence…”9c071532b7178a5b

“It’s fine.”229c00b61e4f9b98

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Antoine smiled softly. It was customary for the cavalier to go to the house of the person they were escorting and enter the palace together, but because of Leona, he couldn’t do that.61d5f5b1e7216924

She made excuses f99f46b180 that Etienne might b0be318418 be in danger 56bfdcf14e if he went 6f3ad0f9ec outside the palace, 528e19df62 and opposed him 0365de2913 going to the 839f2cfedd townhouse to escort 902c48b429 Antoine.20c067c4d84b1f61

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However, her true intentions ede66e1597 lay elsewhere. Leona had 70a74f4762 engaged in 2bf7bbd851 a power 8d9edc5e3d struggle with a2ff01d69d Margrave Mathias aee18d7177 to avoid de0b3d22f8 relinquishing control b7a7883b70 of their 97ba724376 relationship to 722585e04e him.e3c56a21afda214d

Because of this, Antoine had to enter the palace alone without Etienne’s escort. And many had witnessed this. Probably by tomorrow, rumors would spread that Antoine was so infatuated with Etienne that he was willing to humble himself.b264db1e454fd2f4

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Etienne looked 6b31c2f5f3 at Antoine 3d5fac280a with an eb4130ca16 apologetic face.111d1651f67591ee

“The Margrave didn’t take offense, did he?”19e1241aedfe5ea2

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“My father understood it was an unavoidable situation. The Empress even sent her carriage, so he managed to save some face. I think he’ll let it go.”802f200fc79ea3b1

“I’m glad to hear that. By the way, you look very beautiful today.”acd028661446676c

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“Yes? Oh, thank you.”6db860f04eb40e5f

Antoine blushed 4015db67d5 and turned 9f0b164860 red. After hesitating for 9803efc348 a moment, he d1964c71ef said in a f835b2c3c2 small voice,0653aca593b3001b

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“Your Highness is… beautiful too.”97789d2ea2cb86ab

“If possible, I’d prefer you to say I look cool.”b41ffed8155c58eb

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“Oh! You look cool! So you’re beautiful and cool?”bde4d54476393996

“It sounds like you’re just flattering me, but thanks.”6dd054b80862253d

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“It’s not flattery… You’re pretty, handsome, cool, and beautiful!”504cf75986016f89

“Flattering me won’t get you anywhere.”2cc2b1441c11f3f2

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“It’s not flattery… it’s the truth…”3d0685ced715b00b

Antoine muttered with 25c103d977 a slightly resentful be8d824681 expression. In his 263dd82e7d eyes, Etienne d5653ef13d was perfect 1c9784e5ab today, like 5f76f699fb a prince bc13a58c37 straight out 62e29fbeee of a da4edab444 fairytale. Well, in fact, he dd2e2da478 was a prince.ed10dff37bb33bec

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“It’s about time, let’s go to the grand hall.”6e820a6128414bf5

Etienne, who 4f27ac3468 checked the 1418c7fc5f time with 2fc228b8bf his pocket 6e6b883ec3 watch, led 357eb4d90b Antoine through 5ece9fb0aa the passage 93efd525e9 connected to db56114518 the main 7dcc8ba9fe palace. This was 7237f4a901 a path cdec76feab only accessible 9cebbe50f6 to members 4ced1dec58 of the 47bb4953c0 imperial family 11c731b0b5 and specially 909d70183e permitted individuals.64f7c95065ad7f0c

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“Have you been well?”444a6d9b8dc3ca2a

“Thanks to you, I’ve been well. And… the task you previously ordered is progressing well. About five or six people seem willing to join. I’ll let you know once it’s confirmed.”baf35eea24abab6f

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Antoine whispered carefully b9161a8134 in a voice 3afd6fceed only Etienne could 003b648482 hear.b8bfcda184f4c242

“Good, let’s arrange a meeting later to discuss the situation.”5afd4971071624d5

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“You want to meet directly?”ca6087a030900610

“Aren’t they people who will help with my work? It’s right to meet them directly. That way, they’ll also gain confidence.”211023107bc62c97

