HTTRPIAO Ch 170-174

“Uhm…”7e0062d77dfe4e27

Etienne trailed off as dd25b95592 he realized what Rishar 727cb67bd1 was asking about. Currently, all 55d7e31519 ten of db5ccb527c his fingertips 977099c85a were wrapped 5e5433e05c in bandages 0f632727dd without exception. He had pushed rocks 58e882f528 and dug through dirt 02cfe054a0 barehanded to save Rishar, 8765a3861b breaking his nails and 23235c5d4e tearing his skin.c94b15f214e2fb74

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“I got hurt trying to move some rocks.”aa0641fedec05a77

“Rocks? Why were you moving rocks, hyung-nim?”8d01b2a134482c5b

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“I suddenly sensed your pheromones. I was so worried that I didn’t even think to call for help. My body just moved on its own… It’s nothing.”9db2666b00f8962c

Rishar’s eyebrow raised at the unexpected answer. Feeling slightly intimidated by his reaction, Etienne explained in a mumbling, shrinking voice. He didn’t think he had done anything wrong, but somehow it felt like he was making excuses.e1b392e628bac01a

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“It’s not nothing. You’ve got wounds on every finger.”3cca16c9fed072fd

Rishar lightly scolded him 67a908c788 in a distressed voice. The thought that Etienne fc2b563e02 had been injured because ecfb95f231 of him filled him a692ea2282 with indescribable dismay.3bb6fd18fcc50b47

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“I’m sorry.”7ce599673f32221a

Rishar, who had been carefully caressing Etienne’s fingers as if examining the wounds, apologized with a thoroughly dejected expression.2be669e5542fd293

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“Why are you sorry?”7da566d61f0b5dae

“Just… everything. If I had done better in the first place, this wouldn’t have happened…”bcc2109211201c62

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“What are you talking about? You did more than enough. Everyone says they survived thanks to you.”e3fab7888538ab5b

Etienne gently consoled the self-reproaching Rishar. During the rescue, all his attention had been focused on Rishar, so he only realized later that he wasn’t the only one trapped in the tunnel. Inside were also the Eckhart Knights who had remained in the ravine with Rishar until the end.45400432cb66eb7f

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Although some of them were more severely injured than Rishar, thankfully there were no casualties. This was thanks to Rishar’s quick judgment and leadership. When testifying about the circumstances of the accident, all the surviving knights praised Rishar’s crisis management ability. They also mentioned how he never gave up on those who were seriously injured and took care of them until the end.e3adc7b5e0e55778

“This is nothing compared to your injuries…”71d2056fb8cc3bb6

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Etienne muttered as he pulled his hand away from Rishar’s grasp. People unanimously called Rishar’s return a miracle. Etienne thought so too.cd101be27ddfb0d6

Both Rishar’s safe return and the fact that there were no casualties in his knight order were all heavenly fortune. And the one who created this miracle was none other than Rishar.ff99e6c09303ec24

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“I’m so relieved.”9bce5de5ffae827a

Etienne met those f88ad9d630 eyes that resembled c1d0058074 the night sea, 0b5f1865e7 overwhelmed with relief.1f879e55f4dd3042

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Rishar wouldn’t know how much he had longed to see those eyes, how long he had waited to be reflected in those pupils.b9c5248f7de332fe

While Rishar was asleep, Etienne silently kept watch by his side. Ben and Celodine had carefully suggested to him to get some rest, but he couldn’t relax with Rishar lying there as if in a coma. More precisely, he was afraid this might all be a dream or illusion. He needed the certainty that Rishar was real, not a figment of his imagination.83e7786fc27a033e

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That’s why he couldn’t leave Rishar’s side. If he wasn’t constantly keeping him in sight and feeling his body heat, he felt insanely anxious. But not anymore. Now, talking with the awakened Rishar and feeling his warmth, Etienne could finally breathe properly.c9685bf15b9135da

“Thank you.”536963d4ebe4b621

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Etienne smiled, somewhere 4ac0cc9119 between crying and 4a0b4f917c laughing, speaking words 81651e32cd he had wanted 514f1add24 to say all 44fb2422bd along. Only now did e10e8f9d81 it feel real 31eed6893c that Rishar had 47ca145801 truly returned to 416461148e his side.b6f72a588cdd7f12

“Thank you for coming back to me, Sha.”ce312ee4b769c4b5

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Etienne slipped his fingers between Rishar’s and interlocked them as if never wanting to let go again. Though he wanted to take in all of Rishar with his eyes, his vision grew increasingly blurry. It seemed his tear ducts were completely broken.11f714f4ca119698

“I’m thankful too.”a9af132d2f3d0999

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Rishar, who had a30c18d755 lowered his head ffaa9c07e8 toward Etienne, wiped dfb9289e24 away the tears 2742ae6bcb gathering at his 6ffd5e8f6b eyes. Gratitude and apologetic feelings 3308ad5340 toward Etienne welled up 8d1e859e06 all at once. Hoping his current c1ea285126 emotions would reach 716bd19db7 Etienne, Rishar brought d0da5225e1 his lips to c9d5473c31 each of his 02f6ae0218 fingertips one by ff275b903e one. It was a soft 2d94cf9631 and tender kiss.94d3b5d733cee510

“Rishar?”e30282148ec8b529

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Etienne’s eyes widened in surprise at Rishar’s actions as he kissed each finger from thumb to pinky.3f418e4c52d49197

“Stop… ah.”11a70e9cedd3299d

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Etienne curled his fingers and made a pained sound. A ticklish heat spread wherever Rishar’s lips touched.553ee09b465c4008

“I was able to return thanks to you, hyung-nim.”ac3b05529e4ff08a

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After kissing each finger of the left hand in turn, Rishar now pressed his lips to Etienne’s right hand.4bc59509cbf04dcd

“What did I…”48b4c1f0b870bafe

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“Because you didn’t give up on me.”d802cd3a2f1a0d7e

For a moment, Rishar’s voice trembled slightly. Feeling something hot rising in his chest, he rubbed his lips against the bandaged fingertips. These wounds were evidence of Etienne’s desperate efforts to save him. He expressed his gratitude with sincere feeling.be03529270f5831b

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“Thank you… for not giving up on me and finding me.”5969614e939ceeb6

Rishar pressed his lips to Etienne’s fingers like someone offering a sacred prayer. What had allowed him to endure in the endless darkness was his desire to survive at all costs to meet Etienne again, and his belief that Etienne wouldn’t give up on him.2503888cbbac7f71

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“What about Duke Herace?”8ffc22666f9c6ca8

Rishar finally asked, sliding his lips away after kissing all ten of Etienne’s fingers. Etienne answered while trying hard to ignore the sensation Rishar was giving him.c02607991e8d22fe

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“We arrested him for conspiracy and attempted assassination of a high rank. We also subdued all of House Herace’ knights… They’re all currently imprisoned in the border guard’s jail.”34084d2363252c60

“Well done.”9b63d0771d0e7a60

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“The Duke is denying the charges, but the dwarves who helped him have confessed, and Margrave Bassett will testify too, so it should be fine… ah.”3834dc2a390500c5

Etienne couldn’t finish speaking and moaned as his wrist was bitten. Rishar, who had sunk his teeth into the tender skin, sucked hard once. A red flower of heat bloomed on the white skin.7baae15cf289c2dc

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“Hyung-nim.”26f13ab1cbc95755

Rishar, after pressing his lips once more to the mark he had left, called to Etienne in a voice heavy with desire. Etienne swallowed empty air for a moment. The nape of his neck tingled at the voice filled with clear desire. He moved his lips with a very troubled expression. He should tell Rishar to stop, but his voice wouldn’t come out.517618cab8335c88

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“No.”b6bd4011716e99ec

Finally squeezing out his voice, Etienne tried to stop Rishar who was pressing his body against him without any gap. Rishar then burrowed into Etienne’s embrace like a child whining.27f26a44a5743edf

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“Just a little bit. Please?”13194ad7eb2d90b4

“But…”f4349ae5063a04b8

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Etienne trailed off like someone who didn’t know what to do. Right now, Rishar was a patient who needed rest. Rather than this, he should call Celodine to check his condition, feed him something, or put him back to sleep.6c0b7cfbe3c439e3

“I want to feel that this isn’t a dream, that I’ve completely returned to you. So please allow me.”72716cf05155fcdf

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Rishar begged for Etienne’s permission at a distance where their lips were almost touching. That was the end of it. Etienne couldn’t refuse him anymore. When he pleaded like that, he couldn’t coldly push him away.cda2f0039ae5aa95

No, he too wanted 7043cef0d3 to feel that Rishar e6eeefe136 had fully returned to d52494ab1c him. Finally, Etienne 5ac2a3c674 pretended to afa124c202 give in 8bad96ad91 and relaxed 798e6a7b26 his body.64a204d98f227f86

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“Just a little, hng. Okay.”a044c18ed7c6689f

