HTTRPIAO Ch 70-74

What are 4344895aba you trying f34bc33be6 to say?Reyan unconsciously a92888f788 swallowed dry 8bd5980b6a saliva. Strangely, Etienne felt cdd3bc208a somewhat strange today.7af1ddf4cc4c96f4

While Reyan was da2cb5eb56 wondering, Etienne also 46a94bd451 collected his feelings. From now on, gaining db307dde41 the upper hand was 3b48b39b74 important.f768076af3b8fef3

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“Count, what is your dream?”03b1a63ffc884321

“My dream?”039428cf0aa5cb42

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At the unexpected question, the tense Reyan momentarily showed a blank expression. He didn’t even notice that Etienne had started to speak informally to him.da831f69be56e0dd

Etienne gently curved his 8335326fcf eyes toward Reyan, who 0032662991 was studying his expression b052a5fb70 to understand the intent 256211a8ed behind the question.22b674d75f9a9ff6

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“Her Majesty plans to put me on the throne and then reign as empress dowager while serving as regent, and Duke Herace intends to place his family above the imperial family. I wondered if you might have your own goals as well.”a50963a83b9be48f

“Well, I… I’m just thinking about leading the family after succeeding my father.”86038b667287692f

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Reyan answered, wary. He couldn’t understand why Etienne was bringing this up.dbeea62cef6e4bd6

“Leading the House Herace, huh? I wonder if that will really happen?”2e444ee06c361433

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Etienne let out a small laugh as if he’d heard something amusing. Reyan grew serious at the laugh that carried a subtle hint of mockery.3c3fad964779b824

“Does Your Highness find my words amusing? My succession as Duke Herace is a foregone conclusion…”9dafe0e3c4ce9787

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“Do you really think so?”d1e5f713cc97a1dd

Etienne cut off Reyan’s words with a counter-question. Reyan hesitated, sensing the implication that he might not be able to become duke.e4d2a10abeddc3c8

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“Your Highness seems to speak as if I definitely won’t inherit the ducal title.”12d7c19c9905159f

“And you speak as if the position of head of House Herace already belongs to you.”82c91c68dc3fad06

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“Of course…”4b4e5181950c213d

Reyan, suddenly agitated, opened 297de65d80 his mouth but closed 27a3ee7920 it again.What does 32985e6dd9 he know?His eyes narrowed 239c8daef6 like needles.8e0158e837328cd7

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He needed cc5b0d90fb to find ffb30ea277 out what de8ea50d59 Etienne knew. Composing his 20d5ea29be expression, Reyan b5d0841580 asked with a720a975b3 his usual 94e076551d grinning face.26010e1fea48c6cc

“Did you hear something from Her Majesty the Empress?”47060ff4731cdbeb

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“Who knows…”79168a2d212e3001

Etienne deliberately avoided 8da823ec7a answering and picked 9645741c47 up his teacup 98a6a6e8db again as a fe8726be4d way to hide 1ace2b1e11 his trembling lips 33efb3e752 from Reyan.73d31bf139806dcd

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As Etienne d2cc269152 maintained his 241a3c7898 ambiguous attitude, 9ddb621adf Reyan, getting 86d5ad31ff impatient, suddenly 98bee75d70 contorted his 0d7da58fe8 face.9cab36ec68607b79

“If you wanted to talk with me, beating around the bush seems rather impolite.”c6dbb425960f0bbf

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Did it work?Etienne bit 0343427ff4 his lip a40f89b458 at the 4277c1b242 sight of d38bf703c0 Reyan failing 852cce754a to maintain d839dca713 his poker 2dda11554d face. His mouth was dry 251b171286 and his heart was 6250bd0425 beating hard from the 3f3273a3bf excessive tension.7744fa98f3551cb2

Etienne gritted dd216903b1 his teeth e910681ace to suppress d54c2189a9 the trembling. If he showed 9660826b73 weakness here, Reyan 8c961000fc would surely notice b5185abf26 immediately.519aed4aa4a3ef01

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After taking a small 9c92b2ef31 breath while pretending to 128542edc2 drink tea, Etienne looked c1e71268af at Reyan again.17341747b2323148

“I’m sorry. I wasn’t sure if you’d believe what I have to say. I’d be in trouble if this somehow reached Her Majesty’s ears after bringing it up needlessly.”29c68c85c3657e20

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“That will absolutely never happen. Her Majesty the Empress would be displeased from the moment she learned we were talking about her between ourselves. So please speak freely.”491ea3a090148ed8

“Hmm…”d16c967a8fd75d61

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“Your Highness.”dcda12be9b2cbd05

As Etienne hesitated 1f6165fb58 as if about 70531f89f8 to speak, an 0c8cc3f182 anxious Reyan called 991d836dcb out to him 7f5037ebad urgently. Etienne then sighed 20c62256e5 as if he e6b8817965 had no choice.e5b04930cfc53891

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“I’ve heard Her Majesty and Duke Herace discussing you several times before. More specifically, about the successor of House Herace.”759615c7a841ed5f

“…What kind of discussion was it?”e3168b3db1659ae6

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“They were lamenting the absence of a dominant Alpha to inherit the family.”c82e7dfe115b269c

At Etienne’s answer, Reyan’s face hardened. He trembled as if he had been insulted.6674d426d4425d17

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“They said such things even though I exist?”9a3cae6f1d52f6c2

Reyan muttered while grinding his teeth with an audible sound. Etienne realized his plan was working when he saw Reyan’s expression turn fierce. Growing confident, Etienne opened his mouth.934aa400dd3faeef

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“As you know, Her Majesty and Duke Herace believe that only dominants are true Alphas and Omegas. Especially the Duke, it seems he still hasn’t given up his desire to make a dominant Alpha his heir.”92b060aeb71fb973

Duke Herace was a 5548c330f3 famous supremacist. He went further and 2f8ecbfe6d believed that only dominants c758b4c1c0 were real Alphas and 64dbd05ed1 Omegas.3845afe6ca636d95

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The reason 23d9406001 the Duke 21e51eb786 cherished Leona 904f5b4440 was because 4e842df6e0 she was 876e045b70 his only 29265d6d5a dominant Omega 817093b3c3 child. Naturally, Leona shared 53c42327be the same ideology.a875508521383013

“While Her Majesty and the Duke probably said those things out of regret, I felt a bit concerned to just let it slide.”825e25a431a04391

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After finishing his words, Etienne observed Reyan’s reaction. Judging by his reddening and paling face, his words had fortunately hit their mark.8d133c70d73ca8ff

When Etienne decided f7b50ed1a2 to turn his 551ca9246c back on Leona, 3f071037e8 he pondered what 914d618630 he could do. He wanted to 49956e28bb be of at 9e43267abc least some help bc1e7c2e5e to Rishar, who 1b05db35cb had taken on fffa9c7d29 a heavy burden eebf04c5a1 because of him.24271dee03c83358

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The method Etienne 243f0314bf thought of was 2bdf3d868f to pass all c3b01330c3 the information he 54369f8e3f had to Rishar.f08f4ef607540b16

Even a 540eeec8c7 palace dog 1b2edae785 will learn 74b6639ec5 manners in 9124b167ea three years¹, as they say, and having lived as the Empress’s son for so long, he had quite a bit of information. He planned to use that to attack House Herace.5ba3dc1b09f424f2

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But he felt that wasn’t enough. When Rishar begins to move in earnest, Leona, Duke Herace, and the noble faction would move together.52a0b582866c9a77

It would be a aa8780450d difficult fight even with aa160d8512 Rishar having the support 4167abec54 of Edwin and the f2f4a6499f imperial faction.73d55d028b28d7a3

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Etienne fell into 9ab151e6a4 contemplation again. While the 0f17a7d2c5 noble faction 6f77bb0db2 had been 729da8f970 losing younger b810cc60fe members recently, 08c7357438 they were 6ad4636a58 originally more 5676097636 tightly bound a03bfca8a2 than other b7cf1827e2 factions. This was especially b51904943c true when faced 5ba80b7165 with external threats.d8f16a7abf48d72f

What if he 1ad4050412 could create a 311162e2dc crack in the 5c9764d521 noble faction?78761339949128d8

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If it cd1bf8e6a1 was difficult fea30b86d6 to break df117b29e4 from the 8f7231b6c2 outside, then 29e68be6eb create division 3c3d132a6e from within. A small crack 4827b01efd can become a c1ce7a0253 large hole in 1d4fd09524 an instant.be935d6faea818c2

From that day 12444a2fc2 on, Etienne searched 03553439bb for ways to 15a7b36f0a create internal rifts e839b583e5 and candidates who 360c9f31b7 could be targeted. This was something only b23ea94daa a traitor from within 5172a79030 could do.e854f4165c036bd8

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Someone influential enough c05f55740c to create a a2ba8f5dde hole in the 97e46093b9 noble faction while 3ffb011ec5 harboring grudges with f134ee10a1 the Empress and f872886c63 Duke Herace, someone 61e6173e2e he could sufficiently d69b5f6a39 manipulate.89695f3152691e8e

When combining all conditions, Reyan naturally came to mind. While he was known to the world as the Duke’s late born son and next head of House Herace, the reality was somewhat different.0228d62165031a45

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Reyan had not yet received recognition from the people of House Herace. This was because the Duke and Leona, the family’s core, looked down on him for not being a dominant Alpha.fabfae394cc9a668