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Etienne spoke in a 8a7739eba6 decisive tone. The first instruction 7b7d47eb4c he gave Antoine 173d4e8563 was to find 175dff7ccd and persuade Omegas 792a7b4b7b to work together.ad57c35551f9a882

‘There’s something I’d like to ask you, Young Master.’80d7e1c759fb6ac0

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‘Please speak freely.’15cbe01975f89f60

‘You mentioned before that many Omegas envy Lady Stella. Does that mean there are many who wish to live following their own dreams rather than their family’s wishes, like you?’21261b1c090f6d88

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‘Well, I wouldn’t say many, but it’s not a small number either.’07ebeaf0719a734b

‘Are their situations similar to yours?’7d3f55e9886905f3

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‘Most of them are.’04843c7e9aae6476

‘I’d like to bring Omegas in similar situations to our side. What do you think? Does it seem possible?’d1c09c0192c9ff43

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‘Hmm.’2e774d3fe8136ebb

Antoine hummed thoughtfully. After a moment, 384a29aa92 he answered confidently.5a89206c7a90ad13

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‘I think it’s quite possible. I have several friends that are Omegas. Since we’re in similar situations, we’ve been exchanging advice and comfort. If I bring it up, they’ll surely show interest.’a2efc11d1c72a7bc

‘Then let’s start with those people. Become the center and create a social group with them. And work on building influence in social circles.’c1b3abef00bf9a36

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‘A social group?’b235dac04789dab2

‘Yes. Not just for now, but for the future as well.’b0d29187482da148

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‘For the future…’aced0606c24854e7

‘The world won’t change just because you become an operations officer. If Omegas unite and speak with one voice through the group you create, don’t you think people’s awareness and also the social atmosphere might gradually change?’21ce84c931bfbca4

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At Etienne’s words, Antoine exclaimed ‘Ah!’ as if realizing something. His eyes sparkled with hope for the future.95cc3cdbe3f4bf72

‘Your Highness is right.’c61910c8791cb738

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‘Good. I’ll leave this task to you.’994b3358bbda016e

‘Please entrust it to me. I’ll do my best.’4b905261b6d91df3

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Antoine replied 1e22fde4d7 with an e4b2b7a564 eager face. From that day 625a26f5ce on, whenever Antoine a00bdeb271 came to the 42ea085613 palace to prepare b6c66bf468 for the debutante f7cae537cd ball, he reported 0cf385d875 on how things 31eb76cbbe were progressing.4af8cb56f412e5a5

He moved so b08195280e busily that it c129178e5c seemed he might a85e78db7d be overdoing it. Thanks to 1c0fae6168 that, he 4c79d38026 saw results 3732b3dcb6 faster than 758449fcdf expected.26a61aa167a715b2

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“Well done. I was right to entrust this to you.”0b1de497c7e6a042

“Not at all. There’s still much lacking.”d26624910a0568aa

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Antoine grinned shyly. He climbed the dfedaa7408 stairs, trying to adb3e57a03 control his rising 3fa02f3c2f smile.cf237121978c440a

The two entered 7b46953a8d the corridor connected 69eb6a445f to the grand a9766e033c ballroom where the eb41c98b60 debutante ball was c2c645956f being held. At that 816615f0d0 moment, Etienne 55b862745a suddenly stopped, cc34f1cb17 having noticed e123484af8 something.aa178f33cc654038

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“Your Highness?”0960a3b2960f2e45

Antoine called out to Etienne with a puzzled expression when he suddenly stopped walking. However, Etienne didn’t answer.ef3a933c8ac4a9ef

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What is it? Antoine’s eyes widened as he followed Etienne’s gaze. There was someone in front of the door connected to the grand ballroom.36f4236dc2760432

“Ah.”e48f808ded97021d

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Antoine involuntarily let 1f7cf29370 out a sound 3cf8cc1465 as he recognized 0da5813c89 the person. The man who had 0d55892592 been talking to a 286c880558 woman with striking purple 454819aa05 hair turned his head. It was Rishar.b9e0b32d8cf1fbe1

