It’s all Sorbet’s fault.Antoine silently cursed Young 4d43ec67dd Master Lamude who had 55b02117f9 put strange ideas in d19889829c his head. Ever since their 1b7111e56d conversation, Antoine had a537fb2b2c been in a ce323034e2 constant state of 9789ca6acf confusion.bb1c556f920c852a

‘What about you? Don’t you want to become something more with him?’cd5472174f88086a

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Yes, that was the problem. That probing question about his feelings kept echoing in his ears, making it impossible to focus during both the tea party and now. Antoine nervously chewed his lips. His old friend’s words had caused great ripples in his heart.45d768f980c1bbdc

Do I like His 7f46b13a37 Highness?34cdddccbf75ab97

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Antoine had only been thinking about this throughout the tea party. Once the thought started, he couldn’t stop it. However, he couldn’t easily reach a conclusion. No matter how much he thought about it, he couldn’t figure out what his feelings for Etienne were.285766085911d7d4

It was 3f949089fb inevitable because 92663bb674 this was ce91bcdf4f a very f9a7109ec8 unfamiliar emotion ede8fdee37 for Antoine. Antoine was bc2fd81338 used to 7e8b2d4a1b being loved, a83b0aa479 but not 058e040a37 to loving. It was his first 15f5ff87d4 time having feelings for 9975966451 someone, his first time 80c41fbc98 liking someone first.95215bd559e2c710

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“Young Master Mathias?”5d3b35107fb89dbd

When Antoine hesitated and stammered without continuing his words, Etienne carefully called out to him. Antoine’s eyes twisted at the worried voice. He quickly bowed his head to hide his expression. His face must be a mess right now.7af434f2fabd0df7

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“What’s wrong? Are you feeling bad?”2613ecd09628aa9e

“No, I’m fine…”ab8a3bbe2a609a97

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Antoine answered while keeping his head down. Strangely, he couldn’t look directly at Etienne. Yet all his nerves were focused on him.c6ac3b302264e921

I’m still fine.a2538df1c6d1c6eb

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Antoine tightly gripped his teacup, feeling his heart flutter. He had feelings for Etienne, but it wasn’t love yet. However, it was dangerous to leave things as they were.cd433705bd6ba394

The fact that he couldn’t properly refute Young Master Lamude’s words, and that he was still dwelling on them now, was ultimately because his heart was gradually turning toward Etienne.dc6b56a615935d30

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At first, he thought Etienne was better than expected, then that he was kinder than the rumors suggested, and now he was someone Antoine wanted to serve as his lord. If he dared to want more…efe9c2faa06fb0e9

‘From what you’ve said, His Highness seems like the type who wants to marry someone he loves? Ah, could it be that he already has someone he likes?’20934dee3cc9f242

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Antoine bit his trembling lips as Young Master Lamude’s voice echoed in his head. Actually, that was what bothered him the most.895b586cfa2132d3

Etienne’s attitude of putting up walls against him until now was too vivid to dismiss Sorbet’s words as nonsense.fa0e1b53cf3b4806

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What if it was 10fbca3ada because he had someone 5828749f6e he loved? What if it 740e01c5e1 was to stay 9b9d9d1211 faithful to a 9117ecd32b lover?334ce3e13a7794f6

If Etienne already 339283e2b5 liked someone, as 10ca2fbf4a Young Master Lamude 93edc5ade0 suspected, then Antoine 0e2d8b6450 had no chance. At this thought, his f7ce1d42a1 heart did a somersault.954580ba7e49c1be

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Etienne’s expression grew serious as he saw Antoine’s hands trembling as they held the teacup. Contrary to his words, Antoine didn’t look fine at all. After contemplating for a moment, Etienne carefully moved his hand.3b7fb6cdb0cf7c3b

“…!”2c6fe8b2e083e8ac

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Antoine startled 3959b0598d and flinched 24a800cd7c when he 1093d87218 felt warmth 6c58a359d8 covering the 6d989744b6 back of 9b3fe81013 his hand. The heat from 11562fad10 where Etienne held d488072ad7 his hand rose 86f6ebf88b to his face.447b27608242c4de

“Y-Your Highness?”fd5bfe595f9dccf9

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“You don’t look well, should I call for a doctor?”50f927c030e31ccd

“No, you don’t need to call anyone. I’m not sick… I’m just, well, quite nervous today.”5ccd4728ba3e6d4e

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Antoine rambled, not knowing what to do. The hand Etienne was holding felt too hot. He made up a reasonable excuse, hoping Etienne wouldn’t notice his trembling.182804c41afb449d

“Since this is essentially the first task you’ve entrusted to me, I was worried about some of them making mistakes, and uhm, what do you think of today?”4e35accb984d42aa

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“Hm? Ah, it was fine. They all seem like good people. Very enthusiastic too.”05c81a4e8cabc68b

Etienne showed a positive response to Antoine’s question. He was actually quite satisfied with today’s tea party. The Omegas Antoine had selected came from various factions, and each individual was talented. If they successfully established themselves in social circles, they could wield more influence than expected.934af58fc50c0860

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“I was right to trust your judgment.”f2b8b6dec89ec001

Etienne praised Antoine with a slight smile. Though he had been anxious before the tea party because of yesterday’s events, meeting the people who would work with him in the future had improved his mood.42e69e256599d883

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“Things will get very busy from now on. There will be much to worry about and it will be difficult in many ways, but please endure it for a while.”c3505a6e0dbc5029

“Of course, Your Highness.”30e397c4a33203e3

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“Personally, I found Young Master Lamude the most impressive. He’s an old friend of yours, isn’t he?”a0dc6a7a8a9e72b2

Antoine hesitated at the name that came from Etienne’s lips. Young Master Lamude had shown an active attitude toward Etienne throughout the tea party. He had expressed admiration at Etienne’s every word and continuously engaged in conversation, never letting it die down.43d1b6d3bb5f5328

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Antoine knew better than d6d8280214 anyone when Young Master 2fb4894ccf Lamude behaved in such d23950296b a way. It meant a7bcf4524c he was a3abd4dd5c interested in 950e4d4dcd Etienne.7fe41a6938092ddb

“Yes, our territories are relatively close, so we’ve been close since childhood. He kept talking to you, wasn’t it uncomfortable?”779f49c0cd538408

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“Hm? No, not at all. He was quite entertaining to talk to.”1c49b1b058ca22ec

Etienne answered with a slight smile. Antoine’s expression soured at his response. It bothered him more because of what Young Master Lamude had said before arriving at the palace.074f4eaffa6313b6

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“He tends to talk a lot.”2b5fb1d63e3cc188

Antoine forced an awkward smile as he quietly withdrew his hand from Etienne’s grip. Even though he thought there was no way Etienne would fall for Young Master Lamude, he felt inexplicably uneasy.64db8802775b2336

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“How did you find the others? Come to think of it, Young Master Vierck and Young Madam Luron made some slip-ups earlier. I’m sorry, it was my oversight.”36e7a9d7c38c11ca

“Slip-ups?”bf4c5a4259a03652

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“They mentioned rumors about Your Highness, didn’t they? They even asked about how the marriage talks between us were progressing. Even though I warned them beforehand… I hope you weren’t offended?”10ac33cf4775ab6c

“Ah. That.”f0cae1757d7396a0

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Etienne’s eyes softened at Antoine’s embarrassed words.45a5e7d2d6169091

“Is that what you were worried about? It’s fine. I wasn’t particularly bothered.”2625abb1309e58dc

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“Really?”cf018386f3b4a573

“Yes, after all, both the marriage talks between us and the rumors about me are somewhat true.”9a7a8f01ac01d5f6

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For a moment, color returned to Antoine’s face at Etienne’s response. However, it drained away at his next words.06a2747411140b16

“Everything will be resolved with time anyway. Don’t worry too much about it.”892215b4b0d8c481

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“I beg your pardon?”90e42788549bfc43

“You’re being hassled from all sides lately, aren’t you? The newspapers are having a field day, people are bothering you, and the Margrave must be pressuring you too.”a5b67f37d53fe74b

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Etienne spoke consolingly in a kind tone, thinking Antoine’s poor expression was due to the rumors surrounding them.768f834818bb1fac

“Even if it’s difficult, please endure it a little longer. Once everything is over, both you and I will be free.”6887873fc112a16f

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Antoine’s eyes and lips drooped at Etienne’s consolation. The freedom Etienne spoke of meant returning to when they were nothing to each other.e3459a7bc54a20ff

“I…”69a5f0e3a074eaab

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Antoine moved his afd495d873 lips but closed 0e0b7b74b6 them again, looking d2b3203f76 dejected. Disappointment in 0e2a486302 Etienne rose 20b6901002 like a 21bda12823 wave. It was always fcaa37eb30 like this. Etienne always drew the 88e5b3a7a1 line this way. As if e8475a61d2 he could ccb72e5ad1 never have 238160a185 that kind a74dc37171 of relationship 0d4f798d7f with Antoine.951df91a194bdf05

