HTTRPIAO Ch 85-89

“That’s…”0ea9ba7bf02a9c77

Antoine’s face flushed red in an instant as he stammered nervously.ac04492afa102805

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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…”c15bafcb7d39ce4a

Antoine looked c988f6f0a4 at Etienne, 4150ec159f not knowing 2b11b59f85 what to 1fcd958adc do. He was 015ccea2d1 afraid Etienne 1731f77c24 would get d8f8f79dc5 angry.b8777a32c314f5dc

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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.”cb8e542660db8d7e

“Are you saying that mentioning the matter to the Grand Duke was due to the Margrave’s pressure?”b2b39c48c8a8f902

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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.1a6d6843217818f2

“More than pressure… no, you’re right. It wasn’t something I wanted, so it was closer to pressure.”9051b935ef283adc

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Antoine, who had been 4268f5220d hesitating with a flustered 0203d7c52e expression, answered in a 58716fe402 bitter voice.dd4dd3618cea79bf

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.9f9f3b01a031578c

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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.”0f7679bfbf6e0c88

Antoine, carefully choosing his 5508f352af words, opened his mouth d6a35dd8f5 with a gloomy face.d4240c19d5326c5e

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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…”7d697cdb50c94d4a

“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.”a6edf973c6175851

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Antoine opened his 46a545b487 mouth blankly at 3fd1ab414b the words filled 6a25dcdaba with consideration for afc82ff258 him. Then, realizing his af37a69713 own impropriety, he 4f40ec34f4 lowered his head.adcb18b4f20f75df

“Th-thank you for worrying. But I’m fine. As I mentioned earlier, I’ve never harbored romantic feelings for the Grand Duke.”5d75beff3e32868f

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“Is that so?”b2652459a7983329

Etienne unconsciously felt relieved at Antoine’s resolute answer. Then he stopped, becoming aware of his own state. Relief?It was as if fb68ce94dd he had been wary 257bff68a7 of Antoine.6700e2db2266c390

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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.”47e1f3291e07a202

“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.”5a4b85d5d5386f39

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Antoine’s voice grew smaller. Etienne looked at Antoine, who had drooped his shoulders, with a peculiar gaze.a7e91141892643f0

Until now, 7fadacd059 the Omegas 37a6633a5f he had f8b8500ab5 seen were 3508472122 always bright 460538d64e and confident. When he 44360ef0bc first met c3f148c730 Antoine, he 89bbdf7370 exuded the 0ca29acf1b air of 582a9edc23 someone who eddc47cca9 had been 9a54e2e1d1 loved and 5f0e1ab21d raised well.2e6df551535ff2c9

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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.221acd77bdba4813

“…My father said all of this was for my sake, but I’m not quite sure.”9b9d43e0beeb8313

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Antoine, with 4fdfc919ff his head e01ae49e48 bowed and df0b4805a3 touching his 124167dde4 teacup, suddenly 63a63eebe4 blurted out. It was close to 4be9e396a1 a solitary lament.8caace51382d833e

“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.”0bb6493b15772ca9

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“Your words sound like you don’t want to receive my escort.”6e0912b5a52d6bd1

Realizing his slip of cac8948a2e the tongue, Antoine made 971f2b60bb an ‘Oh no’ expression.9ba21569b14cd7d4

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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.”98688b7930cf7473

“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.”ef11893b1fe739e8

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“Ah.”aad377666c72675b

Antoine made a bewildered expression when Etienne empathized with his feelings. Etienne smiled softly, watching Antoine’s eyes, which resembled flower petals, trembling slightly.e56b8d74a91f4649

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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.”dd71147b3660d35f

“Haha, that’s right.”7fd456c26d3d36cf

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“I’m curious about your story. If you’re comfortable, can you tell me?”66801ebc1329847d

Etienne spoke 668f0fd61d in a 1ee9806f52 subtle voice. He thought that a2f942d45d perhaps he and ebb4054af8 Antoine could be 3f7096fd5b quite good allies.ce303455ce87edf5

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“My story?”a7bce0dcbe6c29dd

Antoine blinked at Etienne’s request. He seemed to have never thought Etienne would want to know his circumstances.a7ba808414b45bbb

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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.”0fe773c9f5842830

“Uhm…”93f17aa2f768850d

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“Who knows? Maybe I could help you.”faf1c8c84b9cb9d4

Etienne slightly curved his 9a80a3d933 eyes. Momentarily captivated by the ee43d1498a softly folded eye corners, 1013cdd1d0 Antoine awkwardly cleared his ba615ccce2 throat.4c302b4cb3d5354f

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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.”2f271fe18893ae64

Antoine, hesitating 485f1ac063 whether to 94a825a8b2 speak or 675d0d068e not, carefully d47584c5bb began to ce471e0376 share his db571dd677 story.76f276082b1d59ed

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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.”0019acc90b240d8c

“I know what you mean. I was in a similar situation. My mother never allowed me to leave the prince’s palace.”b0740d79bd71d2f6

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Etienne agreed with Antoine’s words.0bdee52f3b4f50d8

“Oh, come to think of it, Your Highness…”d8052ec0ed50f042

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“My mother is just overly protective. I’m not as weak as I appear.”b7642abf14ce045e

“Right, of course.”044bb3bb555f66a5

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Antoine nodded 5c214f33d4 in agreement 670c9fe61c with Etienne’s e5025b9cc1 words. Perhaps because they shared 6469524fe8 the common trait of cb2aef1403 frail health, a sense 1ba9487342 of empathy quickly formed 2d701fead4 between the two.dca517a5e1159706

“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.”ec14b3f8ce30875d

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“You can shoot a bow? That’s impressive.”5ecff791f9c6a788

Etienne was 842fb6f7c7 genuinely impressed. He had learned sword 3b1b1b25b7 and horseback riding, but 07d8bfa217 Leona had quickly made 7af3847a40 him stop.290b04615ce936b7

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He had 06e96473c3 no talent, 0e3c8b361c but the 764276c55e fundamental reason 3d3ccf7e01 was to 8c949f5d97 hide that b277938b59 he was 50368af6dd an Omega. Interacting with people could 35a23670cc lead to unexpected situations 5a2f94dcc1 and increase the risk ec85e99a58 of being discovered.591a13f8b87ab4f0

“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.”c5c7058e449bf635

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Antoine spoke with 40101f4e88 a confident face. But his expression 43dbd2e7eb soon darkened.7de5510c7caf826d

“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.”edfb0ffefd72d44f

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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.3fb5e51b8516b355

“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.”5f779dded67ff27e

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“…”82e41ec4a36b431b

“My dream is to be a military operations officer.”0e7cb9f536a74ff1

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“An operations officer? I didn’t know you were interested in tactics. That’s a bit unexpected.”8fd11b1112c9a908

“Haha, everyone says that. Despite appearances, I’m a proper member of the Mathias family.”bd7d1529a11573f2

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Antoine laughed as 24c4d1a545 if he was b2f2d89291 used to get 15e7ee5b34 that reaction and 45bd046c3a continued his story.a7545bfdf458e694