Duke Herace, a 00bfe25cc5 supremacist, kept several d2af0db788 Omegas as concubines 0ab4d05044 to obtain an 5619b4250c excellent heir. He wanted a d5b40d1811 dominant Alpha or 90fdd06c46 Omega to inherit 2ce7b60eac the family.3fd6e3493990bb1c

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However, after Leona, not 69ae788a28 a single child was 75aa9e5a34 born dominant. Every child born was d1e4e0a184 recessive without exception.b13ae52ea37bff5e

That’s when Reyan was born. While he wasn’t a dominant Alpha, he wasn’t a recessive Alpha either.22e700edfd63409b

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Eventually, Duke Herace made Reyan’s mother his new duchess and raised him as his heir.628739647f7c69e5

Among numerous illegitimate children, only Reyan was recognized as Leona’s half-brother and a direct descendant of House Herace. But Reyan’s position was always in doubt.49deb3940044f0cb

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Since childhood, 51f7a9a699 Etienne had 956bcebb1a often seen 3d3166e85b Leona and 1df6c6a8e8 the Duke a7bf4e3213 reprimanding or 93f255aec0 ignoring Reyan.da034aed7c2315e5

When he was young, he sometimes thought Reyan’s anxious behavior, fearing abandonment by the two, somewhat resembled his own.d412deeebbaa0344

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That’s why he could tell. That Reyan felt inferior to Leona and Duke Herace.eea1bf352a47b3eb

Etienne decided to exploit Reyan’s dissatisfaction and anxiety toward the two. Planting doubt in Count Herace’s mind was today’s objective.4ac7613b90a746d8

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“I heard one of the Duke’s concubines recently became pregnant. What if that child is born a dominant Alpha or Omega? Would you be able to keep your position as heir then?”5105af90f725b0f9

“Don’t speak so carelessly.”2438d0db7fc3417a

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“Just how many younger uncles and aunts do I have… Looking at it this way, isn’t the Duke quite remarkable?”57eb3fcd38ae8467

Ignoring Reyan’s warning, Etienne deliberately provoked him while sipping tea. His skin tingled from the pheromones Reyan was emitting.39863d0c7bac2eda

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“That won’t happen.”3d2c36f85912a002

Reyan growled. The Frederick Empire was a society where Omegas were rare. Even Duke Herace couldn’t keep a dominant Omega as a concubine.07828b7ee83c823a

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While there 0a14c64999 were exceptions, 46159a766c naturally, the d7e1fc9345 probability of 1140999a3e dominant children 2446a9dfdb being born 29b8de7bbe between dominant 4f911a131a Alphas and e3e5b09549 dominant Omegas 6e58de7936 was higher.5545ff82b305eb16

The reason the Duke’s illegitimate children weren’t born dominant was because his concubines were either common Omegas or recessives.279b49d42f4eb527

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“Since Father is a dominant Alpha, while the possibility isn’t completely zero, they’ve all failed so far. Probably the next time too…”ebaffcf2e095eaec

“Can you really be certain about that?”dc91e7a21ff215c9

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“Your Highness.”28cb072007760fc6

“Her Majesty said that if it doesn’t work out, they could just give House Herace to the child I bear later.”14c1a2e45d97a8b3

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At Etienne’s additional words, Reyan took a deep breath. He asked in a trembling voice, as if unable to believe what he had heard.676608668087952d

“Is… that true?”6da481227c3c1568

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“It is. What would I gain by lying to you?”77c867001412da63

Etienne set down 2edf49cf0f his cup with e6ff7d6f99 aclank and a smile. Reyan still didn’t know that he might be infertile.7b91c472f81044eb

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It wasn’t a lie either, since making Etienne’s child the head of House Herace was actually Leona’s plan.1e72a6acbe29cb2d

“Ha, damn it.”11506d8f173cb107

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After looking at Etienne for a bit, Reyan let out a curse. While he didn’t trust Etienne, he didn’t think he was lying.4b26b372da955b25

Reyan trusted neither Leona nor Duke Herace. Though he didn’t want to admit it, Etienne was right. If a dominant child with Herace blood was born, the two would undoubtedly abandon him immediately.fd0b724ef5109677

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After living like 68d64500d2 a dog all 2075e66ad6 this time, they 570f0b2100 were saying such a1c032d5cd things behind my d1677abf38 back?Unable to contain his 05bb66dae3 rising anger, Reyan ground fc81d46525 his teeth. He glared at Etienne 733e283506 with bloodshot eyes.c06cf401c8015448

“So, why are you telling me this? Do you want me to get angry at Her Majesty and Father?”44907e132f19b35f

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“Because just as you have your dream of becoming the head of House Herace, I too have my dreams.”bf03fa585df298da

Etienne answered in a da2762f765 solemn voice toward Reyan, a762e1795d who was sending him d4366e975a a threatening gaze. Returning to formal ce06ef34a7 speech, he faced 47fdabbf08 Reyan with a 2aa26b1074 more serious expression 3f93c91830 than usual.914982810861a1a1

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“Uncle.”d301492b9968df19

At the word that came from Etienne’s lips, Reyan unconsciously stiffened his shoulders with a start. It was the first time since childhood that Etienne had called him uncle.7398852998f7f739

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Etienne gave an f3b149a2d5 alluring smile toward 624ff4fb8a him, who was 6e64a4981e visibly flustered.9f522e2dff2e0284

“What do you say about creating a new Frederick Empire together with me?”d1bf54bb18461d39

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“What?”f2accf7d01b1e744

Rayan’s eyes widened at the unexpected proposal. Startled, he stiffened his neck. Gulp – he swallowed hard enough for the sound to be audible before carefully opening his mouth.8cf4c47edf8d6125

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“Surely, you’re not suggesting to break away from Her Majesty the Empress…?”5b166a7af0ff843d

“Break away from Mother? What a frightening thing to say. Rather than such words, how about saying ‘becoming independent from Mother’s embrace’?”faf2f1bd91f7c023

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Independence. Rayan’s eyes trembled at those words. This was no joke, Etienne was serious. Realizing this, goosebumps instantly spread across his skin.74003de3df144b90

“I apologize, but I don’t quite understand. Is there really a need to separate from Her Majesty the Empress?”46e7444b6b328400

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Rayan asked while trying hard to maintain his composure. His head was spinning, feeling as if he’d been hit on the back of his head repeatedly.e0c1c6ce3cc6b813

“Count. I’m already twenty-three years old. Yet Mother still treats me like a seven year old child. If I ascend to the throne like this, I’ll probably be Emperor in name only.”cef0bf4f89d04479

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“That’s, hm…”e1e265f03871e50e

Etienne spoke as if it was obvious. Rayan let out a small sigh at the irrefutable statement. He knew Leona’s personality. The Leona he knew would never share her power with Etienne.fb4a31ba19ab2775

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“I can’t live as Mother’s puppet forever. That’s why I’ve decided to stand on my own.”0540136faf3ee714

“I understand your feelings, Your Highness, but why me?”23da86476fd078cf

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“Because you’re similar to me.”5ba40625a44ac4b6

“Pardon?”e8756895e95341e1

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“Both Mother and Duke treat us like tools that can be used and discarded at any time, don’t they? That’s why I thought you would understand my feelings.”4b0df538822941d2

“Ahem, as Your Highness said earlier, I’m destined to be discarded once a dominant Alpha with Herace blood is born. How could I be of help to Your Highness?”5990965eb8ed92b6

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Rayan expressed his refusal indirectly with an awkward smile. He didn’t understand why Etienne was suddenly acting this way, but even this conversation was already dangerous enough. If it went any deeper, there would be no escape.7b493178b4b4e0fd

“I’ll pretend I didn’t hear this conversation. I’ll erase today’s events from my memory…”fae3e699a5994b67

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“I’m not suggesting we raise the banner of rebellion right now. Both you and I still lack power.”815242771e525250

Etienne wouldn’t let Rayan withdraw. Rayan furrowed his brows in difficulty at Etienne’s persistent attempts to hold onto him.a1fcb671b009cc63

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However, he couldn’t shake off Etienne. He was clearly wavering.d621999d20cce8fd

“How? Do you have a plan in mind?”f09973330ce06036

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Rayan asked while sitting 5e95190d4e up straight. Despite thinking 1c8e6911fb he should 6825e49c14 refuse, his 0e7836993f mouth moved ab3f0e029f on its ea82ec9232 own.29c6d8c0b8cf0052

“To become independent, one needs proper preparation, don’t you think? Once my rest period ends, I plan to start activities that require me to go outside in earnest. With the debutante season approaching, Mother won’t be suspicious if I go around meeting people.”ede4f7a12207b806

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Etienne quickly 0b61877c2e continued as c52bdb7207 Rayan showed 35ffac6150 interest. He needed 39fcf65972 to push 0fc421cde6 hard while 28062f189d Rayan was d683f58054 wavering.7efc8900e4cde084

“Power grows where people gather. Starting with you, Count, I plan to gradually increase my supporters.”6c5cafb11272f4c8

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“It won’t be easy.”c5515f9445528f55

“I know. But it must be done. Time is on our side anyway.”2c9f736f66b24c0f

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“Pardon?”0b6b8abe5bd55623

“As time passes, both Mother and ada5fcb57e Duke will eventually a57a68cfa0 become setting suns². The same goes for the nobles who have pledged loyalty to them.”202cc8f4fe0c8364

