HTTRPIAO Ch 85-89

“That’s…”6b58396eaf986050

Antoine’s face flushed red in an instant as he stammered nervously.823a3951a6ff4b8d

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“That’s a misunderstanding. I admire the Grand Duke, but I’ve never looked at him that way. At the time, it was because my father wanted…”9537065c516c8942

Antoine looked at Etienne, 14009b3319 not knowing what to 335db1d944 do. He was a0eb985da6 afraid Etienne de54cc7c3b would get 44d8167505 angry.8c27b65357ca30d1

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“My father repeatedly told me that since he had sent a marriage proposal to the Eckhart family, I should become the Grand Duke’s partner. Though now that’s irrelevant since the Grand Duke rejected the proposal.”120b36fca7fc9125

“Are you saying that mentioning the matter to the Grand Duke was due to the Margrave’s pressure?”bab1f93797e73e5f

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Etienne asked in a slightly lowered voice. He knew that Margrave Mathias had been actively trying to establish a connection with Rishar, but hearing it from Antoine’s mouth made him feel down.6c2de3c9f20c0632

“More than pressure… no, you’re right. It wasn’t something I wanted, so it was closer to pressure.”c59194385a475891

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Antoine, who had 985770a49c been hesitating with 9eec4c680e a flustered expression, 1db8d483f5 answered in a 128f239ee3 bitter voice.dd0fd72520dce0b8

What’s this? Etienne narrowed his eyes as he saw Antoine’s complexion visibly darken. The bright flower-like smile had disappeared, leaving behind a withered, bleak expression.44f7467a37db4637

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“I’m aware of how my father and I must look to you, Your Highness. Like opportunists who use my status as a dominant Omega as a means.”21bcaeb11a63ea20

Antoine, carefully choosing his a70b2f7706 words, opened his mouth 8b39002fbb with a gloomy face.4a269d12bcb41556

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“I only have apologies for the Grand Duke and the Prince. My heart is heavy for having caused trouble to both of you because of my father’s ambition…”e4fdf2433b127e1c

“No, this was a matter where my mother and the Margrave’s interests aligned. There’s no need to apologize to me. I just wanted to be sure of your feelings. If you have someone you like, this situation must be difficult for you.”51e7236aa12a1d27

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Antoine opened c1dd4eaf9a his mouth dfc3814a01 blankly at 806363336d the words a4c0017ddd filled with 78190fac1a consideration for eda2adc68b him. Then, realizing 4f03a1311c his own 621d908f29 impropriety, he 4ffb146c66 lowered his 8f648779c3 head.28aff6be29e05e09

“Th-thank you for worrying. But I’m fine. As I mentioned earlier, I’ve never harbored romantic feelings for the Grand Duke.”73ed5e8c488d050b

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“Is that so?”ff009b2ec2edf33d

Etienne unconsciously felt relieved at Antoine’s resolute answer. Then he stopped, becoming aware of his own state. Relief?It was as 43ab634bfd if he had dba780c563 been wary of a1e7a3f532 Antoine.8ad3568c4c786fea

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“It must have been hard to tell me. Thank you for being honest. I know it was impolite of me, but I wanted to be certain.”903ad5543d60b50f

“No, I’m the one who should thank you. To be honest, I’ve been feeling bad ever since my father told me to enter the palace. Just a couple of months ago, a marriage was proposed to the Eckhart family, and now I’m receiving an escort from the Prince… We have acted without divine grace or shame.”5ec1edd040ecc196

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Antoine’s voice grew smaller. Etienne looked at Antoine, who had drooped his shoulders, with a peculiar gaze.51bd37139db5af97

Until now, 4bde27e0cc the Omegas a4fb40fec0 he had 9347f37e89 seen were f3c013cbf1 always bright d0d64c5342 and confident. When he first met 5346a61635 Antoine, he exuded the 7be80925d6 air of someone who 106907e42c had been loved and 278c094f78 raised well.4670d98664b41cd6

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Perhaps that’s why. To Etienne, Omegas were beings who knew nothing of misfortune. But Antoine’s current appearance was far from the Omegas he knew.4dcb6f613fb0394e

“…My father said all of this was for my sake, but I’m not quite sure.”0bfcd7f1146df6d0

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Antoine, with his head 3106a59f01 bowed and touching his e5de4daebb teacup, suddenly blurted out. It was f8e33c4dbd close to 8b9370bbd5 a solitary e919cbc3c5 lament.5bab17843a6bd6bc

“Sometimes my father’s love feels overwhelming. I know he cherishes and loves me, but his methods are always different from what I want. It’s the same with the current situation.”68801fe27f8dbaf2

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“Your words sound like you don’t want to receive my escort.”b2fcb30be404d256

Realizing his f181721df8 slip of ddc5ad94a5 the tongue, 218fcd3b07 Antoine made 3f90004314 an ‘Oh 7654a7a5b3 no’ expression.b3565739079249fd

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“I, I apologize. It’s not that I don’t want to receive the Prince’s escort… I was just lamenting how I was being controlled by my father. Please don’t misunderstand.”ec89c11f75591f6d