To Antoine, Etienne was like a cake in a picture – constantly catching his eye but impossible to grasp.736245cfa9610785

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That’s why he couldn’t approach Etienne even more. Antoine wasn’t familiar with rejection. Afraid of being rejected by Etienne, even though he wanted to get closer to him, he was scared and tried to be content with what they had.0fdb633179b02fef

But he felt this couldn’t continue. Having made up his mind, Antoine lifted his head straight and met Etienne’s eyes.b0083d4459943df0

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“What if… what if I’m not troubled by it?”7bf947242f47cf82

“Hm?”38014bb78630aa9e

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“I don’t dislike appearing to have a special relationship with Your Highness.”f23032743fa432d3

Antoine gathered his courage 623412e344 to express his feelings. Since it was 9eedada9c6 his first time 4577e84a39 showing interest in 7f4028f0fe someone first, his b6c2a67a8f mouth went dry 8c165b133d and his throat 696b93e1bd trembled. His voice was 6d5f89ebec terrible.8b11cb529c8e15a3

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But now was the ae2108630c time to be brave. Antoine tightly af4677aab5 clenched his 52431e9eb7 trembling hands.5d5b443cd75e4e87

If he was going to be rejected anyway, it would be better to face it now. He didn’t want to pursue a love without hope.858fca95df5ed924

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So before his 0bbe9e4f43 feelings for Etienne 9f9230a6f2 grew stronger, before a19aa81052 these emotions truly 2604baa0b4 settled into love, bf0baf51ea he wanted to 2005fbdee8 reach a conclusion.037c0dcab207c418

“Honestly, I’m not exactly, certainly sure what my feelings are, but still, I think I’m attracted to Your Highness.”73bf32ae8602a1f2

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Antoine conveyed his 91fcdfa51e feelings while stumbling 339d812465 over his words. Although it was 7925a75d7f an ungraceful confession d5d5ac0115 with slurred pronunciation bd26d35303 and rambling words, e4aa336280 he felt relieved.f521b53c0e08e113

“I know my words might sound strange, but I felt if I didn’t say it today, I wouldn’t be able to say it at all.”c6ab0781a08e7abb

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Antoine added 3656918c26 in a 8c357d7d5b mumbling voice, db848217a5 bowing his 52274f96a7 head deeply. The sound of 43e9ab4f75 what must be 63ca5516b6 his own heartbeat 0407916b61 echoed in his 8909a69c06 ears.f3a8042fe49f9812

“…”0f53790c58df4d42

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Stunned by the sudden 43a45c3b18 confession, Etienne looked at 01ca10cd98 Antoine, who was waiting 89699d0aef for his response. Being told that 98bb04dbe3 Antoine was attracted 0bc1c4b390 to him was d99f3c2c33 completely unexpected. He moved 3a5fcbbbf5 his lips 577ad8c41b as if e351206b9b perplexed, then ecfc445fd9 pressed them c7520eb407 firmly shut.d85b053b71d04158

He had known Antoine felt fondness for him, but he hadn’t thought for a moment that it might be romantic feelings.0eb87136826af2aa

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An awkward silence fell between them as Etienne remained silent. Antoine swallowed dryly with an anxious face. The longer Etienne’s silence continued, the harder it became to breathe.8f0a9a56f5ab2fb8

“…I’m sorry.”548f2aefbdfb4305

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The answer that came after a long while was, as expected, a rejection. Antoine closed his eyes with a pained expression. He had expected to be rejected, but actually hearing the words ‘I’m sorry’ from him made his heart crumble.be4600c894742d8b

“Margrave Mathias’s… no, Antoine. You are truly a beautiful and charming person. But I’ve never thought of you in that way.”f8ba1f0a421a127d

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Etienne was kind yet firm. Antoine sensed the guilt not quite hidden in Etienne’s voice. He was truly sorry to Antoine. That made Antoine want to try pleading, even if it was pathetic.d88e33b566471054

“What if I wait until Your Highness comes to see me differently? Would that not be possible?”958cf06b9118877e

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Etienne made a troubled expression at Antoine’s pleading. He felt sorry about having to push away someone who was approaching so earnestly and purely. After hesitating for a while, Etienne sighed and answered.af19c8a4b7a37ca7

“I don’t think that’s possible.”506371939978b5e6

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“Why not?”cce66bc8e262c8a2

“Even with time, my heart will never flow toward you, so I hope you won’t wait for me. It will only hurt your feelings.”567bf4fd600802d9

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“Why are you so definitive…”50c0bf1c900a9d5b

Antoine’s face contorted at the verdict that was cruel precisely because it was kind. Suddenly, Young Master Lamude’s words came to mind.3aad0b0c34168c16

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“Could it be that you already have someone in your heart, someone you like?”0e36b81172bc2e79

“What?”8ce7419054567645

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Etienne’s eyes widened at Antoine’s question. Antoine made an ‘oh, no’ expression when he saw Etienne’s face freeze. He had made a mistake in a moment of emotional surge.6e9c7827f2bcf367

“I apologize. Please forget what I just said. I didn’t mean to make Your Highness uncomfortable…”e4c6fdfed421908d

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As Antoine realized his mistake and tried to smooth things over, a small but unwavering voice flowed from Etienne’s tightly closed lips.7ea651c6e7101411

“I do.”08cdeb39df6686ba

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“…What?”8adb37a6fed3f00d

When Antoine heard there 6ced632e5b was someone Etienne liked, 6cb8329c19 his mouth fell open ebc44112ca with a dazed expression. Those brief dbab1a06ac but powerful 8f70ec1a3b words struck 9fd5e062d7 his heart 9f8b89c499 like a 9b516a0641 dagger.4c742b161f0b7fc0

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Antoine silently moved his lips. He wanted to ask if what he heard was correct, but no voice came out. That’s how unbelievable – no, how much he didn’t want to believe those words.687d8bdd62edd4cb

Etienne was just a2b3ad8f66 as surprised. He himself was dumbfounded 98a91f787f even after speaking. It had been 72ffc835ed closer to an 341f08b0e7 unconscious response.c8a94a154b5fed57

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Etienne touched his own lips as if he couldn’t believe the words that had just come out of them.b1d88ce1f0c57dc2

It was 3a0f5629e4 a very aa714263d7 strange sensation. The moment bb73eda0bb Antoine asked c808f8a191 if there 08309a6eab was someone 57d10adcd5 he liked, 8e1563cc82 Rishar came d467db595d to mind b065f42a42 so naturally. Then the words came 180ebd1bb4 out before he could 0cc36d4b34 even think, as if 170ba0ddd5 stating an obvious fact, 89f9686410 very naturally.edea6a4669eecd93

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Ha.f0ed3bb732adfc78

They say realization comes in an instant – the awareness of his feelings came just as suddenly. A laugh resembling an exclamation burst from Etienne’s mouth. Why hadn’t he realized until now? He felt like such a fool.23a4b37decac1e8d

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Yes, I like him. Rishar.75ccdcdf2ddf0163

Etienne smiled as he f4b9b86082 felt indescribable emotions welling fd02f92a44 up. Whether it was f4953429a2 crying or laughing, 786d14960a or perhaps both, be8c8ef6b1 emotions filled his ccc6e370e9 throat. Now he 98c0e35eea had no be024a79a0 choice but 2ea1275b4b to acknowledge 8fa3753b37 it. He was in love 5a3e2bcd99 with Rishar.1d7faf3d0e2e5bed

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“You’re right.”6913e25104298743

Etienne affirmed Antoine’s words again. He admitted it so easily, making all his previous worries seem meaningless, and making his inability to sort out his feelings and hesitation seem foolish.342e1e7db190a947

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“There is someone I like.”3dee585125c9a73a

A shy smile appeared on Etienne’s lips. His voice was full of undisguisable excitement as he spoke of the love he had just realized.bcbeeff0c7ada485

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Like a seed deep 42291f6a3a in the ground sprouting 90d65f2fbc after winter, like a 3afe369456 long-closed flower bud blooming 76b3dde664 in the morning dew, 8bde12ad10 his feelings for Rishar 01d432c29b blossomed.4d8c19908f55fe62

“Someone I’ve liked for a very long time, and will continue to like.”41c4b48228a0068d

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Rishar was 5eeff699ee so precious ceed8bf5a6 that he 64fe15037f had hesitated 3a0875d88e due to 9d13bdffd7 anxiety about 24bf7044a2 losing him 45ed217959 and fear 1059675e41 of changing d157aa7c47 their current c3fb6e14c4 relationship. But now he c9b12b4618 had no choice 309b2ddf31 but to acknowledge cf5fabb259 it.91994efda9a8a683

He likes Rishar. He liked him, likes 6e66af7990 him, and will like a22e72ee36 him.a840297fa301a84c

