HTTRPIAO Ch 80-84

“It would be good to go to bed early tonight if you are to see off His Majesty tomorrow morning…”

Ben cautiously opened his mouth after glancing at Etienne for a moment. Although it wasn’t late, if they were to see off the Emperor early in the morning tomorrow, it would be good to go to bed soon.

“I’m almost done reading, so let me finish.”

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Etienne rejected Ben’s suggestion and tried to focus on his book. However, his concentration kept getting disrupted by the sounds coming from outside.

Four days had passed since that conversation. During that time, Edwin had not called for Etienne, and Etienne had not sought him out either. They were essentially avoiding each other.

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“Ah, come to think of it, the Grand Duke will be returning tomorrow too, won’t he? With both of them leaving, the detached palace will become quiet,” Ben said casually.

Etienne’s hand, which had been turning the pages, suddenly stopped. His light sky blue eyes darkened as if clouded.

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“…Indeed.”

Etienne responded a beat late and returned his gaze to the book. Ben then realized his mistake and made an ‘ah’ expression. He fidgeted and looked at Etienne’s face.

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Although Etienne was trying to appear nonchalant, Ben, who had served him for a long time, could tell. The atmosphere around Etienne was noticeably unsettling.

Seeing Etienne’s expression darken, Ben felt an urge to hit himself repeatedly. This loose-lipped mouth of his was a problem.

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In recent days, Etienne’s low mood had only improved when he was with Rishar.

Reminding him that he would be apart from Rishar for a while was a complete failure as his main attendant.

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As Ben was blaming himself, he glanced sideways at Etienne. From the moment he mentioned Rishar, the book’s page had remained frozen.

He’s so disappointed.

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Ben clicked his tongue, seeing Etienne visibly becoming dejected.

Since the incident at the Grand Duke’s residence, Rishar and Etienne’s relationship had become even closer than before, perhaps more intimate. Every time Ben saw this with his own eyes, he felt worried.

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Rishar had always been blindly devoted to Etienne, so that wasn’t surprising. But Etienne’s change was unexpected.

Perhaps because he no longer needed to hide being an Omega, Etienne seemed more comfortable when with Rishar. If that were all, Ben wouldn’t have been worried, but the problem was the sexual tension between them.

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What was supposed to be a one-time encounter had continued under the pretext of a pheromone shower to help Etienne recover.

Though they didn’t seem to go all the way due to Etienne’s physical condition, they were clearly engaging in such acts.

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It was impossible not to notice that whenever Rishar visited the annex and returned, Etienne’s body would have new marks.

Every time he saw the faded traces darken again or new marks being added, Ben’s anger boiled. He wanted to confront Rishar about how much more he intended to bite and suck the young prince.

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But he couldn’t actually challenge Rishar. Not only was he an attendant who couldn’t be insubordinate to a Grand Duke, but Etienne didn’t seem to hate it.

If it wasn’t forced and was consensual, how could he, as an attendant, stop them?

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Perhaps this was closest to their true selves.

Ben tried to control his anger towards Rishar. After watching them interact so freely over the past few days, such thoughts naturally arose.

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Maybe this was how they were before he became Etienne’s main attendant.

It had been eight years now. As Ben recalled the past, his eyes grew cloudy. He had become Etienne’s main attendant around the time Rishar had just entered the Imperial Military Academy, which was when Etienne was experiencing his first heat cycle and slowly distancing himself.

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Because of this, Ben didn’t know much about their childhood together.

‘I want to make this child my main attendant.’

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If Etienne hadn’t saved him that day, he might not have been alive until now.

Recalling the old memory, Ben smiled softly. Even though eight years had passed, the memory of the day Etienne saved his life was still as vivid as yesterday.

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Not all palace workers belonging to the Prince’s palace knew Etienne’s secret. The fewer who knew the secret, the better, so those who didn’t work in the main palace just lived an ordinary palace life.

Ben was one of them. He was a second son from a minor noble family who entered the palace after his Alpha sister became the heir, seeking his own path.

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One day, Ben accidentally discovered and helped Etienne, who had fainted from a sudden heat cycle.

When the Empress heard that Etienne had collapsed, she was furious. It was because the Prince had lost consciousness in the garden.

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Because of this, the Prince’s doctor and main attendant at the time lost their lives, and palace workers from the main palace were either punished or silenced and expelled. Ben, who had unexpectedly learned the Prince’s secret, was as good as dead.

‘Your Majesty.’

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Just when he thought he would surely die as the knights dragged away the palace workers, Etienne, who had regained consciousness, stopped the Empress. He actively defended Ben.

‘Do not harm this attendant. If he hadn’t helped me in the garden, my secret would have been exposed to everyone.’

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‘So?’

‘I want to make him my new main attendant.’

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‘Main attendant?’

‘Yes, from how quickly he responded, he seems perceptive and good at improvising. I think he would be suitable as a main attendant…’

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‘Hmm, not a bad idea. Do as you wish.’

Fortunately, the Empress accepted Etienne’s request and then turned away, showing no further interest.

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‘Phew.’

After the Empress disappeared, Etienne let out a sigh of relief and approached the bewildered Ben.

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‘Are you okay? Must have been surprising?’

‘H-Hiik! Your, Your Highness.’

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‘You can relax now. What’s your name?’

‘B-Ben. Ben Haron…’

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‘I see. From now on, you’ll be my main attendant. Take care of me. Ben.’

Etienne smiled shyly and extended his hand. Ben stared blankly at the small hand extended to him before suddenly bursting into tears. Only then did he realize he was alive.

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‘Don’t cry.’

‘T-Thank you, sob. For saving me… hingg.’

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Etienne was flustered but comforted Ben as he cried profusely. Ben repeatedly bowed his head to Etienne, who was patting his shoulder. The boy, resembling the spring sunlight, was his savior.

‘Your face is a mess. Wipe it with this.’

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‘Really… hnng, I pledge my loyalty to Your Highness.’