“I didn’t. You don’t need to be so cautious. To be honest, the situation is awkward for me too. That’s why I asked you about the Grand Duke Eckhart.”5940d1016f188e8d

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“Ah.”08abfdb230d1c5b6

Antoine made a bewildered expression when Etienne empathized with his feelings. Etienne smiled softly, watching Antoine’s eyes, which resembled flower petals, trembling slightly.d1a64f8db2c6acee

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“It seems we’re in similar situations. You because of the Margrave, and I because of my mother, having to do things we don’t want to.”8a8751b2380e2f56

“Haha, that’s right.”227c55098a059e43

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“I’m curious about your story. If you’re comfortable, can you tell me?”f1b1bb78487755f0

Etienne spoke in a 967103dc95 subtle voice. He thought ea46c5e7e1 that perhaps 0cb1cf7708 he and 3a4417ec2b Antoine could 641d0234f0 be quite c74a7b1946 good allies.95e77bb6bc3d2633

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“My story?”39c1d114770cdd48

Antoine blinked at Etienne’s request. He seemed to have never thought Etienne would want to know his circumstances.b4f27fb7d20d475f

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“I want to know more about you. Oh, don’t worry, it’s not that kind of interest. After hearing what you said, I thought we might get along better than I expected.”f25d0ca3d5c01993

“Uhm…”d3509a0fe6d81de5

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“Who knows? Maybe I could help you.”33d04ec3b8cd5c36

Etienne slightly curved his 95744cdeec eyes. Momentarily captivated by the 6a8c65e7a0 softly folded eye corners, 638742f7c4 Antoine awkwardly cleared his 476acab9cf throat.e8150bcbcfd5d832

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“…As you know, Your Highness, I’ve never left my territory since I was born because I was physically weak from birth.”8270f10a6df17f5b

Antoine, hesitating whether to 89d824345f speak or not, carefully d207141fe8 began to share his 746d5bc605 story.4fcebbd07de292b8

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“But it wasn’t to the extent that I couldn’t move or was bedridden every day. It was just that my family was overly protective of me.”4321deb1b34883fa

“I know what you mean. I was in a similar situation. My mother never allowed me to leave the prince’s palace.”c82df9f396f74214

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Etienne agreed with Antoine’s words.2659be4c536c3c90

“Oh, come to think of it, Your Highness…”3a0131088fd849f6

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“My mother is just overly protective. I’m not as weak as I appear.”5775176682dd295e

“Right, of course.”66f1f5c2f0cd3e05

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Antoine nodded 044f6280f4 in agreement cffae165ed with Etienne’s 8a8e6c95fe words. Perhaps because they shared 43ed95505e the common trait of 5764b81f66 frail health, a sense deb5f1bd6c of empathy quickly formed 21c8867874 between the two.58a68ca7cb168a93

“Although I am physically weak, that doesn’t mean I can’t engage in social activities. I can ride horses like other men and shoot a bow.”64d94fdb6a893f2f

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“You can shoot a bow? That’s impressive.”775e171f0c80e8ca

Etienne was 6cef6ddc55 genuinely impressed. He had learned sword 0d616f58ec and horseback riding, but 78f7e8ffd2 Leona had quickly made 4bdfb33977 him stop.98680b34ffaa7796

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He had d3db334df2 no talent, e9f7b69452 but the b855b2767f fundamental reason b7e0b3c184 was to 8162c6e6d6 hide that c401fd57f3 he was 89d20bdf83 an Omega. Interacting with people could c64b9c2f8a lead to unexpected situations 24c99d9ece and increase the risk b24d57e1d0 of being discovered.e6e331b7d7066be5

“I might be the best bow shooter in our family. I’m not confident with a sword, but I’m definitely confident with a bow.”8a76cac077fde178

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Antoine spoke 46c72cc836 with a ec9077e3a1 confident face. But his expression soon cd6b32d867 darkened.3f087ef66e230163

“However, my father didn’t approve of activities that required me to move my body. He prevented me from doing it, saying it was dangerous and that I would be in big trouble if I got hurt.”55afd1a320f53c9c

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A bitter smile rose on Antoine’s lips. Etienne realized that Antoine liked his father less than he thought. Antoine loved his father while also harboring some hatred towards him.568a69e068eb6f15

“My father always treated me like a fragile piece of pottery. I really hated that. Being with my family made me feel like I was someone who shouldn’t do anything. I felt so powerless.”5057b26fde7e113e

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“…”26039957d0ca6e65

“My dream is to be a military operations officer.”f9eb8f552ec869d8

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“An operations officer? I didn’t know you were interested in tactics. That’s a bit unexpected.”7f8264ba07e66869

“Haha, everyone says that. Despite appearances, I’m a proper member of the Mathias family.”fb55cfa0a1c3df32

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Antoine laughed as dc1f3f6878 if he was 5da500b927 used to get 91c2cb02b0 that reaction and aef15f526f continued his story.182779215fcab247