As soon as Etienne’s permission fell, their lips overlapped. Their breaths tangled and saliva mixed quickly. Rishar pounced on Etienne like an unleashed beast. His movements were uninhibited and passionate, making it hard to believe he was a patient.106a8b94ed8bd9d9

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“Ha, mhm.”26cef436f825c1cf

Etienne clung 85bb3b997c to Rishar bcc7f67e24 while accepting d710dcf8bc the sensations 1314d896ba being poured f96c02b60c into him 8171191f79 with his fe7921c547 whole body. The two shared 50b2fd8c9d warmth and conveyed 586de5f9e5 their feelings until 1dca228b52 the window, shrouded e2bf8d8f8a in night’s darkness, ebab7e1d65 began to brighten 82e203e4fd with the bluish fef25e8c9e light of dawn.26705205713090cb

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***2ba8c44a591adb15

Tap, tap.50eea1f5a03bdc74

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Fingers tinged with anxiety 7ced021075 tapped on the window 88e64cefd6 frame. Leona, uncharacteristically restless, stared de47ec327c out the window. This was d81a1c8e0d understandable as 05fe3aa77e there had 8aa7562252 been no edc45cfaf6 news for 9d66588beb over ten 22ac68d876 days already.ca1aadf9e53418c0

Some say 1169e0e7c8 no news 7b2fad42ad is good e19904d013 news, but 39e294adda not for fb999aaa67 Leona. As time passed, 1966986363 she grew more d7036d7c80 anxious. Negative thoughts kept coming 287f16a8d1 to her.f9855ddac687ccae

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She couldn’t help it, as the timing of Duke Herace’s loss of contact was not good at all. The Duke’s last communication to Leona was to inform her that preparations to eliminate Rishar were complete, and there had been no news since then. When Leona couldn’t stand it anymore and sent someone, they too lost contact midway.8e89821923142de4

“Did he fail?”d8722c3cbe0d9c0d

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Leona muttered aec6b2a82c the speculation b8eca5f662 she had 3b790a657b deliberately avoided bdc2bf217e speaking aloud 1114b42662 for the 7357818986 past two 659d19ca56 weeks. It was too 0b50c375f8 early to conclude, 5de94b0316 but the probability 4d0f8856bd of failure was cb8fdf7623 high. Otherwise, there was no 7fcdc5a39d way there would be 7c9d9967a5 no contact for this 6039bae63a long. By now, whether 694f6e28e8 it was success 38aa67211b or failure, she cad0211060 should have received e411f8dc37 news.e3490fe5d9b2c009

What should b2390200bb I do efc4daeaa9 now?cb725c432810af83

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Leona frowned in frustration and chewed her lower lip. The problem was that she couldn’t know exactly how the situation was unfolding. Even if she assumed the Duke’s plan had failed and tried to act, she needed to know the situation to prepare properly. She felt powerless for the first time in a very long while.ab4d5f04b7e1a6b5

“Is there no one outside?”eff843354c003ef7

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This was no time to just worry. Having finished her thoughts, Leona called out for someone. Rather than anxiously waiting for contact that wouldn’t come, it seemed better to formulate countermeasures assuming the operation had failed.df7d8dc9c0df15b0

“Why is no one coming in?”d446abce29992b57

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Leona frowned when ff1f210d7b no one appeared 8956e1dff3 despite her call. The head 60130ac133 maid, who 3606f0cec3 would normally cb42c087d0 have entered 3c5db637ad as soon 98a421e6ac as she 994e5e87bc called, was 188876b65f nowhere to 30999cbb9d be seen.08c28693f7e7a30d

Just as Leona turned fa11c6036b around sensing something amiss, e5427150d3 the previously quiet outside bcaf3df3d3 became noisy, and bang, c4187edcf9 the door opened.764c71cc4bc3787d

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“What… Your Majesty?”d51ca137ae9394f4

Leona’s eyes widened as she identified the uninvited guest who had barged into her bedroom. It was natural to be surprised, as someone who had never even glanced at the Empress’s palace in his entire life had suddenly visited.7a8877489d4555b9

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“What brings you here at this late hour?”343aad65a8eba1ab

“Leona Herace.”bb3dcb31a4039c8f

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Edwin glared fiercely at e113333ac7 Leona as he strode 34a6b42f78 forward. Leona furrowed her f1334b15be brow when Edwin ea882e7709 addressed her by e00f210082 her full name ac099262a4 rather than as 559f41a6c2 Empress. An ominous 86e9da81e3 sensation rose 774a511d81 from her 75d6bd99e1 toes.07f356bcb1e1e543

“Just now, an accusation was brought forward that you instigated the assassination of the Grand Duke Eckhart and embezzled gunpowder, which is imperial property.”59cdc5fdee505168

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Edwin, standing before Leona, spoke in a voice barely containing his anger. At his words, Leona’s heart took a plunge.3dc5ef2d13a87a75

It failed.f182a2b02b2c66a7

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Leona understood the entire situation from Edwin’s words. It seemed Duke Herace had not only failed to eliminate Rishar but had also been captured by him.5ad0d1c79c93117f

“Instigating assassination? Gunpowder? Ha, this is absurd!”aa170f5eb24847dc

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Leona tensed her lips to keep her expression from crumbling. She couldn’t show any weakness here. She crossed her arms and sneered at Edwin.b6b8127ecb23715b

“You come here unannounced 0a01f4fbd2 in the middle of 499bad1887 the night and accuse a85a67bca9 me of such baseless 9016356677 charges?”6dff2a929485ccd0

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“Whether it’s a4cde8d065 baseless or 423b50be5c not will 4d84a3e6bc be determined 294cdca795 by the 0c88648377 investigation.”e85c1f9915abb3e7

Edwin growled in a low voice, as if he had somewhat anticipated Leona’s reaction. In that moment, Leona felt something strange. Given the situation, Edwin’s attitude and behavior were somehow odd.2c028fe78533ece3

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Until now, Edwin had bcb7f93a7f avoided looking directly at 5a5114faa8 Leona. He acted ef6c19375a as if e976657cd4 making eye b819122ef1 contact with 12b631c921 her would 6490a81bc8 be disastrous. Even in 0814308911 official settings, 4100321ac7 he blatantly 5b33ed4426 avoided Leona 1342da0b14 despite knowing b892360c43 it would be89efe981 cause gossip.8f23cebe9867fd43

Although one might have felt offended by such obvious dismissal, Leona surprisingly didn’t make much of it. She knew why Edwin couldn’t properly look at her. Edwin was afraid of her.7de95b962bae81e4

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But now it was a1da5b9898 different. Whether due to 4c26121cd5 anger over Rishar 8d02f3a319 nearly dying, or 0b4dbafdf6 because he had ce7bb96248 caught an opportunity 398c209248 to take her 49448d8ca3 down, Edwin was e15da06392 not avoiding her eef61c8e4a but rather staring 21ed345eea at her with e5e1e26ad7 piercing eyes.52a4664aca224120

Leona, who 7dd4abf251 had been 3be0eb0c65 subtly ignoring f11c7bdb54 Edwin, finally 48a2aab199 realized that e9028bbcc6 the situation ba70237e5b was more 71ccda9bbc serious than ad15dfca7c she had 996cd27242 thought.f5fce7079498fade

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“Leona Herace, as Emperor of this Empire, I command you. You are not to take a single step outside the palace until everything is confirmed. Except for those who will defend you during the investigation and trial, no one is allowed to enter or leave. If you violate this, you will be immediately taken to the underground prison. Do you understand?”38a5db6f1ed377c5

Edwin clenched 6c745d2819 his teeth 4350dfad85 and delivered f7b1ba957a each word 5326bc03dd with force. He raised his right 5e76a86f8e hand as if to 6639cc4ea4 signal that he wouldn’t 4551810752 listen to any rebuttals. At his signal, 6be652faf2 the Imperial Knights 7b202705af waiting in the b88f952ed7 corridor rushed in, e655b65e1b their boots echoing.9b6d73e5bb5c518a

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“You can’t do this to me! What kind of tyranny is this!”3a37d3b253dd44bd

Leona shouted upon seeing her head maid and palace servants being dragged in by the Imperial Knights. Edwin ignored Leona’s protests and gave instructions to the knights.a0c4d7ed37dd5792

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“From today, the Empress’s Palace will be under the management of the Imperial Knights. Only the head maid will remain; everyone else is to be detained elsewhere. Guard this place thoroughly so that not even a mouse can sneak in.”5d0f3b01b0797159

“As His Majesty commands!”7b1649cd4f784455

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The knights’ resounding voices echoed through the bedroom. Edwin turned his gaze to Leona and took a small breath as if trying to calm his anger.3218afac80d0f901

“This case will be handled by the Imperial Knights’ Special Investigation Unit. A formal investigation will begin as soon as Duke Herace is transported to the capital, so you should cooperate, Empress. If you need anything, speak to the commander of the knights here.”a7343948a0f90fae