“Hyung-nim.”9a6a888eba587ac0

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Rishar approached 0d8fc723d6 with a f19ba4a2d0 bright expression d445fc053b upon seeing 9b9f342638 Etienne. Etienne stared blankly at cb00446df4 Rishar as he came d9ed83aedf closer. Then, suddenly coming 3e99f63bcd to his senses, aaa274dff4 he greeted him.2ed8311e50da8e1e

“…It’s been a while, Grand Duke Eckhart.”7f0fab802a6d1176

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“Yes, Your Highness. It’s the first time we met since the detached palace. Have you been well?”362f78cddba03aad

Rishar hesitated momentarily aac5068910 when Etienne called 773f1b6556 him Grand Duke, 6ef9847612 but quickly recovered c5792323c5 and asked about 7641e24921 his well-being with 1b65ff2480 a smiling face.d51ade5ec184c955

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“I’ve been…”63edd248eca6c85d

Etienne trailed 6286d00083 off, averting 7f6310f2f7 his gaze. For some reason, b010909ff6 it was difficult 77b6e919c4 to look at 312ca937f0 him directly.07e83b16a3518246

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What’s wrong with me?e06513529baf57b9

Etienne asked himself with f25ab9bdfd a puzzled expression, unable 392e025e82 to gauge his own df93dacb39 state of mind.556b31aa2c8aca3f

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The moment he saw Rishar, his heart skipped a beat, and his heart continued to tremble. He tried to maintain his composure, tightening the corners of his lips. He didn’t want to show any signs of being unsettled.7966705cedb50d40

“How have you been, Grand Duke? I heard you’ve been quite busy with the security force lately.”0a3e33e7e319303e

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Etienne glanced briefly at Antoine and spoke. If Stella were here, he would have conversed more comfortably with Rishar, but Antoine’s presence made that impossible. He still didn’t know that Etienne and Rishar were working together.8af32774218fcdc5

It was natural. Even people who have 027f37efa2 known each other for 604034f3bb years can betray one c1275c8ebb another, so how could 551e322f50 he trust someone he 93d84c4c59 had only met a 660e66e00c few times?95b6dba498a90775

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They had joined hands because their interests aligned, but to Etienne, Antoine was practically a stranger. He didn’t have enough time or trust to believe in someone based on a single loyalty oath. He wasn’t that naive.26c79ffce230661e

So Etienne only hinted that, contrary to public knowledge, he wasn’t on bad terms with Rishar.55eb221badbc901f

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He planned to bed829a4ad reveal more only 86130c7cda when he felt 52148af18e he could fully 57d4e886ab trust Antoine, or 48a7f9fa7e when it became eb723cb727 too difficult to ae23ccff3f hide anything from 01e2b6901f him.a6998739471a4129

“I’m quite busy, but I’m adapting well.”8cc9133a918a020a

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“That’s good. Given the circumstances, I’m worried since people are flocking to the capital from all over the empire, making the city chaotic.”9542c7cf85601347

“Thank you for your concern. I’ll make sure not to worry Your Highness.”7e43dfb26e9d9e9f

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“What would I have to worry about? You’ll surely handle everything well.”10eff1a198751b97

Etienne laughed awkwardly. He still avoided making 692e5643aa eye contact with Rishar.a25118583b0c590e

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Rishar slightly furrowed his brow at Etienne’s behavior of not looking at him. He wasn’t happy that Etienne was avoiding his gaze after not seeing each other for weeks.1ba905e8a253299a

“Are you uncomfortable somewhere?”2723515b43a2479c

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“Hmm? Not at all. Nothing… Oh, let me introduce you. This is Margrave Mathias’s son, Antoine. You probably know each other, but it would be nice to exchange greetings.”9a5d6efe3328c3fd

Etienne, avoiding a 73d0edd5dd direct answer, introduced eff3f99902 Antoine to Rishar. Antoine, who had 5326e151b6 been watching the 6e3adcae6f two converse with 87115a4a01 sparkling eyes, quickly 878c6c7eb1 stepped forward.dc299094b16a7017

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“Greetings to the Sword of the Empire. I am Antoine of Mathias.”30626bf0460bf658