“Our family has many military-related books. I naturally became interested after reading military strategy books and books about weapons whenever I was bored.”9944aff7e2578c5e

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Antoine leaned towards Etienne, 10b448101d lowering his voice as d437ba8dc5 if sharing a secret.0d6391472847a149

“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.”b59e4dbd3fca422c

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“You drew up the strategy?”71e3f9dd57b27e0e

“Yes, I suggested it when I saw my father struggling, hoping it might help. Thankfully, it turned out well.”a450e105082eefe8

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A faint smile appeared on Antoine’s lips as he recalled it.189155946f7dff91

“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.”f21aee9eca6c4d1a

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Antoine spoke as if 85f6a23c44 recalling the joy again, 035b3a46d2 and with an excited cc0d67c91c face, he continued talking 9adc2bce42 about Rishar.21bf20d00b49ad36

“As it turns out, Grand Duke Eckhart is famous for looking solely at ability, regardless of gender. Have you heard of Lady Stella?”e3c073e9092cb9b3

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“Lady Stella? Are you talking about House Eckhart’s Mage Commander?”1bf51fd8b5d86167

Etienne froze for f4e69948ee a moment at c8fab7bf12 the name Antoine 8826145aab mentioned, then feigned 1ddf355c32 ignorance. Antoine’s face lit up.6115d5f84edf97ed

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“So you know Lady Stella!”11996f409d58b5a5

“I’ve seen her face a few times. But why are you bringing up Lady Stella?”0acc55e7b28bf942

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“Well, among Omegas like me, Lady Stella is extremely famous. Everyone wants to be like her.”94410ada406b6361

“Why?”d20cf17e4cadcc50

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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.”b9dd64c50f94e283

“Hm?”3c4be31e2d616d4a

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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.”72d8a7c601d5ec09

“I… didn’t know that.”482449f969152867

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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.”4cf63c09df723cea

Antoine laughed awkwardly. Etienne felt 27d195c53d a strong 3a9233afab sense of f0cc435ad7 déjà vu 0785472aa3 hearing his f06a5605ad words. He had 81d6802880 recently heard 183586e2d3 similar words 7caf169dcf from Stella.28c91999a1353c6f

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‘The Grand Duke is the only one who saw me as a mere magician.’eed1ffe4ff305c48

Yes, Stella b047bc1aec had said c5dd89e5c2 those words 069387b93a too. Etienne easily recalled 8ce2bf89b3 his conversation with 14f0232ed0 her.8e258b989fc162b9

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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?’609e06bb3b6f9fef

When staying at the c05d0f3db4 detached palace, Etienne had 6bb2125b89 many conversations with Stella. Since their common 6d278d9e1a point was Rishar, f53eb59e1f their discussions naturally f6098517ca flowed towards him.e91c77f0752cef11

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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.cdbbf35b0341e8ca

Etienne was completely immersed dd324a1ab5 in the stories Stella 050329fe80 shared. The Rishar in 99b4c1885a her stories was 1312cd7f00 different from the 824b7df696 one he knew. Sometimes he seemed f42588906e mysterious, sometimes entirely 3c6c8d2f9e new.b006ff22c48e69dd

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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.db26c43b53817aad

Thanks to Stella, Etienne 0979ed1e56 could hear about Rishar 65bc2a4ae2 from the time he 4420f5d3f2 hadn’t been with him.93bec477fc56ccc2

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‘From monsters to barbarian tribes… Ugh. I really worked incredibly hard under the Grand Duke.’f8c528fd744adba8

Stella grumbled that she 4f3f69a188 had suffered all kinds ae27cff05f of hardships because of 8ce1bea610 Rishar, but her voice 4c9fe06a39 contained an undeniable pride c2b5be9e91 and affection.9e475847ab394050

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‘How did you end up serving Rishar as your lord?’618ad0250fd52807

‘Me? Oh, didn’t I tell you?’a1ec3b3161e123e8

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‘No. I only heard that you met at the military academy.’2ec413bd228832a8

‘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.’ec6fb4da2bff9fdb

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‘I see.’d42aa0d6db284979

‘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.’9c2b2fb36e8e3b5c

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‘You insisted?’2947d0e8ed15d930

‘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.’670e395bd28b2c5f

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Stella drew a V-shape 8e50f5c34d with her finger and e72114b08d smiled slyly. However, her smile 1732329279 quickly turned into 212c636e0b a bitter one.32e37c133569eebb

‘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.’08a902ddab9e59da

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Stella, recalling old d63dd93a53 memories, shook her 69cbed7d60 head as if 887ff89a2e disgusted. Then she continued 60ec4861c9 with a bitter 7287fe2905 expression.e6de1e76853785b8

‘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.’f051786c0b5dc23b

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‘I see. I didn’t know that.’a7f94f935dfd263f

‘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!’9a6488331ed2ec85

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Stella clenched her 6dc7eb5d67 fists and trembled. It seemed she was eea0b3e138 still angry when thinking 38e962f8f8 about it. Soon realizing she 5d28f2a137 was overly excited, 2881026dee she cleared her 46e8c6772c throat.8a741bb1f3e0cddc

‘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.’7d9aed11dc56840f

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‘That’s good.’aa77cf05af482a0e

‘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…’17dd912c3d7ddf63

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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.befab1b1127d0826

‘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…’5fccba28124f1cbd

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‘And then?’9cc4d4fc76d5d5f9

‘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!’425aea782878bbc5

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Stella clapped her hands c41e443103 with a flushed face. Etienne watched d874a21c85 her curiously 4667f8b76b as her 29b0c55319 expressions changed fe25da48d9 moment by ff0e17705f moment.6a5c0ffdea6dd819

‘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!’293a259631a09753

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‘To that extent?’dfc0c5f8920c95fe

‘Of course! From that day forward, I swore lifelong loyalty to the Grand Duke!’993d5ea9b49df56f

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Stella smiled brightly, 578e86e77e saying it was a8628308f1 natural to be 0648323b30 loyal to someone 8c2382e9fe who recognized and 12bfb09f2a gave her opportunities.aa55dedd634e5185

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.efd28fa62e1f952f

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And now, Antoine’s story gave him a similar impression.c912d4cc1a0dad6c

He thought cff72b0c6e being an 6b2aa64b65 Omega would 5aaf6d7620 mean being 5c53daec6c unconditionally happy.d6d455fa96a5b01c

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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.29bcbe6d364304e5

Where there is light, 95e10405c9 there are also shadows. Not all Omegas 02725b4827 live a happy 14b2ae8e1a life. He himself was proof 83052460ab of that.5baf0dbfd3d5138d

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Knowing this 99317b3493 better than 7c6f0e4a0f anyone, he 71d918b758 had rashly c721a24195 judged based 7ca4878a2e only on facb322244 their seemingly acbcb6e9d9 happy appearances.ddf2fd6fd750f081