Ben took the handkerchief Etienne handed him and swore loyalty in a voice filled with emotion. It was the day he decided to live for the boy who saved him.

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Tak.

Ben, who had been lost in memories, returned to reality at the sound of Etienne closing his book. Etienne, who had placed the book on the table, was standing up.

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“Where are you going?”

“For a walk.”

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“At this hour?”

“Yeah, just going to get some air.”

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Etienne answered briefly and headed towards the door. He had tried to continue reading, but the words no longer registered. Ben hurriedly followed him.

“Then I’ll…”

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“It’s okay. No need to follow. I’m going to the inner garden.”

Etienne rejected Ben who tried to follow him and headed to the inner garden alone. Crossing the empty lobby, he went outside to reveal a small garden.

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The garden, shrouded in darkness, was quiet. Etienne walked along the lanterns, listening to the song of nameless insects. Then he saw a small pond.

Arriving at the pond where fireflies were dancing with their light, Etienne sat on a rock. Feeling the cool breeze, the stuffiness in his chest seemed to dissipate.

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“Whew.”

Etienne exhaled, releasing the tension from his body. So much had happened in the past few days. He looked at the pond, which shimmered like a sky full of stars, and slowly organized his thoughts.

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Tomorrow, when the Emperor returns to the palace, Viena will be appointed as my personal knight, and Rishar will become the commander of the capital’s security force.

Moreover, in a few days, Leona and Duke Herace will also return to the capital. When that happens, the real battle will begin.

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“…Don’t become weak.”

Etienne muttered to himself, trying to calm his anxious heart. There was no turning back anyway. He was like a wagon that couldn’t stop. Even if its end was a hell stained with blood, he had no choice but to move forward.

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‘I will follow the young prince.’

The fortunate thing was that Reyan had come to his side. Yesterday, he had visited the detached palace and declared his loyalty to Etienne with a solemn face.

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Etienne had handed over the mining rights to the Merkel mine to Reyan. Reyan had returned, his face drenched in greed, holding the mining rights.

Not knowing that it would be the trap that would strangle his own neck.

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“I don’t like this…”

Etienne muttered with a gloomy face. Though he had been upset because of Edwin in the middle, his time at the detached palace had been a good rest for Etienne, who was tired in body and mind. Especially the time spent with Rishar.

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Over the past few days, Etienne had spent a lot of time with Rishar. In the detached palace, he didn’t need to worry about others’ gazes.

Eating together, sharing stories they couldn’t tell before, walking together at night… A smile formed on Etienne’s lips as he recalled the time spent with Rishar.

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When he first realized Rishar knew he was an Omega, it had felt like the world was collapsing, but it was groundless.

Even after knowing he was an Omega, Rishar hadn’t changed. Although Etienne had deceived him, Rishar was instead worried about him. He was grateful and sorry.

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No longer needing to hide from Rishar made his heart feel lighter. Thanks to that, he could spend enjoyable time with Rishar again. It felt like going back to the past.

No, perhaps different from the past.

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Etienne’s gaze turned to the hand peeking out of his sleeve. The red mark on the back of his hand was the trace Rishar had bitten during yesterday’s pheromone shower.

“Mmm.”

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Etienne softly groaned, recalling yesterday’s sensation. Just thinking about it made his body feel hot.

As he shook off the sensation from his hand, he felt the cold air penetrating his thin clothes and shivered. He should probably return to his bedroom soon.

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As he was rising, rubbing the goosebumped arm, he suddenly felt warmth embracing his chilled shoulders. At the same time, a tender voice settled near his ear.

“You always dress so light.”

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“Rishar?”

With his head tilted back, Etienne’s eyes widened when he discovered Rishar. He hadn’t sensed his presence at all until he was this close.

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“When did you arrive? How did you know I was here?”

Etienne asked in an awkward posture as he stood up. His surprised voice was tinged with an unmistakable delight. Though they had brunch together in the morning, it strangely felt like they hadn’t seen each other in a long time.

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“Just now. I was going to bid goodnight to you and heard it from your main attendant.”

Rishar grabbed Etienne’s hand to prevent him from falling as he descended from the rock. After Etienne came down, Rishar released his hand and draped his jacket around Etienne’s shoulders to prevent cold air from entering. Then he carefully examined Etienne’s complexion. Though spring had arrived, the daily temperature difference was still significant.

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“Night walks are nice, but you should dress warmly when you go outside.”

“I just came out for a moment…”

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Etienne pouted his lower lip at Rishar’s nagging. Rishar’s hand approached and cupped his coldly chilled cheek.

“Your lips have turned blue.”

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Rishar pressed Etienne’s discolored lower lip with his thumb, speaking in a worried voice. Perhaps because of the darkness around them, Etienne’s face seemed paler than usual.

“You were just wearing thin clothing before… What will you do if you catch a cold?”

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Rishar slightly furrowed his brow, recalling when they met in the royal garden. He couldn’t help but worry about someone who was already prone to catching colds and dressed so lightly.

“From now on, tell the attendant to prepare something for you to wear. Understand?”

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“It feels bothersome…”

Etienne mumbled in response to Rishar’s telling off, trailing off and closing his mouth. Every time he spoke, his fingertips brushing his upper lip bothered him.

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Whether aware of this or not, Rishar continued to fiddle with his lips. He enjoyed the soft, clinging sensation on his skin.

“Stop it.”

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Finally unable to bear it, Etienne stepped back, escaping Rishar’s hand. Though he hadn’t been kissed and was only touched by his hand, his lips felt hot as if his warmth had transferred.

“I find layering clothes annoying. Restrictive.”

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Having finally regained his lip’s freedom, Etienne responded brusquely. Perhaps from a lifetime of being conscious of people’s eyes and hiding himself, he didn’t like layering clothes.

When he buttoned his shirt up to the very top, it felt suffocating as if his neck was being strangled. When wearing pants tailored to fit precisely at the waist and thighs, he felt constricted.