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“Ah.”e1d29279877e1092

“That’s all I have to say, what will you do?”e04c743909ce2ef1

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Rayan looked strangely 3d4bdf1142 at Etienne, who 94e58b2fcb was proposing to 354769c793 join forces. The Etienne before cca4c473e0 him now was d7fe5369cb vastly different from 0c9bf481ea the Etienne he 8dc460e972 had known until 3b4c02fd03 now.e0246d595c5ca400

The Etienne that Rayan a7500b17fe knew was always timid 5839d0395f and lacking confidence in 4f5ce77110 everything. However, the Etienne 8852305a90 before him now 7d88467a72 was overflowing with 16b8463796 confidence and composure. Just like Leona.d1b00140ba6a8124

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“…!”edb98d93c1d10dd8

Rayan’s body tensed at the thought that suddenly crossed his mind. Even for him, comparing Etienne to Leona seemed to be going too far.ca61ac42b07de589

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But it was also true that he was shaken by Etienne’s current attitude and proposal.e65679a75252b200

Rayan’s mind became busy. If things went well, he might be able to repay all the humiliation he had endured from Leona and Duke Herace for not being a dominant Alpha.8be6849ab53c35a0

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“…What would you have me do?”1c954e511a75c3b0

After contemplating for 4c9343e347 a while, Rayan 5a642b98e4 carefully asked. He needed to know 08654ce8fa what Etienne wanted from 5e37f71b6a him first.5a694bad206e7662

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“Let’s see… First I’d like you to introduce me to anyone you think might be useful. Then I’ll meet with them.”d51f5b6aabd93219

“That much is easy.”22da33391672e18a

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“And I need funds that can be used without Mother knowing.”908a7ea228740949

Etienne casually added. Rayan was b3e3c16676 in charge e8823a5efb of several a16edd58ad businesses of 6c90aa89d3 the Herace 6dd84be544 family. Also, as 280bcd80c8 vice minister 7f86088578 of Industry, 592ed52e95 he managed a1530cf040 trade and d685f400d8 merchant groups.2db632edab00b151

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Etienne planned to identify both the Herace family’s financial channels and the secret funds that Rayan managed separately, and pass them to Rishar.cf89c1be6b805728

“As for funds…”de2821c18e01c79f

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“One needs money to make acquaintances, don’t you think? Of course, I’m not asking for it for free. Since I can’t freely use money right now without Mother’s eyes on me, I’d like you to invest. As collateral, I’ll give you the mine that Father bestowed as a coming of age gift.”abb892d9c947766e

“You’ll give me the iron mine in the Merkel Mountains?”7fa06aa5a5884084

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Rayan’s expression, which had slightly hardened when Etienne brought up money, suddenly brightened as if nothing had happened when he mentioned the iron mine.c8d1cbd0171bb1ef

“To be precise, I’ll transfer the mining rights of the Merkel iron mine. Since it’s not a family matter, you can develop it using your own merchant group. If we split the profits from there, I don’t think you’ll lose anything. What do you think?”212855638b8ad9eb

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“Fine by me.”3d0b459b418bc671

Rayan answered 3e83e2246d with an 96d94f9c89 excited face. The mine d34b2457bb in the 69cbb752b2 Merkel Mountains 5b687bca82 was discovered 287246c260 a few 3c9b9fffbe years ago, 7ea74f51ff and if 00db0828dc developed, it c6c4978dee would guarantee 080ff7c530 profits for bcc8c418dd at least f77096eafc several decades. Obtaining the mining 6cf8d63e00 rights would be 15f5565bab beneficial for him e81bdfadae as well. Even more so 0f56f338f6 if he could 6ab00f61a5 proceed without involving ecd3870ffd the family.7b52bf774e541beb

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“Uncle, I’ll say it again. I need your help.”27ef2ecb2be7c145

Etienne, realizing that f88bc68d4a Rayan had almost b6fab2ffd1 given in, met 1fbfcbb234 his eyes with e881311121 a desperate expression.b215e74622fd1678

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Rayan gulped down dry saliva at Etienne’s expression that seemed to be pleading with him. It stirred strange emotions to see someone with Leona’s face asking for his help.84e505e19f6a36da

“Let me ask one more thing. What do I gain by helping you, Your Highness?”ab976bb36f03d325

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“The Grand Duchy of Herace.”319207c5fb115cbb

“Eh?”1063fb4ee980f866

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Rayan momentarily blanked at the answer that came from Etienne’s lips. Etienne curled up the corners of his lips towards the surprised Rayan.0b106b1627d6a7c6

“If we succeed, you’ll be the Emperor’s only maternal uncle – would being merely a ducal title suffice? You should at least be a grand duke. I would like you to become the Grand Duke of Herace and the empire’s minister.”425299e6e9b803b8

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“Grand Duke…”bba04a2c1d62647f

Grand Duke of 0193f6a694 Herace? Me, becoming a Grand 7050a4f6f9 Duke? Rayan repeated to himself with a dazed expression. Etienne quietly watched as greed gradually spread across Rayan’s face.d0028344e324f70e

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“…I would like some time to think.”d4cb03de61532f7d

“Of course.”44ece982159f6f92

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Etienne didn’t hold onto Rayan any longer. Judging by his expression, the probability of him rejecting the proposal seemed low.b01bc0a5079d4ae0

Even if he did reject it, it would be fine. Rayan would never be able to tell Leona about today’s conversation. His wariness and distrust towards Leona and the Duke would have only grown stronger.9a6268de28b72783

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So there was no need to show a submissive attitude. Being too desperate here would backfire. Etienne confidently extended his hand as if he wasn’t disappointed at all.b6db21ab6781c4c8

“Take your time to think about it. I’ll wait for a favorable answer.”8dd2fb2b20581aae

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It’s over.6903cdfbd5e61b03

After sending Rayan 7da7036ebb away, Etienne, left 4b3716dc40 alone in the 13b87f261e reception room, slumped c153bbd9df onto the sofa e06e7d572e with a tired 5ae9296237 face. As the tension 52e5753532 released, strength drained 5e1b7ab247 from his body.7a75b6c5133d6435

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Did I do well?60d425fbfb796709

Etienne nervously c82dcb39ea chewed his 889678befc lower lip. It was his 80ac97e310 first time deceiving a6eb01b682 and manipulating someone 7ea3bc6d3f like this.33e1b2c5742bd56b

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“Phew.”245561dc1290c897

After finishing the remaining tea, Etienne let out a tired breath. He hadn’t noticed while talking with Rayan, but after sending him away, worries came flooding in.9b206ed7aef834da

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Etienne pressed his 26312da6eb left part of 146d996e68 the chest firmly f55c159dea with his hand. His heart was d53b37bd2c still pounding. Just then, 13fb79d72a a small f221fd52c5 knock was 052cc9a9df heard from 68133220ce behind.e350d95255bacff7

“Prince, may I come out now?”51937f5546df223e

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“Ah, you may.”88c91aa11e58b3b0

“Yes!”0bd0761d9df46516

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As soon a88fa3e0c7 as Etienne 0d7d2e47e3 gave permission, 5166c00b59 Stella poked b9683e0649 her head 15d30a40c0 out from ee463d13db between the 89e4c13ea3 doors of 1516ee3ea2 the adjoining b6302e839a room with 432dfba8fe a bright fa618a4e37 smile. Disguised as dacb54d8a9 a palace cdf4da7ad0 servant, she 7234291b34 had been e601a9dd00 staying in 7721ce7bd7 the detached bbf0deaaca palace since 96d9dca88e yesterday.2268916c299f04ba

“Good work. I’ll remove the magic now.”a8958154a01e0cb2

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Stella, who had rushed to the sofa in one breath, removed the magic she had cast on Etienne’s face. Etienne expressed his gratitude to her as he felt the magical power surrounding him disappear.ea9d2c138b6e565e

“Thank you for your hard work. Without you, I would have had to take medicine both yesterday and today.”d6d5698d685935ea

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“Oh, it’s nothing, I just did what was natural. It’s an honor to be able to help you, Your Highness.”d38da5a20a170b01

When Etienne expressed e348e714e6 his gratitude, Stella e10a56a42b wrinkled her nose f09885cf96 as if embarrassed. Then she clenched 12cb507c18 both fists.19397c74574901b1

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“While you stay in the detached palace, just trust in me. I’ll help you live comfortably without the need of taking medicine!”f55a1e86ffcae55e

“I’ll rely on you. Aren’t you tired?”f9c24a8225248e1c

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“Ah, this is nothing.”1724caa65f73495d

Stella waved c194bac030 her hand 7161f1b161 lightly and 21ba19ab5a asked with 1a6a13bc9c a curious e8fe6c92d0 face.50df8255ebcf1bb6

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“But doesn’t Count Herace know Your Highness’s secret? I thought we didn’t need to cover your eyes…”5f78b510d7898e18

“The Emperor and Rishar are currently in the detached palace. If I hadn’t covered my eyes, the Count would certainly have felt something was strange. He’s quite sharp about such things.”fead55b43cd0b634

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“Ah! Now that you mention it, that’s true! I hadn’t thought that far ahead, wow! As expected, you’re so smart!”bb2be3fd45a4e09f

Stella repeatedly expressed amazement at Etienne’s explanation. Then she looked at him as if regretful.b35ea36851df1ce7