Because Stella and Antoine aa9f542f03 were raised receiving abundant cda8fe973e love as Omegas, he e717adfd51 had assumed they would df05113f3c be happier than himself f388a0eab4 based on the bright 84545759e1 energy he perceived from 15aefd7ffa them.32225b4ddf81b502

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He had never considered 0f823b88d5 the potential struggles or e5af2e9afd difficulties they might face ee185efde6 as Omegas.9283765a3eda7ccc

Thinking they were 5918ce6605 naturally living blessed e2fb4354af lives, he was 9e53f54557 too busy feeling 83a5e4a6e7 sorry for himself a174973fc8 to try to 60e2c81fc8 understand them. He was 4ff1d12599 immersed in 8f04f5cc37 his own b84cd11e1d situation, believing 662b1f8e1e only he 2c9aad6389 was unhappy.2d4a7c213f46d954

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Etienne dried his face as if covering it. He couldn’t raise his head from embarrassment.6e9a649285f4ca45

“…I think I was a bit mistaken.”90ea2b6c788b8c8b

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“Pardon?”ae8852ac123b9d2e

Antoine tilted his d6669a7b8c head, unable to 7236ab17cf understand what he e0052700d6 meant. Etienne, who 11071a7eca had wiped e93d18a648 his face, 710f3289d6 raised his 94a6d6a2db head and a87aac6cb5 looked at 94ab9e98d3 him.2ac6e25b7aceb334

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“Until now, I thought Omegas had no worries and were happy. I had only seen them being treated preciously.”db5e2f9a2cce59d9

“Ah.”eda0bafb3a5388b1

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“Hearing your story, I realized I was trapped in prejudice. It feels like I’ve opened my eyes.”e3ff7fbed9f71bfb

“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.”f32c81d76e959652

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Antoine, who had been surprised by Etienne’s words, made an embarrassed expression. Fidgeting with the teacup, he spoke again.42e3fc902de4ecfc

“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.”e230bffd67788405

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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.72d4f8312e3e9ee9

“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.”0a30a4b29bd0ce81

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“…”84f2fd87508f62cd

“But I am different. I want to live like a wildflower in the field, not like a flower in a greenhouse.”6e38fd67a1f63f9b

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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.471551900a77d6d7

Though he 32f4a8e731 felt sorry f3ba8160ab for seemingly c1e159093d using Antoine, 7fa24e3955 hearing his 8202f55313 story made 71b277a72b Etienne think a28f1bcc42 that recruiting 3300bfb601 Omegas dissatisfied 56a3b7bafa with their c4da47d5de situation could 8cc2cbb1d4 be helpful b78cbe07fc in many e968427e64 ways.9213df5f9cf5ac4e

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After all, Omegas 6e125c358d were the flowers ef6235ac77 of high society. They were welcomed 43c4b18df4 everywhere. The number of b5a43a330a Omegas attending a 03493236e2 family gathering could 00bb00f31e determine whether that cb60a95ab8 party was considered f3ea8f7430 successful or not.6d4bcbd809ad562b

Because of this, during c979acd7ad the social season, many 6d79afd07d families tried to invite 807a7e1f6e as many Omegas as 0949bfae0f possible to their gatherings, 7e697f72e8 salons, and tea parties.a4eafea8c98db7a3

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At that time, any 5265984d03 family would open their c27d9d13f7 doors wide to Omegas. This was true 5bcf23d191 even for Omegas bcfb7f5434 from different factions.63caa375efc0445b

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.d49043268f1045ba

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What if d5ba18a94c I could fc61f816de use that? The moment that thought crossed his mind, his mind lit up. Etienne’s eyes sparkled, and he moved his lips.0a38ed3b5b84dae9

“I understand your thoughts well. To be honest, I don’t want to be in a political marriage with you either.”a3efc7391a048bee

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Etienne carefully began, moistening fdc1b03073 his lower lip with 5c40fb5ee5 his tongue while choosing f862a440d1 his words.18a65ad45fefa2b8

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.66c0c19b37c480b4

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If he could collect 81efb3bfc8 information through Omegas who feefb58e8a could go anywhere and e9036398ba use their help to 3e3c31dc7e lead the social opinion, 4c70c18d37 things would definitely become 8f5b91ce7f easier.cc2776f556d42dcf

“But neither you nor I have the power to refuse this situation. A powerless rebellion is nothing more than throwing a tantrum.”095248916e021801

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“That’s right…”c5b1f57ac9e14118

Antoine answered weakly. Sadness settled on his 5eac492611 pale face. Etienne whispered 10ac58abc0 softly to f001b912a5 him.a3a933874c568ae1

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“That’s why I want to propose something to you.”3567f105e6217641

“…Propose?”2fd9bf89ae212152

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“Yes. Something good for both you and me.”2feef7b4ec768f4f

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.ed14a94602f6031b

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“What is it? Do you have a way to resolve this situation?”21a6443d20c7a26e

“Uhm, if my plan succeeds.”990342d17418e840

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“May I know what Your Highness’s plan is?”344c326e86d6f70c

Antoine asked with fdcfc0eb64 a tense face. If there 4a0541e130 was a eba8fceaf2 way to f2f36b1414 avoid an fb4b79e7a7 unwanted political deb0d8b161 marriage and 88ddbde3d7 achieve his b5531b7665 dreams, he f5733d819b would do 057a6095e2 anything. He looked at 2579d95ce0 Etienne with desperate e83b7484eb hope.21093ee3bd53a461

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“I want to hear your answer clearly first. Once you hear my plan, there will be no turning back.”e94ab2ec6966bb45

Etienne leisurely smiled 4d86c5c0bc at Antoine, who b55881c3ab was looking at cd56c02a30 him with piercing 150021794e eyes. He was 78aed8ee1a prepared for 9c1e895f6f a long 29dbc15f28 battle, but fe95882156 Antoine had 1931031eaa come to 7586c6325c his side f04629086c more easily d88f19a6ce than expected. That meant he 98ac8ad2d0 was desperate.adc2641753d0bd26

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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.3873b6ff02194dbf

“Tell me. Can you cooperate with me, no matter what the method might be?”c7d68e59849a8b90

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“If it’s something I can do…”e9ca1938ae60751e

“If the plan succeeds, you might lose your family instead of gaining your freedom.”86a71b49c4ed1c4a

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Etienne immediately cut off Antoine’s words, warning him. Making such hasty decisions could lead to regret later.7dd23c990cc91d0c

“What do you mean by that…”b5d2ce7941dd086d

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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.514345d47a697ff6

“Young master, what I’m trying to do is not a child’s play. It’s not a light rebellion.”caaf84a30a41b3d8

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“Ah.”2605793d40c80514

“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.”32c363c8332dee3b

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Etienne lowered his voice 6f8086da52 and warned him, his 8b3b15f163 face hardened. He needed to make 760ed30a25 things clear now to 2ba12cc9a4 avoid creating problems later.52c6b2cfc7cd19bd

“That, uhm.”6ce966a93eac7c9c

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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.b770be6a32318030