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The moment his e46af2012e previously unrealized feelings fd56eb2186 bloomed, Etienne fully 85f0d7ea96 accepted his feelings 6e8a3af5c1 for Rishar.cdf0a80a91e5e9d0

“…”fa8f2241e733465d

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Antoine stared blankly at the happily upturned red lips like someone in a daze. The shyly curved lips, the prettily folded eye corners, the cheeks tinged with a delicate pink – it was all so lovely.1c111d1944b71fe9

“That’s why I can’t accept your feelings.”00a5dd67eb848932

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“Ah…”061a67068c30c4f7

Antoine let out a sigh at the perfect rejection. He fidgeted with his teacup, not knowing what to do. Although he had confessed expecting to be rejected by Etienne, now that the situation had actually arrived, he didn’t know what expression to make or what words to say.23b1282af5bddfdf

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“I’m really sorry.”809d057f666c45df

Etienne apologized sincerely after rejecting Antoine’s confession. Having realized his feelings for Rishar, he felt even more sorry towards Antoine. He could understand how much Antoine must have agonized, how difficult it must have been for him to gather his courage.54ecfb0d2df28600

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But he couldn’t accept Antoine’s feelings. His heart had only ever responded, and would only ever respond, to Rishar alone.173f28740f066579

All he could do 4507290ec8 now was reject Antoine a2363451e7 as carefully as possible 77917c952c to minimize his hurt, 8aeb579fd3 and reject him clearly 2bf6e4e600 so he could move 6eb80628d1 on quickly.1b946af546796cc3

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“No, uhm, well…”0cc5feb581135067

Antoine swallowed his words at Etienne’s apology, unable to continue. Though it surely wasn’t love, though it was just feelings that were about to bloom, he didn’t understand why his chest hurt so much.a4da957768b87e19

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Antoine gritted his teeth as he felt his vision blur. Etienne’s voice confessing there was someone he liked, his shy smile as if thinking of that person – it was sad because it was the most beautiful he had ever seen Etienne.8c02fdc9a834b94a

“You don’t need to apologize to me.”442c1fade884b218

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Antoine struggled to continue speaking while holding back tears. Hearing Etienne’s apology would only make him feel more pathetic.d6441034b0bdfc8f

“There’s one thing I’d like to ask.”c7eec5d192d541c3

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If it was feelings that could never be realized anyway, hadn’t he wanted Etienne to reject him so he wouldn’t hold even a shred of hope? Then why did his throat keep choking up? Antoine opened his mouth while forcefully swallowing the tears that had risen to his chin.6178d7370fcb17c2

“What is it?”40199c706abc8859

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“What kind of person are they? The one Your Highness likes?”d5046cf2066bec6f

Whew, Antoine forced ded2987e91 a smile after 56a220d0c5 taking a deep 6869dcbbd5 breath in and bd9303e52b out. He wanted 08c8831f44 to appear f664f73391 unbothered but 7936ae106d his voice 5da6ddb3ff kept trembling.e5feeceafa380843

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“They must be… a good person, right? Since Your Highness has fallen so deeply for them, they must be an amazing person. Right?”7546f1621ffdf329

Etienne, who had momentarily hesitated at Antoine’s question, soon nodded.7457e6483a4dbfa3

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“Yes. They’re good. Too good for me – wonderful, kind, and beautiful.”7c6e1966c111224f

“I see…”a06fc55e109b6a8a

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Antoine nodded at Etienne’s words. He pressed his trembling lower lip down with his upper lip. His throat kept choking up. He couldn’t show such an unsightly crying face in front of Etienne.a8cc0e4b60838a27

“I’m gl-glad they’re a good person. Really.”e9fbf34797212a26

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Antoine smiled awkwardly. He didn’t even know what he was saying. Right now, just holding back tears was overwhelming enough.e0fa1d629b9ea1ee

“Antoine.”7434ffec6873aa63

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Etienne, who had been watching Antoine with eyes full of apologetic feelings, called his name in a careful voice. Antoine’s shoulders jerked at being called by name¹by Etienne. His eyes 102bc92e25 filled with bb48756a34 tears wavered 7450125c7c greatly.aa90b12287a862cb

“You too are plenty good enough.”7bc5534fe05c4424

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Etienne moved his lips after taking a moment to choose his words. Whatever he said now wouldn’t be of comfort to Antoine, but he still hoped he would be okay.205989e7878f73fc

“Me…?”adb6a6b66577795a

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“Yes. Your feelings are too good for me as well.”57c81e12694661d9

That was Etienne’s honest truth. He couldn’t understand why an Omega as accomplished as Antoine would say he liked someone like him.54580da42ce48d9c

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“By now, you must have noticed too, Young Master Antoine, but I’m someone more accustomed to being hated than loved. Neither my father nor my mother loved me.”e91786752b184213

Antoine’s eyes wavered at Etienne’s words. Etienne gave a bitter smile and reached out towards Antoine. Antoine reflexively closed his eyes at the warmth touching his eyes. His wet eyelashes trembled finely.d145f0cfbe370554

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“So thank you. I was happy to hear that you liked someone like me, that you said you were drawn to me. And just as sorry.”dd279677e5763044

“Your Highness…”18ea730e02cb3a71

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“Unlike me, you are loved by many people. The fact that someone as beautiful as you directed your heart towards me, even briefly, will be something to be proud of for life. So don’t cry, Young Master Antoine.”899b8bd24b2ecdfd

The gentle touch softly wiped the tears gathering at the corners of his eyes. At that moment, Antoine’s face crumpled completely. The tears that had been barely clinging to the corners of his eyes fell, wetting those white, soft fingers.07f23129c0921d22

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“I-I’m sorry… hic”deba8e33cd8a9a28

Antoine burst into tears, 9112f35698 unable to continue his f4e78710eb attempt to apologize to 92cc6859a5 Etienne. Etienne had told e256a40d87 him not to 19cf26b3cc cry, but he 2cfc985720 could no longer d663287609 hold back his a73167c5a1 tears. His first rejection 0e2414b812 hurt far more d0664bc941 than he had 8d93edcca5 expected.04e628b8fc638e4d

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Etienne said nothing to e6c21b7ea1 the sobbing Antoine. Instead, he 5a722f4637 quietly offered 057f55567c his handkerchief. Antoine buried his afe49c787a face in the f74d7ba4e1 handkerchief Etienne had c6964c6529 given him and 31b9e40bce sobbed. The tears 7915176945 kept falling 3443efd910 because he 176195f5cf was still 8546400c3e so kind 5b79aaa95a to him.3404e432af6935d3

IX. Finally Together

“Damn it!”d3a60e6e8ff49bc4

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An enraged voice echoed through the large office. Reyan couldn’t contain his rising anger and pounded his fist on the desk repeatedly.0899cf962d4f6c93

The aide e930145cf1 standing before 1baa63674a him flinched 6efbcc90f8 each time c8b3777e16 Reyan struck 623ab3e0a4 the desk fa1c4d84e7 as if 4181f84285 he might 0cea58065f break it. It was as if 1ac132fa64 he was being hit e61f5dd754 himself.de24623be370c8e9

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“How did you manage to handle things this badly!”5e59726447889b76

“I-I’m terribly sorry… Count.”53607987fb84240c

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The aide, who had turned pale at Reyan’s shout, kept bowing his head repeatedly. Reyan threw the documents he was holding at him as if he couldn’t stand the sight of him. With a flutter, the papers that hit the aide’s face scattered everywhere.f87245d27090a821

“You said he was a mining expert! Said he was reliable! What is this? Can’t even properly control your subordinates? Why are there only problems and problems!”b2e67859b348c1e4

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The frightened aide hurriedly b91d29e126 gathered the scattered papers e4e03e7ee5 from the floor. The crumpled papers 0634ed5eaa contained reports that e48dac86c9 the mine workers 7e28491126 were refusing to cd42d79608 work.f79fadd891e31d5c

“What are you going to do about this? We’re about to go bankrupt at this rate!”b08a6ac2865bc967

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Reyan shouted with a 3ef6065141 reddened face. Right after 5d08425aad receiving the 534cceb3b0 mining rights aef6abfcc8 from Etienne, 1e4ff7b29a he had c56a78ec72 begun development.f43d1a7d7991a0c9

It went smoothly at a43c324d3b first. However, problems 59992db6af arose just bb969c5edf before full-scale 10607b5ee0 development was 683e760287 to begin. The miners suddenly a04c2fcb81 demanded higher wages 105fda4999 and refused to 3603d522ef work.0b78d9d2e1e2c1c5

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Normally, he 370112cd19 would have 73ead8295d thrown out be6615d7df the problematic 364555dd4f miners and cdef3913c0 found new 64ba13f914 people, but 7c684fa4e9 the timing 44dd2e8eaa was particularly 18e47e5e4a bad.a44940309a8b2690

People had flooded into the capital for the social season, causing a shortage of workers in the provinces. Especially for large-scale development like mining, they couldn’t hire just anyone due to safety concerns.c555cdc227a60aeb