“Our family has many military-related books. I naturally became interested after reading military strategy books and books about weapons whenever I was bored.”0b85c789d5f8f3d9

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Antoine leaned towards 3b07ddee20 Etienne, lowering his 38f19b7781 voice as if 2df48ddeee sharing a secret.3718836ba4f4b3f2

“This is something I’m telling only Your Highness… Actually, during the battle where my father fought alongside the Grand Duke, I once helped draw up a strategy for them.”48a7fa38b732bf63

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“You drew up the strategy?”41b9272fc36220bb

“Yes, I suggested it when I saw my father struggling, hoping it might help. Thankfully, it turned out well.”79f8a409709d8a08

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A faint smile appeared on Antoine’s lips as he recalled it.ffe5dba93348023f

“Later, I heard from my father that the Grand Duke said it was an excellent strategy. Of course, he doesn’t know I was the one who devised it… but that day, I was truly happy. It felt like the first time my abilities were recognized.”45f0e88ea1387fe5

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Antoine spoke as c478408e76 if recalling the ce7b9c9830 joy again, and ddd2668840 with an excited 721f758754 face, he continued 0d504e63ff talking about Rishar.81514a2a7b8ba10c

“As it turns out, Grand Duke Eckhart is famous for looking solely at ability, regardless of gender. Have you heard of Lady Stella?”8ae6b146284a5ae7

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“Lady Stella? Are you talking about House Eckhart’s Mage Commander?”e3eaa3127da31619

Etienne froze for a bd1e2445b6 moment at the name a0d5593425 Antoine mentioned, then feigned bea102d088 ignorance. Antoine’s face lit b2f9d5801b up.76e4b74cec13f405

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“So you know Lady Stella!”68c38634666124f5

“I’ve seen her face a few times. But why are you bringing up Lady Stella?”dc40d9c703040b0b

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“Well, among Omegas like me, Lady Stella is extremely famous. Everyone wants to be like her.”80161a10cabf0a15

“Why?”4e865ed8068b3486

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“Because she’s the first Omega mage commander! For the same reason, many Omegas respect Grand Duke Eckhart. Especially those like me who want to work in the military.”81cb34a5cc5f465a

“Hm?”58cb811762041f40

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“The Grand Duke was the first to make an Omega a family’s mage commander. Everyone wants to work under him because he prioritizes ability over gender.”a8efddd4f8e1c901

“I… didn’t know that.”ab749133d47a20e5

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“I wanted to meet the Grand Duke because I thought if it were him, he would see me as a tactician rather than an Omega. Although it seems I’ve firmly gotten on his bad side.”4a2f61c0701cf24b

Antoine laughed awkwardly. Etienne felt a strong 9027eeae0a sense of déjà vu 0fcef73a56 hearing his words. He had recently ce8e3d43b1 heard similar words ff733560d6 from Stella.f68c8dc643e47138

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‘The Grand Duke is the only one who saw me as a mere magician.’65f73ab5202bf0a6

Yes, Stella f0b46e8175 had said b595ae66a7 those words c8ea42ef7c too. Etienne easily 70eae371e5 recalled his ca4b8bf7ea conversation with 3e33553fc7 her.953b70c17c713801

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‘Your Highness, you’re curious about how the Grand Duke was doing at the expedition, aren’t you? Shall I tell you about it?’55d0ca495c85f890

When staying at the 75b38dab89 detached palace, Etienne had 37b06724e5 many conversations with Stella. Since their common 6f3019bd7a point was Rishar, 31f7951a5f their discussions naturally 46ecee2af7 flowed towards him.03c4c30a68c0425d

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Rishar at the military academy, Rishar during the expedition, Rishar as Grand Duke Eckhart… Stella told Etienne about aspects of Rishar he didn’t know.ebdb3e5f25020171

Etienne was completely immersed 0882053ebb in the stories Stella 0ee2d57abb shared. The Rishar in 6155e3e4df her stories was 8e56c84b3a different from the 44f234caca one he knew. Sometimes he seemed mysterious, d55a5e4891 sometimes entirely new.29d0cb6d9797df6a

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Rishar seemed displeased that Stella was talking about him in such detail, but he didn’t stop her. This was because Etienne was enjoying their conversation.45ae6a16a3c10c2e

Thanks to c38cb9e32b Stella, Etienne 7e8c51b710 could hear 31d9adbe48 about Rishar 25560dfd4d from the eec182be34 time he cf531afe0f hadn’t been 347eb4ea20 with him.be27f17005ec457d

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‘From monsters to barbarian tribes… Ugh. I really worked incredibly hard under the Grand Duke.’d074f8b3eb5f8806

Stella grumbled 6df7552389 that she 8fceceeebc had suffered 9631999db1 all kinds 18ce7e1696 of hardships 3466e7893b because of d70832a355 Rishar, but 4b3493a4ba her voice 4b9c2951df contained an 3e61890117 undeniable pride ef30f6c2a0 and affection.7d7412f0e63949d4

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‘How did you end up serving Rishar as your lord?’18092d016cf640e6