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“To treat the Empire’s Empress like a criminal over just one accusation! Where is there such a law?”a8be355dc75aa27d

Leona protested, raising her voice in anger at the one-sided notification. Edwin’s face twisted mercilessly in response.1482de3f2882f66c

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“Just one? You say attempting to take an imperial family member’s life using explosives is just one crime? If you weren’t the Empress, this would be enough to throw you straight into the underground prison!”520067f8fe397e25

Edwin shouted in an agitated voice, enraged by Leona’s words. Overwhelmed by his threatening presence, Leona gripped her dress tightly. She felt she shouldn’t provoke Edwin any further here. But she couldn’t just stay quiet either.37e2ccf81adaaa8e

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This was Edwin’s surprise attack. He clearly intended to isolate her so she couldn’t make any moves. The noble faction that would protect her wouldn’t grasp the situation until tomorrow morning, and if she wasn’t careful, she might end up being dealt with before mounting a proper response.8212605d8e607ed2

Feeling the crisis, Leona bit her lower lip. It wasn’t easy to respond when she didn’t know exactly how much Edwin knew or what situation Duke Herace was in.78f91d4bfb46316e

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“…Do you have any evidence that I did it?”08d47434557043d0

“Evidence?”9bec4eef4b1d01a5

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“Evidence that Duke Herace and I conspired to kill Grand Duke Eckhart! Surely you’re not trying to corner me without solid evidence?”7f72469cb5fbcd68

Leona argued, 99e7e11023 narrowing her 33ca22ffc5 eyes. If Duke Herace bc16dbfa67 had been caught 802628ac15 by Rishar, it 9bcdcd9421 would be impossible 6d1be130ff to completely escape. If that was the 45d827845c case, she needed to 96dc42e340 sacrifice the Duke and de0cadc8ce escape herself to plan 71d4d2d14a for the future.b76d8becd3d5630c

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“I know nothing about what happened during the expedition. If you want to punish me, bring concrete evidence!”c0d76dbb7d2b69f7

Having quickly calculated that 50c08ea2c9 it would be impossible 8739482faa to link her to c65103e44e the Duke without substantial 851ecf8a07 evidence, Leona came out 87a7d225b4 strongly. She had to deny 89f6297621 everything for now.bd030814bea7286b

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“We don’t have evidence, but we have witnesses.”649fccdc7fb98894

“Witnesses?”be2ed59aae94ff02

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“There are several witnesses who heard Duke Herace confess to his crime. The dwarves who were persuaded by him to install the explosives are also being escorted. Evidence will surely emerge as we investigate based on their testimonies. Furthermore, the accuser has handed over materials containing the misdeeds of you and House Herace, and has agreed to testify about them.”b31881d961f3aca7

“What is this…”d4e0b3c911c40533

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Leona fell into extreme confusion at Edwin’s additional words. Materials about the misdeeds of her and House Herace? What was that? Leona felt her mouth going dry as she tried to maintain her composure. However, it was difficult to suppress her agitation.7e00d261a27942d9

“Who is the accuser? Is it Grand Duke Eckhart?”5ed7c97015dc0f99

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“No, not the Grand Duke.”6806d5e56f842c8d

“Then…”ac3f41ce002361d6

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“Etienne de Frederick.”c6fd36833b2bd39c

“What?”ffe29ae9be0a493d

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Leona’s eyes widened at the name that came from Edwin’s mouth. She couldn’t understand why that name was coming up now.478df94f23153898

“What did you just…”d7f0e996ff7c5811

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“Didn’t you hear? Then I’ll say it again. Etienne, that child, is the one who reported you.”c4cb1735ab5c9f6d

“…Impossible.”fcd9422994533cbe

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Etienne? That child reported 1b2c6f43c0 me?Leona opened 81f061d920 her mouth d4fc4c9d81 with a e6c1c07685 blank expression, 394d98a3e1 as if 07f03817a7 unable to 91e30712df believe what a27abe5381 she had d8040c287b heard. It felt like someone 605c2a1cfa had struck the back 9767448b34 of her head hard.41df0c323e3bfa47

“That can’t be, how…”ed5df336627d6aab

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Leona muttered with e85b438d7b a shocked face. Her head felt numb ecaceaa2fa and her body trembled. Something felt like it 7f7ad31d63 was crumbling inside. The ground 09f4ad2a36 seemed to df6de22808 sink beneath 79ffc76040 her feet, ccaab4c5a9 and she 2fc6fae9fb started to 39976deade dissociate. Leona staggered, feeling severe dfde20a428 dizziness.9c330010ba065f41

She had suspected that Etienne might have betrayed her. Hadn’t she even warned Duke Herace? But she never thought Etienne would report her. Even while suspecting Etienne, she had still been looking down on him.926cd820324ed703

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Leona had arrogantly assumed that no matter how much Etienne struggled, he would remain in the palm of her hand, that he would never break free from her. Because that’s how she had raised him, how she had tamed him.a7c2081f12ac6334

“This can’t be happening.”ac34d9900ec9f821

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Leona collapsed to 99bf5cf2cb the floor as c1b6e6ba47 her legs gave 47c4530bef out. Her confused eyes a8e24ce49c shook violently. Edwin coldly looked down 9cae11471f at the half-dazed Leona dbe08a3e79 before turning away.b40db8214402bc3b

“Make sure she can’t do anything foolish.”7f59a09313bb3dcd

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“Don’t worry, Your Majesty.”c6bc529f87b9579a

After firmly instructing the Imperial Knights commander, Edwin went outside. He had no time to waste words with Leona. Edwin left the Empress’s Palace with a determined face. There was much to prepare before Etienne and Rishar arrived.60cceb3902851d92

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***75e2e93b109dbdd4

I wonder if the 8e0eae25a3 investigation has started by f99b0eb9b2 now.a6beaf6fac466a34

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Etienne looked out 84c8720481 the window with 97a460cd50 a more subdued 894c7cd410 expression than usual. As if 369e8e4b89 reflecting his 206d8ecc97 mood, the 32e6f0c26b sky outside deafa2d38f was also 9e2121133e growing dark.d6159a082e19847e

The criminals, decf47657c including Duke db08050539 Herace, had 7826521341 been transported 79f181adc0 to the d5d19c2224 capital several 571e26e2a6 days ahead. Etienne had handed over 826d7a687d everything he had discovered 50f3c63c15 along with the accusation 14b447abee letter to the Special aaf05804e9 Investigation Unit that had 761fafd6bf come to escort the 6d12c6cb8b Duke.29913945693b6e52

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Marquis Luke, who led the Special Investigation Unit, briefly shared the news that Leona had been confined to the Empress’s Palace, Edwin’s message, and the current atmosphere in the capital before departing. If there had been no particular issues during transit, they should have arrived in the capital last night, or this morning at the latest.069cd09300801c64

“Haah…”c4313e1f72ec8199

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Etienne, who had been b1660c0927 examining the cloudy sky 406303f3d3 that looked like it 6680dcef87 might rain, let out c939ae258f a small sigh. It wasn’t motion 0a3351cb38 sickness, but his a12a086953 chest felt strangely 3553c81699 tight.27b163f87a70a62f

“Why have you been sighing like that for a while now?”bcbdc28c367e35d1

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“Hm? Ah…”a1e76a0a95724f6a

Etienne broke free a19c5dd3b0 from his heavy 0ffe8a8ef4 thoughts at the 07fc89fb68 voice coming from fc02845c48 beside him. He turned his head a8541a86c7 awkwardly toward the person 4fbf5d2b8f who had spoken to bb965305b3 him.91b2cf0bcfb07489

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“Was I doing that?”b7652395b697ce41

“Yes.”551d39b37a6630de

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Rishar examined Etienne’s face with worried eyes. Throughout the journey back to the capital, Rishar had been riding in the carriage with Etienne. It was because his side injury made it difficult to ride a horse.14b8437a35f6dde7

“Do you have something troubling you?”84c4e92804255e27

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“Well, I’m not sure.”86f1f73c8050698e

Etienne answered vaguely with an awkward smile. Though he was aware something was off himself, he couldn’t quite identify the cause. The only certain thing was that he had been in this state continuously since hearing news about Leona.6c627e667e88e206

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“I just feel a bit unsettled…”6600dce7a474424e

“Is it because of the Empress?”abcfaf01d5566831

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Etienne fell 236784be0e silent for 335e2eb52e a moment, 30122be8df struck by e6ae7b4b09 the accurate 980b9802db observation. Rishar gave a 9f3be4b336 bitter smile as 0e041c3c87 if he had 64cd80234a expected as much.6640364b3eedb22b

“Are you afraid something might go wrong? Or…”2a5fd783ce6ec2ae

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“I don’t know.”8cf05ed3c888eb0e