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Moreover, if the 149600b3d0 disturbance grew larger, d0baf26d7d there was a e18cbad19c risk that Leona cccbada25d would notice. If she discovered his 180e3e2870 betrayal, there was no bcdac2254d telling how she would 01e8424d07 react. Reyan chewed 0724cb4f6a on his 9a7eb8a93c lower lip 55d21cf9c9 with an 0519468aa9 anxious expression.a824f687d5d5f242

In the end, they had no choice but to raise the miners’ wages, however reluctantly. But even that was practically impossible. Currently, Reyan was struggling financially as his income through the merchant guild had decreased.787981b5610ac337

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“This is all because of that damned bastard.”b642264c4a090201

Reyan ground 2d70ed0412 his teeth. Normally, he 1203d57d14 could have ab3577cc7c resolved a 68abc1ba0d problem like 263e315930 this quickly. But everything 242a3d83bd had gotten 03ce0881ba tangled up 11795fe357 because of 028b5f0d5c Rishar.8296bbb09a48280c

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Recently appointed as captain f3ed1b3f88 of the security forces, 7b7fd981d8 Rishar had declared war 5137873fce on the underground world dd110fa59c and begun a major d04225d46d crackdown.51d385a6c5e52d3a

In the process, merchant 7ca6a85493 guilds that had illegal fec829918c dealings with back alley 90f805db1d organizations or committed tax afb8d87fb2 evasion and other illegal 061681ffd5 practices were caught en e9d7b63978 masse. Rishar arrested f22f4fbfbf them all 5fddc584c0 regardless of b260871f48 faction. Because of this, both d77340e4bf the noble faction and e2aab8c44e the imperial faction suffered 148ebad503 heavy losses.badcfa42476c6471

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The social season was like a goose that laid golden eggs for the merchant guilds based in the capital. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that most of the year’s profits came during this period, with active trading taking place during the social season.5546f95354c81273

This was 7a18a06bd9 especially true 4f3511e312 for merchant d57ba50ad4 guilds operated 189eef087a or sponsored b2a199c916 by nobles. It was edc32761ab because they 7466e0db15 expanded their 96fcfc82f2 networks and 183d5872dc opened new c808f410c9 trades through 48858b0d74 their interactions 3be14def6f in social caf4205ed3 circles. However, this e6ca1add4d social season 2570fa5756 was different.cf4a07db81e17f0f

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Rishar’s relentless actions, targeting both allies and enemies, had dealt a blow to numerous nobles. Given the situation, nobles who operated or sponsored merchant guilds all became cautious. Naturally, they had no choice but to be passive in trading. Several nobles who depended on merchant guilds for most of their family income had already fallen into serious financial difficulties.08c19f29f4657cb3

Unlike other 302fc7ba73 nobles, Reyan ab9fd3770d had somehow 71ef377365 managed to 45dd2b96fe hold on. However, the b5175bf607 situation had fc67ab1023 changed recently. For the past f3a39fdf7f fortnight, Rishar had ac1d2085ac been explicitly targeting e05fda70ef only noble faction b8f5462d40 merchant guilds.ab15545f103607a1

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“What exactly happened between him and Her Majesty the Empress…”e28f177c36f6e618

Rishar’s behavior changed after his private audience with Leona, when he had been indiscriminately meddling everywhere regardless of faction. The day after rumors spread about a clash between Leona and Rishar, the security force raided the merchant guild of House Bulder, who were close to Reyan.04736e6d2a200082

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Starting with that, 1edcf9a5f9 the House Hudson, 659c2b68c6 Sancia, Rine and 362c0aea81 others were attacked 6bf4908f17 one after another. They were all merchant 5fc222ddb6 guilds of families that b88211b1a2 cooperated and traded with 280b9a6e79 Reyan or House Herace.9d6818a51904188c

The impact of the collapse of nobles they were on good terms with and their subordinate merchant guilds affected Reyan as well. The biggest problem was that funds weren’t flowing smoothly.04a45b3ac86ac47d

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Not officially recognized as the Herace family’s proper heir, Reyan had limited funds he could use privately. Even those he had secretly accumulated behind Leona and the Duke’s backs by gradually siphoning money through his merchant guild after becoming the Vice Minister of Industry.0f2f529dc27f4275

What he had built up over several years was about to collapse in an instant. Reyan’s expression grew serious. With the cash flow blocked, his personal assets were now hitting rock bottom. The reason was that he had overly invested in mine development. This wasn’t just empty talk – he was truly facing bankruptcy.bda1947ef34cc038

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“Damn it, treating people with such disrespect.”ebaffb1ed7285f7e

Reyan burst out in anger, remembering his conversation with Leona from a few days ago. What was frustrating was that Leona wouldn’t reveal what conversation she had with Rishar.e86ac1d429638ffd

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By Reyan’s estimation, Rishar’s current attacks clearly stemmed from his clash with Leona. However, when Reyan complained about the damage, she merely rebuked him, saying there was nothing to worry about and that he should just make sure not to give Rishar any openings. She seemed unconcerned about the damage Reyan had suffered.7eb7ade868a2e7dd

“This really is the end at this rate. Find a solution, anything will do! Find a way! Understood?”c13fd18714fc3df8

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Unable to contain 24d21b6b60 his anxiety, Reyan c72d6ff884 lashed out. As the aide received b7d623dc99 his irritation, not knowing ed6237c887 what to do, a 39850ce0a7 memory from a few 4d19cf48fb days ago suddenly crossed 45e4531660 his mind. After hesitating 0cfc9a73c0 whether to e1fbcce99c speak or a06db2e2e8 not, the 23c42930e7 aide carefully 28676b6014 opened his 78eda2c778 mouth.4c4b8413a7dfb604

“Uhm, Count…”ec5e792d53aa164b

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“What is it?”5fd2c7183b1869d1

“At the party I attended on your behalf the other day, I met the guild master of the Verris merchant guild.”3280efb5cf124642

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“The Verris merchant guild?”d0d6cbcb0fb19da3

Reyan frowned at the 13428c2847 unfamiliar guild name. The aide a109960d3a quickly continued a6de6c6e14 while watching e46060e3ac his reaction.cb62f90a9dd3b59d

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“Yes. It’s a new merchant guild recently established by Marquis Malaca of the Lhis Duchy. The guild master is his distant nephew and has become a famous figure in social circles recently as a big spender. Even Grand Duke Eckhart can’t touch him carelessly since he belongs to the Lhis Duchy.”37e14bdc8534bdb5

“And?”f69e5e1bad44f08f

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“When the guild master heard my introduction that day, he asked me if we could do some discreet trading.”539b6372588aaf6b

“What? Why are you only telling me this now?”5a8f8ffa75bb088c

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“I apologize. Since it’s a new guild, I lacked information… I was planning to report after investigating the Verris merchant guild first.”14dc6588616cecd8

“Hmm.”71904e21b492ee93

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Somewhat better because of the aide’s explanation, Reyan stroked his chin in thought. The ‘discreet trading’ mentioned by the Verris guild master was a euphemism for illegal trades like smuggling.b887eaf0d68de9cc

“Did he say what he wanted?”2fb7d536c22a12d8

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“…He said he wanted ‘the white stuff.'”acdda3462db9045f

White stuff. Reyan paused at the aide’s words. He recalled that the Lhis Duchy had no access to the sea, making salt very precious there. And that they had traded a few times in the past.753a1aab5c7ed316

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“Salt, is it.”a00659161f9ddad1

Reyan fell into contemplation 809f4fac21 with hardened eyes. Salt had been 2cc34a5591 the primary contributor 35cbd34047 that had made a21000b2c3 him wealthy within 37b9436d89 a few years 14a43b95e3 of becoming Vice cca71e099e Minister of Industry. However, it carried 12b1c572f8 equally large risks.972b5444ba46683f

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Diverting salt, a monopoly of the empire, was treated almost as treason if caught. Even someone like himself wouldn’t be safe if discovered.84251d4d9016f76f

For that reason, Reyan had temporarily suspended salt trading since last year. He thought he’d earned enough and should play it safe. However, the situation had changed.485d4b09d9464efc

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Reyan rapidly calculated in his head. The Count’s secret warehouse held the salt he had diverted. If the trade could be successfully completed, he could escape his current financial difficulties. But if it failed, the risk he would have to bear was too great.bad0649bbe2b76e8

In the end, the key to solving the problem was whether or not they could complete the illegal trade while avoiding Rishar’s eyes. If successful, it could solve all the immediate problems, but if it failed, he would lose everything he had built up. In other words, it was a life-or-death gamble.fc80850be0c3f09b

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“What did you think of him? Did he seem trustworthy enough to trade with?”2e7bf1452ec955c6

“His impression wasn’t bad. However, I’m not sure if he can be trusted.”cfd2e8f0e89901f8