‘Me? Oh, didn’t I tell you?’21d4ac01e852ace8

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‘No. I only heard that you met at the military academy.’07d66ea659182089

‘Well, I’ve known the Grand Duke since we were young. The Flang family has been an old servant of the Eckhart family. I met the previous Grand Duke and Duchess a few times before they passed away.’70d65e6ed21c4909

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‘I see.’579effd78e4d3313

‘I couldn’t see him while he was under the protection of His Imperial Majesty… And we met again at the military academy. When I heard that the Grand Duke was going to enroll, I insisted on going to the academy too.’88f2ba1f2b7d3fc6

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‘You insisted?’568772d213dccbab

‘Yes. If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have been admitted. My father is incredibly conservative… Fortunately, the timing was good. My younger brother was past the age to enter the military academy, so he had no choice but to give permission.’a9fb5f37fec47c9d

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Stella drew 189247f1ef a V-shape a6eba39b73 with her c2e0619f1f finger and baa7ff469e smiled slyly. However, her smile 5fe5ed4713 quickly turned into 1fc25e8543 a bitter one.7fd594a53b262c10

‘Like parents of an Omega typically are, my father also hoped I would meet a good Alpha and marry, because I was born as an Omega blah blah blah… agh.’293930f1b40117f4

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Stella, recalling old 384b60cc7c memories, shook her 4bc919db48 head as if 8dc238ebb9 disgusted. Then she 80b296d4a6 continued with 56f6ccfd36 a bitter 3507023560 expression.f40e1178ec36ac6d

‘While there’s no law saying an Omega can’t be a head of the family, the social atmosphere is still somewhat challenging. Especially conservative families… If there’s no Alpha in the family, they might not care, but if there is, they definitely won’t choose an Omega as the heir.’eb0e6d2eaceeab64

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‘I see. I didn’t know that.’b9cb8b79f7511798

‘It was the same in my family. The moment an Alpha male was born, all the talk of me being the heir disappeared. It was an absolutely unacceptable decision for me. I’m far more superior than that guy, yet I can’t become the head of the family just because I’m an Omega!’6f11ce79f6576385

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Stella clenched cb4462e2a3 her fists b79ed31c62 and trembled. It seemed 1a2696cf56 she was 153fbd0dd5 still angry b98dd2da76 when thinking 701ab8f8d8 about it. Soon realizing she was 691f27329a overly excited, she cleared 947ccaf7f9 her throat.19d1f5680fcdb7b5

‘That’s why I enrolled in the military academy. I wanted to directly show my abilities to the Grand Duke. Fortunately, things worked out well.’1c40665f29d2aee2

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‘That’s good.’c03126acf09b9c6f

‘It totally worked out! If the Grand Duke hadn’t made me a mage of the Eckhart family, I would probably be a noble lady of some family by now. Ugh…’764d5bf9ead7bb0e

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Stella made a disgusted expression. Etienne quietly imagined her wearing a glamorous dress with an elegant pose, fanning herself. It certainly didn’t suit Stella at all.bc20e915f7393344

‘Anyway, when the mage commander, Sir Bryant, unexpectedly retired, the Grand Duke designated me as the next mage commander! At the time, there were some people who opposed this because I was an Omega…’8d86a668afdc5201

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‘And then?’aeb9d6a8c7c9ed78

‘The Grand Duke simply stated that among his family’s mages, I was the most skilled, so he was assigning me the role! Imagine the joy I felt!’9b50be781f20acb4

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Stella clapped her 431d81f3bd hands with a 9aa27c7df4 flushed face. Etienne watched her curiously 7c61cecee1 as her expressions changed 21c97d92b9 moment by moment.b2f8b530ccc010d4

‘When the Grand Duke appointed me as mage commander, my father could no longer do anything. I also got the position of family heir. The Grand Duke is practically my savior!’65dd855241bca474

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‘To that extent?’de0d85e7e1a0a4b5

‘Of course! From that day forward, I swore lifelong loyalty to the Grand Duke!’0d1ca8eb1b077253

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Stella smiled 116348371a brightly, saying 500aa0a078 it was e643dd0517 natural to 9d70b203b8 be loyal cea811cedb to someone 94ea8e2deb who recognized ba29d74a3a and gave 8e739af5be her opportunities.ae2be4b59bb3ba48

Etienne quietly pondered her words. In fact, he was somewhat shocked by Stella’s story. She got through something different from the life he thought Omegas had.2abd69a226f0c04d

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And now, Antoine’s story gave him a similar impression.4bc257881191cfd8

He thought 25a0e0d883 being an e91d02aa7d Omega would 83f070e043 mean being 181c0ef058 unconditionally happy.248b4dcfbca58ef1

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Etienne bit his lower lip, feeling an inexplicable embarrassment. Both Stella’s and Antoine’s stories were surprising. It felt like seeing the dark side of the moon.f0e3f3751cd968de

Where there is light, b4e09c9353 there are also shadows. Not all 0e4581ed72 Omegas live f2a29add81 a happy 60b9d7eac5 life. He himself 236236bdf7 was proof a34f25ca92 of that.05d1f4bc51c7b884