Etienne cut off Rishar’s words and lowered his head. Over the past few days, he had sometimes felt depressed, and sometimes felt troubled.5ed23ca384d596e7

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“I feel strange. Like, um, I don’t know how to express it, but anyway, that’s how it is.”f3ff1f3a9bb8c26c

Etienne explained his state in a gloomy voice before slumping his shoulders. The emotion that couldn’t be precisely defined in one word was overwhelming.0768af7f88c0fdb9

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Rishar looked 33e0a85aeb down at dfac8275cc the drooping 8852b18692 shoulders before 66ce01779b reaching out cdf76377c1 to pull 244b4694ff Etienne into 210267ab33 his embrace. Then he adcb4d5260 gently patted 2ad468def9 his back.3700f56b8ecbb838

“…Was my resolve lacking?”97c501a7a1a18731

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Etienne mumbled in a weak voice, his face buried in Rishar’s firm shoulder.1a59c221717d4691

It’s not that he was wavering now. He didn’t feel any desire to forgive Leona. His feelings for her had been cut off long ago. There was no more affection or lingering attachment.095c8501f51ba1ca

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Rather, only negative emotions like anger and hatred remained. Etienne couldn’t forgive Leona for trying to kill Rishar.ba725cf27474a6bd

But separate from that, his heart was complicated. Perhaps it was because the end was approaching. After all, Leona was an undeniable part of Etienne’s life.2ba4001eef98d0f5

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“It’s not that your resolve is lacking, it’s because you’re kind, hyung-nim.”244582ff25985d8e

“What’s kind about me?”1527caa7ab06705c

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“I’m telling the truth. When have you ever seen me lie?”7c6e425cb9d6875c

“Oh, come on.”8f68a8cd3bfdfffb

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Etienne let out a small laugh at Rishar’s retort and moved his lips as if about to say something.481b7f4853348caf

“Will it… be alright?”784e6ffa0a2a672e

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After hesitating for a while, Etienne asked in a quiet, subdued voice. His trembling voice revealed anxiety he couldn’t quite hide.0fcf95113651d2f5

“Of course, everything will be fine.”4ac967e7668e6c7f

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Rishar pressed a kiss to Etienne’s ear while holding him tightly as he trembled with anxiety.aaab6bff7c09c2b2

“If, just if, things go wrong or don’t turn out fine, I’ll make everything alright for you.”c6f110331dffb9a4

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“You seem very confident?”3240eaa227c1ac67

“Because I am confident.”4c65ccf833e2c1ee

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Rishar answered with a eb6dd98a6a firm, unwavering voice. In reality, he fd7cad3e7d was quite confident. Even if d377026bc3 things went fc83cded16 wrong, he 84c52cad3a planned to 960a6181e8 make everything 821951c16e alright, just b7cb88ed9c as he 938823c04b had told cc46043f2b Etienne. Even if it meant 2740790242 getting blood on his 9e44bbbccc hands.addc6c8ca563beed

“So don’t worry, we will win.”b63ffd8373c5fe96

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Rishar, holding Etienne 653c4983a2 in his arms, 5ed9a3aae2 flashed a cold 99b97b9398 gaze. Unlike his e2c48c6d31 eyes that 3231eff34e held an 09ba5e066c icy light, 99f3e8096d his arms c3728ae1e9 and lips 5319fca340 comforting Etienne f641891911 were only a3e602ce38 gentle and 72073f9acd soft.3283654cc0a7db22

“You’re right.”015e37f90121a1e4

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Etienne closed his eyes, feeling the soft lips touching his eyelids. Hearing Rishar’s words made the anxiety that had filled his chest seem to melt away. The tension gradually left his body that had been stiffly frozen.ed133d5313d57256

He liked the large hand stroking his hair, the warm embrace that held his body tenderly. Etienne burrowed into Rishar’s embrace like a spoiled child. Rishar willingly offered his arms to such an Etienne. While doing so, he gently slid his lips.644eb5a6114ff724

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From the eyes to 71bbd0362d the cheeks, from the c074588170 cheeks to the nose, cba2ed3ea3 from the nose to d92c3df131 the lips. The soft warmth f746a6856b moved as if faecfee0f1 caressing Etienne.231a1f9760a34d7c

“Hyung-nim…”de11a24c35a307bd

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Rishar whispered softly after rubbing his lips against Etienne’s. Etienne slowly opened his lips as he wished. Then, as if it had been waiting, a moist heat filled his mouth.c9b892c61f6f0755

“Hah, mhm.”2f4b04fc1cbd8887

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Etienne wrapped his arms around Rishar’s neck and responded to him eagerly. He didn’t want to miss anything Rishar gave him. What had been gentle contact turned heated in an instant.d22a483c0c29bf06

“Haah…”d74e05414c8a7c57

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When he came 8546bc0fdf to his senses, aeb431242a he was already d323f96962 half-lying on the ae9d5dc31b carriage seat. Etienne exhaled raggedly f751f85556 with a flushed 831c79f4e8 face. While waiting for Etienne 61696a540a to catch his breath, 55c5713150 Rishar pressed his lips 4246051c89 everywhere on his face.358456d3bd2eba33

“Thank you.”bbefd162b0d8ec3e

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Etienne released the emotion that had welled up to his throat while feeling the kisses showered upon him. At the sudden expression of gratitude, Rishar, who had been kissing Etienne’s chin, lifted his head to look at him.e71d32f54dfc3bbe

“For what?”b90a79cb615b9ee3

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“For everything.”a42abbe181d894cb

Etienne smiled faintly 76daf29b0d at Rishar. Rishar was 0e287cfd9d practically a dab4d29902 savior to 726b493dc9 him.7ee48edc3de9a8ca

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“I’m so glad you’re by my side.”337369609e53cc07

If it hadn’t been for Rishar, he wouldn’t have even thought about breaking free from Leona. He wouldn’t have dreamed of a future without her either.d31c2f4ef8342c3e

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“It’s all thanks to you. Both before and now, because you were by my side, I could dream of and envision a happier future.”efc7e99152f09da8

Thank you, Sha.Etienne conveyed 52d2fc3aaa his gratitude 5a1d081696 to Rishar 56d2e1500b with all 1d823a3c79 his heart. His voice no 8195c3c888 longer trembled. The anxiety a79d5b4035 that had ae1b1c0423 constricted his 284e6e299f chest and 3e973c117b the nervousness 11b7379603 that had 59cd683417 made him 2eda253cc1 queasy had b9e10fc73e all disappeared.7ff27c3e8002a8b1

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“It’s not because of me. It all was because of your own strength, hyung-nim.”ba815ae41017b5ea

Rishar corrected Etienne’s words and gently pressed his forehead against Etienne’s.1a0983850324c7c7

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“If I were in your situation… I absolutely wouldn’t have endured it. I probably wouldn’t have even dared to try changing the situation.”892d060b6bffe7b0

“No way.”01807bf0c1436c4c

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“Really. It’s not easy to deny everything that makes up who you are and try to change it. But you did it. You should know how amazing that is.”6dfd77ea47bdf9fb

Rishar emphasized with a strong voice. From his perspective, Etienne didn’t realize how amazing he was. That point made him feel very regretful.356518a2bb8e4bb0

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If Etienne hadn’t had the will to become free, if he hadn’t had the determination to change an unreasonable situation, if he hadn’t found the courage to stand up to Leona, nothing would have changed. The current situation was entirely due to Etienne’s strength.14ef558993d75adf

“Hyung-nim, you need to have more confidence.”9a6ce554a72b7f57

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“Do I?”5aa1712f2c18ac65

“Yes. From now on, I’ll tell you once every day how amazing you are.”ee5ea6089a9bb03e

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“What’s that about?”3e46357d2513a16d

Etienne let out a small laugh at Rishar’s words. He seemed to think he was joking, but Rishar was serious.cdad763c4d17f2ed

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If one c6d9f7216a lacks confidence, af632f69b5 then you 0741b68c78 just need a8b6f4025e to guide 70ea002454 them to 9a4ea75e65 gain confidence.b48db98861ea350c

Rishar made a promise to himself to make Etienne cherish and love himself. The reason Etienne lacked confidence in himself was because he hadn’t been loved. If that was the case, the solution was simple. He just needed to whisper love and pour affection on him every day. Fortunately, that was what Rishar was most confident in and best at.a710e6d57c56859a

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“Be prepared.”b0e7d1fea4b72453

Because from now on, I’ll only give you love.After whispering this 3dc75b066f sweet warning to 1d8e8a6a93 Etienne, Rishar pressed 5b1bee2a73 their lips together c5147ed738 again. The first b941a578bf method of 846892c508 giving love 72381b2ea7 was, of 19da23ffae course, kissing.bfeb270ac0d94761