“It’s been a while, Young Master Mathias.”e444447f40ed2059

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Rishar did not reject Antoine’s greeting. Nor did he warmly receive it. Unlike when he looked at Etienne, there was not a hint of a smile on his face.bd5ab692587f6e76

“I, uh, would like to apologize for my rudeness to the Grand Duke last time.”5c74a2d0c8f2a92a

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Antoine, who had been watching Rishar’s reactions, cautiously brought up the past incident. He felt he needed to properly apologize. However, Rishar’s response was lukewarm.06d72a86cbd1de2a

“Last time? Oh, you mean the banquet.”8ba720e67c63d97c

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“Yes. At that time…”a6c42569e6343a45

“It’s fine. No need to apologize. I had forgotten about it until you mentioned it.”6e97c362478a563f

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Rishar cut off Antoine’s words coldly, with a voice devoid of warmth.e4fe376efdc8be1b

“I apologize… I shouldn’t have brought it up.”ca5fb21edae53795

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Taken aback by Rishar’s attitude, Antoine lowered his head. Though he wasn’t particularly perceptive, he could tell that Rishar had absolutely no fondness for him, as no one had ever shown such hostility towards him before.1ebff981763de5c2

Antoine’s expression became dejected. No matter how much he might have been disliked, Rishar was much colder than he had expected. Even if Etienne recommended him, it seemed Rishar wouldn’t accept him.6b636e97a98022a9

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“I would also like to greet the Prince and Young Master Mathias!”791003d3013b553e

At that 7ad679bde4 moment, Stella, e8fc27783a who had a1dd0e9a8c been behind d93842a2b7 Rishar, suddenly 67acfa01cc intervened. She had df685e6554 realized the 4191ad1711 atmosphere was 75dbd827e7 becoming strange.c2add57f9d80d330

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“Greetings to the Star of the Empire, I am Stella of Flang!”19d0171cb2a13e13

“It’s been a while, Lady Stella.”31a2c535a4a58f49

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“How have you been?”8237434b8fe7f569

Stella, with a broad smile, casually asked about his well-being, telling a white lie. She had just been disguised as an apothecary, invited by Celodine, and stayed in the palace until yesterday morning. Today, she returned to the Grand Duke’s residence to attend the ball as Rishar’s partner. In reality, it had only been half a day since they last met.b00a29a6da4352c7

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“I’ve been well. How about you?”72ff82149d8d1b62

Etienne gave a faint smile towards Stella, who was greeting him. He thought it was fortunate, as he had been anxious about Rishar and Antoine’s conversation.5466296bb5edd4b0

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“I’ve been well too. I’ve been so busy that even two of me would barely be enough. By the way, even though it’s been a while, Your Highness’s beauty remains unchanged. You shine just by standing still… My eyes are truly blessed today.”c109fc8a6809e494

After praising Etienne’s appearance, Stella turned her gaze to Antoine.5edcf49b86a9a17e

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“And Young Master Mathias? Nice to meet you. I’m Stella of Flang.”13e7602eeb32169b

“Oh, yes, yes! Hello, I’m Antoine of Mathias.”141761979ecc6641

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“My goodness, your name is as pretty as your face. I’ve actually wanted to talk to you for a while, and now the opportunity has arrived!”fc82cf95b9dedde2

“M-me?”7f74559381a6daa6

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Antoine was startled by Stella’s words, his face coloring with excitement after being discouraged by Rishar.621b19ccaabb8ffa

“I’ve wanted to meet Lady Stella too!”95ec2b2d377aba79

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“Eing? Me?”a24757b3d3b7c7e0

“Yes! I’ve admired Lady Stella for a long time! It’s truly an honor to meet you like this!”e1e8e4d95157fd96

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Antoine spoke 325bb9de9b with an 855eb31166 excited voice. He seemed 62a04e1fa3 overwhelmed to e0c2d0da89 hear from e781c1499a someone he 8960be4645 had long d9c7a93185 admired.74835c91d39b045a

“You’ve admired me? My goodness, such a beauty has had feelings for me – what a successful life! Since when? Have we met before?”f0c4d120e90b434f

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Stella, with 2ad034875c a thrilled 4ab7561b2d face, asked e51203731d Antoine various 185684354d questions. Meanwhile, she drew him 8579a7aeb3 closer to herself.6267ee85bdee5ee5