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When he wore a vest and jacket over them like a knight preparing for battle, and adorned himself with numerous decorative accessories and jeweled ornaments, for some reason, it felt like he was hiding his true self.

As a reaction to this, Etienne preferred to dress comfortably when in his room or alone, though he couldn’t avoid dressing appropriately when meeting people or attending events. Wearing loose-fitting robes, not wearing cardigans – it was all for this reason. When resting, he wanted to be comfortable without worrying about anything.

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If this jacket hadn’t been given by Rishar, he would have probably taken it off immediately.

“Did your meeting with Count Bacchus go well?”

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Etienne, who had been adjusting the collar of the jacket deeply saturated with Rishar’s warmth, turned his gaze to him.

Today was the first time Rishar had gone out since coming to the detached palace. It was to receive a handover from Count Bacchus, the current captain of the guard.

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“Yes, the conversation was longer than expected, but it wasn’t bad. He seemed like a decent person.”

Rishar lightly commented on Count Bacchus. Then he slightly loosened his cravat, looking a bit uncomfortable.

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Watching him, Etienne let out a small cough. Perhaps because he was used to seeing Rishar in comfortable clothing lately, seeing him properly dressed felt somewhat strange.

“Are you not tired?”

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“Not at all.”

Rishar answered with a slight smile. The black hair flowing onto his forehead swayed in the night breeze.

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“Even if I were tired, I had to come. Today might be the last time I can spend time with you like this.”

Last.

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At those words, the smile disappeared from Etienne’s lips. Even wearing a warm jacket, his body felt cold. Rishar’s words seemed to announce that he was about to wake from a dream.

“Are you disappointed?”

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Rishar asked playfully, noticing Etienne’s darkened expression.

Something he had learned while staying together was that Etienne was surprisingly expressive. More accurately, he was only like this with people he had opened his heart to. Rishar was glad that Etienne no longer hid his expressions in front of him.

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“No.”

Etienne answered, trying to sound nonchalant. Since childhood, he and Rishar had spent more time apart than together.

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It was just returning to their normal routine, so there was no need to feel disappointed. But he still felt gloomy.

“Your expression says you’re dying of disappointment, contrary to your words.”

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“…When did I.”

“Right now.”

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Long, firm fingers lightly tapped Etienne’s soft cheek. Rishar leaned his upper body towards Etienne, his eyes curving mischievously like a prankster.

“You don’t know what your face looks like right now, do you? You look like someone who just found out they can’t eat their favorite food anymore.”

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“Stop joking around.”

“I’m serious. I wish I could show you a mirror.”

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“That’s enough.”

Etienne pushed Rishar away with his hand and walked past him as if escaping. He didn’t think he had made such an expression, but he couldn’t be certain he hadn’t either.

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Lately, he had been feeling that it was difficult to control his emotions in front of Rishar.

Earlier, even Ben had noticed, so perhaps his feelings of disappointment had shown through this time as well.

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“Are you angry?”

Rishar reached out and pulled Etienne back as he tried to pass by. He buried his face in Etienne’s hair as he held him in his arms.

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“I’m not angry. Just a little…”

Etienne, caught in Rishar’s embrace before he could react, instinctively hunched his shoulders at the breath tickling his ear. He could feel a soft warmth and a steady heartbeat against his back.

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“I’m sorry for teasing you. But please be a little disappointed.”

Rishar apologized and kissed the top of Etienne’s head audibly. He slid down, feeling the hair tickling his nose and cheeks.

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“Ah, should I just kidnap you to my residence like this?”

Rishar murmured, half-seriously, as he pressed his lips to the exposed nape of Etienne’s neck outside the jacket. He wished he could spend all day with Etienne, without thinking about political struggles or the imperial throne.

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“What would you do if you kidnapped me?”

Etienne strained his neck to keep his voice from trembling. The spot where Rishar’s lips had touched felt hot. Etienne spoke as gruffly as possible, tightening his lips. He didn’t want to show that he was conscious of Rishar.

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“What would I do? I’d keep you preciously in a sunny bedroom. Feed you well, dress you well, let you see and hear only good things…”

Rishar explained his plan to Etienne in a leisurely tone. Then he lightly bit the flushed skin.

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“And if you allow me, I’d indulge my desires a bit?”

“Hah.”

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As the tender skin was bitten, a strange sensation rose along with the stinging pain. Etienne flinched momentarily, hunching his upper body while suppressing a moan.

“Shall we go back now? I’ll escort you.”

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Rishar slowly removed his lips after leaving a new mark on Etienne’s neck. If he continued any further, he felt he wouldn’t be able to hold back.

Etienne rubbed his neck, feeling the warmth receding from him. The skin where the heat had bloomed felt itchy.

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“Your Highness.”

Rishar, who had stepped back a couple of paces from Etienne, held out his hand towards him. Etienne didn’t refuse the outstretched hand. They walked slowly, holding each other’s hands.

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“Then, sleep well.”

It didn’t take long to reach the annex building from the rear garden. Rishar, who had escorted Etienne to the annex, bid him goodnight.

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“…Huh?”

Etienne looked puzzled at Rishar standing in front of the door, saying goodnight. He had assumed Rishar would come inside with him.

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“You’re not coming in?”

“It’s quite late. You look sleepy, so please go in and rest.”

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“I’m not that tired. Why don’t you come in for a cup of tea?”

Etienne hesitantly spoke as he returned the jacket to Rishar. Although he thought he should let Rishar rest after what must have been a busy day, he didn’t want to send him away like this. After all, they would be apart for a while starting tomorrow.

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“Mm, I appreciate your invitation, but I’ll just go for today.”

After a moment of contemplation, Rishar gently declined. Etienne was a bit shocked by Rishar’s refusal.

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He hadn’t expected Rishar to refuse twice. It felt like he was suddenly realizing that what he had taken for granted wasn’t so obvious after all.