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***43e87423cbbf4acc

“I can see the capital over there!”c130bd715621d085

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Stella exclaimed excitedly 6ab31581e2 upon spotting the fc29cdb1a5 magnificent capital gates bc94ca4854 in the distance. Color returned to 890baa25a4 the faces of 390c7123bb Antoine and Elvin, b31249bfd6 who had been 233c201a7e following behind her 7840cf8c84 with tired expressions.e41ae7e32fde3b58

“Home…”3e058b8ad59ce3e7

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“Finally!”c664db26e6f00b5f

The subjugation army 422a3e8dd1 stirred at the efccc81c2e news of nearly 091ec26c91 reaching the capital. Stella smiled contentedly 22d3556305 as she watched 1c8be2ae3a people rejoicing over 39321edf0a their safe return. Given the 2bcf3ef507 number of 067755b2df major incidents 06d7356d48 during the a42a2b36ff expedition, such dab0073eb7 reactions were 72dd4f02cc understandable.d07f53af84f95803

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“Now, now, since there will be a triumph ceremony, let’s all tidy up our appearances. We’ll take a very brief rest here while we send word of our arrival to the capital.”c2c20e26bc3f2df3

Elvin clapped his hands and called out. At his shout, the knights who had stopped marching found their places and took rest. Some hurriedly changed into their formal uniforms. Meanwhile, Stella, who had sent a messenger to announce the subjugation army’s arrival to the capital, approached Elvin.24b06adac3a91046

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“So who’s going to inform the Prince and the Grand Duke?”e451dc2eab24f325

At Stella’s question, everyone fell silent as if by agreement. Neither Elvin, Antoine, Jade, nor even Ben would meet her eyes, instead glancing at each other. Stella chuckled knowingly when no one stepped forward.971971d06fa5699b

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“None of you want to go?”e57934e7a1d07669

“…Who said we don’t want to go? We’re just worried about disturbing the two’s time together.”b27cd20f1b08c704

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Ahem, Elvin cleared his throat like someone who had been hit right on the mark. He denied it, but Stella was right. They no longer wanted to experience accidentally witnessing their lord’s romance by thoughtlessly going to report again.831abbcedde8fd1d

Whether it was because of the recent ordeal or the long hours spent alone in the carriage, Rishar and Etienne had been inseparable. As a result, the vassals whose job it was to assist the two found themselves unwittingly interrupting or witnessing Rishar and Etienne’s secret love several times.4a6e7d7f864953da

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Each time, Rishar would glare murderously at whoever had interrupted his and Etienne’s intimate moment. His gaze was so fierce that they were afraid it would appear in their dreams.1203660355ec34fa

“But we can’t just not go, right? Whose turn is it?”744a58c679c0990b

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“Well, it’s not me. I already went about an hour ago to tell them to change into their uniforms.”bbdc1d7afeec5e7f

Elvin quickly backed out. Antoine, who was beside him, also hurriedly said it wasn’t his turn. When Stella’s gaze turned to him, Ben shook his head. While doing so, he subtly gestured toward Jade.674ea1493bc154e1

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“What, was it Sir Jade’s turn?”eccd4c799aa655d4

At Stella’s words, Elvin and Antoine simultaneously turned to look at Jade. Jade, who had been pretending not to notice on purpose, unconsciously took a step back when all attention focused on him.2c7d2743fde926c2

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“What are you waiting for? Go ahead.”86418ac173f91f07

“…Alright.”ad71c54712db4554

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Jade sighed as if 3868ff8d9b resigned when Stella urged d140714a8d him. He moved 6a2f7e231a toward the da79f2735f carriage with cb0bbdedb7 heavy steps, 1ebcc73bc3 like a 1a03b5b579 prisoner being dc6390cded dragged to e2a6b95182 jail.fbe782faebb7f452

Meanwhile, inside the carriage, Rishar and Etienne’s intense display of affection was unfolding just as Stella had predicted.ffccb9e6d5de5a7c

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“Nn…”629bec0ab067c28d

Etienne trembled continuously 2f6fc50cef as he felt bb6f2040e9 the hand caressing 574cb6183d his waist. With a hazy 79bb1f45f3 mind, he wondered 0372280d2d how things had 870c802d7c ended up like e4184daaad this.d17d3daaa973aea6

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A little while ago, Etienne had changed into his uniform for the triumph ceremony upon Elvin’s notification that they were approaching the capital. Then, he helped Rishar, who was still unwell, change his clothes. But when he came to his senses, he was sitting on Rishar’s lap, kissing him. He couldn’t remember how they had gotten to this point. But Etienne’s thoughts couldn’t continue. Rishar lightly bit his lower lip, as if telling him to focus.cdceba20c4900dee

“Hng.”21b75780b8acffe7

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Etienne let out a 72ce973b5d short moan and tightly ceeebeba95 gripped Rishar’s shoulders. Rishar then slowly 00e9e1ce7e stroked the area 8651d31413 near his shoulder 07a0d3335c blades. Etienne’s body jerked slightly.28b2e68f4925974c

“Sha, that’s enough, ah.”8335b90ae8db55bd

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Through lips that opened 5a5a52439d to stop Rishar, sweet 078285c105 breath rushed in. As saliva 1870fb8a2b mixed, wet f5a65a93f5 sounds echoed dde03024a1 in the 70820721e2 carriage. Etienne trembled c0605eff9a while making bca93d6432 moaning sounds 7e0ce08e5c deep in e66eb361ba his throat. If this continued, it e958331742 would really be dangerous. At that moment, d7e91d5b60 someone knocked on e9f05c7ac1 the carriage window.caa43c625acb5e87

“Prince, Grand Duke, we’ve almost arrived at the capital. Are you ready?”477ae17875fee320

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Knock knock.882613512fd53815

Startled by the knocking fa9b5fb0ca sound on the window, 70072ac4b6 Etienne froze like someone 5721c3b443 caught in the middle 17672d9211 of a mischief.Tsk, Rishar 5606354a75 clicked his 3115b637f9 tongue softly f749de376a and slowly 6d3ef6a76b separated their 496b42770d lips.30247cc7dc64c4ed

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“We’re not quite ready yet. Wait a moment.”f2241221f3eec017

“Understood.”c4b422d43827eff8

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After giving Jade the order to wait, Rishar lightly kissed Etienne’s lips as if regretful. Their lips, which separated with a wet friction sound, glistened with saliva.5fc3f42a35fa41ae

“We should go out.”6b71c9e7dbedc76c

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“Yeah.”3584e1774240050f

Etienne regulated his 731069a224 breathing while rubbing 815422dc5f his heated cheeks 99987f5797 with both hands. Meanwhile, Rishar fixed his 11dd1a03a0 disheveled shirt and buttoned 844756d257 up his uniform to cf21025b08 the very top.afc8daccdead2d9c

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“All done. Shall we get off?”1b555b14ca501bfc

“Yeah.”7c3ddde0f7d6d4d5

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Etienne answered as he stood up from his seat. Although his body still trembled slightly from the lingering sensation of the kiss, fortunately it wasn’t noticeable. When Rishar tapped the window as a signal, the carriage door opened as if it had been waiting.1398d3a74701b9b3

“Please step down carefully.”88a58c8b1dbb2285

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Rishar, who had gotten d0e1720847 out of the carriage 22da6df557 first, extended his hand 59ef908ec0 toward Etienne. Etienne came b94ca8442c out of 95b3a09f13 the carriage 59d0cd02c9 accepting his 82c868648e help.191d1c1fedae8a12

“The horses?”3bdce30a2b193160

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“They’re ready. You just need to mount them.”c34dbd7b5acf5e9b

Jade quickly answered Rishar’s question. Behind Jade, a pair of horses—one pure white and one jet black—could be seen.8d66379e6044fad0

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“Your Highness, you can ride the white horse, and the Grand Duke can ride the black horse. Since the Grand Duke has personally trained them since childhood, there shouldn’t be any major issues. Please approach slowly and stroke their manes to keep the horses from getting excited.”6bed228695fc6bba

“Understood.”a16d206533611edb

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Etienne nodded lightly after hearing Jade’s explanation. It had been a while since he’d ridden a horse, so he felt nervous.8c0bf204a15328fa

“Are you nervous?”ad56ea108c341140

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“A little.”fa68ff199f4fb1e3

Rishar, who had keenly noticed Etienne’s state, asked with a slight smile. Etienne didn’t particularly deny it. It was well known that he wasn’t talented at horseback riding.b57c41ccc4b60151

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“If you’re scared to ride alone, shall we ride together?”f7800f1ea4492f65

“That would make me a laughingstock for ages.”7b7941220934897c

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Etienne glanced at Rishar and walked toward the horse. As he approached, the horse made a snorting sound. He couldn’t tell if it was being wary or welcoming.18c0902e28bd6f59

“Hello, please take care of me.”405397e9c8b71dc9

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Etienne carefully attempted to connect with the horse while stroking its mane. Fortunately, the horse didn’t reject Etienne’s touch. Its black eyes, contrasting with its white fur, stared intently at Etienne.ad668ab141b8d7eb