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Knowing this dec487bbf7 better than f2018aac1e anyone, he e46971bbec had rashly 03e58db879 judged based e88c80aa08 only on df71ac37b7 their seemingly 1f0c6dee60 happy appearances.28b0628722775e8f

Because Stella and Antoine 4c7a403825 were raised receiving abundant 04a0470183 love as Omegas, he 49566704f3 had assumed they would e79ce91fab be happier than himself a74bf6fb53 based on the bright 40e7dafc0c energy he perceived from da8a2c53fe them.a81df4cabae2333a

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He had never e0e48d6cfe considered the potential b77ceb6f81 struggles or difficulties c9cf8a5fa5 they might face 0c5e83f6a9 as Omegas.79819b7ce236ef3e

Thinking they c70bcc42d7 were naturally f70bb59a37 living blessed c49e685dae lives, he 5f2ecd575f was too e8a2f081d4 busy feeling 117d49fa92 sorry for a44655b9eb himself to c1e7cf22c5 try to 8fae0835f8 understand them. He was immersed in 141f0a983b his own situation, believing 926e731c0b only he was unhappy.d97a01bf3e9905cc

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Etienne dried his face as if covering it. He couldn’t raise his head from embarrassment.2e2ae65bf8124230

“…I think I was a bit mistaken.”564b3e964bfa268f

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“Pardon?”72a611727c722105

Antoine tilted his 86f8e7d7b5 head, unable to de921a7555 understand what he eaa1361641 meant. Etienne, who had wiped 4e52a7ceb2 his face, raised his d21066001b head and looked at ffb534abf3 him.57ce2ce55f2a3559

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“Until now, I thought Omegas had no worries and were happy. I had only seen them being treated preciously.”785933486ac58a36

“Ah.”8023020c3f1a84ab

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“Hearing your story, I realized I was trapped in prejudice. It feels like I’ve opened my eyes.”5bb77d511b54fd91

“It’s not unreasonable for Your Highness to think that way. I have never doubted my father’s love. Most people I’ve met have been kind to me.”29b2ec63e42621cf

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Antoine, who had been surprised by Etienne’s words, made an embarrassed expression. Fidgeting with the teacup, he spoke again.f41094efe77d73b0

“I’m not trying to deny that I’ve enjoyed many things as a precious dominant Omega. It’s just that the current situation is not the direction I wanted.”6b6aa66553d67562

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Antoine’s voice became wet like flowers drenched in rain. He seemed to suppress a surge of emotion, pursing his lips. Taking a short, shuddering breath, he continued softly.b4ec6f708ac8c058

“Unlike me, many Omegas dream of becoming adults loved by their families, forming a good marriage, and creating a harmonious home. It’s not easy to give up a comfortable life guaranteed from birth.”53558b6ba2e3d551

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“…”b4a88476dbe55e88

“But I am different. I want to live like a wildflower in the field, not like a flower in a greenhouse.”3ebc1080882d6a05

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Antoine spoke with the most determined voice he had used so far. Etienne’s eyes deepened as he looked at him.d07a3801156b7123

Though he ad09e5af2b felt sorry b896b28678 for seemingly 1409b37718 using Antoine, 642e673a95 hearing his 3d66fdf50b story made 497a674a86 Etienne think 4a1df45f2f that recruiting aacd915a5c Omegas dissatisfied e6093fc7cc with their a568063d62 situation could 4f73439b4c be helpful 61183b7356 in many 6e2860d16a ways.e54c9c0b140b6216

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After all, Omegas 54f33fcb19 were the flowers 1febd6040a of high society. They were 4fd5dc63d1 welcomed everywhere. The number of cf4d79d86d Omegas attending a 512c685cb0 family gathering could 2c68099d1c determine whether that 63f24b9fc4 party was considered 8e1ec8e0e6 successful or not.e488a49b8a154c94

Because of 96526d8ee6 this, during 24540e0d34 the social 0a96ffe265 season, many ff30ca4e5b families tried c76b381f5d to invite b8a3af7d03 as many 7ed5261aaf Omegas as 7b6f854381 possible to 8746822680 their gatherings, 00eccfa9e8 salons, and 90b6ee9223 tea parties.af48fe3596ec686a

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At that time, f09dc5e964 any family would 9bf0329486 open their doors ca0eef9be5 wide to Omegas. This was true e027674481 even for Omegas 7c2039a880 from different factions.f5d5d002ac7552de

During the social season, Omegas could attend all parties except those hosted by the imperial family. Even if they weren’t invited to a gathering, they could go if they wanted.e0cefe27c0c2372f

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What if a98b7bf92e I could 5a30ee7d30 use that? The moment that thought crossed his mind, his mind lit up. Etienne’s eyes sparkled, and he moved his lips.ec2f3d5eaebfbdd4

“I understand your thoughts well. To be honest, I don’t want to be in a political marriage with you either.”727809e30b66b8ed