“Rest well.”

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Rishar nodded lightly and turned to leave after a brief farewell. At that moment, Etienne reached out without thinking. His body moved before his mind could process it.

“Your Highness?”

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Rishar looked a bit surprised as Etienne grabbed his wrist. Realizing what he had done, Etienne fumbled with his lips, seemingly flustered.

“Ah, t-take your cardigan!”

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“Pardon?”

“I’ll return your cardigan.”

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Etienne spoke fast, having found a suitable excuse. Rishar’s cardigan was still in Etienne’s bedroom. Rishar hadn’t asked for it back, and Etienne had forgotten about it too.

“Ah, the cardigan…”

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Rishar murmured as if remembering something he had forgotten. After a very brief moment of thought, he smiled and declined once again.

“Please give me the cardigan next time.”

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“Why?”

Etienne asked, unable to understand. He couldn’t comprehend why Rishar was refusing so adamantly.

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“Hmm.”

Rishar hummed, seeming troubled by Etienne’s question. He sighed softly and leaned towards Etienne. Then he whispered in a low voice.

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“If I go in with you now, I don’t think I’ll be able to hold back.”

Etienne’s eyes widened at the frank confession. As he realized what Rishar meant by not being able to hold back, his face flushed with heat.

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“So please understand.”

Rishar straightened up again and winked, looking a bit sheepish. Etienne could only open and close his mouth without uttering a word.

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“May peace settle upon your night.”

Rishar left a goodnight wish after lightly kissing Etienne’s forehead, then turned to leave. Etienne watched the retreating figure with a dazed expression.

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“Ah.”

Left alone, Etienne let out a small sigh. He rubbed his face while making a pained sound. For a moment, he had almost said that Rishar didn’t need to hold back.

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“I’m crazy.”

You’ve gone crazy, Etienne de Frederick.

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Etienne muttered with a face that looked wide awake. He kept rubbing his heated face with his hands. The heat wouldn’t subside easily despite the cool night air.

ⅥI. Outside the Cage

“My Lord, Her Majesty the Empress will be arriving soon.”

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“Is that so? Let’s go.”

Reyan, who had been sitting on a garden bench with an anxious face, stood up quickly at his aide’s words. He calmed his trembling heart and headed towards the entrance.

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Not a single palace servant was missing from the entrance, all gathered to welcome their master returning after more than a month.

“Whew.”

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Reyan took a short breath and adjusted his clothes. Soon, a carriage with the imperial seal appeared.

The carriage, which entered through the wide-open main gate, crossed the garden under the escort of the imperial knights.

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“Woah!”

As the lead rider waved the imperial flag, the knights simultaneously pulled their horse reins. Finally, the carriage stopped in front of the door.

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“We greet the Moon of the Empire!”

The moment the carriage door opened, everyone gathered at the entrance bowed in unison. Reyan also lowered his head.

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Leona, escorted by the Duke Herace, stepped down from the carriage and looked indifferently at the people who had bowed to her.

“All of you, raise your heads.”

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As Leona’s permission fell, the palace servants gradually straightened their postures. Reyan, who had raised his head, quickly approached Leona.

“Welcome back, Your Majesty.”

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“It’s been a while, Count Herace.”

“I’m glad you’ve returned. I hope you had a good journey.”

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“A good journey?”

Leona twisted her lips at Reyan’s greeting. Reyan swallowed hard, noticing her seemingly displeased appearance. It seemed it wouldn’t be easy to pass this over quietly.

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“I was away just for a short while, and an incident already broke out. Do you think I had a good journey?”

“I apologize, I just…”

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“Let’s not do this here. Come inside with me.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

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Leona passed by Reyan. He looked at Duke Herace with pleading eyes. However, the Duke merely gestured for him to follow quickly.

Realizing the Duke had no intention of helping him, Reyan swallowed a sigh and followed her with his shoulders drooping.

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“Reyan.”

Leona called Reyan in the reception room with a cold voice. Reyan shuddered at the icy tone.

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“Raise your head properly.”

Leona turned and immediately slapped Reyan’s cheek.

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Bam! With a sharp striking sound, Reyan’s head turned to the side. He gritted his teeth at the pain on his cheek. There was a bitter taste in his mouth, possibly from a split lip.

“You know why you were hit.”

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“Yes, Sister.”

Reyan straightened his wobbling body like a criminal and lowered his head. Leona disliked excuses. In times like these, even with ten mouths, he had nothing to say and must beg.

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“I apologize.”

“What for?”

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“I failed to block the Emperor and the Duke from going to the detached palace. As a result, His Highness the Prince was placed in a difficult situation…”

“What else?”

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“I couldn’t prevent Lady Viena from being appointed as the Prince’s knight, and Grand Duke Eckhart from becoming the captain of the capital’s security force. I’m sorry.”

Reyan bowed repeatedly, almost prostrating himself. Leona looked at him with a displeased expression. Everything was irritating her.

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“Incompetent fool. This is why I and the Duke cannot entrust the family to you entirely. How can you be trusted with important tasks when you can’t even handle something this simple?”

Reyan gritted his teeth at Leona’s harsh criticism. While he hadn’t done anything right, he honestly felt wronged. What could he have done alone without any real power?

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If Leona and Duke Herace had acknowledged me as a true heir from the beginning, this wouldn’t have happened. Reyan clenched his fists tightly, hiding his face filled with suppressed anger.

The last trace of hesitation that remained in his heart after deciding to join hands with Etienne had completely disappeared just now. He wanted to show Duke Herace and Leona his true worth.

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“Lie low for a while. Stay quiet like a mouse.”

“I will.”

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“What did the Emperor and the Duke do in the detached palace? Did you figure out their purpose?”

“From what I’ve learned, it seems the Emperor wanted to turn the public opinion about Grand Duke Eckhart. Before the Emperor’s visit, the Grand Duke’s aide had already visited the annex several times. I heard he wanted to formally apologize to the Prince. And then he came with the Emperor.”