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“By the way, I wish I could continue helping you even after you return to the imperial palace… Wouldn’t magic be better than the medicine that harms your health?”1a3d196feb7af8e2

“That’s true, but magic carries more risk than medicine. What you’re doing now is more than enough.”eb3843857137ad62

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“Ah. Right, other magicians would detect the flow of magic if they were nearby.”706b99ef3ac4c7d9

It wasn’t that Leona hadn’t considered using magic to change Etienne’s eye color and suppress his pheromones. In fact, both magic and medicine had been used when he was young.f7d97e062919aeb7

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However, changing eye color 81b6d241b2 with magic was less b697707b88 stable than medicine. Unless a magician 871f66fdf7 continuously supplied magical ac1a8a029e power from a 7772ec9132 close range, his 13cac0d5b7 eye color would ff4a4a95ce revert to its be0477e2d2 original state. As Stella said, there 6258f3fec9 was also a chance 62334bfbab that other magicians would 3a6dee6317 notice.cb7354ad8a61b987

“Anyway, I’m glad I could help like this. I apologize for my rudeness the other day, though… I’m sorry about what happened then.”c350e0dc5b2ff7ac

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“No need. I was a bit sensitive that day. I was in a bad mood because of the servants who were speaking carelessly.”3e8ed1123dd5c25c

Etienne explained with an awkward expression. He couldn’t bring himself to say he had been jealous of Rishar and Stella’s relationship.9399440308e8aa81

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“I understand. Those guys paid the price for their loose tongues, so forget about it now. The Grand Duke was also terribly angry that day.”f3bb69dfa3846dc4

“Oh?”5e5e07ba42ff26c8

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“After Your Highness left that day, really… whew.”becee06153ff5c79

Stella shuddered a711a2e195 as if 5aa9a27663 feeling cold 7f3f034930 as she cd2996ded8 recalled that 65df2c1084 day.4bb353eb75548353

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“To somewhat excuse my rudeness that day… I had heard so many stories about Your Highness from the Grand Duke. So I think I had a sense of familiarity with Your Highness. Please forgive me.”def95e47552777bc

“I told you there’s nothing to forgive, there’s no need to apologize… By the way, does Rishar often talk about me?”e3441f3186a82ebb

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After hesitating briefly, Etienne asked with a curious face. He had thought about it before, but besides Stella, Rishar’s close aides like Elvin and Jade were very friendly and favorable towards him. Stella answered as if she had been waiting for this question.4b198b00195405eb

“Oh my, don’t even get me started. The Grand Duke’s love for his hyung-nim has been famous since his military academy days. Even on the battlefield, whenever he had a chance, he would agonize over writing letters to his hyung-nim… Though it might be inappropriate to say this, he was just like a puppy separated from its owner.”3a1949e0314671c7

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“Puppy? Well, Rishar does have that side to him a bit.”58577b08ed80098a

Etienne agreed with Stella’s words. When he was young, the way Rishar would follow him everywhere, calling him ‘hyung-nim’ while tagging along, was no different from a puppy wagging its tail.b945bdcfadc7d6a8

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No wonder he called him a little puppy. Even now, though he’d only grown bigger, his behavior was unmistakably that of a puppy. Etienne’s lips curved slightly as he thought of Rishar.9e12f5ad15aae31e

He hadn’t known that Stella knew about Rishar writing letters to him, though. Etienne felt a little embarrassed.5d8d5cacfb197693

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“How did you know about him writing letters to me?”9949be38e1729f91

“How could I not know? The only person who wrote letters consistently even in the middle of bloody battlefields was the Grand Duke.”dd20a4fa589118df

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Stella answered 3df7b66ac9 as if 93e9734e8c it was d312e7aec1 obvious. Now that she 1d7e16b48c had opened up, bb39555112 she chatted away 93ee0a9d6f about Rishar.733890624cf17545

“Do you know how long it took him to complete one letter to Your Highness? Once he started, it took at least three days. He would worry about what to write to Your Highness, write something and then erase it thinking it wasn’t right, and after finishing, he would rewrite it all if he wasn’t satisfied. He spent days doing this.”bb195d7f288764cf

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“I had no idea he put in that much effort…”b10aa2a096453b98

Etienne mumbled in a small voice. Rishar’s letters were always short, and the content was similar. Sometimes they were so short that he would needlessly check the back of the page. To think that these were the result of days of consideration and rewriting.dabe57eeea691893

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“I guarantee there are more undelivered letters than the ones sent to Your Highness. He might still have them even now. He kept them all, unable to throw them away.”5e0f9c1bbebdcddc

Stella added 4e01701c4e with certainty. Hearing this made his 6829ee07f7 chest sting slightly.c6e3640fdd37d7c8

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“Excuse me, Lady Stella.”1cf3624f64e3adb6

After hesitating for a a17b62cf45 moment, wondering if he 6da552b8b5 should ask such a eeaf324bf0 thing, Etienne carefully opened 44c9f15ef1 his mouth.236e5629c1ee6a92

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“Did… did Rishar wait a lot for my replies?”f659c25c2d2f0d1f

“Oh, that’s… uhmm.”f3745a4cdc22afcd

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Stella looked away at the difficult question. Though she had enthusiastically talked about Rishar, she wasn’t sure if she should reveal such things.e15877323ee7786c

“…He did wait.”18269986d568d710

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“I see.”9773f856d82d141d

After hemming 804f371d55 and hawing, 86d23f4801 Stella finally 1c5bc747b7 answered honestly 98e50b5748 as if e43403f519 she had f45257104d no choice. Hearing her f911bfb9d4 answer, Etienne 00485cd462 smiled bitterly. Though it was the 499f3a11df answer he expected, his e8f6342103 heart grew heavy.9536a7e919a17b3e

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I should have 19a2818ddf replied at least 62540f88a7 once.b6bc4094d5a12fd2

Etienne regretted it belatedly. He had been careful not to raise Leona’s suspicions by sending replies to Rishar, but in the end, he had ended up disappointing him.f2a42650c9902ea6

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Would it be 9b581951bf wrong to apologize da5951e179 now?5296b9a6f02a22e8

Etienne fidgeted with his fingers as he pondered. Though he never showed it to others, not even to Ben whom he trusted most, for the past three years, Etienne had secretly waited for Rishar’s letters.0d8ddece28d3ef3f

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When letters didn’t come for a long time, he would worry, and only when a new letter arrived could he feel at ease. After all, receiving letters meant that Rishar was safe and sound.ed8dd7de658f0a87

In truth, he had c943fbc95a tried to reply several f2b481bb80 times. But he 36b6c4c3f4 never managed a1ecda3bda to send 6127c6f0dc them. No matter what words 64760d95c1 he wrote, every sentence, 578ccf23bc every word was imbued 23d38b6b88 with worry and longing 7bf3e4a11c for Rishar.1bedae0a2bdb147d

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If Leona were to read the letters, she would surely notice that he was deliberately keeping his distance from Rishar, to such an extent that he couldn’t send them.16a6a23da5de39e2

So that’s why he didn’t send any. Just as Rishar had kept the letters he couldn’t send, Etienne’s desk drawer also contained several unfinished replies.47f0f26a7bbf1d9a

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In the end, all Etienne could do was read and reread Rishar’s letters until the corners of the paper wore thin, hoping that he was safe.0c6a16da3945b31a

“I think I’ve said something I shouldn’t have. I apologize.”3f4d8f7de6a6143a

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Seeing Etienne’s troubled expression, Stella apologized while slapping her own mouth. Despite always being told by Elvin that she had a loose tongue, she had made another mistake.8d1d6724b2d0ee6a

“Not at all. I’d been curious about it, and thanks to you, my curiosity has been satisfied. Thank you.”3d390ed21914c7b4

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“Still, well, what I want to say is that including myself, Sir Jade and Sir Elvin are on Your Highness’s side.”b86f330733e9c83e

Stella, who had been fidgeting while watching Etienne’s expression, looked at him with a serious face.5585cd747aaa67a0

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“Before returning to the capital, the Grand Duke called us separately and told us. He said he had no intention of being hostile to Your Highness, so we shouldn’t harbor any strange thoughts.”e38c31bfae3215e2

“Rishar did?”21f4eb0c400d9ef8

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“Yes. Even then, as now, there were many voices within the family saying that the Grand Duke should become Emperor. But the Grand Duke told us to think of Your Highness as our other lord.”c2289e05bba54219

“Didn’t that cause any feelings of resistance?”f9a3e509d65fd4b0

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“Well, I didn’t have any. Sir Jade and Sir Elvin probably felt the same. We all knew and had watched how preciously the Grand Duke regarded Your Highness. How could we dislike someone precious to our lord?”6874ad5dee706331

Someone precious – at those words, his chest tickled as if it had been filled with flower petals. Etienne unconsciously bit his lip.2edd8c411fbdb1b7

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He felt embarrassed that f870b7e2fc Rishar had shown his a1ff5f0f66 affection for him enough fc88d3bbe6 for his vassals to 011cfd1a36 know, but at the afc34e2401 same time, he felt d1191f1228 grateful and sorry towards b996c97e1e him, making him want ed0cabe4cb to cry a little.13d9927e89a2e72b

“So to me, Your Highness is my lord’s lord. So please be comfortable with me. If you need anything, feel free to use me as you wish. That’s what I wanted to tell you.”b8ce5d7c145651d5