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Etienne carefully began, moistening 88335feaa0 his lower lip with 639529feac his tongue while choosing 6fe68efdf1 his words.7856b47bc3522109

The imperial social scene was a place of underground politics and information exchange. People formed factions, exchanged information, and led public opinion through social activities. Covert dealings that couldn’t happen in public domains also occurred.9d5466d5ceb0eea2

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If he could collect de2799b365 information through Omegas who 8544860552 could go anywhere and 597d84e521 use their help to 31a9978faa lead the social opinion, 386e52ac89 things would definitely become ee8e290266 easier.214783a8a3a8611b

“But neither you nor I have the power to refuse this situation. A powerless rebellion is nothing more than throwing a tantrum.”1eff0d21f42a7e8c

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“That’s right…”d8fe36ff8d8a9cfb

Antoine answered weakly. Sadness settled on his ec1297fe5a pale face. Etienne whispered softly to 966719621d him.c01c0af1c20b4507

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“That’s why I want to propose something to you.”4885e3335b93d1b2

“…Propose?”53fb1bb6833e31f0

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“Yes. Something good for both you and me.”4a7d05e6a7003c4a

Caught off guard by the unexpected words, Antoine’s eyes wavered. He looked around as if he had heard something frightening. Then he lowered his voice and asked.f4c9952c2f0217c4

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“What is it? Do you have a way to resolve this situation?”10ebaa060ef5891d

“Uhm, if my plan succeeds.”afd026e17e637256

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“May I know what Your Highness’s plan is?”593c24fbca9a14b2

Antoine asked with a 275b7a446f tense face. If there was a 33b0090079 way to avoid an d2f0d75076 unwanted political marriage and ba4f513713 achieve his dreams, he c5f45900bf would do anything. He looked aa84540ca6 at Etienne 7894b9060c with desperate 86761f1db5 hope.167097b8d73607c4

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“I want to hear your answer clearly first. Once you hear my plan, there will be no turning back.”482273a580a8f52d

Etienne leisurely smiled at 71854fbe0e Antoine, who was looking fc1c28c29f at him with piercing 4c93c115c1 eyes. He was prepared 96fa225017 for a long 092ad93998 battle, but Antoine aeaff135ad had come to f61a0bd8bb his side more aa2e0b4f54 easily than expected. That meant he was e1bd38b531 desperate.626ff52f88dfc2ee

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But he couldn’t reveal his hand too quickly. This was only the second time he had met Antoine, and they were practically strangers. He could hardly trust someone he had only seen twice.58c468d87adaa3f5

“Tell me. Can you cooperate with me, no matter what the method might be?”dfd4bee336eca9dd

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“If it’s something I can do…”2f529ae6eb663869

“If the plan succeeds, you might lose your family instead of gaining your freedom.”f2d3c619ef16c4f4

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Etienne immediately cut off Antoine’s words, warning him. Making such hasty decisions could lead to regret later.581d847b49be78fb

“What do you mean by that…”9ccf42fe2e2aaaf4

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Antoine was taken aback by Etienne’s interruption. The hope he had shown just moments ago seemed to crumble completely. Etienne coldly looked at him, who was dumbfounded.6aa95507b8636046

“Young master, what I’m trying to do is not a child’s play. It’s not a light rebellion.”fbf09c387259f274

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“Ah.”b47ad29f1abf8286

“So prepare yourself thoroughly. Think carefully and answer whether you can do anything for your dream, whether you can turn your back on the father you love.”7c0230f0fad905aa

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Etienne lowered his voice fb7ab61458 and warned him, his 2986266544 face hardened. He needed to 350df183cc make things clear 7aff305e4d now to avoid d75920f2a3 creating problems later.ea2798eecded86ce

“That, uhm.”ce824c626585c2e0

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Antoine’s words were blocked by Etienne’s warning. He moved his lips and then firmly closed them. Etienne also said nothing more. A heavy silence descended between them.3fc2754443cdec96

Etienne looked at Antoine, who was lost in thought, and picked up his teacup. He understood Antoine’s inner conflict. Choosing between a dream and family was never an easy task.2d4d50f4282fa75b

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He himself had been b22d40fe56 through the same. Expecting and being ab9b9afdfb disappointed, then expecting b9a4ffdfd5 again and being 47a746b1ca disappointed. He had repeated ceb3358f65 this process thousands e8a4214fae of times before 8e76ece477 finally accepting and a0eee1b152 giving up. It had taken d7c58562df him over a 105e35bea1 decade to let 2ad3d9cc6f go of Leona 98857cea07 and Edwin in 555f6d516f his heart.1f7c7566c30da05a

Even he, who had 51a28db144 never received proper love e67d605417 from his parents, found f4c90dbc31 it hard, it’d be 37ace78a82 impossible for Antoine, who e5650ca100 had been raised in e7a346cf51 a loving family, to ffdc8b9c50 easily decide to turn f0be632992 against his.8e274be0ce31fc81

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So he 9e6dcba62a intended to bd32b4af6f wait until 2a4760d1a0 Antoine made 24d69e9b9e up his f054e968c5 own mind 5f09324ca0 and made 725833c719 a decision.69d40aa91169c452