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.5ea3841acda81fec

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He himself had 949864aa05 been through the eb428ffe23 same. Expecting and 7104ae351a being disappointed, f1c27dda46 then expecting bce5c27fad again and c0103772bd being disappointed. He had 0d8e98af9f repeated this 0d08b1f84a process thousands 549f80eee5 of times 5e76d15021 before finally 4124efb882 accepting and 84703d75d6 giving up. It had taken a2731ffb1e him over a 1caffb12aa decade to let 7fc0b5333f go of Leona 4837225fd3 and Edwin in a9dfdb6cdb his heart.1d2579c44468fe5a

Even he, who had 15468c4e61 never received proper love faa2cfccd0 from his parents, found 15602a624c it hard, it’d be 8d3b0c64b7 impossible for Antoine, who b7e954789c had been raised in d626444efa a loving family, to c1fa360eb3 easily decide to turn 42ee40fff9 against his.7f434764e2541ca5

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So he 3e44e215e3 intended to 13aa64507a wait until 65419fdd19 Antoine made dfbebe582a up his 834666a107 own mind 6b4c493594 and made 5c23f5200c a decision.c6f5e8d61df03022

He would 273a1817eb continue to b87c9b0f53 meet with 16eb57e516 Antoine for 8483c12685 some time. That meant he had f16dc1638f plenty of time to b008baa167 persuade him. Etienne decided to take cfb06f87ae it easy.e647153f20c0d8a5

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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.ef5ad5537bbcd1da

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.d9ac5d1e9376022a

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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?”af4020fbc70219f3

“Eh?”638d016d5d50dd9a

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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.”d9c4ec339838381d

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.e1424da2eac79246

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Seeing Antoine’s face brighten, Etienne added another sweet temptation.4655b16ae4dfd959

“If you successfully graduate from the academy, I’ll recommend you to Grand Duke Eckhart, regardless of your grades.”b6dd32d3a8a8176b

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“Th-thank you.”4977a221cf946386

“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.”8de876f2d3831383

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“Ah, right.”49931c467776990c

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.549f913b99f79b43

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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?”141aeeecd60bc157

“What I can offer to Your Highness…”61d719dae60afb92

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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.b2c83fd44c7e2db6

“Do you have something you want from me?”a60a97e80fa9080a

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“I do.”76c74c3c2a98913c

“What is it?”51068bcfdd336436

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Antoine asked in e891431fcf an anxious voice. Etienne smiled at him. A soft yet powerful 22483a1285 voice flowed from between 696fe8211c his slightly raised lips.90dfbe6dc0dcfe82

“Your loyalty.”555f67d2966e45dd

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“Pardon?”4577f8b060eeea19

“I want your loyalty.”e96f914dda236ebe

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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.de6b76f617b749ad

“The imperial family knows, but I have no power. I’ve been controlled by my mother’s will my entire life.”bb71363b5d3a8eb5

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“…”142a1bb618f45fa7

“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.”9542b807ad09b677

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“…Can I be of help to Your Highness?”26fa91cd24d68b75

Antoine, who 3836916494 had hesitated d602d32a0a for a 9f6ce41d9b moment, asked 8d8a2667d2 in an eeeea3032d uncertain voice. He felt his 827a28e198 heart pounding and 2de6fd360f bit his lips. His heart was e3b4ba2ccf beating strangely.d7af8d7a090e478e

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Come to think cf4dde466a of it, today 3939fb4c24 was the first 90a7047325 time he had 6a7042aaa1 heard someone say c7fc6eb02d he was needed. His family, friends, and 8e99309961 even strangers had always 8419be7a88 complimented him, but no 91b3c1da38 one had ever needed 425882c2fe him.a7e1e20131954081

They would 7b6527359e praise his 45a0f266f5 appearance and 7b808a4370 commend everything 64b2c4b020 he did, 9a10093d43 but that a0addc5f91 was all. They never seriously listened 36faafc7e1 to his desire to 9945c344c6 become a military officer.ced2579619adc9da

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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.bf1e4f4d49ccacc4

Perhaps that’s why his heart was trembling at Etienne’s words.3adff54c33c04379

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Antoine, captivated by a strange feeling, waited for Etienne’s response. The few seconds of waiting felt like an eternity.c9289933f529a67e

“Of course. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have made you this offer.”25b88c966b18c84f

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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.ea9c73839e2f9f8c

“Antoine Mathias. I need you.”ac3e818ce7672eec

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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.49fa1d9c55ee9ec0

“…I will.”f62e7ba2746cf6d3

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After a moment, a 445b3060aa muffled voice, as if df08248b59 submerged in water, escaped 4fadd3b9df from between his lips. His decision was ed31fd2d6e remarkably quick, contrasting 7b6d886f02 with his previous 2f285cb138 hesitation.da8db080eb09f233

“I will be loyal to Your Highness.”4bb3ddab4d51226c

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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.”54da65e96f55fddc

“No, that’s not it.”195aba65d7e4599b

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Antoine denied Etienne’s words and shook his head. Lifting his head again, he smiled with his tear-filled eyes.2f2be4264700d54c

“This isn’t an impulsive decision. I just want to offer my loyalty to the first person who truly saw me.”43396d116644f18c

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“…Very well. If you say so.”2e1b1b01be44ceb0

Etienne quietly dbafbd09d3 watched Antoine, 5bafe65cb2 who was f76448af9d crying and e6f98dcefa smiling, and 56960ae939 slowly extended 9783e3c262 his hand.deaf072e226c812d

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“Take care of me from now on, young master Mathias.”5a0177e6a597d0ab

“Yes, Your Highness.”4c9f0c9ed5390f4b

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Antoine stood up and bdbad21262 knelt on one knee bc8e71cdd0 before Etienne. Then he 71eeb8366c carefully took e3da31a96b the offered 4e5d70d19e hand and 5072b5571a brought his 843d9374dc forehead to 9673393e37 its back.9c7c0d339ca0f7f3

“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.”8a1e60cc9014e214

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After reciting his loyalty oath, Antoine kissed the back of Etienne’s hand. Etienne helped him rise.f7195a5f7add10fe

“Stand up. Someone might look at us strangely.”f4d74435b95e3cff

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“Yes, Your Highness.”eed319b60932d0de

“First… you should wipe your face.”8959776d4c24e79c

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Sitting down, 14aa6d51ef Antoine smiled b76b907351 with his 8995f5a172 tear-stained face. Etienne pulled 5a9651ba03 out a ed165b90de handkerchief from 34053c5291 inside his 60e8cc96e8 jacket and 50ded1e3fa offered it. Antoine, feeling 5e1d02aa2c embarrassed by 793b67a9d8 the kindness, fe1ad57e82 accepted it.ec716983348d2bda

“I’ll have the handkerchief cleaned and return it next time.”61c10e87446c00a8

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After wiping his face, 42ed73671c Antoine spoke bashfully. Now that his 8a3ac5380d emotions had subsided, 1b3c72b508 he felt he ca45acac46 had shown an 7534124f71 unsightly side in 727ca72ec8 front of Etienne.d40ab1721aef001a