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“Hmm.”

“During their stay at the detached palace, the Emperor sent the Grand Duke to the annex building every day. It seems to demonstrate that they had reconciled. And…”

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Reyan reported everything he knew. Fortunately, Etienne had been sharing detailed information about the Emperor and Duke’s movements each time they met, so there were no gaps.

“…That’s how it happened.”

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After finishing his report, Reyan exhaled roughly, as if he had just run a sprint. Leona, who had been lost in thought, finally spoke.

“How has the Prince been? It doesn’t seem like the Emperor or Grand Duke noticed anything?”

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“Yes, he has dealt with the sudden situation cleverly. He even made up a false excuse about an injured leg and minimized meetings with the Emperor. Except for the Grand Duke continuously visiting the annex building, preventing him from taking a break…”

“Tsk.”

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Leona clicked her tongue at the news that Etienne couldn’t take a break. However, she seemed somewhat satisfied with Reyan’s report, her expression softening slightly.

“I understand the situation. You may leave now.”

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“Yes, Your Majesty.”

After dismissing Reyan, Leona leaned back on the sofa, looking tired. She was lost in thought without even having a moment to rest.

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“Head maid.”

“I’m here.”

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The head maid quickly approached at Leona’s summons. Leona, who had risen from her seat, gave an order to the head maid.

“Summon the Prince immediately.”

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Etienne arrived at the Empress’s palace around sunset. Leona watched Etienne greet her with cold eyes. Although he seemed to have dressed hastily after the sudden summons, he was not entirely unacceptable.

“It’s been a while, Mother. I heard you called for me.”

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“Yes, come closer.”

“I’m glad you’ve returned safely. I’m sorry I couldn’t come to meet you. I thought it would be better to be cautious…”

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“You did well.”

Leona cut off Etienne’s words and gestured for him to sit. As soon as he sat on the opposite sofa, she spoke.

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“I heard from the Count that you’ve had a hard time. You couldn’t even take a break because of the Emperor and the Grand Duke?”

“Yes… But my condition has improved compared to before. Although I had to temporarily suspend treatment because of the Emperor’s visit, I did manage to stop taking medication for about two weeks.”

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“Two weeks… So it wasn’t completely ineffective. What did the palace doctor say?”

“If possible, he would like me to have a longer break. But if that’s not possible, he suggested changing the medication’s components to minimize strain on my body. He seems to be looking for an apothecary to help with this.”

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“An apothecary?”

“Yes, he said he would seek your permission separately regarding that matter.”

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“I see. I’ll hear about that from the palace doctor.”

Leona waved her hand to end the conversation and then stated the reason she had called him.

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“I called you to understand the exact situation. I heard about what happened at the detached palace from the Count, but I thought hearing it directly from you would be more accurate. Tell me everything that happened, leaving nothing out.”

“Yes, Mother.”

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Etienne answered obediently and began to speak as if he had been waiting. He spoke according to what he had previously discussed with Reyan, adding a bit of detail here and there. Fortunately, there were no mistakes, as they had practiced multiple times.

“…Since the Emperor returned to the palace, there have been no further contacts, except for Lady Viena visiting.”

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“Come to think of it, what about Lady Viena? She is the Emperor’s closest confidante. She must have been sent for a reason.”

“So far, there are no special signs as to why it happened. I’m being cautious.”

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“Endure the matter with Lady Viena until the end of this year’s social season. Be careful with your behavior. There must be no disturbances during the social season… I’ll somehow change things afterwards.”

“Understood.”

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Something seemed different. Throughout her conversation with Etienne, Leona felt an inexplicable sense of dissonance as she looked at him.

His complexion seemed to have improved, and his atmosphere had changed. Perhaps that’s why he felt unfamiliar to her today.

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“As you know, this year’s social season is very important. More nobles than usual will gather from all over the empire. You know why, right?”

“To gauge which side, I or the Grand Duke, will they align with?”

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“Exactly. As time passes, even heroes are forgotten. The Emperor will try to settle things somehow, given the Grand Duke’s current sky-high popularity. That’s why your role is crucial.”

“What should I do?”

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“Right now, you’re too insignificant. The main goal is to make people recognize who you are. I’ll tell you about the events and gatherings you’ll attend, so you need to start socializing. I’ll also assign you a temporary aide to accompany you during the social season soon.”

Leona laid out her planned strategy for Etienne. She had even allowed his break because of the upcoming social season.

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Currently, Etienne was almost non-existent to the nobility. In contrast, Grand Duke Eckhart had a strong presence. The only way to narrow that gap was for Etienne to move.

That’s why she had allowed him a break, but things had been complicated by the Emperor and the Grand Duke. Leona looked at Etienne with an unsatisfied expression.

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His pale complexion and thin body were entirely unsatisfactory. Can he really handle the various events and gatherings in this condition? She was already worried.

“Prepare yourself thoroughly, as you’ll have many external activities for a while. Take good care of your health.”

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“Understood.”

“Oh, and around next week, Margrave Mathias’s young son will enter the palace. I’m entrusting him to you.”

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“Pardon?”

Etienne’s expression wavered at the unexpected statement. If it was Margrave Mathias’s young son, that would be Antoine. Etienne recalled Antoine from the banquet and carefully asked,

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“What do you mean by entrusting him to me?”

“Margrave Mathias wants you to be his son’s cavalier. It was a good proposal, so I accepted it. During this season, you will debut as the partner of Margrave Mathias’s young son, participating in the debut dance and various gatherings.”

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Become Antoine’s partner? At the unexpected situation, Etienne’s expression momentarily wavered. Leona, who didn’t miss this, frowned.

“Why? Don’t you want to?”

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“No, it’s not that at all. I’m just a bit surprised.”

Etienne quickly composed himself and spoke apologetically while checking Leona’s reaction.