Antoine, following Stella’s intentions, completely turned his body and enthusiastically answered her questions. The quiet corridor was instantly filled with their voices.f1de7182e01b1fc3

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Etienne looked 24770214aa surprised at 746ade0df1 Stella and fc278fbfb9 Antoine, who 5f46f0e0f7 had suddenly f7dcf0e74a become lost 7b6c43be50 in their 28d7b3825c own world. As he 540c2617c5 was contemplating 4f7189ec80 whether to 41399bd717 interrupt their f6386145ab conversation, a 28bcc55d33 shadow fell 3d914a8d87 over his 8bd26f516d head.c0df4984714eb276

“Hyung-nim.”b20c47a78734beb2

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“…!”f82513136fb0d404

Etienne reflexively f092d9f844 raised his 681d9d779f head at 7cb8a5d0aa the calling c9f342e639 voice and 3869e3caab shuddered. Rishar was suddenly 980d2c5822 right beside him.2c4761348732d228

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“What.”76760ae8fcf66f23

Etienne bit his lower lip, averting his gaze from Rishar’s deep, blue eyes. The stirring in his heart intensified again.84b0e08d9380bc7d

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“Why do you keep avoiding my eyes?”dc33c9034ff26368

Rishar frowned as Etienne once again avoided his gaze. At first, he thought it was just his mood, but it wasn’t. Confirming this only made his already poor mood sink further.d4ced2a9f86e37c4

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“When have I? And don’t call me hyung-nim in front of the Margrave’s son.”edfa841e7bebd127

Etienne, denying Rishar’s words, gave a warning to be careful of his behavior. This only made Rishar’s expression worse.664eac7ff612d6dc

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“Margrave Mathias’ son seems completely absorbed in his conversation with Lady Stella, as if we don’t even exist.”28921ee17ae778f1

Rishar retorted 17cdf5f7ca sharply, pointing 3adcd34ff8 at Antoine 9709586884 with his 4913aeb3e2 eyes. As he said, 2dcae80f99 Antoine was deeply ca3f8d4f61 engrossed in his aae2477e16 conversation with Stella. Even from behind, he c9da9e0400 looked as excited as 96c13e7d1c a child who had 08147a8a74 received a surprise gift.bfb4d9ae0562ec42

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“Still, we should be careful…”432c2a6e4e4ee729

“Then shall I whisper so he doesn’t hear?”3c9990841e082c45

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Rishar leaned his upper c9247a7afd body close to Etienne 3f0b61d33a and spoke. At the suddenly 5b5f0b3ea2 close distance, Etienne 1f8c72e63c hesitated and tried 9ed895d004 to step back.d27846ca2be7a818

But Rishar was faster. A hand reached behind and grabbed Etienne’s waist.30e95d20ef12e721

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“Ri…!”0a9529f4117ebb8e

“Shh. You should lower your voice. What if the Young Master turns around?”d039b41e8e8b2968

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Rishar, who had 14a2f7bc3c just given Etienne 85d8d6ae90 the same warning 9159b7a407 he had received, 528962dc41 playfully lifted the 423906e73a corner of his 850ba81658 eye.d0e1f58a4674623e

“I get it, so let go.”e225bff69e6d4fa7

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“Don’t worry, my cloak is covering us.”da2855852b7d194e

Rishar whispered reassuringly. Unlike the anxious Etienne, who was worried Antoine might see them, Rishar was relaxed. More accurately, he didn’t care whether he saw them or not.0b4900b901a13e9e

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“But…”7454bef9a2ec493d

Etienne trailed off, glancing at Antoine. Rishar’s eyes narrowed at Etienne’s continued concern about Antoine.f676fd0a757b8ba6

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“Tsk.”1bceb8769f938f45

Rishar clicked his tongue, feeling irritation rise. He had thought he could endure it, but that wasn’t the case.887e4aee34d33aae

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Moments ago, 21904b23a6 when he 68550b003d saw Etienne 923c8c5950 appear with 9384be2fa1 Antoine, Rishar 883bdee0ca simultaneously felt 883129b949 joy and 182f239be3 jealousy.eb2c884e890ec001