“That’s not necessary. Give it to me.”c18eba59957a7412

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“No.”f8965b917cb4e578

Antoine avoided Etienne’s hand and pulled the handkerchief to himself. Then he let out a small laugh.b930b0f46ed383fe

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Etienne looked b3a981f076 at Antoine c9acd7c716 with a 3eac8903a2 puzzled expression, ce4fb080ca wondering why 00279546a7 he suddenly c85e76c3aa laughed.fd8679b50e0bebfc

“I’m sorry, it’s just… rumors are really not to be trusted.”5f0531a81f2b2634

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“Rumors?”12462248db107fdb

“Yes. Before coming here, I heard so many rumors about Your Highness.”7c6c181f3b5af79c

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“Ah.”3f5da4ce7699bc26

Etienne nodded as if 67de25e42e he understood. Most of the rumors d56a8ce74d were likely not good.38e9d818d6fd23bb

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“But it seems all of them were wrong. You’re completely different from the rumors.”8cccb0aa7dc39c0f

“That can’t be.”6dcaba42494e8e15

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“No, it’s true. You’re so kind.”a9b72aa043294a5d

“Kind? Me?”97b7da4a869af726

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Etienne repeated the 388de481ff words as if 2a3602896a they were unbelievable. Antoine answered with a abe9e20f40 bright smile.274c48d617b23f89

“Yes. Beautiful, kind, smart, and considerate… all the rumors were lies.”32d82063931b938a

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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.14a6e56b36036804

“Some rumors are true.”67e4ff1349716604

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“Is that so?”b8077e0c7248828a

“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.”6f2f2ddbd59bd979

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Etienne rang a small 567dd8a6e4 bell on the table. Ben, who had 2b8d44ee14 been waiting outside, c4fcc50403 entered. Etienne asked Ben to ec2aacfdf8 bring new tea and 1f311b6478 then explained his plan 01affb9484 to Antoine.aa24676ac2ccfd14

Antoine listened to Etienne’s story attentively. Their conversation continued until the blue sky turned red.fdeadaf40f0923f2

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***b2410162133ec6d7

“Where’s the brooch?”2379753a61597076

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“Move quickly! Where are the gloves?”3ad8c43927e18500

Etienne was tired, looking f1f56b44a5 at the busy servants 5a57ad17d6 with an exhausted face. Unlike usual, today 8c08e01249 other servants besides 3808a2f20c Ben were also 055a3d9208 in the bedroom. It was because c2d6eb0ec6 of the preparation ddf8d080a1 for the debutante fbc3defbc2 ball.930d287d87bad217

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“You must be very tired.”311dfa61b8531a49

Ben, who ce4016b7bb had been c81b4a3475 giving instructions 882f25b89b to the 6d2d83ccec servants, asked 7a383fa256 with a 5aa051f633 worried expression.0a20a601fe9299bb

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“I’m fine.”d16a1b98ab235fec

Etienne answered in 95bc1f76cf a weak voice, 36c03aa01b closing his eyes. His eyes had been 4c0834027c stinging since earlier, perhaps 06d42a9c6b because he had used 61e684eaa5 eye drops for the 8b6c4aa41c first time in a 9cc6c844b1 while.f87597fd78e4455c

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“I’m just a bit overwhelmed.”e59541ff034ec1d0

Etienne added to prevent 02525d29b3 Ben from worrying, taking a985ff8e2b a deep breath in c83188fd70 and out.6a25e1e793c9791c

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He had a44aa7b390 thought everything d51ee15399 would be 6d5ba1a6f4 more hectic e4c820648a since the cdb74c2739 debutante ball a58791025b marked the 356649042a start of a36c606b9b the social 444555ca54 season, but 325b2bf4ae it was ad0fd3e7a6 much busier 05febbae63 than expected.e8f334ba268eb72a

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.f5b0245069809f84

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Was it like d9c2fce22f this last year 9cc675d278 too?a21500f20057e780

Etienne thought with a dazed mind. He had attended the debutante ball last year as well, but it wasn’t this hectic.ce36d4df3480edd8

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The social 485b7c6f86 season had c2a4f2e4a1 never meant 31cc6aa117 much to 7a0f95a37c Etienne. Until now, 4e3335640b he had d1a59e9a92 only shown 35ec5b1ccb his face d2da86088d briefly at da035ed88c events he 272e8d21e0 had to ab7ae80890 attend as b85b7b36c2 a prince, edd5c7b9c0 such as aa1efa258f the debutante bd825f5bb8 ball or 24dc6ff706 imperial hunting 106a1b4088 competitions.5d35961e1570dc5f

Even then, 46a8692b30 he would 6c714ee25e just make 8decabe12d a quick f0c13b26d8 appearance, so 83e042fdc9 there was 13732d2e12 no need 08ded4f787 to put 4cdef40b86 much effort 5d490bb21e into preparation.a6f53bbf19f2caa8

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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.e20f74c4d97f5e77

“Yaaawn.”4fbfecd16de42723

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Etienne let f6699ef72c out a 8b8c87bafd continuous yawn 7eb3dc187e with a aa5e305900 tired face. He was so 00232a9937 exhausted from just 719224ca36 preparing that he ebbfd63a48 wanted to fall c5b5a61f00 asleep right then 6082b4a47f and there.db12fbfcdae63b1e

“Just a moment, I’ll attach the brooch for you. We’re almost done. Just bear with it a little longer.”fdeaf0632507187f

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“Just do it. Anyone would think I’m the one making my debut.”44d5769493859036

Etienne grumbled, standing 726d6c6b54 up from his ed6f1776d1 seat. He was tired, 4da2e73ae8 incredibly tired.50eaab04f45e8710

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“How can I! It’s not your debut, but it’s your first official event as a cavalier!”10fa479bdcf853ee

Ben raised his voice, insisting it absolutely couldn’t be done carelessly. He was more passionate than ever.2794bcf75e18e7b2

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“No matter who says what, today’s main character is you, my lord! I’ll make sure of it!”ba7580322d2c2ea0

“Such nonsense.”e50eb6ac00cca168

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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.e13218b2ff6d2ec8

When Ben learned that Etienne had become Antoine’s cavalier, he was extremely angry.b9a8e9696e5b03cd

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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?6025e5d6a98ec79f

He had 6553f66d11 known for 0d76b0b11b a long 36c7b05ae3 time that 51983b5a54 the Empress fe212207a7 wasn’t in 7fc577e23b her right 392117e73c mind, but e8d91cbb39 this was d0060623ab truly too b937b7deed much.f91e906c8b169aa9

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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.9ed66b5bdcfea47b

“Just wait and see. Whether they’re Omegas or noble ladies, they’ll all be overwhelmed by your beauty today.”38a8269fcfef4fde

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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.f8b4a301c5c70c8a