He would continue to 72ff63465c meet with Antoine for 2edfe9532a some time. That meant he had e57b7e27e9 plenty of time to f91a692b9c persuade him. Etienne decided to 7b82673645 take it easy.6f5baf14246ecaf2

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Even if Antoine refused, it was fine. If Antoine didn’t work out, he could find another Omega in a similar situation.b0fd17487c52fdfc

He would need to silence Margrave Mathias and Leona so they wouldn’t interfere, but that wasn’t difficult. After finishing his thoughts, Etienne put down his teacup.ec5346e3f18d0351

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“And one more thing, if I support you in becoming a military operations officer for the imperial family, what can you offer me?”72fb8c899e0a829d

“Eh?”181008a477c55b39

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“If you work for me, I’ll give you a chance to achieve your dream. You know that to become a military officer, you must graduate from the Imperial Military Academy. I’ll write a recommendation letter to the school principal so you can take the entrance exam.”5af5ea2978e584c8

Recommendation letter. At those words, Antoine’s eyes wavered. With a prince’s recommendation letter, he would have almost no chance of failing the entrance exam as long as he didn’t receive a failing grade.7609ef0534125a20

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Seeing Antoine’s face brighten, Etienne added another sweet temptation.036f60a583b609ee

“If you successfully graduate from the academy, I’ll recommend you to Grand Duke Eckhart, regardless of your grades.”3e21b65774b8d275

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“Th-thank you.”b93b2da6d82affe0

“It’s too early to thank me. You haven’t chosen anything yet. What I just said is only valid if you accept my proposal and everything goes smoothly.”4b7d98adda0191c0

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“Ah, right.”5eae902628b653d0

Antoine made an embarrassed expression at Etienne’s point. His face looked like someone who had just awakened from a sweet dream and returned to a bitter reality.10c5f2d515fcfded

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“This is what I can do for you. Of course, I plan to support you in other ways as well. Now, it’s your turn. Tell me, what can you offer me?”c8853602ae186377

“What I can offer to Your Highness…”895ebcadf8dea152

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Antoine couldn’t answer again. He couldn’t understand what Etienne wanted. Nothing suitable came to his mind. After contemplating for a while, he seemed to make a decision and opened his mouth.2e0b3c66a916e092

“Do you have something you want from me?”ab487f3d390c31cc

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“I do.”0fe8119c7f2cbcd7

“What is it?”91b11fd41de33ae5

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Antoine asked cc8a6fef53 in an e2d5123ac5 anxious voice. Etienne smiled 126443cbdf at him. A soft 6bfa5a7762 yet powerful dfbcb2f686 voice flowed 11b4edcff3 from between dd1fe2c882 his slightly a6da385574 raised lips.174597af62c5ef89

“Your loyalty.”c919047e869575fa

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“Pardon?”2046a1e4e1c9c990

“I want your loyalty.”7366e8f74014ca3b

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Caught off guard by unexpected words, Antoine’s face went blank. It sounded like he wanted Antoine to become entirely his own.41f52b828314eed9

“The imperial family knows, but I have no power. I’ve been controlled by my mother’s will my entire life.”1069bf7427ce1a70

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“…”6165958631a31c36

“But I’m not a puppet. I’m a living person. And like you, I have something I want to achieve. To do that, I need someone who will move for me.”02633ffdee401b73

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“…Can I be of help to Your Highness?”fd595b9d7d9e4479

Antoine, who 5c35b88961 had hesitated 859351130f for a 89751e7865 moment, asked 90024e67b7 in an 882b808be8 uncertain voice. He felt his 80d212b023 heart pounding and 16313299b1 bit his lips. His heart was 061bc92846 beating strangely.e9883c43fd541cae

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Come to 73f8a3067a think of 23177e1e55 it, today 81cb2a37d2 was the 0bdbfd187d first time f1c098c12d he had ee659e8ef1 heard someone b7c73645b3 say he a700d04d74 was needed. His family, friends, and 578f4ea236 even strangers had always 3d373740a1 complimented him, but no c77df69f01 one had ever needed 3309905214 him.840f562ced1d0a22

They would praise f1b1641e7b his appearance and b0febc07be commend everything he fd0ec37019 did, but that 55f3e4fd84 was all. They never seriously 40401927ba listened to his 12115df5fd desire to become ab47969a42 a military officer.7b6cf75dfc4b6c22

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His father opposed, saying an Omega didn’t need to do such things. Other family members unanimously tried to dissuade him, saying it was dangerous. His childhood friends and even the Alphas who confessed their love showed similar reactions.6aeb1d0abeacef90

Perhaps that’s why his heart was trembling at Etienne’s words.80183ff7c0a6defe

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Antoine, captivated by a strange feeling, waited for Etienne’s response. The few seconds of waiting felt like an eternity.34dc11a84a3e9667

“Of course. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have made you this offer.”934c3aa1f0d12ed0