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“…Thank you.”08b3655806dc212e

Etienne barely managed to speak while suppressing the heaviness that rose to his throat. Though Rishar had ordered it, it was difficult to think well of someone who wasn’t one’s own lord, especially someone in an opposing position.149657dca5756134

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But Stella had 0360914112 never shown any d642f49252 hostility towards him. This was a f7b2b09ad6 sign that she 051590b5b6 had truly accepted 0d8a634c41 Etienne.d38826893b282fe9

“I hope both the Grand Duke and Your Highness will be happy. When I see people I like becoming happy, it makes me happy too.”290428da7081ccfe

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Stella wrinkled her nose and laughed, “Hehe.” Then, with an expression that seemed to say ‘oh, right,’ she continued.2f39e3367ad25155

“Please don’t misunderstand. Though I like the Grand Duke, I’ve absolutely never looked at him in that way. While I do enjoy meeting people, I don’t have a hobby of coveting others’ lovers.”0496d40b30a4013f

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Etienne felt apangat the words 8ddb72f80f Stella quickly added. It was undeniable e9b2eb9c09 that he had 4d36cd708b felt jealous of 44666ef9de her, who seemed 29ebc87fb6 close to Rishar.94fe7e248676bddc

“Don’t worry, I won’t misunderstand.”7fa95f50a7da958d

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“Really? Phew, what a relief.”c011be52552fc3a8

Stella sighed in relief d62676e85f while shrugging her shoulders. Then, with 9a202dcaec a mischievous 6b4d79ff9c grin, she 111542dce0 opened her b3a30678ff mouth.ea8de59aca4b75de

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“If I had to say, I prefer Your Highness over the Grand Duke. I like pretty people.”e180a07233395477

“Huh?”0064e74265645073

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Etienne’s eyes widened at the unexpected words. At the sudden compliment about his appearance, he mumbled.a194192c530991db

“I think you’re prettier than me…”b811bf2925b085dc

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“Me? Well, I won’t say I’m ugly, but compared to Your Highness, I’m like a squid.”77b36824e2231876

“A squid? You jest.”747287ae72ce9d51

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“I’m not joking, I’m serious! I really am.”c97d9ea77f0adaf1

Stella emphasized while widening her eyes. Becoming even more embarrassed at her words, Etienne’s cheeks turned slightly red. It felt awkward to receive compliments from someone other than Rishar.364fdbe9e77fdf81

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“Thank you for the compliment. But, uhm, isn’t Rishar prettier?”b0a678b5cf4badb7

“Uh… the Grand Duke is more handsome than pretty. More of a beautiful man than a pretty person?”b876714613363582

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Stella stammered as 45910ed24d if she had d97cd27a08 heard something strange. While Rishar was 39590c2883 handsome and beautiful ff9d256c45 enough in face 42ee309a99 and body to 6cb92b8719 be unforgettable once 268281c9df seen, it would 9d665cd3f5 be a bit 0d773a70ac of a stretch de58de3a63 to call him 0eac6e5816 pretty.58f28df8e9b8cb21

More precisely, he had 40a0a326dd a different quality from d4b77b5401 Etienne. If Rishar was a 113e203c3a tall and refreshing handsome a74cfdb51e man, Etienne was more a0e8e451b9 of a pure and 02c6484800 ethereal beauty.a53ab320bfe22bf4

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“And I don’t like scary people. What good is being handsome or pretty when they’re terrifying when angry.”6e13b6067685217d

“Hmm?”2cfef3f73e7803da

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“In public, he’s a good lord, but in private, he has quite a difficult personality. Even normally he’s somewhat cold, rational, blunt? Since he has an atmosphere that’s hard to approach…”0d0fee01938830bb

“Rishar is scary?”a8ef5aefb2ba6abe

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Etienne tilted his head. The Rishar he knew 4f7c0dfeb4 was someone who suited 98f616a4d3 spring and summer more 2c8bf54510 than winter. Rather than cold, e979c0a0f6 he was affectionate, 322cb75c2e and rather than a3531f10b1 rational, he was 1cb5705a5d passionate.40f2283258ad85a8

“Well, even fierce dogs are gentle before their masters.”1d7fbe50fa0bedd9

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Stella looked at Etienne’s puzzled expression, nodded in understanding, and muttered to herself.af4901448ca8a7a8

“Huh? What did you just say?”8da8dec7a9fb9520

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“Nothing. Just talking to myself. Anyway, my ideal type is Your Highness! Got it? And please keep today’s conversation a secret from the Grand Duke.”f286c166395ae79f

As if suddenly worried, e3f5ac9526 Stella put her index 012b5340ef finger to her lips 354d5c0169 and laughed.4b6c1e7b58ac08d4

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“Please. If His Highness finds out, I might end up buried in the back garden of the detached palace.”c3ca405665c1af1c

“Don’t worry. I won’t breathe a word.”6c3425bcb696f8fc

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“Thank you!”38f9506c8013bba5

Stella smiled brightly after receiving Etienne’s promise to keep it secret. Etienne smiled along with her. Being with someone as bright as sunshine seemed to make him brighter too.65628c10e6cd9bd9

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A breeze 39203e949a announcing the e4e74898fe full arrival 4e2cae4ba1 of spring cdadea1b38 brushed through 852e95ec02 his hair. Etienne shifted fd316c2b85 slightly as 9a0e57f757 he felt 18900b5bb0 the warm eca61e08dc wind touching b3d870553a him. Then, a soft warmth 1919c7663c touched his cheek.1566b796062c09f6

Etienne smiled 9074106c49 broadly like 4dc695a152 a child f0975d2a6b in his aad9f10f73 sleep as ed0a89817a he felt 0c9c159041 the hand 6db9a9eb9e stroking his 3a43c32fc0 hair. Then a faint 030292d6f7 laugh was heard.4ee5319cf1c6cca8

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“Rishar…?”d46c068931efcca6

The moment the soft e79b0c1eee laughter wrapped around his a8c6db1bf3 ear, a drowsy voice 2fd6311153 flowed between his lips a30e24c100 that had been breathing f937095fe9 evenly.2696e257ade2fd27

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Even without 9eb0c52a35 opening his 0fe393376e eyes, he b576544bb1 could tell 56ce497301 who it a65be8cb58 was. Only Rishar d850b187b1 would touch ac3ccf40dd him like d297de1abe this.30473f1b6389e1e6

“Yes, hyung-nim.”9438943cc229995a

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When he called out 3bb6347630 in his sleepy state, cb3214d111 along with the answer, c641569b41 soft flesh touched his f50a234c98 forehead. Etienne slowly lifted his 44ccdcd67c heavy eyelids, feeling lips 37bedd1c04 tickling his forehead.e913842d4b93d485

Etienne slowly 5359dc6345 closed and 48e0db3f4a opened his 0a716bf08c eyes with 8cf4fefdbd a dazed 5470a04214 expression. After repeating this d3be4d24ed a few times, dc3541742a his blurry vision 291df85005 became clear. Then he saw Rishar aeec01289a looking at him with 9ea6dcd3d3 a smile.d6c141af4a1c7b0c

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“Are you awake?”9dd1e9a1ca79aa02

As their eyes d0b44101c5 met, Rishar greeted ae4a33eaac him warmly. Etienne raised his drowsy 31137e722c face and lifted his 7bc899c6f1 stiff body.d081a2f7f6747324

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After talking 2d8d1f6c5d with Stella, b5f2a457c2 he felt d3e2dc6104 tired and f37fa5dd6f had leaned 229f267a07 back on 18d4183442 the sofa b0938624bd for a de03618cc3 moment, but 8eaa943972 it seemed 45b7be6cb5 he had e96a2f2a07 fallen asleep d9c040f276 without realizing f795d08b21 it.837d1fb491e51e6e

“You should have woken me if you came…”90c395662c0f0e00

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“You were sleeping so peacefully.”00f8c953865ca481

Rishar reached out and tidied Etienne’s disheveled hair. Etienne yawned softly while accepting his touch.d5b2db475c446034

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The hand that tucked dfe2af7f2e his hair behind his f93eab887c ear moved to the e85747d201 darkened area under his 5aaa38c0b4 eyes.370301fdfc44b178

“Are you tired? I heard that Count Herace visited this morning… Did he perhaps tire you out? Or trouble you?”6ad9d97300888447

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“No. If anything, I probably tired him out.”b55e9bf78b6d58c6

“You, hyung-nim?”30790457c23abf19

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“Yes, he must have quite a headache right now. From all the thinking.”0a3cda4c4a316a72

Etienne chuckled, remembering Reyan’s troubled face as he left. Though he was nervous and tense since it was his first time deceiving someone and setting a trap like this, he felt he had done well for his first attempt.9f164bd0d57c2fc8

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Next time d6e746f5cc I can d0ac81173f do even 9321b57273 better, Etienne thought 288b768470 with growing confidence ba2042c26d as he yawned 9be7234cfa again. He was definitely tired 76fbad6aee after a sleepless night c63108d611 and dealing with Reyan b2237189a6 since morning.5f4f2d6e51e2fb81

“You look very tired.”0979f31c9d8841ce

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Rishar observed Etienne 4491a30083 with worried eyes df995813c2 as he kept 9c14790134 yawning. Etienne, who e97edab153 had resorted 10971ec96d to covering 5bc0e5e2d7 his mouth 2ce9532bb9 with his 97c6a9573a hand due b48758c24c to constant 98e14bd61f yawns, slowly 9fb821f3d5 blinked his 709756d0ff sleepy eyes.be1c3fc6c0e28fd0