“Today, you look really, really beautiful.”1060ad7438ada641

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Ben smiled contentedly, looking 823dad2d00 at Etienne, who was 38bc837bfe as fresh as a 33aca6b7a9 flower bathed in moonlight,just like how a 99c528efce hedgehog thinks its own 06b9a47772 child is pretty¹. Objectively speaking though, it really seemed no one in the empire could match Etienne’s beauty.e9c40b542331c22d

“What does it matter if I’m beautiful? A cavalier is supposed to make the Omega he’s escorting stand out.”a79dd9cfe95e4952

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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.”8ba621c9b277b511

Ben stubbornly e4604c3049 retorted, attaching bc0bdcda35 a chain 53c36d1294 made of 2b132d3713 interwoven diamonds a2c349374a above his 999d7c1148 waistband. He put all his 90197566c4 efforts into preparing Etienne 30819ab303 until the very end.3d9c722d2b11897d

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Etienne looked at f92d764f4c Ben and let 8c7c130a37 out a small aec69471a9 sigh. He knew why f13ce3f774 Ben was doing 7fbcebc4b2 this, and he bb3fb73c99 felt both grateful 8c0976cf8a and sorry. At that 3c1ba23043 moment, a 9bbdf60386 knock was 0293c710ac heard.da89578af2c6be22

“Your Highness, Margrave Mathias’ son has entered the palace.”d32bfb8f6d205622

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“Got it.”29ee4c10c926f91b

At the voice announcing Antoine’s arrival, Etienne gestured to Ben to stop.83507a0c971d325a

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“Ben, that’s enough.”8a3408226c0c4f7d

“Oh, just a moment…!”fc40e565ea52fa11

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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.bf55944eee5004cf

“Welcome, Young Master Mathias.”7df19fb175030464

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“Your Highness.”52e2f55c189bc57c

Antoine, who had bbcf0c51a5 come out to b20bfd3883 meet him, quickly 17016f92fb got off the 2651f418a6 carriage. Etienne grabbed 1a4edf6502 his hand 64c6b784df and pretended e695566cbd to lightly 1614fa7969 kiss the 8e6eb89392 back of 74e513a224 it.d3233f68db8c18b7

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“I’m sorry. I was originally supposed to escort you from your residence…”b0a4af744faa77d1

“It’s fine.”40a99f1819d79cb2

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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.acb164386289fe76

She made dcd61c839d excuses that 986e461257 Etienne might acafe47767 be in 7d2548ab8a danger if fea793be48 he went e281e070e3 outside the 73b959c6a1 palace, and acd70312bb opposed him 86623bcdd2 going to 8825e23a94 the townhouse eaf4f9293a to escort b846e47caf Antoine.5ff154b0021caabb

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However, her true f1ebf7bc43 intentions lay elsewhere. Leona had engaged 44a6b4e00e in a power 12726214f6 struggle with Margrave 8d1f6601da Mathias to avoid 13832b494c relinquishing control of 47b642bdbb their relationship to 533a617c21 him.4d3fc8595a329cf6

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.167b2828f3484654

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Etienne looked at Antoine 349430da9e with an apologetic face.07b4bfa5c89fd785

“The Margrave didn’t take offense, did he?”347071c9638238c4

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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.”f0c10e235bd567eb

“I’m glad to hear that. By the way, you look very beautiful today.”ce47e5bd3cc9e4cf

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“Yes? Oh, thank you.”9caea2fa88689dd5

Antoine blushed 8895ee1c73 and turned 7fed3873cd red. After hesitating a7456ca933 for a 0ef9e9106c moment, he 4d6d3e361e said in d4a01c1595 a small 6b298f1408 voice,2bdd4590214865b1

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“Your Highness is… beautiful too.”106ffa01c67f6ad2

“If possible, I’d prefer you to say I look cool.”47dc3fcca91cd215

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“Oh! You look cool! So you’re beautiful and cool?”44a27a01c9a1ade4

“It sounds like you’re just flattering me, but thanks.”925ee37ba6294cce

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“It’s not flattery… You’re pretty, handsome, cool, and beautiful!”a6ed722c812cb828

“Flattering me won’t get you anywhere.”c0bb22e988411711

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“It’s not flattery… it’s the truth…”3df93d1173400702

Antoine muttered with a 2d0026b678 slightly resentful expression. In his eyes, 08852d0137 Etienne was perfect a25d8029d5 today, like a 794713bfec prince straight out 234771d124 of a fairytale. Well, in fact, b2d8092fa3 he was a 3a3b2a50f3 prince.a4a866848f1851f6

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“It’s about time, let’s go to the grand hall.”7cc655201d9319ef

Etienne, who checked 11c3ea630b the time with f16d1a0834 his pocket watch, fcd01508af led Antoine through ac0d03e59e the passage connected 8bb36c93a8 to the main 59fd171aab palace. This was a path ec54858c0b only accessible to members d54a8a6bf1 of the imperial family ca944fe07b and specially permitted individuals.953c5007f7c938d5

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“Have you been well?”022bdc99a7bb2ea8

“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.”0c6dc37463471b40

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Antoine whispered 915b281c8d carefully in 2bb8ab4680 a voice f16784e3d6 only Etienne b1550d79a7 could hear.e9a1958231ab2979

“Good, let’s arrange a meeting later to discuss the situation.”89b7501602498240

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“You want to meet directly?”4f34a83048202074

“Aren’t they people who will help with my work? It’s right to meet them directly. That way, they’ll also gain confidence.”69477871c50044a6

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Etienne spoke in 47bd58de10 a decisive tone. The first instruction he 248383cf57 gave Antoine was to 8e5c846248 find and persuade Omegas f5af7cd173 to work together.ad9d822b2df7e556

‘There’s something I’d like to ask you, Young Master.’a7b16f773c379d72

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‘Please speak freely.’cfaf9cceea0ab497

‘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?’5b2cea8600e07688

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‘Well, I wouldn’t say many, but it’s not a small number either.’451a7efac98a4868

‘Are their situations similar to yours?’b68fbbbed8985a47

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‘Most of them are.’f95e762f8bda842d

‘I’d like to bring Omegas in similar situations to our side. What do you think? Does it seem possible?’393898f6ff482a14

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‘Hmm.’567941f404126769

Antoine hummed thoughtfully. After a f630786865 moment, he e10e04687e answered confidently.de4533e66fe1e688

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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.’49bd6c7a0c6e49ce

‘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.’456b846d55459e68

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‘A social group?’edc3a7d7e2403581

‘Yes. Not just for now, but for the future as well.’3365dc6c5ac4ff91

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‘For the future…’2a018c100e65c564

‘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?’90e5d548583802ab

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At Etienne’s words, Antoine exclaimed ‘Ah!’ as if realizing something. His eyes sparkled with hope for the future.0e20362ff6ae1db5

‘Your Highness is right.’69282050e76b37fb

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‘Good. I’ll leave this task to you.’9875d18b93876344