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“I didn’t expect Margrave Mathias to make such a proposal.”

“Ah.”

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Leona nodded as if it were understandable. Not long ago, Margrave Mathias had been showing support for Grand Duke Eckhart.

He had been like that during the triumph ceremony and subsequent banquets. He seemed to want to connect with the Grand Duke somehow.

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“Although he was pretending to be all high and mighty, disinterested in politics, the Margrave is ultimately just another greedy old man.”

Leona chuckled, her face clearly mocking him.

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“Before departing to the east, I secretly sent an invitation through the Duke, saying if he still wanted to be with us, he should come east. And he came right away.”

“The Margrave himself?”

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“Yes, he seemed quite eager. I knew he wanted to advance to the central government, but he was extremely anxious. The person he had considered his stepping stone wasn’t moving as he wished, so his heart must have been racing. His pride was also hurt.”

“Are you joining hands with the Margrave?”

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“For now.”

Leona answered as if it were only temporary. She intended to use and then discard Margrave Mathias.

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“He wants to make his son the prince consort. That’s why he was close to Rishar. What was his name? Antoine? While praising his son, I subtly planted the bait, and he immediately took it. Things went more smoothly than I expected.”

“Ah.”

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“It’s annoying to think about the unnecessary effort I made, but useful chess pieces must be played.”

Leona hadn’t forgotten that Margrave Mathias had chosen Grand Duke Eckhart over her. There was no way they would stay together until the end.

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“We’re accepting the Margrave because it’s advantageous to us. Once he’s no longer useful, we’ll discard him.”

Currently, the noble faction was lacking in the support of the imperial citizens and military power compared to the imperial faction. They had failed to eliminate the Emperor and remove Grand Duke Eckhart because the military was under their control.

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If Margrave Mathias, one of the military’s key figures, stood with the noble faction, they could somewhat restore the tilted balance. That was what Leona was aiming for.

“Anyway, since things have turned out this way, you need to persuade Margrave Mathias’s son. We’ll be together for the next three to four months.”

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“Yes, Mother.”

Etienne answered with a troubled expression. Recalling Antoine’s face from the banquet night, when he showed favor to Rishar, his heart felt slightly heavy.

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“We have been struck.”

Elvin entered the office and grumbled, placing a bundle of newspapers on the table. These were the newspapers published that morning.

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“What? What happened?”

Stella, who was sprawled on the sofa, raised her body with a curious expression. Her eyes widened as she unfolded the newspaper on top.

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“Oh my? Margrave Mathias’s son is designated as the prince consort? What is this?”

Stella exclaimed at the headline decorating the first page. She quickly scanned the other newspapers. Each newspaper was buzzing about Etienne and Antoine’s story.

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“The beautiful dominant Omega has fallen into the arms of the Beta Prince? Can Margrave Mathias’s son truly become the future prince consort? Good heavens.”

“Lady Stella.”

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Elvin tapped her shoulder, signaling her to keep quiet while reading the newspaper headlines aloud.

Only then did Stella close her mouth with an ‘oops’ expression. The two simultaneously glanced at Rishar.

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Whether for political reasons or not, it was inevitable to feel bad when someone you like becomes a partner with someone else.

“They’ve certainly taken the initial headline buzz.”

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Jade, quietly checking the newspaper articles next to Stella, spoke up.

Etienne had never been a partner to anyone before. Even though he had long passed his coming-of-age ceremony, he had neither been engaged nor spread any rumors with anyone.

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So naturally, he would draw attention as he became someone’s partner for the first time.

“By using the Mathias family, they’ll supplement their lacking military power and also increase the Prince’s visibility… as expected, she’s truly not a simple person.”

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Jade’s expression darkened. By joining hands with Margrave Mathias, the Empress had gained two advantages.

“I never expected that the Margrave would do this.”

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Elvin muttered with a sense of betrayal. For the past few years, Margrave Mathias had shown strong favor towards Rishar.

Though they had become slightly awkward after Rishar rejected the marriage proposal, he never expected the Margrave to side with the Empress.

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“Really? I somewhat expected it.”

Rishar looked at Elvin, who felt betrayed, and put down the newspaper he was holding. This was the one Albert had brought as usual before Elvin collected today’s newspapers.

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“Margrave Mathias has a very strong ego. He must be angry because I rejected the marriage proposal. And he is very ambitious. He’s more interested in political maneuvering in the center than guarding the border.”

While Margrave Mathias presented himself as neutral in front of people, he was different when alone with Rishar. He often revealed his ambition to use Rishar as a stepping stone to advance to the center.

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“There’s no way the Empress didn’t notice what I did.”

Rishar said with a confident tone. The Empress must have used Etienne as a bargaining chip to seduce Margrave Mathias.

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The cavalier at the debut ball was different from an ordinary dance partner. While close family could become cavaliers, it was typically lovers or fiancés.

Because of this, during the social season in the empire, it was customary for Alphas and Betas to confess their desire to be cavaliers to noble ladies or Omega nobles they had in mind.

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If the noble lady or Omega noble accepted the cavalier request, the two would become partners for the social season. And most naturally developed into lovers.

It was no wonder numerous newspapers were calling Margrave Mathias’s son the prospective prince consort, and people were getting swept up in sensational articles. The Empress was undoubtedly aiming for this.

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“The cavalier…”

Tap tap. Long fingers tapped the article’s headline. The article was freely speculating about how Etienne and Antoine would spend the social season.

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What people were most interested in was the debut ball.

The debut was a very important event for noble ladies and noble Omegas approaching adulthood.

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Noble ladies, regardless of their nature, and noble Omegas would enter society by holding their debut. It was a day when the debut-holding noble lady and Omega noble were the sole protagonists.

Originally, Etienne would have participated as the debut’s main protagonist, not as someone else’s cavalier.

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As the most noble imperial family member and a precious Omega, he would have been blessed by many and started the debut ball with the first dance.