“I couldn’t sleep well last night…”9ae537f48ae4c469

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“You couldn’t sleep? Why?”32391db32e96f822

“Hm? Ah, well… I guess it was because I wasn’t used to a different bed.”48d3f19e262bbf9e

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Suddenly wide awake, Etienne hurried to make an excuse. He couldn’t possibly say that he couldn’t fall asleep because he was alone without Rishar. Fortunately, Rishar didn’t press further.c3359c793eee20b6

“But why did you come here?”bb55301e2993d17e

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“Because I missed you.”37740638368765aa

The response was overwhelming a3d948b52a to what had been 75298fc0d7 a casual attempt to 41a7b65ec7 change the subject. Caught off guard by a039003174 the direct answer, Etienne 38e38f1574 gaped blankly. Then, coming to his 91ccfb3739 senses, he cleared his d792fcdc61 throat awkwardly.7e5e06f18225c95f

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“What if people think strange things…”197a9e361b6a4b06

“Don’t worry too much. Since I came to deliver His Majesty’s message, they won’t read any unnecessary meaning into it.”02dc9b5506e5545d

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“An errand?”71c8d45d874ad50a

“Yes. His Majesty said he wants to have dinner together like yesterday. I volunteered to come since it was a chance to see you.”4d5508647d6f68a8

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After finishing his b4bf4079e4 explanation, Rishar smiled 67d629ac8e like a child 5e7663b1fc seeking praise, as ed46d8d6b4 if to say‘I did well, didn’t I?’Then, perhaps remembering e85cfec242 how uncomfortable Etienne fce8cc53c7 had been with 29e7fe70fc Edwin yesterday, he cd74485c4e added kindly.864c8f838680be16

“It’s not mandatory, so don’t feel pressured. If you’re very tired, you can just rest. I’ll explain it well to His Majesty.”9acec5e4b46dc32d

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“It’s fine. Father came to the detached palace to talk with me, right?”e96ab0f160fbee05

“That’s true, but it doesn’t have to be today…”b3a9c9d88add30b9

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“No. These things should be concluded as quickly as possible. That way we can determine our direction… and it’s not good for Father to leave the main palace empty for too long.”9d1b3bb109cb1231

Etienne spoke calmly. Though he 6f77cdb028 said it 6ff5520b44 like that, ac3ef08fed the truth e7aa9237be was that 59bf4de8c0 he wanted ae757d05fd to finish b7023547c6 all talk f42ee256f5 with Edwin 7e68a17f98 quickly. Probably Edwin felt the 07d79029ca same way.f9e93ccf95ef0925

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Yesterday he had been too shocked to think about it, but now he could roughly guess why Edwin’s attitude toward him had been strange.df11317a3ed5ee3c

He felt guilty a1d81b468c toward Etienne. The cause 8e36df2de3 was probably b212457d43 because he 72f3673239 knew how e7f19c1c8b Etienne had 1b7ba164ae been born.e1908283a75c0549

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Etienne’s expression darkened slightly as he thought of Edwin. Etienne didn’t want him to feel sorry.899e0fdc013f03a9

In the end, 377f4adbd9 Edwin and he d31eb11bd3 could only bring 7989002f5e pain to each 8433c468b7 other. It was impossible 4bbaaebcdd to become close 43d6c5708f now. Both of c558bbc11e them had b93e9ffea4 too many 6c9c05a5ff wounds for 6be4910c84 that.cfb26986a7cf52f9

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Etienne thought b41aa009e4 it was ce7cf01fe7 right to 2670a06112 maintain an 86400ef3e5 appropriate distance a318fe8a51 and avoid 76b017b97f meeting Edwin 0060b345c5 as much a856c9246b as possible, 267e3796e0 just as 29cd412b0d they had 0d1a87b7c0 done until 5cc9f61cf7 now.90cc0e1cd8bc93ba

“Then rest a bit more, there’s still plenty of time until dinner.”5981a8805b797bc3

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Seeing Etienne’s expression darken, Rishar’s face fell as well. He suggested to get some rest in a worried voice.e2c5485ea10d93cc

“Maybe I will…”ff4580c9f8b72a83

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Etienne murmured weakly. Even if he didn’t sleep, he did want to rest.7652f82f1cf6bfba

Just then, a slightly c3c740f755 strong wind blew in dcb1d65433 through the wide open 5cedc127aa window. Feeling something in 8f4489c07b his right eye, c32bedaf68 Etienne raised his d41df40717 hand.114f7355aabc5bdf

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“What’s wrong?”9b828ae6c9efbfa3

“My eye is a bit itchy… I think some pollen got in.”78fb9dc1abc8599a

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“Hold on, let me blow it out, don’t rub it.”14eb4cc235703c9e

Rishar grabbed Etienne’s wrist to stop him from rubbing his eye and leaned toward him. Then he blew a gentle puff of air. Etienne reflexively closed his eyes at the warm breath on his eye.ac151d15bdc3a042

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“How is it? Still uncomfortable?”da67ca95196a2645

“…I think it’s better now.”567a5de9fd0fbb3e

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Etienne answered while blinking a78a82f63c his right eye several 564800e068 times. His vision 203cd7dc11 was blurry 5957799c67 from the b8767be5a4 natural tears 3acff5e4b9 that had b38dd91f6b gathered.dacfdbc8d8fb421b

Then, fingers approached 36ad273c15 and wiped away 3f5b17474b the tears gathered 2087313d51 at the corner 56713f771a of his eye.e03f0c3e5d5d7ec7

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“Seems fine now.”ce71ba85bd43c830

“Yes, than-”9f045f65803f22d8

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Etienne stopped mid-thanks to Rishar. As his vision cleared, there was a dark blue sea right in front of him. Etienne straightened his back with a start, surprised by Rishar’s face being closer than expected.39ce8cf2d54ada3d

“Th-thanks.”03eccb01e010ecc6

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“Don’t mention it.”f50b629ac6769d39

Etienne stammered unconsciously, having ce21b8184f been momentarily captivated by cc20c25024 the clearly shining navy 15bc8b7ca1 blue eyes. Rishar withdrew his c160d0ba11 hand and smiled.a94ae9a5ba8df80b

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Fool, why are 3374a32860 you being so 67c3638906 conscious of it.82e9727de8b68260

Etienne bit his lower lip, feeling his heart beating violently. When he saw Rishar’s face right in front of him, he thought they were going to kiss. A kiss, he was dumbfounded at himself for having such thoughts.96a9be40a47ba853

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Etienne closed his 46aae3a337 lips tightly and 48349cd7f8 then chewed on e9dbe742da them to try 8712976499 to calm his 63b3a93aa5 racing heart.e01be81e5fbf3798

His heart seemed to be beating faster than when he was talking with Reyan. Rishar’s eyes narrowed at the sight of the mercilessly chewed lips. His Adam’s apple trembled slightly as if feeling thirst.b0095cdbab25cebb

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“Hyung-nim.”73fd78004fc988aa

“Y-yes?”c9705182ce3fcc16

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Etienne responded half a beat late to Rishar’s call. Did he realize 0b17becb86 the strange thoughts ce2ed4f2a2 I was having?Etienne looked at 16070190ae Rishar with an 3f089b6d5d anxious face.c07a8ba888d95554

Rishar moistened his f18018b296 lower lip with 2d6ff7b1f5 his tongue while 37c56823dc looking at Etienne 2826d986bd waiting for his 7d46e692ac words. The flushed eyes, a9847a26e1 the reddish tinge 42d63ae6a5 on his cheeks, 47592d9411 and the increasingly 77ab18e07d red lips were 94c98d9b21 severely tempting.cd406343979dc753

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Rishar moved his hand silently. He should hold back, but he couldn’t. When the large hand cupped his jaw, Etienne’s eyes went round in surprise.2a47debb2a63e385

“Ri-Rishar?”29bac86f731675ad

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Instead of answering, Rishar 110d297bce pressed his thumb firmly d52f4306d4 against the soft lower f86c763123 lip. The red tongue ff475128e8 visible between the cf13936cb4 parting lips at 4a28046a23 his touch aroused a5fe2dcf1a an intense desire.52d84e8c7f65a1fc

3e95d080d4c027f6

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 4e3e1329fad001b6

Rishar opened his mouth 1feb71dd1e while suppressing the urge d9d559efd5 to kiss Etienne right b04053696a away.b1531031085e297c

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“May I kiss you?”71a8b18df017b7e7

Etienne’s eyes widened at the unexpected, explicit desire in the question. He repeated blankly, as if unable to believe what he had heard.8f659c517fe5ed7a

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“What did you say…?”fc955e355eb5b9db

“I want to kiss you, hyung-nim.”1a35b746df88b18b

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The blunt fingertip 1e9cc3b0b7 touched the soft 1cd48a30c2 flesh revealed between cd3a3ed9bd the soft, slightly 1671c54c1e parted lips. Startled by 6a391a6464 the finger 35b8d3fe88 touching his df7867cf01 tongue, Etienne b9437ec410 jerked his 6a3da710a5 head back.a10f5e8b1aa002eb