‘Please entrust it to me. I’ll do my best.’acba7219f46ecf7a

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Antoine replied with an c8651246e1 eager face. From that 8a8f993039 day on, e8f3d6f9f5 whenever Antoine c56de9eb0c came to 30496e85cf the palace 256ffc533d to prepare 1d7388eabf for the 33a94fb65a debutante ball, da78577605 he reported 699d290587 on how 6f0d7570be things were 3633909127 progressing.466e802377f64915

He moved so busily 1d0be085a4 that it seemed he 5d61455b32 might be overdoing it. Thanks to that, he b3c2035534 saw results faster than 9d18385233 expected.0bd7e7e37a32aa62

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“Well done. I was right to entrust this to you.”e3865b3cf08bbb30

“Not at all. There’s still much lacking.”45c58e5ecda4d1ea

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Antoine grinned shyly. He climbed the stairs, e9d500291c trying to control his 4e65d3e073 rising smile.3461052d5455c263

The two entered b5c19a8193 the corridor connected 57d4f81344 to the grand 7e7a4bc79d ballroom where the 629c4e73ba debutante ball was 5ecde9e042 being held. At that moment, Etienne 4651ce3cce suddenly stopped, having noticed 3fcbcc299b something.5490fd2d935b8813

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“Your Highness?”e567996a6c5c35eb

Antoine called out to Etienne with a puzzled expression when he suddenly stopped walking. However, Etienne didn’t answer.5e3a6b70b90d7fad

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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.87c35656832d56d2

“Ah.”8685363002437c97

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Antoine involuntarily let out 4ebaed69e6 a sound as he 36d43e90f8 recognized the person. The man 80d51678bd who had 30a913be09 been talking af01978b8b to a c822090cbc woman with 0365f21ae3 striking purple af05a85d79 hair turned f1aee077b0 his head. It was Rishar.1b50677a94a3e970

“Hyung-nim.”5aa1c7470eeec410

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Rishar approached d25d5b26b3 with a 2840220631 bright expression a25a8494ee upon seeing 26df632666 Etienne. Etienne stared blankly 1acad4d539 at Rishar as c80e9b7625 he came closer. Then, suddenly coming to 27ef3b2591 his senses, he greeted bbed3ea3ff him.6f706c6e45c81e8f

“…It’s been a while, Grand Duke Eckhart.”5499c811c1148448

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“Yes, Your Highness. It’s the first time we met since the detached palace. Have you been well?”87f3db7db0ac19a9

Rishar hesitated momentarily 6dd2bf9923 when Etienne called e80f524ce2 him Grand Duke, 3a63ce41ad but quickly recovered 9ccec44080 and asked about 6e4a9dc15f his well-being with db24e1434b a smiling face.6cc43a05e3c6b7c8

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“I’ve been…”c9df36112ccb0dd7

Etienne trailed off, averting 45fa2019d0 his gaze. For some reason, it 30c730d293 was difficult to look 1dbf9c9711 at him directly.468fa4bce5228bcd

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What’s wrong with me?49b9053244ad732a

Etienne asked himself 4611323094 with a puzzled 6fe0a982bd expression, unable to 241a90d092 gauge his own 961fbba3f1 state of mind.50b9e6b59664bee0

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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.d307ba0b6d951f75

“How have you been, Grand Duke? I heard you’ve been quite busy with the security force lately.”3e1f2c7d2438c0cd

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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.1187a1a8d9548a69

It was natural. Even people who e5013876bf have known each 9d9db95e65 other for years b06fe19051 can betray one 434bf21107 another, so how 303ec977f2 could he trust 2960b5bfe7 someone he had ce69eb2609 only met a 37ba9a3b8d few times?ab6841209da45ce0

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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.ee03af4136883983

So Etienne only hinted that, contrary to public knowledge, he wasn’t on bad terms with Rishar.98fd5c83f357c5d3

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He planned to reveal 7f15028b96 more only when he af8e2f77d0 felt he could fully 208cd02cdd trust Antoine, or when bd3b3a3ad3 it became too difficult 2cf63324d1 to hide anything from 37af8d0a94 him.410d320447cadfb5

“I’m quite busy, but I’m adapting well.”44337fd7f48965ff

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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.”743256b604d9c059

“Thank you for your concern. I’ll make sure not to worry Your Highness.”9c18468a61185b3b

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“What would I have to worry about? You’ll surely handle everything well.”5b77863dbc4cb45a

Etienne laughed awkwardly. He still 7991d7cb65 avoided making af3ec5967c eye contact c5cd940ce2 with Rishar.5b69a988062d7ec1

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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.9cddbd2c1a36853b

“Are you uncomfortable somewhere?”27e6b8c1938a1ec2

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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.”6ae512a42cbef85c

Etienne, avoiding a eef6c56d28 direct answer, introduced 0b3cafdf6d Antoine to Rishar. Antoine, who had 695e56c677 been watching the 8494c704b2 two converse with 6ae852548d sparkling eyes, quickly 548dd96c31 stepped forward.d68638ed7a925b14

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“Greetings to the Sword of the Empire. I am Antoine of Mathias.”315d761b1585f315

“It’s been a while, Young Master Mathias.”f484351a47b0a001

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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.720e98526e483953

“I, uh, would like to apologize for my rudeness to the Grand Duke last time.”15e365a018560644

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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.e7293453445339ea

“Last time? Oh, you mean the banquet.”8779d4dd26feb2ca

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“Yes. At that time…”aaad86ac7ea3b4b1

“It’s fine. No need to apologize. I had forgotten about it until you mentioned it.”f2a094d2052902e7

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Rishar cut off Antoine’s words coldly, with a voice devoid of warmth.b8af6b063364eeb5

“I apologize… I shouldn’t have brought it up.”5e9341249e15fde2

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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.7536de54e799c2ae

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.6f49a8017710f4d8

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“I would also like to greet the Prince and Young Master Mathias!”1901f6d097d6ccfa

At that moment, Stella, 505d8b925a who had been behind 8d409dd263 Rishar, suddenly intervened. She had 770294f3a2 realized the 43f425f90c atmosphere was 4cc89ea22d becoming strange.53ea99c57295c34a

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“Greetings to the Star of the Empire, I am Stella of Flang!”805bf3ab129bc45c

“It’s been a while, Lady Stella.”ee834c9186a18bc3

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“How have you been?”8ed7cdfe5399c855

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.251629dd11400f04

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“I’ve been well. How about you?”90a0a259aa53c43d

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.30c3647208b88630

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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.”38e08847b8fa7e73

After praising Etienne’s appearance, Stella turned her gaze to Antoine.7cd324d075f9d575

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“And Young Master Mathias? Nice to meet you. I’m Stella of Flang.”ccf72b15d7d6b262

“Oh, yes, yes! Hello, I’m Antoine of Mathias.”615dfe6cfa7f50c3

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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!”e94dd4004d8f155b

“M-me?”1256f0f9cc01259f

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Antoine was startled by Stella’s words, his face coloring with excitement after being discouraged by Rishar.7b8f090246bb4f5c