But now, that opportunity was forever lost. Rishar’s eyes darkened.

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Every time he realized what Etienne should have naturally enjoyed but did not, both anger towards Leona and anger at himself would rise.

What if Etienne had grown up as an Omega?

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After learning Etienne’s secret, Rishar often imagined this. An Omega that belonged to the imperial family couldn’t become emperor, but that didn’t mean they would be unhappy.

While politically they might be monitored or become a target for political marriages, he would have been much happier than now. He would have been loved simply for being an Omega.

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Moreover, Etienne was extremely beautiful. In the face of beauty, nature was irrelevant. Even now, known as a Beta, there were quite a few who looked at Etienne that way.

If he had grown up as an Omega, numerous Alphas would have lined up wanting to be his cavalier. It would have been even more, never less.

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But he wouldn’t let anyone else take him away.

Just imagining himself as Etienne’s cavalier, escorting him, made Rishar smile and feel good.

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At the same time, it pained him. Suppressing the bitterness rising within, Rishar gave an order to Elvin.

“Find newspapers that haven’t received funding from the noble faction. Also check if we can sponsor them.”

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“Should I look for newspapers friendly to us?”

“No, leave those alone. They’ll write well on their own. Hmm, focus on finding neutral newspapers. Those famous for writing objective articles for the public.”

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“Most such places won’t write the articles we want. These are people for whom principles are important.”

“I’m not looking for a place to write political articles. I need a place that can convey facts without lies, properly.”

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Rishar explained to the puzzled Elvin, who then nodded in understanding.

“I understand. I’ll handle it so that Your Highness’s name doesn’t appear.”

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“Please do.”

The Frederick Empire cherishes Omegas. This meant they were sensitive to abuse or crimes against Omegas.

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If it became known that Etienne was an Omega, many would criticize him, but upon hearing his story, they couldn’t simply point their fingers.

What if the life everyone envied was actually more unfortunate than anyone else’s?

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The story of a prince living more unhappily because he was an Omega would capture people’s interest and touch their hearts.

Just revealing that he damaged his body to hide being an Omega, lived almost imprisoned in the imperial palace, and was abused by the Empress would generate sympathy for Etienne.

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Nothing was more suitable for creating specific public opinion than newspapers. Rishar intended to use newspapers to create a sympathetic public opinion about Etienne.

“Have we identified all the funding sources of newspapers writing malicious articles about our side?”

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“It’s almost done.”

Elvin answered confidently. In the past few days, he had been tracking the newspapers that had continuously published negative articles about Rishar.

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“Thanks to what Your Highness informed me, the work has become easier.”

Elvin smiled with a look of complete relief. The thought that he could soon resolve the problem that had been troubling him made him laugh naturally.

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He had good reason to react this way. Over the past few years, Rishar had been suffering from various slanderous articles. As his adjutant, Elvin would issue counter-statements and protest to newspapers whenever strange articles about Rishar were published.

However, there were limitations. There was a risk of creating an image of suppressing the press, and because of the expedition, he was away from the capital, making immediate response difficult.

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Moreover, the newspapers had also published retaliatory articles about Elvin. Not content with that, they even harassed Stella and Jade. Because of this, Elvin had grown to despise newspapers.

‘Nobles will become sponsors of newspapers under the orders of Their Majesties, setting up their merchant groups or vassals as proxies. If needed, they’ll cut ties and escape. So don’t move rashly before obtaining definitive evidence.’

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Etienne had told him that this was Leona’s doing. As Rishar’s popularity grew day by day, she consistently published false articles about him through several newspapers sponsored by the nobility.

The purpose was to create a negative image of Rishar and furthermore manipulate public opinion.

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‘I know five people. There might be more. I’ll inform you immediately when I learn about the rest.’

Etienne handed over a list of nobles who sponsored newspapers and ordered false articles to be written. Elvin gathered evidence based on the information he received.

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“I’ll organize and submit it by tomorrow.”

“Good.”

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Rishar nodded with a satisfied expression after hearing Elvin’s report. His gaze returned to the newspaper article. The name Antoine written next to Etienne’s name was quite irritating.

“I never thought I’d have my hyung-nim’s seat stolen by an Omega who just rolled in…”

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Rishar tapped Antoine’s name with his hand and grumbled in an annoyed voice. He knew it was an unavoidable situation, but it was still annoying.

“I wonder how hyung-nim is doing.”

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Rishar muttered to himself, feeling his mood sink. Thinking of Etienne, a wave of longing washed over him.

It had already been ten days since he’d seen him. The worst part was not knowing when he might see Etienne again. Even if they accidentally met in the imperial palace, they would likely be unable to have a proper conversation due to people’s gazes.

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“Haah.”

Rishar sighed softly, feeling a pressure in his chest. Ten days felt like 10 years. If just ten days felt like this, he was worried about the future.

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How could I bear it before?

Rishar suddenly found it strange that he had survived three years without Etienne. How did he endure and persist back then? He probably couldn’t do it again if asked. It was an experience he never wanted to repeat.

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Perhaps it was because he had learned the joy Etienne brought him. Having known his happiness, he could never make him return to his previous state.

As long as Etienne was not by his side, he would surely continue to suffer from a terrible thirst.

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“…At this rate, I might really get lovesickness.”

“Pardon? What did you just say?”

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“It’s nothing. Just talking to myself. By the way, how is bringing Stella into the imperial palace coming along?”

“The work of creating a fake identity is complete. It seems more suitable for her to be an apothecary, so we’re creating a backstory from the past few years with the help of Sir Celodine.”

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Elvin answered as if he had been waiting for Rishar’s question. After returning to the grand duchy, Rishar had planned to disguise Stella as an apothecary or palace servant to enter the palace. It was because he hoped Etienne would use less harmful medication.

“When all preparations are complete, Sir Celodine plans to recommend Stella to Count Herace. If the Count recommends her, the Empress will be less suspicious… It seems possible to do it soon.”