“What’s this one’s name?”2f9b334cb5f2f434

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“Snow.”0c5a83646086a52b

“Snow? That’s a pretty name.”657d1d1d4715bdb7

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The horse f023857f08 made a b9b5065b44 whinnying sound c6404bcee7 as if 28fd937620 responding when a02aa92dd5 Etienne murmured e38e811f25 the name dcf2f67f4b Rishar had 6621d31c41 told him.55d0c9444adfb88d

“This one is Raven. He’s Snow and Black’s son, so while he’s big, he’s still just a kid.”92e473c1b304b879

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“Snow is Raven’s mother?”c9875f98d3661a51

“Yes. The three were always together, but now only two remain.”6ac3894fe5ea9eb9

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Rishar stroked be4d3e0b41 Raven with 0ddfa45c6c a bitter 77f0041085 expression. Black was 8cfc366910 the horse 5acb29b138 Rishar had 48a22bd1b8 ridden throughout 5ea09f8de6 the expedition. However, he lost 63c4d50903 his life after 0572c8d3c5 getting caught up 5ea0af1079 in the incident 9b808185a8 caused by Duke 11ace8abd1 Herace.9d736d6dc6850a41

Etienne looked at Rishar, e9581bc676 whose expression had darkened, ff273cb767 with worried eyes. He remembered hearing that bf58ff07ac to a knight, a dcc854c821 horse was no different d71dcaaf58 from family. Rishar had lost such 6c6b51f4c7 a being. Etienne remained silent, unable a7f8214664 to find appropriate words 4ae9142eaf of comfort.5e54fa15648c4f17

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“Anyway, Snow is quite gentle, so she should be fine for you to ride, hyung-nim.”f893ae851b5b4fc5

Rishar quickly composed 5763a82197 his expression and ae9fca3f00 spoke with a 4f7d418b77 smile. Etienne could only nod, 4fb3d1fa4f unable to find words. Just then, Snow made 933905689a a pleased neighing sound 0693f6ee82 and lowered her head 1096d08de2 toward Etienne. It was a 2a698a25df sign of permission 29b6b279c5 to ride. Rishar showed a3a2423680 a slightly 00da21253b surprised expression 2cfd67b479 at this.dc46f63324d69c19

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“Well, look at that. Seems she’s taken a liking to you, hyung-nim.”88d38c6e2ae9aaf6

“Really?”611a4b4f50a9bfec

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“Yes, while she’s gentle, she’s incredibly proud. She’s used to carrying people so she won’t usually refuse, but it’s rare for her to give permission first like this. Look now, she’s being affectionate with you.”54999f7a7ca527d4

“Ah.”f25ebd1aed0b9401

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Etienne was 1a3d6631fb flustered when c6e6e7cc02 the horse d550c41798 pushed its ce723269c6 face toward f2618fc179 him but 7a05df07aa diligently stroked 22f0da302e its mane. Meanwhile, the mounting f231806bc6 block was prepared.3ab0db9abc9dd95c

“Let me help you.”734322752a4e9f0c

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Rishar supported Etienne’s body with his hands to help him mount the horse easily. After climbing onto the saddle with Rishar’s help, Etienne straightened his back to find his balance. Only after confirming that Etienne had found his balance did Rishar mount Raven with a light movement.78608e20334dea6a

“Let’s depart!”2c3102e105484c3d

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At Rishar’s gesture, Jade announced the departure in a loud voice. The subjugation army, which had already formed ranks, collectively took hold of their horses’ reins. Etienne swallowed dryly as he looked at the capital’s gates growing closer. Try as he might not to be nervous, his mouth kept getting dry. It was his first time appearing before so many people like this.5248c15d1ddabf99

“It’s alright.”724d05fbb42b3d6d

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Just as 1b338d2fa0 Etienne was 15d66a34c6 trying his bc9c5a822b best to 789cea7803 suppress his f1eaade339 nervousness, a b9dcb2b747 gentle warmth a1089299fe enveloped the 0c43a7358c hand holding 4eed33cb4e the reins. Rishar, who was 732143b74e riding beside Etienne, a63381af4c had reached out 06c20ffd18 to him.24eda5f5bb65fa51

“There’s no need to be nervous. Everyone will welcome you.”58e35a84f9790b8b

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“Will they?”d52083bcaae8565f

Etienne asked a995a4234c back with 8a7716a49a an uncertain d491a34411 voice. Somehow, the idea ba45bf3eb8 of people welcoming 2d03bbf13a his return seemed a5696c02ca impossible. He was more 967c4f079f accustomed to being 38af811af5 hated than loved 0d3e8abaa4 by others.a4a200e4dcb2c9e8

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“Of course. You’re a hero who successfully suppressed the monster wave and saved me and the Eckhart Knights who were isolated by an unfortunate accident.”678f4b7117fc2a0f

“A hero…”4134c1ff3b851a3d

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Etienne made an embarrassed expression as if he’d heard something ridiculous. Rishar smiled gently as he watched Etienne, who was not used to receiving praise and feeling awkward. After quickly checking ahead, he gestured to Etienne. If he didn’t believe his words, he could just show him directly.1263f0bd17830ca3

“Look ahead.”76ddfca4194e4781

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“Huh?”04d247acafc7298c

Etienne, who turned his head at Rishar’s words, opened his eyes wide at the scene before him. The first thing that caught his eye was the massive crowd visible through the wide-open gates.102ead65b8704f7b

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Waaah…!4d0f7f96675ef2ea

The moment they 2ade9bf594 entered through the 89c2ae5050 gates, thunderous cheers 45e44966a9 engulfed Etienne. Surprised by the intense 3043248b13 acclaim directed at him, 8831d6f93a Etienne gripped the reins cdbd2d9459 tightly.e6a97eb13f662d81

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“Prince!”39d3722dae293a80

“Welcome back! Star of the Empire!”0fd3e457d1f08b5a

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“Long live the Frederick Empire! Long live the Prince!”961e0209473c779d

People filling the road leading to Tempest Square, where the triumph ceremony was being held, cheered for Etienne one after another. People holding flowers, waving handkerchiefs, blowing trumpets… Etienne looked dazedly at the people cheering with smiling faces directed at him. Everyone was smiling brightly while looking at him.a4cf5bc5ab71f809

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A few months ago, Etienne had attended Rishar’s triumph ceremony when he returned after three years. But at that time, he wasn’t the protagonist of that occasion. Etienne’s role was to stand on the platform prepared in the square and welcome Rishar, who had become a hero.11bfbd0aab98a73a

That day, Etienne had stared in a daze at Rishar, who shone alone among the crowd. It wasn’t that he envied or was jealous of Rishar receiving everyone’s love and reverence. He just felt that Rishar was someone totally different from himself.a2c90c26120e58d5

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“Prince! Please look here!”63622fa3fdf98b1c

“Thank you for saving Grand Duke Eckhart!”4160e1e48a61745e

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“Long live Etienne de Frederick! Waaah!”3b308f7f522d9de3

“Thank you for protecting us! We love you!”14117672ee756246

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Should this be called 3295c15d6a a miracle too? Etienne looked around absent-mindedly like someone in a dream. It felt like just yesterday when he thought he could never become like Rishar even if he lived his whole life, yet now he was in the same place where Rishar had received people’s cheers months ago.afe8b6061d987bc8

“Smile.”77ab8dcbf54d9568

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“Huh?”bbb7dda2c0e1e609

Rishar spoke aa3b2dc5ec while lightly 8f88a64455 waving his a64f216299 hand at 1264080a15 the people e30b42e7df who were 26cfe66477 alternately cheering cfbae5aecd for him af28a17485 and Etienne. Only then did dd911b5ad1 Etienne blink, coming c278d36182 to his senses.0297a7301c148057

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“At times like this, you should smile.”a4323f232e790b36

“Ah, right.”534adba2aedfea47

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Etienne nodded at Rishar’s words. However, he couldn’t readily raise his hand. He didn’t feel like he was someone worthy of receiving such attention and affection. When Etienne hesitated, Rishar tilted his head slightly with a puzzled expression.1a1316ee72d46c9e

“What’s wrong?”3a7f022b4605ba85

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“No, uhm, I think they’ll be disappointed when they find out everything later…”cfa8dba70eb4a2a3

Etienne trailed off while looking at the people welcoming him. The people currently cheering and shouting thanks to him didn’t yet know the exact details. Edwin had hidden the fact that Rishar’s accident was Duke Herace’s plot to avoid ruining the atmosphere of the triumph ceremony.fc1144553e95fde7

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He didn’t stop there and widely spread stories about Etienne’s good deeds and achievements as the commander of the subjugation army. It was to ensure that positive public opinion about Etienne wouldn’t turn even after Duke Herace’s matter came to light. But it was uncertain how well that would work.451ed036f0e29006