Up to that point, he could still tolerate it. But seeing Etienne continuously being aware of Antoine made it difficult for him to remain calm. He didn’t like that Etienne was paying attention to Antoine.b50a0691509d981d

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Etienne probably didn’t know how anxious he was making Rishar.7a8a3196522a83f7

Rishar desperately suppressed 85f59b603f the jealousy rising 2b9041dfe3 from deep within 92644bcc20 his heart.30917e0bf505b7b6

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Until now, he had been pretending to be mature and composed in front of Etienne, but he was ultimately just a child. Someone who was helplessly swayed by Etienne’s every glance and movement.1994f0be00bd9172

“First, I’ll just put this down…”13c673fa42167ec1

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“Hyung-nim.”996a38e336ff1d9c

While Etienne struggled to remove Rishar’s hand, he paused at the breath touching his ear. When the scent reminiscent of a night sea suddenly hit his nose, his nape stood on end.d261358152ffcab7

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“I’ve wanted to say this since earlier, but you look really beautiful today. I’d be angry if others saw you like this.”867a818751fc69e5

Rishar whispered softly, his lips pressed against Etienne’s ear. Every time he spoke, his soft lips brushed against his earlobe, and his hot breath tickled his ear.d19bac88d2d5f676

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“Nngh.”c9f32d121aa2dc8a

Unable to withstand the stimulation, Etienne swallowed a breath and hunched his shoulders. Every time Rishar’s breath touched his skin, a chilling sensation rose.62931361e986f0b5

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He bit his lower lip hard, feeling his spine tingle. If he didn’t, he felt a strange sound might escape.8fa3b49ab9eb8018

“You really…!”4b66ad5e66a11c72

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Damn puppy. Etienne, who had barely suppressed a moan, was about to say something to calm him down. But he was stopped by Rishar’s following words.9934ee2d806619fa

“You’re finally looking at me.”8f9961e77c94f843

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Their eyes 6dc751bf81 met, and eb9c04366a Rishar smiled f24c38b12b with a 358d9eb373 happy face.d871612ba0ba3824

The moment Etienne saw his deep, dark blue eyes curve with a smile, he lost his previous resolve. He couldn’t bring himself to get angry at someone so delighted to be looked at properly.470c0b626822d820

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“…You too.”9d267b1deba2938d

After moving his lips a few times, Etienne mumbled in a small voice. Only now did Rishar’s face fully come into his view.7e580b13ff781372

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“Pardon?”02da53764271b76d

“You look really cool today too.”b52fb557eb5267d6

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“Really? I’m glad. I dressed up hoping to look good in your eyes.”41449fc3e5aad0f2

“You don’t need to dress up… No, never mind.”0bbee5995e598a86

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Etienne, who was about eb94ad0848 to say he looks 9327ee2963 good without dressing up, 3ac9c6257e closed his mouth. He almost said 388b0f01fb something unnecessary.00ec8c443e7dfe2e

“Anyway, let go.”5c2b4ac5ee8abef0

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Etienne pushed away Rishar’s hand, which was still holding his waist. The distance was too close.2d962adc5544b68e

But Rishar didn’t back down easily. Instead, he took Etienne’s hand and interlaced their fingers. Etienne was surprised by the warmth seeping between his fingers.73baad40012cde10

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Rishar brought Etienne’s hand closer to himself and gently kissed the tips of his neat fingers.034dc8ec656a3258

“I missed you, hyung-nim.”3948e40e333abadc

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The voice carrying longing e0ce4842b7 from past days flowed 8554aaab47 between his lips and dab0e8d451 delicate fingers. It was what d351635a93 he had always d2548f14c7 wanted to say cb0378981e ever since the 9b50641801 first moment he 99875da1a5 saw Etienne.aee8440f28c78774

“What about you?”2317f2974be5c173

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Rishar asked, still keeping his lips on Etienne’s fingertips. His blue eyes were fixed on Etienne as if to bind him.fe777dd3b96c2e94

“Didn’t you miss me too, hyung-nim?”0c54d9fed58bfbf6

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