“I’ve wanted to meet Lady Stella too!”e2e81b5aa328808f

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“Eing? Me?”61e2d7ee361db5ce

“Yes! I’ve admired Lady Stella for a long time! It’s truly an honor to meet you like this!”dff4ed2969359e28

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Antoine spoke with an 7ff430fc0b excited voice. He seemed 1c5e9b6873 overwhelmed to fe58e3ae13 hear from c92ce68edb someone he 289653ef2e had long 9cecdca5aa admired.57b3922858b8881e

“You’ve admired me? My goodness, such a beauty has had feelings for me – what a successful life! Since when? Have we met before?”5c6eecc1d63c88d0

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Stella, with 354df1702c a thrilled cdc7670a19 face, asked ffbd2a6a2d Antoine various b2e90f455d questions. Meanwhile, she drew 0fff8465be him closer to a666ad43e9 herself.414d06d0353a8033

Antoine, following Stella’s intentions, completely turned his body and enthusiastically answered her questions. The quiet corridor was instantly filled with their voices.01221b0bd369e8b3

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Etienne looked surprised at 34852c0fdf Stella and Antoine, who 0aa45ac886 had suddenly become lost 0a5da202f7 in their own world. As he d1f671e495 was contemplating 7f6b784359 whether to 7e3a38c8d7 interrupt their e2eaba5320 conversation, a 03272a900c shadow fell e3f1da2668 over his 1e9fd32720 head.7fe3e720f9289217

“Hyung-nim.”b82c1cc96a40f729

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“…!”9eadc4c4c017f7bc

Etienne reflexively raised 4acdbc554d his head at 9e92332c6f the calling voice 46b0fe88ad and shuddered. Rishar was suddenly 86fc2e290e right beside him.229c643fb2450bb6

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“What.”b981849b44015174

Etienne bit his lower lip, averting his gaze from Rishar’s deep, blue eyes. The stirring in his heart intensified again.f64ac8eaccf2a52c

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“Why do you keep avoiding my eyes?”43278506c9aacb41

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.e810644f094665e5

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“When have I? And don’t call me hyung-nim in front of the Margrave’s son.”a117d684cf6c2744

Etienne, denying Rishar’s words, gave a warning to be careful of his behavior. This only made Rishar’s expression worse.64a385ac430e46d3

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“Margrave Mathias’ son seems completely absorbed in his conversation with Lady Stella, as if we don’t even exist.”57f2fb17b0671071

Rishar retorted e74dc98bdf sharply, pointing 8f1272b814 at Antoine 81097fa3c1 with his b8cf86c6aa eyes. As he said, b2a756eae3 Antoine was deeply 06e742564f engrossed in his a7de38dd34 conversation with Stella. Even from behind, 6fa63ab720 he looked as 39d657d32b excited as a 4bf7c85ecb child who had d816f617ee received a surprise 46b3401154 gift.f8470eb075adb928

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“Still, we should be careful…”11ced7645ae47468

“Then shall I whisper so he doesn’t hear?”a909690c4ae2fd9d

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Rishar leaned his b54baebd60 upper body close abd5886e84 to Etienne and 11c2b3d195 spoke. At the suddenly close 61a6c8e791 distance, Etienne hesitated and 037fb71034 tried to step back.bb737e4293c38d6e

But Rishar was faster. A hand reached behind and grabbed Etienne’s waist.e649769678182be1

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“Ri…!”cea12464ff2aadc5

“Shh. You should lower your voice. What if the Young Master turns around?”ee930375c4908fda

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Rishar, who had just 55bfd9ca31 given Etienne the same 560a9960aa warning he had received, 7f59846fe5 playfully lifted the corner 30ec3899c3 of his eye.67e0636d275071ef

“I get it, so let go.”0e1aef2764a9d6dc

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“Don’t worry, my cloak is covering us.”6ddd5a804f3e24ed

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.335f6a6c1d81a10f

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“But…”4f08bade2e439ba3

Etienne trailed off, glancing at Antoine. Rishar’s eyes narrowed at Etienne’s continued concern about Antoine.11ce94d147cde0da

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“Tsk.”83a8eb14b065f91c

Rishar clicked his tongue, feeling irritation rise. He had thought he could endure it, but that wasn’t the case.90f0299df00ad3ed

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Moments ago, 92885f5f31 when he 9d678dd40f saw Etienne 9da1f9ae26 appear with 2e56b066bd Antoine, Rishar d55db6b4db simultaneously felt c54e988d0a joy and d48a70516b jealousy.40a8d2edf4371ab9

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.c13adf36e21f05ab

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Etienne probably didn’t know how anxious he was making Rishar.0e581e01004155bd

Rishar desperately suppressed the a0c4a67034 jealousy rising from deep 4373095f12 within his heart.691c971c30eabead

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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.11b9ebc34541ccc3

“First, I’ll just put this down…”cd0a718acc9c70ce

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“Hyung-nim.”e411c150f0f698ef

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.d5d56203ceddc4f9

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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.”a95259d15fedbb58

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.7a89d2899d636f28

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“Nngh.”c33aaa266355ef48

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.e881fd61069b42a3

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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.e7fea6093f6a7822

“You really…!”2799a50a65e1a123

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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.5afb3795a6482493

“You’re finally looking at me.”a519551ab5bdad3a

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Their eyes met, d348f8d8e4 and Rishar smiled eed4de69ee with a happy df407f9db0 face.0fce552bb30287d0

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.9a78ae640e18c5c8

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“…You too.”eab4b721dfdd6758

After moving his lips a few times, Etienne mumbled in a small voice. Only now did Rishar’s face fully come into his view.82ea8c7402c6c079

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“Pardon?”78c73cda91beaa47

“You look really cool today too.”6f2b5833051b3677

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“Really? I’m glad. I dressed up hoping to look good in your eyes.”365902b7b3b196c6

“You don’t need to dress up… No, never mind.”dbcb36fe0443e483

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Etienne, who was 99d1dc8e86 about to say c154343b02 he looks good ac1e0e1236 without dressing up, be8c6a7fe5 closed his mouth. He almost 392e8e10ab said something 637aa6e3c7 unnecessary.632722f44989cb2a

“Anyway, let go.”23dd850187ec64db

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Etienne pushed away Rishar’s hand, which was still holding his waist. The distance was too close.f502bf272ecda1bc

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.18e6d2c3506a73be

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Rishar brought Etienne’s hand closer to himself and gently kissed the tips of his neat fingers.0c77797ca7c53ef7

“I missed you, hyung-nim.”874d4cffc68f6f89

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The voice carrying longing 53b3964850 from past days flowed f172011656 between his lips and 95afeff3f5 delicate fingers. It was what f874ff7a1e he had always 2f32793345 wanted to say 6d09ec5162 ever since the 032a9f01bc first moment he 639d9c9f47 saw Etienne.b7453e2430a6545d

“What about you?”f97c04b92b1a65e0

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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.e1f3a032384cc681

“Didn’t you miss me too, hyung-nim?”42f6675cd9e163c2

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