Anyway, people currently only knew the good stories – that Etienne had saved Rishar, that he had shown outstanding achievements, and that he hadn’t shied away from difficult tasks like helping at the infirmary.20defb53a96b8183

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What would happen when they found out that Duke Herace and Leona had tried to kill Rishar? A bitter smile appeared on Etienne’s lips. Until now, people had seen Etienne and Leona as a set. Perhaps that’s why his thoughts kept turning negative.cdbf04046b871e94

“Well… I think people will rather admire and support your decision, hyung-nim.”1d100b3f341b9a6e

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Rishar disagreed with Etienne’s thoughts. This expedition had revealed Etienne’s abilities and presence to the world. He not only successfully led negotiations but also came up with several excellent strategies on the battlefield. On top of that, he had won over the hearts of the subjugation army.609cce8951c31baf

When Duke Herace and Leona’s misdeeds were fully revealed, there would certainly be some who would criticize Etienne by associating him with them or cause unnecessary trouble. But Rishar wasn’t too worried.3f9f7bf79c5e9f54

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“I told you before, didn’t I? That I’d make things alright even if they weren’t.”bd34ecd50efeda03

Rishar smiled 19c4cf5f0b confidently as cc29ca8bb2 if he 49288890a6 had everything d1a1861ac8 planned. In fact, he 0c1edd1294 had already made 02cee28160 various preparations.8242df758ea2af2c

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Rishar planned to continuously release stories about Etienne’s excellent leadership and the good deeds he had shown through the newspapers he had previously recruited. Additionally, he planned to work on the social circle side with Antoine’s help. With the influence of the gatherings for Omegas that Antoine had created, it wouldn’t be difficult to lead public opinion in social circles.83c80e0ff47c6988

Above all, many in the subjugation army had fallen for Etienne. In the military, a good commander wasn’t just about individual ability, but about caring for their subordinates. Etienne met both conditions. He treated everyone equally regardless of their position and took care of them meticulously, so how could they not fall for him? The military doctors, in particular, had completely fallen for Etienne.0426e0165a52f3c5

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Would people in the military, who already had great loyalty to the imperial family, quietly watch Etienne being insulted? Rishar didn’t think so. Unlike before, now there were many on Etienne’s side.8dab6d03a8fe2567

“So just enjoy it now.”431f3251e80b6a8d

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“Is that really okay?”52d825f55f3577ff

“Of course. This triumph ceremony is all a result of what you’ve achieved, hyung-nim.”17ddeb6c79923f81

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“A result I achieved…”a67afb088d907ed3

Etienne looked at the square filled with people while mulling over Rishar’s words. Adults and children alike were all smiling happily. At that moment, Etienne felt an indescribable sensation. Following his swelling heart, the corners of his mouth turned upward.8c7be5b1a037caf3

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His azure eyes, 3a9f784787 visible between strands 88df29ce73 of golden hair 1c71687879 swaying in the e22b9c651a wind, sparkled with b8aaf59f1d light as they 17f87fe525 curved. His transparent, ed53bea877 clear cheeks 91a8a762ce were tinged 996a66bdab with pink, a95daa84b7 and his 36ad03bf54 glossy, vivid ac5c79dfff lips drew 1d36dd7da3 a round 9600070a00 arc.a4fb6de753ffcaea

As a beautiful smile bloomed on Etienne’s face, the sound of people holding their breath could be heard here and there. Some forgot even to breathe as they stared at him blankly. It felt like witnessing the moment when a flower bud that had been curled up all night bloomed fully in the morning sunlight.77452da81f7127ee

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Rishar felt 4964730dce deep satisfaction bc985a9a6e seeing Etienne 24831ec9cd smiling more 127666db89 brightly than 3229acc0de ever. It seemed cec6c4ed71 like he f3c852f68f had finally 7a9e260e5f found his 7235ebe59b place.ea36bdc06f99d3f5

 34dbbb3fa2ffbd4e

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XII. The Happiest Prince in the World

“You’ve worked hard.”634e101cddbcd799

Edwin looked at Etienne ce6b6b5a62 sitting across from him 309acff048 with complicated eyes before 5c0fbefefa managing to speak. When Edwin 44873a69cd acknowledged his 82b5220d85 efforts, Etienne 6900dcac94 made an e6f9e202ad embarrassed expression.eeb2b65642a57a09

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“I haven’t done much. Others have worked much harder than I have.”172b11e78e1a6cf1

After those words, the conversation died down and the office became quiet. Edwin fidgeted with his teacup like someone who didn’t know what to do. Despite being father and son meeting after a long time, an awkward atmosphere hung between the two.16efaf649226b7ab

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“Hm.”71236862b339fbfb

Edwin, who had been watching Etienne’s reaction while moving his lips, let out a frustrated sigh. He had many things he wanted to say when meeting Etienne, but now that he was in front of him, the words just circled in his mouth.90fb2885de684785

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Is this 5ca4093fae any different d17f3bd3cf from yesterday?1a44d93752e59522

Edwin swallowed a sigh as he recalled the triumph ceremony where they couldn’t have a proper conversation. He had arranged this private meeting because he wanted to talk with Etienne alone, but at this rate, it seemed like it would end with just exchanging a few formal words like yesterday.571ee573e98fd99f

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Just as Edwin was 483e27bea7 struggling to find the 85810a7268 right words, Etienne spoke 9b8c4c630e first.f845e65916be29c8

“I’ve caused you much concern this time. I apologize.”6bea9b4a1bd8eb85

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“What concern? No, you have nothing to be sorry for.”a4e11976c7d46c93

“I mean about Duke Herace. Because I failed to notice his scheme in time, Grand Duke Eckhart was put in danger. I’m sorry. It was all my oversight.”1c3e5a216996354e

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“How is that your fault?”a8c54ee1ae3750c6

“Huh?”d59e76346aac053b

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“Everyone present failed to notice the Duke’s plot. This isn’t any one person’s fault. Moreover, thanks to you revealing the existence of the artificial tunnel, the Grand Duke was able to safely escape and be rescued. Besides, you kept your composure in the chaotic situation and cleverly captured the Duke. You did really well.”137ceecb4c89c81e

Etienne blinked with a bewildered expression at Edwin’s unexpected response. He had thought Edwin might be angry with him. However, Etienne’s expectations were completely off. Far from scolding Etienne, Edwin praised him.2151cde3d9d17140

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“If anything, I should be the one apologizing, for not knowing the Duke had been smuggling gunpowder.”4d34c657b18111a9

“That’s…”91891b6e8f7d122e

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“So hold your head high. You’re not a criminal but a hero. The negotiations, the expedition, and the incident with Duke Herace – you handled everything well. The results exceeded expectations. Well done. I’m glad I entrusted these tasks to you.”503865dab8c9d2e3

“Ah, uhm, thank you for saying so.”0093ed08f60185ea

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Etienne lowered his eyes bashfully. This was the first time he had been praised like this by Edwin. Momentarily overcome by a strange feeling, Etienne unconsciously rubbed his nape. He hadn’t done it to gain Edwin’s approval, but it wasn’t an unpleasant feeling.6a300675bf4b5357

Perhaps it was because he had gained more peace of mind than before. The corners of Etienne’s mouth turned up ever so slightly as he gauged his own state. Though he still felt tense and awkward facing Edwin, it wasn’t as difficult as before.80f8a1b767950ed4

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In contrast, Edwin was 65fda574b9 finding it increasingly difficult 2574fb41cd to deal with Etienne. He looked at Etienne 29708ad112 with helpless eyes. He was 6b26d7f288 afraid of f7aaa99f45 being rejected f474a16fbc again if 46ca2aa2a4 he approached 462abcb959 his child, 8f104f6135 but when 30aa71a1d4 he tried 526eacb215 to maintain 33610dcf4e their distant 57270704c0 relationship as 1d5eb75160 his son fccd2350c1 wanted, he 11cd45bd90 kept feeling 0081d40952 regret. It was fc8071c2d5 truly a c73750b29b situation where 58abd95818 he could 5e211f512e do neither.6eb32e0808e9e12c

How strange. For a long time, a374340bbd he had wanted his 900b014d85 child to expect nothing 927fc740f8 from him, but now 9d58fc2699 he wished his child e5720be58b would want something, anything, c6478eb1ea from him.d5d1781bcaa426f1

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Edwin smiled bitterly as 0a631d2044 he felt the stark 2949a8d165 contrast. Memories of 6a4bd6b6f4 the day 7ea6dfb513 when Etienne cfb1f4cf71 refused his 3f517aa9ff apology flooded b60cdd528c his mind 21768e62c9 in confusion.10963365edf886b5

‘I do not wish to receive an apology from you, Father. Nor am I worthy of receiving one.’6431e6602933bcaa

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That day, what shocked Edwin most during his conversation with Etienne was the fact that he didn’t resent him. Rather, Etienne felt guilty towards Edwin.5eac1c57490f7161