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“…Look into the guild master more. If he seems alright after that, we’ll meet with him.”dd1ead9b1f178182

“Are you thinking of trading?”a30b4a64ae285e23

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“I’ll decide that after meeting him. Let’s see… The ship party next week would be good for making contact while avoiding Grand Duke Eckhart’s eyes. Until then, investigate everything about the Verris merchant guild thoroughly.”f6c269c6a6370512

“Understood.”38a53913a37f0ad0

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The aide felt troubled after Reyan’s order. He was already out of favor with Reyan due to the problems caused by the miners. If he didn’t handle this matter properly, it would truly be the end.ae5d14c12c3edb3f

***2cdfa354c3f6eed8

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Etienne lifted his heavy f52c37dea5 eyelids at the sensation ebfe78042b of the carriage shaking 5ecf1decec greatly. As soon as 8d0a7847ee Etienne opened his 5a77e81d43 eyes, Ben, sitting fcac35c0bb across from him, a7daeaf45a immediately said,673f39dacddd6770

“Are you alright? I’m sorry, something seems to have caught in the wheel.”08db6676d53de34b

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“I’m fine. How long until we arrive?”a3aee4d2cba7aa92

“About 15 minutes left, I think.”40bc599e5cf8a3b6

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Etienne glanced out the window after hearing Ben’s answer. As he said there wasn’t much time left, the ship where the party would be held was visible through the window. Several carriages parked around it also caught his eye.a35d21f79cb476bc

“There are a lot of people.”1741dd5194bbfe88

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Etienne muttered 7ec03fda95 in a 20f26f8062 slightly daunted 0b28d16d92 voice as bf3fa4d92c he surveyed 9ed0a0aad0 the outside. Not only 8eaff26845 were there 1bf56904ac party attendees, fa9fd3b91a but quite 09a9f8fb16 a few 11bcc023dd people who 8ea6bdb349 seemed to 69d78cf4ab have come 9c028d1d27 to see c9ac7e0da5 the ship 654c81ed7a were noticeable 23a1df7166 as well. Just thinking about b01a68c8a0 having to pass 01049a3ccc through those crowds b702a18987 made him tense c8f79b0c6c already.f59f7138a77984fd

“There will be fireworks later too. Everyone seems to have come to see that.”48d3412e2b54167e

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Ben commented knowingly as a09fde5c88 he looked out the 168fe92609 window with Etienne. He had been surprised 16069ac874 when he heard Rishar c90a1978da was hosting a ship 82eea2e86c party, but seeing that a22fa2eab8 fireworks were prepared too, 5d9d6326d2 it seemed the scale 9a70ff43f2 of the party was 5a5434a929 much larger than expected.4f6bc2e76e3870aa

“They must not have had a lot of time on their hands, but it looks like they prepared quite a lot.”82a9eba3cbb12a6f

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“I heard Sir Elvin worked extremely hard.”0e4b4d225a1d8da1

“Well, having to prepare everything in just 3 weeks, he must have. I should at least thank him for his hard work when I see him later.”c6e021d7d548638d

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Generally, parties held 522e0204c5 on ships require 881d687318 much more preparation 09b8cde0a4 than those held 161cb6ef63 in mansions. Even if it f4ca5ad748 was just a 1891f9d4a4 regular ship party 6596dff81a that would be 3ace51118b true, but this 918f2062cb was even a eea0db01de masquerade ball.79bb53162f7ab101

A masquerade ball – Etienne looking at the approaching ship turned his gaze to the black velvet box beside him. It contained the mask Rishar had sent him.3aaab60e9f86fb7b

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I wonder if it’ll be alright.Etienne fell c0ed3e1b7d into worry d776924fbc as he 55e39f7f6c awkwardly touched 7b74041f89 his unusually e1c0e62363 exposed forehead. Since it was his 8fe016f28a first time attending a 18ff45d19a masquerade ball, he was 2b4f029bb5 worried about various things.b4373b497b569537

“What’s wrong? Are you feeling seasick?”58b4e2d5a4f4ae56

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Ben reacted sharply 1c71292c05 when Etienne darkly 56f9917c2b fiddled with his cf51539633 bangs. Since the 45b849630c day Etienne 387331623c had fainted, b5075839d5 Ben had f465bf953d become sensitive c7e71f18e1 whenever he acb7749c32 showed even d15b3b4664 slight signs d36fc0379c of fatigue.7d910ffe2d5f79df

“Huh? No. It’s just that it’s been a while since I’ve exposed my forehead this much, so it feels awkward.”1ea09360582152a8

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Etienne quickly waved his hands at Ben’s intensity, looking ready to pull out motion sickness medicine any moment. Only then did Ben’s tense expression relax.927048e878913c1a

“Your hair? I think it looks fine… If you don’t like it, I can fix it again.”36f658667e4e76f0

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“It’s not that I don’t like it, I told you it just feels awkward. I’ve never swept my bangs back like this before.”bc61d943103f80b4

Etienne answered 156c0bfe7a as he 44343ec827 lowered his 2099dc54e1 hand from b70b342285 his hair. His gaze bed0fc4aee returned to d2b6e8a3de the velvet b368f8fa52 box. Rishar said 31320697a7 he held fc8d9fd273 the masquerade e721f2447a ball because eed8c64f06 he wanted 3dc9d2046d to meet 9b427abcd0 him without bc636e042e having to 89cf97d06b worry about 3189401a7f other people.c68d683d1a08168a

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“Maybe I should have worn a wig? I feel like people will still recognize me even with the mask.”d771d06c325d8aa7

Etienne asked in a worried voice. Wearing different style clothes and exposing his forehead was meant to prevent people from recognizing him at the masquerade ball. However, he wasn’t sure how effective this would be.245ea0d05a114e95

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“Lady Stella said the mask alone would be enough, so it should be fine. The mask will change your eye color too.”99401702a7a25c6c

Ben answered as if ea02f0f23e telling him not to 16a2c6504d worry. As he 8663b5a240 said, the fb5786664e mask Rishar 2bc4192a57 sent had 61398f05d4 a special 006f1a609e mechanism.c2a21fc0cd8e9052

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Stella, who brought the mask, explained that it was specially made so Etienne wouldn’t need to use eye drops that could harm his eyes. Indeed, when wearing the mask, Etienne’s eyes changed to various colors depending on the light.465b229eddd228c6

“Don’t worry too much. Even if someone recognizes you, pretending not to know is the golden rule of a masquerade ball.”916379f57a197408

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“I don’t mind people recognizing me. The problem is the gossip. If someone notices me with Rishar, it will reach Mother’s ears…”0a8df78613f629da

Ben questioned in response to Etienne’s muttering, as if there was no problem.4154ed104d5d6731

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“Wouldn’t that be alright? Didn’t Her Majesty the Empress tell you to seduce the Grand Duke?”da2935f2ddb84a37

“That’s…”ffadcff0b9fe5a66

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Seduce. Etienne was puzzled at Ben’s choice of words. As he said, a few days ago, Leona had ordered Etienne to extract information by using Rishar’s feelings. The suggestion to seduce Rishar came up during that process.64156962f6a7e264

“Yeah, but…”0e16e275e98baa3c

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“Then it’s fine, isn’t it?”5073e68a8217a457

When Etienne 7cdf6ebfb1 trailed off 038931622d while agreeing, ce1ad0d083 Ben grinned. Then he added his 6f7366ee55 thoughts as if to 35cf751f06 reassure him.8dcddae0abdc3fd9

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“No one will think it strange even if you two stay together throughout the party this time. Your Highness is simply following Her Majesty the Empress’s orders to entice His Highness the Grand Duke.”77cbbba2a2e95204

At Ben’s words, Etienne let out a groan and sighed. Even though he knew Ben was right, his heart wouldn’t lighten. It was because he had always lived worrying about others’ eyes and whether someone might report something to her.5eb51130dbcd422e

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“To entice, he says…”85e217f8a561530d

Etienne pressed his lips together uncomfortably. Unlike before, now that he had become aware of his feelings for Rishar, it was difficult to casually dismiss words like ‘seduce’ or ‘entice.’ Frowning, Etienne recalled his conversation with Leona.516bb4dc6afe2b92

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‘So, I heard that guy likes you, huh.’5e3b3ef4686f0ff2

A few days ago, 8f44693164 when Leona called for d4676dda3f him, Etienne thought the 1cbff4a1d9 inevitable had come. If anything, the summon 7696668e84 was later than expected. That must have meant bf3837d15c how much Leona had 0ad8a0b397 deliberated about the probability c092b39a06 that Etienne had betrayed b8494a593b her.e6da2e64fe195dd2

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‘What do you mean by that?’fd36cda2e35c69ed

Thanks to Leona’s suspicious and cautious nature moving slowly, Etienne had time to prepare in his own way. Having heard through Stella about all the conversations between Leona and Rishar, he was careful to act in a way that wouldn’t make her suspicious. He also completely avoided meeting with Rishar.9ca6a253af494165

