PLQYM | Chapter 31

As two signatures were completed on the white document, the letters shimmered and floated into the air before vanishing.

“Oh-ho.”

Not only were the onlookers impressed, but even the signatories themselves watched with curious amazement.

“This is a new technique developed by the Magicians’ Association. If either of you breaks the contract, a binding spell will activate, and the treasure pledged will be destroyed.”

“Ah…”

“Oh, my…”

The signatories let out low murmurs, as if this was something they hadn’t fully anticipated.

The two families had recently embarked on a new business venture, combining products and techniques from their respective territories. Under the condition of mutual cooperation and the agreement not to leak technology elsewhere, the state had pledged to fund their development for the next thirty years. To seal this vow, each family had staked their most prized treasures.

Both families were long-standing powerhouses in the southern region of the Empire, with rich histories. Their treasures were steeped in tradition. One was a shield gifted by the Emperor to a family that had helped establish the Empire, while the other was a sword awarded for great achievements in war, personally bestowed by the Emperor. Both were invaluable treasures unmatched across the Empire.

If either party broke the contract, the respective treasure—the shield or the sword—would be destroyed, and the incident would immediately be reported to the Emperor and the Council of Nobles.

This system was devised by Lucian Astro as a way to prevent forced marriage alliances under the pretense of building trust.

Upon hearing the plan, Heraith Yorun Kellenhan ordered its immediate implementation. The Magicians’ Association, driven by the Emperor’s eager encouragement, had poured all their efforts into its development, and the results were satisfactory.

“It seems unlikely there will be any problems since both families value honesty and integrity,” Lucian said with a bright smile.

“Haha, of course. The partnership between our families will continue seamlessly…”

“Indeed. The two families are practically like one family now…”

“Yes, absolutely.”

“And we will ensure that no disgrace befalls His Majesty or the Empire…”

Lucian let their words wash over him, nodding in satisfaction after confirming the signatures. With mutual approval now given, it was time to officially start the endeavor.

“This concludes the partnership process. Regular reports should be delivered directly to His Majesty. Should any urgent matters arise, please contact me. I look forward to working with you.”

“Ah, yes.”

After exchanging a few more polite but meaningless words, Lucian finally managed to free himself from their presence.

“You’ve come up with such a brilliant alternative to marriage alliances. Truly remarkable, Sir Lucian,” Nils Bowman exclaimed in awe the moment they left the meeting room.

“Thank you.”

At first, Lucian couldn’t help but wonder if Nils was teasing him, but he had come to realize that the man’s words were sincere. Lucian could now laugh off his remarks with ease, knowing they were free of any ulterior motives.

After all, Nils Bowman was as straightforward and transparent as a person could be.

“Did His Majesty give you a bonus? Coming up with such a good idea and making it a reality deserves a reward.”

“Ah, well…”

Lucian trailed off, avoiding Nils’ expectant gaze.

A bonus.

The Emperor had given him something, albeit not exactly what he wanted.

Thanks to you, the bothersome issue of marriage alliances has been resolved. Here’s a reward.

What the Emperor casually handed over was a seaside villa from the imperial estate.

‘I don’t even use villas! Gold would’ve been better—just give me gold!’

That thought nearly escaped his lips, but fortunately, he managed to hold it in. Saying it aloud could’ve caused trouble, considering the Emperor’s unpredictable temperament.

“In any case, having you as Chief of Staff makes working so much easier, Sir Lucian.”

Nils nodded vigorously, continuing his praise.

“You’re the only one who can manage His Majesty’s eccentricities so well, and you even speak your mind to him freely. It’s truly impressive.”

The compliments kept flowing, all the way back to Lucian’s office.

“Ah, Sir Lucian!”

Just as Lucian was about to step into the aide office, Nils cautiously called out to him.

“About… His Majesty’s, um, that…”

Nils’ uncharacteristic hesitation made Lucian look at him with a calm, yet not-so-warm smile. His lips curved gently, but his eyes were devoid of any mirth. The stark difference in warmth felt like a warning.

“Sir Nils, you know better than anyone that His Majesty is not a careless man.”

“…”

“We only need to focus on our tasks without getting swayed by the countless rumors surrounding him.”

“…”

“I truly appreciate how straightforward you are, Sir Nils. His Majesty values that as well. Let’s not get caught up in unfounded gossip.”

“…I apologize, Sir Lucian. I wasn’t thinking clearly.”

Nils quickly apologized, and Lucian was confident it wouldn’t happen again. Nils Bowman was a man of his word.

“Oh, I have something for you.”

Suddenly, as if remembering, Nils spoke up.

“A letter and a gift have arrived from Prince Joachim.”

“Again?”

“Yes. I made sure to deliver it secretly, knowing His Majesty wouldn’t be pleased.”

After checking his surroundings, Nils carefully pulled out an envelope bearing Antien’s crest. Lucian had seen it so many times that he could probably draw it with his eyes closed.

“The gift has been placed in your room. I didn’t bring it to the office in case His Majesty sees it.”

“Haha. Thank you…”

Nils, lowering his voice as if performing some covert operation, prompted a faint, exasperated smile from Lucian.

It had been two years since Prince Joachim of Antien started sending letters. Two years since he had visited Pranas and learned, after his return, that Lucian had fallen ill partly due to the wine he had served. Ever since then, Joachim had been sending letters of apology accompanied by gifts.

At first, Lucian thought it would stop after a few times, but the letters kept coming. When Joachim couldn’t attend the opening of the port established through an agreement with Antien, he sent a tearful letter along with a shipload of gifts. The letter went on at length about his disappointment at not being able to reunite with Lucian and the heartbreak it caused him, even claiming he fell ill from the distress.

‘What an ordeal that was.’

Suppressing a sigh, Lucian opened the latest letter.

Lucian,

I was relieved to hear that you’ve forgiven me, but reading your reply makes me doubt if that’s really true.
“Thank you, but please stop sending these.” Really?
How can anyone send a reply with just two lines? Oh wait, including your signature, it’s three. Should I feel happy that it’s one more line than last time?
I want to talk to you more, but your replies are always too short. It breaks my heart.
Even your handwriting is flawless, which makes it even worse. Could you write just a little longer next time?
Oh, is Heraith overworking you, leaving you no time to write?
Why don’t you just come to me? I promise to treat you like royalty.
I hope you’ll change your mind and join me soon. Until then, I dream of the day we reunite.

Yours always,
Joachim.

*P.S.
1. I kept the greetings short this time, as you requested. How’s that?
2. Is triple your salary not enough? What about five times?*

What is he, a child? Complaining about short replies like this…

After reading, Lucian folded the letter back neatly into its envelope. He would’ve crumpled it if it weren’t for Nils’ curious gaze.

“Thank you, Sir Nils.”

Lucian tucked the letter into his pocket and nodded.

“You’re welcome. I’ll make sure to handle the next delivery discreetly.”

Nils smiled brightly, and after a bit of small talk, the two parted ways.

Maintaining a faint smile, Lucian headed back to his workplace—the Emperor’s office.

Back to Heraith’s side.