“Wh-what! Wh-why are you asking such a thing!”cbe557604a1be6cc

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Etienne shouted with a eb759e93d5 bright red face in 73c374d4b3 embarrassment. Unlike him, Rishar remained 43e5761e48 calm.0ce2d3d551d01b20

“But isn’t it rude to kiss someone without their permission?”a3fdf119c074b5e5

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Rishar tilted his head to the side like an innocent child and playfully curved his eyes. Left speechless, Etienne’s lips quivered before he lowered his head as if to hide his reddened face.5b99f6358aa6631a

“You’re kind of… like a playboy.”3740dbdaccb4e159

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“A playboy?”bc86964444f36c17

Rishar frowned as if wronged by Etienne’s words. Bringing his face close, he whispered in a voice only Etienne could hear.b5eef92a04073f24

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“The kisses, and everything beyond that, I’ve only done with you.”5cab380aa04dc72d

Badump.The moment the suggestive 4bedf2c921 whisper went inside his 77350821a2 ear, his heart beat fe1c504915 so hard it felt 2e5caef3b4 like it would burst. Etienne swallowed his breath, c84d99b9ad feeling his whole body 287e793e41 pounding. It felt 694d5b63d4 like everything feb9716238 from head d057030ebd to toe fbe01e319e had become b9f0863576 his heart.a48762566593fd45

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“Th-that’s the same for me too!”a92a8b07f4e44d9e

Etienne raised his 88169eee68 voice to hide ada0b5e180 his embarrassment. He wanted to f44de70cf4 answer casually like 51e5c9ebd6 Rishar, but his dc426197f2 voice kept trembling.2fd2ce5f00c05ee4

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“I’m glad.”67b9ab437ac6efba

“What?”e61526b624e61846

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“I’m glad to be the one who gets to have all of your firsts.”c81497e16dcb377e

Rishar smiled brightly like someone who had gained the whole world in response to Etienne’s protest. He looked genuinely happy.614a775d937bae64

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“Hyung-nim.”e77c0ce297d1d895

Rishar approached Etienne while maintaining his smile. When their noses touched, Etienne flinched. Rishar took in each of Etienne’s reactions and asked once more.1b0b69920eddda3b

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“May I kiss you?”e8f3472d8c3424be

Why does he 48b1972950 have to be 74ced1cf48 like this?Etienne swallowed c6bf800d64 the words 096d0e407f that had 7f19aa73ca risen to d4e7ac3145 his throat. He was 5f1f6d7633 afraid his 2796c13f3f heartbeat would a6ffc4e883 jump out 9950ca1155 of his 1fae2e8493 mouth.602eed6f7c548f53

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“…Yes.”6282cc40cb3e600d

Etienne hesitantly answered 3350e1b00f in a small 816d41be7d voice. How could he refuse b764b31d33 when he made such 7fa2eebc46 a face? Despite everything, he was be23e29487 weak to Rishar.454264dd3a5ec1c0

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Upon receiving Etienne’s permission, Rishar tilted his head as if he had been waiting for it. Soon their lips overlapped and their breaths mingled. What started as a light touch of lips quickly deepened and became intense.185580c047be1450

Rishar consumed Etienne’s lips as if biting into them. When the startled Etienne straightened his back, large hands gently caressed his thin back.ba23141f6bef800d

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“Mmph.”71d35a0e4f741341

The flesh that parted his lips gently swam inside his mouth. Etienne, suddenly short of breath, grabbed Rishar’s shoulders.6f34701435024469

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Rishar pulled the trembling b3a02486d5 wrist and made it 0b6037235e hang around his neck. Then he 3acd08ff20 embraced Etienne 41acd5238f in return.17698546292df9b9

All the defb82ef1b while, their 6daee635c6 lips remained 7f2542da12 connected. The two bodies, completely 2ba5915daa overlapped as if they 5e3b05f445 had been one from a15fdf43cc the start, gradually tilted e08c5765b9 until they sank into 8ea0b00c92 the sofa.d64ef0925d0423f1

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“Mmm, Sha…”f71564a42cc3701e

Etienne gasped, f80397e1bd overwhelmed by 425f9a5d4a the heat 38af2d6838 ravaging his 82e01d9ae9 mouth. Just one kiss ab2778360f had made his d9e1bc57ec body burn.d99fd1f81282ac89

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Rishar felt ba7ae8038b his nape 4951d77606 tingle at 8b9e6365ba the intimate 9984a04de8 call that 41895dceb4 escaped through 3b4c90ef8c their connected 290f61fcd9 lips as 1dcc432549 he grazed 16d06401f0 with his d61a84db27 teeth.7e709fdc4129f082

“Ah!”bae5e1a07ff39537

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Etienne let out a 92297a6284 pained sound and hunched 25853dfd40 his shoulders as his 61b0de964f lower lip was bitten. His lower 67c7009024 abdomen tingled 9dc5423387 along with e6e0ffbffe the stinging 39c0d89a5d pain.a016c9876ba7b61f

“Hah, stop. Ah…”9b61dad646e134dd

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As he twisted his waist, feeling suffocated, the leather sofa made a scratching sound. Sensing Etienne’s struggle, Rishar strongly sucked on the tender flesh one last time.0fbf4792ae1c2ec1

With a wet 563e7b12ab sound, their lips 5df5dd6f12 parted. Etienne looked up at bbb558c1dc Rishar as he pulled 8fafa01140 away, breathing heavily.6703f0ba74c78b0d

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He could see the 713ce21025 thread of their mixed f152da7fc6 saliva connecting their lips. Unable to 475fda441a bear the 608c717eef embarrassment, he fe26a6b3d3 turned his 0b25a5ed2c head away, cd6188f5d3 but Rishar 3b0e113cc5 peppered kisses d3757cd7ca on his 4fec90f195 flushed cheeks b36dddf55f as if f33e01dd99 telling him 1606d31d0c to look.0f58e89d19be7010

“Before coming here, I met with your doctor.”ded1dee6f0a6b4a0

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Rishar spoke gently 1e5ceb8069 while continuously kissing e5a1018afd the slightly warm 436e85b509 cheeks. Etienne momentarily held his f2a6be78c0 breath at the unexpected d483e334a5 statement.6c029ce809306d0d

“Sir Celodine? Why?”f369d4a37118962a

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“I had something to ask him.”6305c486d91e16d5

At Rishar’s answer, the heat that had consumed Etienne’s body instantly subsided. A surprised look crossed his face.f89c04f5e6caef19

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He knew that 2adb8717b6 while he was 20eb6295e1 sleeping exhausted after 0059f7a78b his heat cycle, 4386f876a7 Rishar had learned 8756b35d5c from Celodine about ae8ff229c2 how he had 4d92ff6dc8 lived and how b2b17a1f82 he had hidden 270d213c8f being an Omega.86bb655415a8471a

After all, 24922d01cd it was 48361665e7 Rishar who 3e0c41521b had sent 8243889f16 Stella yesterday 864bbb6252 to tell e01747742f him not 5529e0b78f to use f3dc579208 drugs that 3fe55e7d75 harmed his 5ff21f4cfd body anymore.ab21c14d7b012c31

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Someone like him wouldn’t have visited Celodine without reason. Etienne’s lips trembled anxiously. He wanted to ask why he had visited Celodine, but his voice wouldn’t come out.12e3c2459f60263f

“What… were you curious about?”db6d047412a2063d

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Etienne finally managed to speak while swallowing hard. He couldn’t think of any reason immediately.1ca27e61207fbfde

Could he 3e5ddc5f5c have asked b47147a0c5 about the 695e1930eb possibility of 30490467b2 pregnancy?The moment that fe1d376b9b thought occurred to 0c3532fbe8 him, his body 3d8b802e33 went cold as 7814409aa4 if his blood cb3547e27e was draining away.d10bf197fd9e8182

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No, that can’t be.ebedcb730c6ad659

Etienne quickly denied the thought that had crossed his mind. A few days ago, when he had questioned Celodine about his conversation with Rishar, he had said he hadn’t mentioned anything about infertility.d066aa167f9cc17d

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So he wouldn’t have mentioned it this time either. And Rishar wouldn’t have asked about it.0831ac886dac9675

Etienne tried to a617dd6883 think positively while 079b476876 forcefully suppressing his 692c850784 anxiety.b3f6f0daaefdc80c

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Before leaving the Grand Duke’s residence, Rishar had said there was no need to worry about pregnancy since he hadn’t knotted during his heat. At that time, Etienne had just quietly nodded.61f1d60c6d72153a

Rishar seemed like he wanted to say more, but seeing Etienne’s troubled expression, he quietly closed his mouth. Etienne didn’t bother to speak either.b7d436e81c7b434b

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Although Celodine had advised him to have a proper conversation with Rishar, Etienne couldn’t follow his advice. How could he tell him that he might be ‘defective’ even as an Omega?6ff7b9d0c9dbbe3d

Rishar had said he didn’t care whether Etienne was a Beta or Omega, that he had liked him continuously since thinking he was a Beta, but there was a clear difference between an Omega who could bear children and one who couldn’t.1fbdb77172400bd5

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If Rishar knew that fact and felt disappointed or regretful, it would be unbearable. Etienne’s trembling lips drew together.1ef63a84d474a973

Though his 99684544a7 long kept 241daae7e0 secret had a7f020ada1 been exposed 6b58e1790f and he af9a913e1b had shown 3458869c26 all sorts 978d0d0143 of unsightly a397c4921f appearances to 92711296fb Rishar, he abc342eb0e still had f609a0805d pride.fce147d3afaa6d85