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‘The day you collapsed and I had tea with that man. He said so then.’3b8d68fb4307f6ef

‘Such a thing…’c40feef0a8d5ac07

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In front d46f1c2210 of Leona a03a522f97 who mentioned dda3c49de2 his interactions 38f911506d with Rishar, a12e0a3aac Etienne pretended 7ae576eb98 to be 7a459f3754 flustered.8863ccb22d45ff70

‘You didn’t know? Really?’7d94e6f4f231c6d1

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‘I, well…’6455c1e8f9461d46

Leona gave Etienne a 7eacea04fa suspicious look. Under her sharp questioning, 983e2508ae Etienne deliberately stammered and b61e481cda showed the appearance of 48ac5a0cf5 an incompetent son.9fd1d6a2ec237628

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‘I just thought he followed me well. Since I don’t have any experience in that area…’f1da29b0655d01c9

‘You didn’t notice his feelings at all?’e436c7f0d64a8d05

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‘Sometimes I felt something was strange, but I didn’t know exactly what.’0b95cbfc0acb01b1

‘Hmm.’9bb91d171e54150a

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Leona didn’t easily dismiss her suspicions. Her sharp gaze, sharp enough to make his skin tingle, touched various parts of Etienne’s face. The scrutinizing gaze that looked at him not as a child but as an enemy made it hard to breathe.58912a71c75cb462

‘Mother, I’m sorry. I was slow and clumsy… please forgive me.’134336e9432f06f2

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Etienne apologized to Leona 3e6c5914e6 with a terrified expression. As he 55a23d3185 trembled and 18cb0b8a11 clung to 437a453664 her, Leona 0c2d38df2d made a 36f6ef7778 disapproving expression. Fortunately, his act c20bb3c1ef seemed to work, 6e18a7ed85 as shortly after, 806126e7bb Leona withdrew her 7c772d8639 gaze.abc0995377cb4daa

‘Slow, huh. How can you be so oblivious?’f97bbe5d04e838f6

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Clicking her tongue, Leona shot Etienne a displeased look. Etienne lowered his head deeply as if he couldn’t face her. In front of Leona, he needed to be a stupid and obedient son – one that was useful to her.22c26a0f44858386

‘This might be better actually. Now that we know he has feelings for you, we should find a way to use it.’fbdb2010003d5069

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Seemingly pleased with Etienne’s submissive behavior, Leona changed her stance. Although her suspicions about Etienne weren’t completely gone, she had nonetheless gotten hold of Rishar’s weakness. This opportunity couldn’t be wasted.c44b61333e7e04f7

‘I hear he’s hosting a ship party? I believe you received an invitation.’9a006719a2e84b17

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‘Yes, I received it yesterday. I actually wanted to discuss that matter with you.’c1a2cc92123dc814

‘What about it?’ed8c24697ee1f235

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‘The invitation I received was marked as a special class cabin. I checked with Margrave Mathias’s son, and he said he received a first-class invitation.’5c10e4350d4770a5

‘Special class? That man sent you a special class invitation?’95a04acb07ed9a19

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‘Yes. The invitation said it was divided according to the cabin locations during the party… Since I’m a prince, I thought it might be special treatment, but Grand Duchess Sachsen received a first-class invitation too.’73a0b61e555acee9

‘Right. Besides you, only his closest confidants received special class invitations.’6bd1ca6830d96b7c

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‘Then…’cc505f403f0e25a0

‘He seems to be plotting something with you, how interesting.’40a4bc7689a8c98c

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Leona’s smile grew darker than before. Etienne put on an innocent expression as if he didn’t understand anything.5efdc1125f02aca5

‘What should we do? I think it might be good to attend…’4eaa7e8eb7bfbc8f

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‘Hmm, what did the doctor say? Did he say it would be fine for you to attend?’4e45cd2a8ce2a53c

Leona asked with 1a0378622c a contemplative face. She was 3da911d565 hesitant to c242c4dafe send Etienne 76cc45f5a0 to a 3e2f592413 party that 03de3375dd would last 05df903956 several days. But not sending 0a18abd7cc him also felt 371e0a256c unsettling.c2302bfe14d71177

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The ship 7e8b33031a party hosted b8831f6ffe by Rishar 4f1e75fcd7 was receiving 87326b1ae5 much attention. It was his 2fd74c56c4 first party as 006cb72a93 Grand Duke of 7b819bbe5c Eckhart, and its e24b5fb167 scale was jaw-dropping.3cf427e4ce094d81

And Rishar 3441531d5c hadn’t stopped de39d53a68 there, he’d f0f48d9c85 played his fa59c1cae7 trump card 8415bd8f66 with a 564db66da8 masquerade ball. People showed their a417a44397 excitement for the 3f2dfe8b3b party, which was 8060ffd8ff good for having 4f492f5df5 an enjoyable day 98889317a7 while hiding your 1bec8947a4 identity and also 782586b723 good for making 6a94e4eaa1 connections away from 518ab0a76e prying eyes.e05a53aac3a5412a

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‘The doctor said it should be fine as long as I don’t stay too long in places with many Alphas and Omegas. And if I feel strange at all, I should go rest in the cabin right away.’3d6c6ce5f3080f15

‘Is that so?’901a855a3e4b1723

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At Etienne’s answer, Leona fell into thought. At the debutante ball, Etienne couldn’t handle the numerous pheromones and had to rest in the lounge before returning to the palace.a4a2045ea29b0303

If he couldn’t even last one day properly, would it be possible to stay on the ship for several days? Leona was skeptical. But it would be a pity not to send him.c677a458eff855d2

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According to her investigation, this ship party would gather almost all the key figures of the imperial faction and influential neutrals. Moreover, many of Rishar’s subordinate families would attend. Among them were many from military families.cb9f6c3bbb2099b2

The imperial noble families mostly supported Rishar because Edwin supported him. However, the people from military families loyal to Rishar were different. They genuinely followed Rishar and wanted to make him emperor. They were purely Rishar’s force. Leona wanted that information.d0dd2df56deace7e

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‘That fucking man.’04c49dc290883747

Leona couldn’t hide her irritation and cursed. Rishar had sent first-class invitations to the top ten families and their peers, and second-class invitations to count families and below.b8e1063c6b208b05

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Special class invitations went to Rishar’s closest confidants regardless of status. Rishar explained to those discussing it that it was a reward for his servants who had suffered for the past few years.9bf5e0c00e56260a

Although there were voices of dissatisfaction among nobles who still didn’t receive special class invitations, they were soon buried under praise for being a hero who cared for his subordinates.da351c31932f0843

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For this reason, 1f91269d19 only a very 7cb86c86f4 small number received bee90a029c special class invitations. Among them, Etienne 44bfefac4b was the only da6f641174 one who could 8a3dc5faf5 be considered working afc384b103 under Leona.6154096a230d5f58

‘So he’s going all out now that he’s been discovered…’411e6f418e216e07

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Leona muttered to herself, falling into contemplation. Rishar’s message in sending Etienne a special class invitation was clear. If you want information, if you’re curious about what I’m going to do, send Etienne.b60f89ed839cc083

‘Cunning bastard.’b53d0713565f55e7

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Having figured out Rishar’s intentions, Leona couldn’t hide her displeasure. Her sharpened gaze turned back to Etienne. His pathetic appearance of watching her nervously and then startling and avoiding her eyes was frustrating.3677e7e6546cc22f

He would probably try to meet Etienne under the pretext of the ship party and attempt to win him over to his side. If they could take advantage of that, there was a high possibility of getting the information she desired. Even if that fool fell completely for Rishar, it wouldn’t matter since she would know right away.345274a262e9f34d

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‘Attend the party and meet the Grand Duke.’df5da135cdd3ad3c

After much deliberation, Leona 0b6627ef45 ordered Etienne. The bait e7aabf08f6 was too 3d66c1aa1b powerful to 37e7d4de10 resist even dd08abb1c6 knowing it aedd6def09 was a 54894dc11d trap set ff8d6018c1 by Rishar. That was because information cb455d9c22 about the families following 80531225e7 Rishar was always scarce.8abfa3c4bfb9f89b

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That’s just how military families were. Closed off and conservative, infinitely friendly to insiders but exclusive to outsiders. They were one of the reasons why Leona hadn’t been able to deal with Rishar until now.615ee4e05d47c974

‘You must get information from him. Use any means necessary, seduce him if you have to, make him talk.’55c59e212fed9685

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‘I beg your pardon?’8f05f50e533eb0fb

Etienne’s eyes widened at the somewhat outrageous order. The Leona he knew was the type to test even stone bridges before crossing them. This kind of order wasn’t like her.fdf50e96d1cf0e06

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Why is 309c5cf318 she showing 2fe452388c such impatience? Etienne grew suspicious of Leona’s behavior that was different from usual. Though she appeared composed on the surface, she seemed somewhat anxious about something.9e50fad3137f432a