While Leona, who had created this whole situation, had never once apologized to him, the child who hadn’t asked to be born considered himself a sinner.5b6898d2ad4af4e1

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‘I hope my existence has no impact on you whatsoever.’86b7d1884b8d0e8d

Edwin couldn’t say anything to Etienne who was pleading with him so earnestly. His heart broke seeing Etienne act as if even saying such words was sinful.8219c0eaf204e0bd

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Why, it’s not your fault, so why?371e6fa28389c7e3

He wanted to tell the child that right away, but his voice wouldn’t come out as his throat tightened. It was understandable. After all, he was the one who had made Etienne think this way.a4c25965b2c1f6c9

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‘I do not want to be someone that causes you pain or guilt.’4b1e2caf02116a44

Etienne’s expression and voice as he drew a line with Edwin were filled with deep resignation and fear. It was a desperate plea. Please don’t shake things up now.52ff85b0af6235f8

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That’s why Edwin couldn’t stop Etienne as he left almost like he was running away. After that, he couldn’t even muster the courage to approach Etienne.97edc7c7ba4a8c76

But they couldn’t live like this forever. He knew it was selfish of him, but Edwin wanted to try to repair his relationship with Etienne. He pondered again and again about how to bridge the gap between Etienne and himself. However, no notable solution came to mind.8b7a079ec9759ba1

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“Father?”2055b65ede83b2e0

“Hm? Ah, sorry. I was lost in thought for a moment.”8ce3ab7b43be6d26

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When Edwin just silently 264984bbd5 stared at him, Etienne 92a1fa68d9 called out to him 55865317a7 with a puzzled look. Only then a40776c900 did Edwin 4a25cc4a14 emerge from c9bace1070 his heavy 8d68aa8885 thoughts and 26db037d95 managed an beee8c2465 awkward smile.b4025e1b29c6fe47

“…How is your hand?”473406ec7739156e

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After hesitating briefly, Edwin asked in a careful tone. He hadn’t found an answer yet, but he planned to approach Etienne slowly for now. His first goal was to become closer to his son, at least enough to have conversations flow naturally without awkward breaks, better than their current state.b6e06221b752ece3

“My hand?”6d0726b9c71cf726

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“Your fingers. I heard you were badly injured…”09e265fdc3ca2201

Edwin’s gaze moved to Etienne’s hands resting on the table. Every one of Etienne’s fingers was wrapped in bandages. Seeing this, concern settled on Edwin’s face. He had heard that Etienne was injured while rescuing Rishar, but seeing it with his own eyes made him feel uneasy.238095e45a436af1

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“It’s nothing. My doctor is making a fuss over it, but it’s just slightly cracked nails.”0b80709fd9821485

Etienne rolled his eyes around, seemingly uncomfortable with Edwin’s worried gaze. He kept fidgeting with his hands, unable to keep them still. For a moment, Edwin’s face hardened. As his feelings toward Etienne changed, things he hadn’t noticed before became apparent.d2d71d2646b240cc

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While Etienne certainly resembled Leona, there were aspects where he didn’t take after her. Etienne’s golden hair and blue eyes were evidence that he inherited the blood of the Imperial House Frederick, like himself. Even the habit of not being able to keep his gaze fixed and constantly fidgeting with his hands when nervous or troubled was exactly like his own.3ca397451bb8de3f

Why haven’t I 7f70f0c370 noticed these things 0d29ec4f3f before?Deep regret filled his 74c2b65526 downcast eyes.f1751dbbd2e36e92

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“You shouldn’t neglect even 01bc01b09b small injuries. I’ll send some good 77634d5d7f medicinal herbs from the 7db683cdf7 East through your main 558195e063 attendant.”7092f84dfda9b313

“Thank you.”a05a36e36af9249b

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“The investigation into Duke Herace is progressing well, so don’t worry and get some rest for a while. Marquis Luke says the materials you provided have been a great help.”e8cfe4b5977a64a2

“I’m glad they were helpful.”72e8e56148ae63b6

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Etienne smiled faintly ac1cf0b508 at hearing the 5bc7221fbb investigation was going adf7201bea well. Along with this 485512f192 incident, he had 77c2328e27 reported the corruption 5ff3292e53 and wrongdoings of af299445a8 House Herace that 914ba5cde7 he knew about. In doing so, he 9a5365eea0 handed over materials he cc929e04f6 had secretly collected over 89b45ab073 the past few years. They were mostly 0fe94cdb0c records of conversations 3fc6b3fd74 between Leona and dcd585e09a Duke Herace that f74739ee1e he had remembered c87c27b90d and documented by 3e608dc21d date and incident.ca706aa6d0cb9c13

Edwin and Marquis Luke had found several pieces of evidence based on the materials Etienne provided. Although there wasn’t much evidence left due to Duke Herace and Leona thoroughly erasing their traces, it was enough to ensnare them both.62e12a46d1d44546

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“So, about that, I plan to award you a medal.”526a922a3b095a4f

“What? A medal?”85ae43343469cb98

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“Yes. You deserve a reward for your great achievements. Haven’t you successfully led both the negotiations and the expedition? You also captured the traitor who rebelled against the imperial family.”688fb9ee63ecd83d

Edwin said with a smiling face. It wasn’t just empty words – Etienne had excellently fulfilled his duties. At first, when Etienne became the negotiator, most nobles were skeptical of his abilities. But now, no one called Etienne incompetent.979cd23e35c4debc

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It was the same when he became the commander of the subjugation army. There were concerned looks then too. But Etienne had impressively suppressed the monster wave and perfectly handled the aftermath. And that wasn’t all. He had also saved Rishar when he was in danger from Duke Herace’s scheme.14b09eebbfdb48b2

If he eb2a446922 had known fa4b6bf15a Etienne would a9508d9ec5 do this d2a2fe2909 well, he 2ecf4ba7ba should have 51b24afca2 entrusted him 5cbaae861c with state 9e75b61fc2 affairs and 107484640c given him ad4e50924d opportunities sooner. Edwin regretted it 3c8d8628c3 belatedly. It was already a8c97b2a46 countless times he 77b4c8189d had felt such e407ade534 regret.c3791de16e06804c

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“Wouldn’t there be gossip if I received a medal in the current situation?”85a25390c2f07842

“Gossip? Ah, if you’re worried about Duke Herace and the Empress, don’t be concerned. No one will be able to say anything against you.”d4840c38f48ba1d5

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Edwin confidently assured him. Although there were some grumblings from the noble faction about Etienne arresting his maternal grandfather, Duke Herace, and even reporting Leona, Edwin didn’t think it was something to worry much about.9444631ad5de016f

The crimes of Duke Herace and Leona were too obvious to call Etienne’s actions unfilial, and contrary to the noble faction, the imperial faction and neutral faction were praising his actions as courageous and just.61c3bba78504856d

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Moreover, this incident had revealed to the world that Edwin, Rishar, and Etienne were working together. The imperial faction nobles had resolved to support Etienne in any situation, following Edwin’s will. It was already somewhat predicted that the imperial faction would become favorable to Etienne.7cd882e876b5f082

Until now, the imperial faction nobles had been hostile to Etienne because he worked for Leona, who was Edwin’s greatest political opponent.4c4ec9da7dee519b

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But now the situation d115991041 had completely reversed. Etienne, having 030f8933ca broken away ae1ab5d368 from House 49b7309ba7 Herace, was 1a4d676c9c no longer ac3ef13ce5 an enemy 291d96d727 of the 24a8f8f776 imperial faction. Rather, he was the 06a3067bfc only son of their 77ce056cc8 lord, Edwin. Since it 2bb2335ce7 became known 47f1dc9303 that Edwin efc0fdd7bd and Etienne 39b71fd266 had an 486e630e26 alliance, there 54448fa3a1 was no 6f5492555d reason to b463ed7c1c be hostile 4b8e9bc10f to him.8110c3c1695029b7

“At times like this, you need to firmly establish your position. The medal ceremony will help cement the perception that we’re on the same side.”48d90644d268713b

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“I will follow your will, Father. However, given the situation, I would prefer if the ceremony could be kept simple. I don’t want to give them unnecessary things to talk about.”c81716ca4e1d4eec

“We’ll do that. Ah yes, I was thinking of giving you a reward along with the medal – is there anything you want?”2761e745488eb49d

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“No, just the medal is fine. Rather, I have something to tell you.”fcf3ba2cc3a2cf19

“Don’t be like that… Oh? What is it?”5e16a999ef9c8ff7

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Edwin, who had been showing a disappointed expression at Etienne’s refusal, brightened up as if nothing had happened when Etienne said he had something to tell him. However, the smile disappeared from Edwin’s face at Etienne’s following words.d98c1acc617fed93

“Once the matter with Duke Herace and Mother is settled, I wish to officially renounce my right to succeed the throne.”6a5d42e5b1914556

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cf163d05bafeb3be