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“Well done. It would be best to do it as quickly as possible, but the most important thing is not to be discovered, so move carefully without being noticed by the Empress.”

“Of course. But, uhm…”

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“What?”

“There’s one problem.”

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“A problem? What is it?”

“Well… Recently, rumors have been spreading that Your Highness spent a rut with an Omega.”

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“What?”

Rishar hardened his eyes at Elvin’s hesitant words. The fact that he and Etienne had spent the night together must absolutely not be revealed.

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“Who spread it? Have you identified who started the rumor?”

“It seems some servants noticed that Your Highness’s rut this time was longer than usual and started speculating among themselves. Since Your Highness’s rut usually ends in 2-3 days but lasted nearly a week this time…”

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Elvin trailed off, looking at Rishar. From his reaction, it seemed it wouldn’t pass quietly.

“A few days ago, several servants got the head chef, John, drunk. John accidentally revealed that Your Highness spent a rut with an Omega…”

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“John? Unbelievable.”

Rishar let out a bitter laugh. Elvin, swallowing hard, quickly continued.

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“Fortunately, it’s not known that the other party is the Prince. John doesn’t know that fact… Instead, it’s been said that Stella was Your Highness’s partner…”

“What? Me?”

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Stella, who had been listening tensely to their conversation, widened her eyes when her name was mentioned. She then stood up, saying it was absurd.

“Why would I be His Highness’s partner! Who’s blocking whose marriage path?”

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“It seems the rumor started because Stella is the Omega closest to the Grand Duke. Some people also saw Stella going around the bedroom during His Highness’s rut period.”

“Ha, that was just to prevent others from approaching!”

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Stella raised her voice, feeling wronged. Ignoring Stella’s outburst, Elvin asked Rishar, “What should we do? It seems we could ignore it, but just in case…”

“Has it been confirmed how far the rumor has spread?”

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“It seems a few journalists have caught wind of it.”

“Tsk, if it reaches the Empress’s ears, it’ll become troublesome…”

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Rishar’s expression became serious. If it were Leona, she would immediately try to identify Rishar’s partner upon hearing the rumor. She might even be moving already.

“What are those who spread the rumor doing now?”

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“They’ve all been imprisoned in the underground jail without exception.”

“Good. They should pay the price for carelessly running their mouths. Send them all out of the capital. Especially John, make sure he never drinks alcohol again.”

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“Understood.”

“And the rumor… hmm.”

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Rishar fell into thought with a conflicted face. Since journalists had caught a glimpse, it was only a matter of time before the rumor spread.

“What if we actually make the rumor true?”

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At that moment, Jade, who had been silent, cautiously offered an opinion. Everyone’s gaze in the office turned to him.

“Make the rumor true?”

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“Yes, if the Empress investigates the rumor, she might discover that Your Highness visited the Grand Duchy. Before that happens, what if we let her misunderstand that the rumor is true?”

“You mean let her misunderstand that Stella is my partner? Not a bad idea.”

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Rishar responded positively to Jade’s suggestion. Then Stella, who had been listening to their conversation, intervened with a panicked face.

“Wait, wait a minute. So now you’re telling me… to act as the Grand Duke’s fake lover?”

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Stella asked with a ‘no way’ expression. She had an ominous feeling. To her ‘That can’t be, right, Your Highness?’ Rishar smiled at her.

“Lady Stella, you’ll have to work hard.”

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“Sorry?”

“It’s nothing much. Just attend a few gatherings with me. First, members of the imperial family must attend the debutante ball, so you’ll be my partner.”

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Stella had been unexpectedly paired with Rishar and looked like the world had ended.

* * *

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“I greet the Star of the Empire. I am Antoine of Mathias.”

“Welcome, Margrave Mathias’s son.”

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“It’s an honor to meet you again.”

“Likewise.”

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Etienne smiled softly at Antoine, who was greeting him. He led Antoine to the terrace of the reception room.

“You’ve traveled a long way. I’ve prepared refreshments for you…”

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“Thank you for your consideration.”

Antoine bowed politely, his long pink hair swaying gently.

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Etienne felt the subtle rose fragrance and forced a smile. He had thought this before, but Antoine was truly beautiful. And that made him more uncomfortable.

Etienne clearly remembered the first time he saw Antoine at the banquet.

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That day, Antoine had expressed his admiration, saying he had long respected Rishar. While doing so, he had brought up his own debut. Etienne had been bothered by it this the entire time.

“This way.”

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“You didn’t have to… I’m honored.”

Etienne pulled out the chair, and Antoine sat down, looking embarrassed. Soon, an awkward silence descended between them. Since they were practically strangers, it was bound to be uncomfortable.

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“…I apologize for my previous misconduct.”

Antoine broke the silence, speaking in a highly nervous voice.

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“Misconduct?”

“At the banquet with His Majesty. The day I first met the Prince. I was rude to you that day. I only realized after being reprimanded by Grand Duke Eckhart. I apologize again.”

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“Ah. It’s fine. It’s already in the past, and I wasn’t particularly offended. You don’t need to apologize.”

Etienne smiled as if to say not to worry. Then he erased his smile and looked at Antoine with a serious expression.

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“Margrave Mathias’s son.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

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“I want to ask you something.”

“Please ask.”

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“Are you… okay with this?”

“Pardon?”

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Seeming taken aback by the unexpected question, Antoine blinked his round eyes. Confusion spread across his face as he failed to understand the intent of the question.

“I’m sorry, but I’m slow and don’t quite understand what Your Highness means.”

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“Well… hmm…”

Etienne struggled to continue, moving his lips. He was unsure whether he should ask Antoine this or not. But not asking also felt unsettling. After a moment of contemplation, he seemed to make a decision and spoke.

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“I remember what you said at the banquet that day.”

“Oh.”

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“At the time, you told the Grand Duke that you wanted his help regarding your debut. So I thought you might like the Grand Duke…”