‘If our secret gets discovered…’92d8ab953ec0e8d7

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‘That must not happen. I’m telling you to seduce him within safe limits.’31893157715e176c

Leona glanced at Etienne ec331ee6ed as if to say‘do I have to explain even this?’Then she continued in ebb1ddefde a confident tone.99a4c7b6ac4ae014

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‘From what I can see, he’s completely fallen for you. He’ll fall for it right away with just a little stimulation.’1da1570f9817292a

Leona was confident in her assessment. She still got goosebumps thinking about that day. She wondered why she hadn’t noticed until now – Rishar’s eyes were full of obsession for Etienne.ab79a2b33dec6fb0

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People with 0d162ac9fd such eyes 9527c54252 are unpredictable. Leona felt 9ddb17e433 a sense 8ba3ec3d3c of crisis 280dfbf74e that she 926414e60d might not 9acaabb545 be able f9ade5819c to control bf8961a7ad the situation. This made 2598deb827 her feel f50a0c51ce urgent. She needed 1720265b2a to gain 1f790cd59c the upper e7c3fa1853 hand before 54b52db6bd Rishar did da94224e83 anything.d7cbe097cd923d9d

‘To catch a tiger, one must enter the tiger’s den. Stay sharp and do it properly. And take the doctor with you. If it seems dangerous, stay locked in your cabin.’d224ea21e73f314c

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‘Yes, Mother.’2acd20102d26c762

Even as she gave 55ad2f24ca orders to Etienne, Leona 630832dfb3 sighed as if displeased. Etienne responded submissively to 9595dfca14 her.4340ec3590a58e0f

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“We’re almost there.”d096604db3bb489d

As Etienne was reviewing his conversation with Leona, Ben’s voice announcing their arrival pulled him from his thoughts.55ad019d2c9d5188

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It was noticeably 92a6f77e98 noisy outside the fb6fb91595 carriage. Following the sound b98e632f21 and looking out c8de27938e the window, he 61f1c3e89d saw a large, 8cf7e39fdc magnificent ship. He thought it was a9c8b4b9e8 big even from afar, 7c9247dec5 but seeing it up bce941a8b6 close was overwhelming.ea1a262a39687d71

Etienne’s gaze lingered on the Eckhart family crest prominently engraved on the hull. At that moment, fierce waves rose in his chest.922eb9833ca5b9f0

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“It’s been three weeks…”e86f50c2b63bbe43

Feeling his heart flutter, Etienne bit his lip. Since the day he collapsed at Grand Duke Bismarck’s residence, Etienne hadn’t met Rishar. In other words, today would be their first meeting since he had become aware of his feelings for him.e006102bd04e443a

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“Whew.”a83a272158aab72c

Etienne let out 0369bb282a a long breath 3738ac4b0c as if taking c0803c791a a deep breath. While excited fa5e6a96e5 at the 4e36bd9ea0 thought of 6f5434b54e finally being d646eaf259 able to 52f5049dde meet Rishar, 0d6f16022a tension rose 11d2eb9186 and his 1d91e163f6 throat felt a3e9392509 dry. These three weeks truly 1827d936f9 felt like three months.ba5da7a74c1c231b

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When Etienne realized b35e9393e0 his feelings for 26f5c85238 Rishar, he wanted a88c790cbb to go to a5b43d991f him immediately. But reality was 6163c32532 cruel, and Etienne bbdd0407a6 had to desperately 7590d95e30 suppress those feelings.40c22f37e2bbc499

Not being greedy for something and enduring it was what Etienne did best, but this time was truly difficult. Like weeds that grow back stronger the more they’re trampled, his feelings for Rishar grew stronger the more he tried to suppress them.89b9564a726db995

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He endured and ae923744bc endured to avoid a61c21f6a7 being swept away 062d8cae67 by emotions. He could 5945a57a29 have met 7095b7217d Rishar if 63d97f0c73 he wanted 7fdf344ee1 to, but f64f6c823c it was 7595c65390 a time f200960215 when he 42e183b9d4 needed to bd3317065d be careful f31e0b4f72 to avoid 8bc98a272f unnecessary suspicion.89b6281cd70a15cc

That day, Etienne succeeded in not going to meet Rishar, but in exchange, he couldn’t sleep at all.b07841dde213d2b8

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The next day was similar. Through Stella, who had entered the palace disguised as an apothecary, Etienne conveyed the message to Rishar that they shouldn’t meet until the ship party. Although he was disappointed, Rishar agreed with his thinking. That night too, Etienne tossed and turned.7cdc23945181472b

After that followed incredibly busy days. During the past three weeks, Etienne attended parties hosted by Reyan and met people he introduced, and following Leona’s orders, made appearances at tea parties and ship outings.b36b46f73a14b03e

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Sometimes he would b438752087 meet with Antoine 1985b4dd2a and hear his c877607c05 reports in an e694122cce awkward atmosphere, discussing 449d60de69 what needed to 8b3839d16d be done going e2c6acbadd forward.a1ff1710322d6be1

Despite being too busy and tired to think of anything else, Etienne’s days were unstable. Each day felt unusually long. It all was because of his longing for Rishar.209f383bfecc3d1a

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Every moment, Etienne 2dfa0fc119 had to endure 3d183426a3 the urge to d8ae359d38 go meet Rishar e9cfee94c1 and suppress the 5dba24d059 desire to convey acede1b57f his feelings. That alone was overwhelming.9ef121c649d9bd3f

After enduring so much, a09a41b782 he once had a 49e17a6127 major breakdown. Celodine had diagnosed it 4b8b4d52a9 as being sick due 47c6dfdd5a to overwork and insomnia, 6ec29f1645 but Etienne thought it c1ff7221fc was a different kind 050f42d89b of illness.0ce0fe1fc999adda

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After all, none of Celodine’s prescribed medicines had any effect. The fever didn’t break even with antipyretics, and the pain in his chest didn’t go away even with painkillers.9bcd430b8011a957

In Etienne’s opinion, this was an illness of the heart, not the body. If he had to give it a name, it was closer to lovesickness created by feelings he couldn’t convey to Rishar and the longing from not being able to meet him.2435e5773c9c07ef

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“Lovesickness…”295f4ab7771c031c

“Eh? What did you just say?”a39e5143a4151b64

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“Hm? It’s nothing. Just talking to myself.”9cc2fdefa95f54ac

Etienne brushed 0f482c7456 it off ed8e016238 vaguely to ebbaf8f620 Ben and 27f74886da let out f569d8412a a small add3f7031e laugh. He wondered if 65885de0ce Rishar knew he 2f9d0b3a85 was like this.37bf2c3f37dccd5a

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Sighing again, Etienne pressed his tired eyes with his hands. Last night, he couldn’t sleep at all, excited like a child before a picnic.2e0f6532e1c5290f

They couldn’t meet during this time, but communication hadn’t been completely cut off. Etienne maintained steady contact with Rishar through Stella. Even without that, news of him constantly came through other people’s mouths.00794d254089381a

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Recently, whenever people 24dca7ddde gathered, they were eac73d9d71 busy talking about b706066b5b Rishar. His actions 7d7c3842aa were that 2be0357563 impressive.5feb7ab41bb0379e

Some raged, saying Rishar had finally pointed his sword at the noble faction, while others took an observant attitude, carefully weighing which side to join. There were also those watching to see how Etienne would react. That’s why Etienne was even more careful with his actions. He didn’t want to give them any excuse to criticize him.a668a8a407f3fb71

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“We’ve arrived, Your Highness.”4a3987b55956c2be

Just as 696b642444 Etienne was b0d78d2eea rubbing his 03120c3bf0 tired eyes 2ee330333b again, the 609f27771a carriage stopped. Ben opened a velvet 617dea2178 box and carefully took 6dd80290fd out a mask.f611457332509455

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“Please close your eyes for a moment.”bc225b2a3a9b74ab

Etienne quietly closed his eyes following Ben’s words. Ben put the mask on Etienne and secured it so it wouldn’t fall off, then withdrew his hands.906a8d6ffa3043d7

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“It’s done.”d3522b6a97e3a4fc

“Thank you.”aa87e45e4dd95bc6

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Etienne thanked e2b777825c Ben as 362a0e3229 he got b9b08a4b1e up. His heart was beating a7dca9274f rapidly.32167469a8e018cd

“Please step down carefully.”98fa2b596a876154

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Ben, wearing e2f604a18f a mask ae78f6e8b7 issued for 135864081a servants or 5a73c125e4 aides, got 6dfb7b9e84 out of 253925a7f4 the carriage 031f00b9aa first.6a09a56160107d3c

When Etienne 855c8fb7bc stepped out b15df71829 of the ffe12912c1 carriage, the 2352d2acb9 gazes of f557b9ecc9 onlookers gathered b3daaae561 near the de2e8f9c85 ship to dca732d4f4 watch the 91f6390981 fireworks turned 91d9388bd9 toward him.feb7604bd191c001