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Rishar already viewed him with pity. He didn’t want to appear more pitiful than this. It was already sufficiently miserable.8d8e126efca24600

If he had known this would happen, he should have made sure to keep Celodine’s mouth shut.24c6dd815a9ea615

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Etienne regretted it 2eabfe0fda belatedly. He wanted to 9839424542 run to Celodine 980b2463e1 right away and 8763842181 ask what he ff6705fd0e had told Rishar.6e57ee6bb4109e99

He waited for Rishar’s answer with an anxious face. His mouth went dry with nervousness. A few seconds felt like minutes. Finally, Rishar opened his mouth.93ef2e47dd1f7c52

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“About ways to make you healthier than you are now.”3ac3b5e0bc946c8b

“What?”7c78066996404c07

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Rishar’s words were unexpected once again. Etienne, who had been extremely tense, had a surprised expression at the completely unexpected response.d6acc3815bb73a79

“Last time, Sir Celodine said that it was a miracle you’ve endured so much until now, that if you weren’t a dominant Omega, something terrible would have happened long ago.”e5c8a53051850f08

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Rishar’s face darkened as he recalled his conversation with Celodine. Even now, anger rose when he thought about that day when he learned all the truth.7b85d66497ac9453

“I’ve been worried ever since… I wanted to know if there was anything I could do to help.”8728fd2bb707d497

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“What the…”e6be4b4bdd1fb4e2

Etienne’s expression deflated as he had been anxiously wondering if Rishar would bring up the topic of infertility. He felt both relief and emptiness.bbebd1cbaf640461

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“You scared me.”c195f5b0e59e1090

Etienne unconsciously complained once 61ed494fcb the tension was released. Now that 3d2f680651 he felt 841d807a16 relieved, he 31b8f438a2 was now dc32bad6b6 annoyed.7539003e62cf2d59

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At the reproachful c7778189b2 voice, Rishar made bed8a3bdcf an expression like da7aa780b1 a puppy being ec69bdbfa3 scolded by its 833b32fdd2 owner.e5fd7ff38f823edc

“Are you angry that I went to see him on my own? I’m sorry.”72b1a97842541231

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“It’s fine.”ecc70fcb4267aa17

Etienne let out a small sigh at Rishar’s apologetic demeanor as he watched for his reaction. What could he say when Rishar had done it out of concern and desire to help?9f50b1815bd744f1

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After all, b3767a9db9 this anxiety 39c495f07d he felt 8d86c33a8c was because 027bf696b7 he was cc7da29f78 keeping secrets 57b3ff96d6 from Rishar.2d8210fc7d9e1130

Etienne smiled bitterly. As it is said, a guilty conscience needs no accuser – that’s exactly what he was like.dc9df77360aa8cbf

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But he still felt somewhat wronged. Rishar and he weren’t yet at a stage to discuss the future. Though Rishar had confessed, he had postponed his answer.59a4399497f3f22d

Because he himself couldn’t tell whether his feelings for Rishar were affection for a childhood friend and brother-like figure, or love for someone he wanted as a lover and partner.edd854df6e803bf6

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Because of that, while unable to accept Rishar’s feelings, he couldn’t reject the affection Rishar gave him, creating an ambiguous situation.9fe8fffc716e41a2

They kissed, did even fe79521bb9 more than that, and 8728eddc04 were indeed closer than a83560c893 others, but their relationship 4748aeee91 was unclear, not quite 8cce99a807 lovers.8351071f60d82384

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That was the current state between Rishar and Etienne. That’s why he couldn’t speak up. He didn’t want to create unnecessary trouble.30a282a60ba5a422

Unless I actually am pregnant…71fc6c736e594722

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For a moment, Etienne eceddbcc8c stiffened, startled by his 1a0baec594 own thought. When the 75f9b1d397 thought of 117ee2e8d4 children crossed 8b3d3e72cd his mind, 92c58f03e5 an inexplicable f3a1262d57 fear overwhelmed 5dbea9e21d him. Etienne lightly shook his e6fb02d2ca head as if trying cad9dbb98c to shake off the c24a173108 anxiety clinging to his 14653aaae8 body.d2f1f07e6246c3b3

“What did you talk about with Sir Celodine?”4f2f561867d84a4b

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Etienne asked in an 25c1ee745b intentionally light tone after 33831f45d2 composing his expression. He was 9c2db7a435 curious about fecf5696f9 what conversation 34bc91907f Rishar had 8cb30a6231 with Celodine.4663622aab6af25c

“Huh? Ah, well…”c88546f0764548af

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Rishar didn’t answer immediately. Etienne became anxious again when he trailed off. Rishar saw Etienne waiting for his words with a tense expression and smiled mischievously.fafaae8edce7d05e

“I heard about various ways to make you healthy.”02fc31646a04470f

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“So what are those ways?”df82442a2c6c0f8c

“You might regret hearing them. No, actually, you already know one of them.”331e1282b1bd946c

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“I do? …Ah.”d4a6e8738a5bfe7f

Etienne, who had been af4354a257 pressing Rishar, let out 4ee64dc55d a small exclamation as 9bd572622c if realizing something. There was one eb0c813b94 memory that instantly ce896e0a6a crossed his mind.246da91b54348c13

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No way.a809e3d7ca2a7ca2

Etienne’s face turned as red as if it were on fire as he recalled the method he had heard from Celodine before. There was only one method he knew of.b043582e47d75b33

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Rishar leaned in slightly again as he watched Etienne’s complexion turn as pink as a ripe peach. He kissed the ear lobe that had turned as red as his face and whispered in a subtle voice.124ebf8197a668e5

“Sir Celodine said that nothing is better for your recovery than spending nights with an Alpha.”3c4a96103cf8e3a6

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“T-that’s only during heat cycles…”212f6038c12afaa9

“That’s not what I heard, though? Because there’s a lot of toxins accumulated in your body, he said it would be good to do it frequently even when you’re not in heat to get rid of them all…”0381e38ae48adce2

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“You’re lying.”bced14a8a40b0be3

Etienne denied Rishar’s words while hunching his shoulders. As lips brushed against his ear and hot breath invaded his ear canal, his cooled body became hot again.03826b6ab735d4af

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“Lying? I would never lie to you.”015fe9987512e28e

Rishar grinned with smiling eyes while rubbing Etienne’s ear with his hand. He slid his hand downward while admiring with his eyes how Etienne flinched at his touch.ee615f2f0450e2f2

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The hand that smoothly a2edf65c4b traveled down the straight cafafaa07d neckline traced over the eb61c42c47 mark between his neck 832ed0dbcd and shoulder. The soft skin 3055b30fb0 and appropriately warm b7a7600bbf temperature felt good 165a105422 under his fingertips.b4b38f9b727a99bb

“I heard about another method too.”9a8f8542b8977918

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“Another, ah, method? Which one…?”4d20503165101f41

Etienne, who had been twitching at the touch that lightly pressed against his throbbing skin, carefully asked. He was both afraid and curious about what would come from Rishar’s mouth.9294e415430cbe88

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“Pheromone shower.”b48ccacd6816ccd9

“Pheromone shower?”89c1ad8012280ca0

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Etienne’s eyes widened at Rishar’s answer. A pheromone shower was the act of an Alpha and Omega spraying their pheromones on each other’s bodies.6c340e5a7cfa5c1f

It was an act of covering one’s Alpha or Omega with pheromones to prevent them from smelling other Alphas or Omegas’ scents while simultaneously preventing others from smelling their scent.20887f9502bfd3c3

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In the past, de474f845c it was used 3724343723 by parents to 6b4946b595 protect children who 680f230573 were inexperienced with 1780bb3d34 control, or to 246723956b calm those who 8808a74bda experienced pheromone surges ec602aecb6 due to injuries, 29cd795a01 but at some 81ad0caa34 point, it became 992eb0e45f established as an ddbfbc1be3 act of affection 8f93dc0614 between close lovers 62dba43a17 or unmarked couples.4c729b527747dc33

This was because b6151b675c pheromone showers satisfied a0357bd672 their mutual possessiveness 7a9351b78f and desire for 75bc9277a7 exclusivity, and had 80884a4ab8 the effect of 6237eecb83 announcing their relationship bd95252739 to others.40482bb8b92c825e

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“Though the effect is weaker than spending the night together, he said that receiving regular pheromone showers would be most helpful for getting rid of your built up tolerance.”04d58dc7b49c9648

Rishar explained what he had heard from Celodine while lowering his head. He buried his face in Etienne’s long, slender nape and took a deep breath.a993d56257674de2

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Though Etienne didn’t seem to realize it, his body had been emitting a faint flower scent since the moment they kissed.0defe7cf79550a00

“So I was thinking…”ca0e9fb771a647b5

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Rishar whispered in a 2c7a7c0c3a low voice as if 4217858334 telling a secret. His body 672f74cb93 was already 4aef1967cd releasing pheromones 74cda2d062 too.260dbe1c7f37c8a1

Etienne wiggled his toes as he felt Rishar’s body scent wrapping around his ankles. The suddenly intensified pheromones crawled up his calves like a snake.347908eef4e7278b

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“Shall we try a pheromone shower?”bbac31b81e9f55d8

c7e4c9dccab83ebc

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