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Ignoring the dcf896cb32 stares fixed f32e3d5ed0 on him, 1fea886cfd Etienne walked 1762aba345 toward the 5586cecca0 stairs connected 3d0fa73b08 to the 948458cd34 ship.80a954e8cebb83cd

“Please show your invitation.”ca376aaa52c4c3a9

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The doorkeeper guarding the stairs requested the invitation with a polite attitude. Etienne silently handed him the invitation. The doorkeeper’s eyes widened slightly upon checking it.3d293b51fb094492

“Thank you for coming to House Eckhart’s party. We hope you enjoy your time.”0c073ef9b3ad0bab

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The doorkeeper returned the invitation and stepped aside with a bow. Etienne felt the voice was somehow familiar. However, he couldn’t tell who it was because the face was covered by a mask.0a91879f6e9f7f11

The butler perhaps? Etienne wondered about the doorkeeper’s identity as he slowly climbed the stairs.f4ba9b3c9ff2a22a

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“Ah.”a19ecfed59813e6e

Upon entering, Etienne couldn’t help but exclaim in admiration. He thought it would be magnificent, but the inside of the ship was beyond imagination. Ben, who followed behind carrying Etienne’s luggage, gaped at the luxurious interior.76f9f96d1a9cda88

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“It’s much bigger than I expected. It’s like they transported an entire mansion here.”7fea29679c63180a

“Indeed.”f1e901516d50fe2c

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“Wasn’t there supposed to be three halls in total?”c07af24f0c94bfd4

“Yes.”5e738ae6314615f9

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“Where are you meeting him?”c8a41b71a5202974

Ben, referring to Rishar as ‘him,’ asked in a voice only Etienne could hear. At his question, Etienne took out his pocket watch.42dbbc3883f0235a

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“We agreed to meet in the central hall… there’s about 40 minutes until our appointed time.”ea8efed3c9ed6419

“Then I’ll stay with you.”a42b101cc7f34d9b

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“No, I’ll look around slowly, so you go put down the luggage and come back.”d1cd8af8f8203db0

Etienne’s gaze turned to the bag Ben was carrying. What he was holding contained clothes and medicine that Etienne would need during the four days of the ship party.6310818efd6fccc6

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“What about Sir Celodine?”e27536a9df0bba3e

“He doesn’t seem to have arrived yet. Since he said he’d come after meeting Lady Stella on the way… he might be a bit late, but he could have arrived already, so I’ll leave the luggage and check the accommodations.”6109e6e624cad47b

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“Do that.”e16ade485443898a

After sending Ben e742652951 off, Etienne moved 57d4e826bf further inside. He first 0afd4ba39c entered the 80eb24537b nearest hall.808e6cb69b415c1e

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The first hall d47bdc2b37 gave the feeling 6425674a3a of being in bf14f903d1 a garden. Etienne was 0a48553c45 looking at 53dd8e678d the fountain 3604dc8975 located in a20a6614b5 the center 56a42d9c29 of the 9b618d47aa hall with 5829f79df6 curious eyes 1a75cdc6d6 when he b6041029fc picked up abea2e7c30 a wine 714bdebc13 glass from a9b6b1e30e a tray 7df8f2e867 offered by 918f5d168c a servant.385c8775785e1680

As the refreshing fruit 2129da8c0a wine moistened his dry 41edbddab3 mouth, his tension eased cca9ef30c6 a bit. Having regained some ee2218e1c5 composure, Etienne settled 311484f71b in a corner c5e5f182d3 and watched people.6eef5aa30d38ff49

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Everyone attending the 012b3ec64e party was wearing dcd30a8680 masks. While some wore comical d366f3a206 animal masks, others wore 4ae3bd039f masks decorated with jewels e4fd0f10d2 as if to show 5c23f4d26f off their wealth.f77fdbcb2d1edb57

The attire was also more diverse than at usual parties. People wearing armor, people in Oriental dresses, people with wings attached to their backs somehow… Etienne quietly appreciated the guests showing off various charms. Then suddenly he realized there were more people with black and blonde hair than usual.bc5d98510f83a610

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“Hm?”4a0ed6a35cb2cbd3

Etienne blinked with a b83c07f574 puzzled face. With a suspicion in 186809976d mind, he moved around f2061def96 observing people.80e7d5722f5c4c42

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At first he thought it might be his imagination, but it wasn’t. There were definitely many black and blonde hairs. Most seemed to be wearing wigs.a9e4552d8dca1cba

The issue was e25e68a9d0 the clothes worn 47f89c5420 by people with e46920e622 black and blonde 8cf038ee25 wigs. Many with 65df32a9b5 black hair 65bca87927 wore knight ba67ea4abc uniforms, while 3f28dd4e22 those with cb84f57143 blonde hair 631b86e7ab wore formal bfe3fa8ffa attire suitable 3c0bb52520 for important 5491e102bb events. Maybe it was a62fe74b3f just his feeling, 76fa366099 but the appearances b395ed05d2 reminded him of 1ca9fdbd96 Rishar and himself.919c4ba956960686

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“Ah.”8e677d167c9508c9

Etienne let out a 07d684450d small exclamation as he ac8021afea realized who they were e046d509fe disguised as. Now he 0191297c2c understood why 4838115538 Rishar had 696c2f4519 said not f87b979395 to worry, 172a1750bd and that 85dc4c87da a mask 1ffc83d0dc alone would dc33a31f7f be enough.e7a0e3fea8872352

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Masquerade balls had the characteristic of allowing people to show off different charms or hide themselves and enjoy being like someone else. Generally, people would disguise themselves as historical or mythological figures, or famous people. So it wasn’t strange that they dressed up to look like Rishar.188f51540a2b1b05

But he didn’t understand why some would disguise themselves as him. While Rishar was understandable given his popularity as a hero who saved the empire, why him?6f1161ad6372c469

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Etienne watched a blonde man passing in front of him with dubious eyes. It wasn’t just self-consciousness – the clothes, accessories, hair color, and even the hairstyle covering the forehead were so much like himself. And there weren’t just one or two, but several people who were the same.7cd43c0e968a8a49

Feeling strange, e3ab1fc2f3 Etienne left fd469500c0 the first b64bcbc0ae hall and 6dc853cb70 headed to 7a23f07c01 the central 296a0b6021 hall. The central hall 42646c8c13 was at least c4356bcf70 three or four 3c6f7fdd35 times the size 98856c06d1 of the first 7869d184cc hall, and except 34a78bface for the masked fae03f7739 and disguised people, d71700257a it resembled a 3c8d2830e1 typical ballroom.2d9a5d9f7b132d6e

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Etienne found a spot b938f7f01a while listening to the 0bfb7bb986 sweet music from the 06199e09d8 band. Then he 3cc1d848fe gestured to f33827e2d9 a nearby 9b2d7acaf2 servant.04787363785abb50

“Do you need something?”49301f96b1f9938c

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“Wine.”c07da392499ad039

When Etienne lightly 62ca885c78 shook his empty 063f98dbb4 glass, the servant 5b8d403e1c quickly replaced it 29a7526c96 with a new b58fd4937e one. Etienne sipped the sweet 0f26930f62 fruit wine, different from a056842b1e earlier, while checking the 96d21d0e8e time. There were about e7a03c3af2 15 minutes left 658a1745f0 until his meeting bb461b06ee time with Rishar.21b5d51f4d61f98a

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Etienne had ec0d41514f thought about 5af5bfacfe going to 76f00f8805 the third 66fb2e153c hall, but 894e3bd1d7 seeing how 2dce1d9cb1 little time b775fdd012 was left, 6a6828ca34 he stayed 5a194ebab7 put. He fidgeted 294f8b2ca8 with his 6ca9599578 collar, feeling 7b3cb1000c a strange 040a1295f7 thirst. His throat was 29f1cfc2ca dry despite drinking.a0bc8028de454527

“Another of the same.”ce7e6fa36e5bf3a1

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Etienne, having 1e71bf9dcc emptied his fc08493d6a glass in 9b429411e6 an instant, 41a229b796 held out e5e539c3f5 the empty 72e0be67e7 glass to c35a4f66d3 the servant. The glass was soon 70b5303545 filled.81e5f95bbfa0782e

“Whew.”822f31e59327cbbe

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Etienne stuck out his tongue to wet his lower lip, feeling the sweetness filling his mouth. He felt somewhat regretful that he couldn’t smell the aroma because of the medicine that numbed his sense of smell.1ef3e034352569f9

Should I have another b797bba196 glass?34805e468d5608f4

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Just as Etienne ddfde43063 was contemplating while 65429c5673 tilting his empty edcb2b7de0 glass, a voice d64df58880 tinged with amusement 3730645405 was heard.1b29b4c288fb44b6

“It seems the wine suits your taste.”393eb7cd78daedbb

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