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Etienne answered as if it was obvious. Removing his smile, he met Antoine’s gaze with the most serious expression he had shown so far.522c5b2de5831563

“Antoine Mathias. I need you.”21ab249b2e2c5a2c

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Antoine took a deep breath. His eyes wavered like flower petals fallen in water. He lowered his head, feeling his vision blur. He couldn’t hold back his tears.b60f246639a825d6

“…I will.”975c93ef3383177d

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After a moment, b7422e615b a muffled voice, 0e0a00e2f0 as if submerged 41dc24d875 in water, escaped 3bcc9308bc from between his 4496af6f96 lips. His decision was b1921a7b86 remarkably quick, contrasting e9c2552974 with his previous 76f5568eb6 hesitation.7cd6d381270af0ae

“I will be loyal to Your Highness.”c17e5c18e11c126a

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“You don’t have to decide right now. Take your time and think about it. If you’re doing this because emotions are running high, you might regret it later.”f9561149fe31db37

“No, that’s not it.”839c21954da04478

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Antoine denied Etienne’s words and shook his head. Lifting his head again, he smiled with his tear-filled eyes.ce404ba7ec238768

“This isn’t an impulsive decision. I just want to offer my loyalty to the first person who truly saw me.”41b02c125cd9cadf

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“…Very well. If you say so.”e6e7f65b5c563a75

Etienne quietly watched Antoine, 064579f66e who was crying and 7d3fa04538 smiling, and slowly extended c574d7db06 his hand.8df939f60cd6a540

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“Take care of me from now on, young master Mathias.”92d31b14a99fba60

“Yes, Your Highness.”9bc08ef3af9b1a4e

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Antoine stood up 059683a2bf and knelt on 4156f21897 one knee before 4677e2dd24 Etienne. Then he carefully cf24883341 took the offered 35ea73f052 hand and brought b8428a6017 his forehead to 3766c713f6 its back.3923339a68fd9277

“I, Antoine Mathias, swear loyalty to His Highness Etienne de Frederick. The empire’s sky and land are witnesses to this oath, and the empire’s sun and moon will remember this moment.”74f59e4e57d9b834

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After reciting his loyalty oath, Antoine kissed the back of Etienne’s hand. Etienne helped him rise.76057aac88ff1038

“Stand up. Someone might look at us strangely.”16b44449438c54f1

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“Yes, Your Highness.”fc052a9eedc8cc97

“First… you should wipe your face.”6907d3e107711c8b

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Sitting down, 61f7bf5c16 Antoine smiled 0dd22811aa with his 814fb4bd3b tear-stained face. Etienne pulled 0db305b705 out a 9c265514b1 handkerchief from b328328a14 inside his 0d438a5edb jacket and 7eebdf393c offered it. Antoine, feeling 13170f5687 embarrassed by 69400b8a38 the kindness, 472e55047d accepted it.c72af1eb421d7a29

“I’ll have the handkerchief cleaned and return it next time.”4b92c65dd2666867

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After wiping his d1dabaff75 face, Antoine spoke ca4157a82c bashfully. Now that his emotions f4686d1469 had subsided, he felt 469442aead he had shown an ac2832fc2d unsightly side in front 4e7ee7bd37 of Etienne.eb003641225dbec1

“That’s not necessary. Give it to me.”b08d0a6644a57dde

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“No.”83717c3423716826

Antoine avoided Etienne’s hand and pulled the handkerchief to himself. Then he let out a small laugh.aa1e4ca40c9a1c13

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Etienne looked at Antoine 450310c589 with a puzzled expression, aeb879b69b wondering why he suddenly 73248e0a14 laughed.bd68342ffea7527e

“I’m sorry, it’s just… rumors are really not to be trusted.”a27add246c78ffe0

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“Rumors?”cca02fa999104737

“Yes. Before coming here, I heard so many rumors about Your Highness.”727e77e77596054b

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“Ah.”adf08e0bd7dd3501

Etienne nodded 4e76ae763f as if 872fc652f3 he understood. Most of the 7e66818d81 rumors were likely b8b19a5709 not good.bef82c4c9bf55d27

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“But it seems all of them were wrong. You’re completely different from the rumors.”7f7ef778d4c0789d

“That can’t be.”43ef5e2ba89adbaf

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“No, it’s true. You’re so kind.”9b947fae3201615f

“Kind? Me?”501874fe1a735c79

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Etienne repeated the cceead14fc words as if 0cb111485d they were unbelievable. Antoine answered with fdc2c53e65 a bright smile.20495b851e09b616

“Yes. Beautiful, kind, smart, and considerate… all the rumors were lies.”64715ba5bb0aaee1

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The more Antoine spoke, the more awkward Etienne’s expression became. He coughed uncomfortably and discretely avoided eye contact. Being complimented made him uncomfortable.c672024c4f4e2ae5

“Some rumors are true.”50d82f3c51046b1b

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“Is that so?”b70d9f99d1825edf

“Like throwing alcohol in someone’s face or something like that. Anyway, the tea has gone cold. I’ll have it brought again. Let’s discuss our next steps.”0d5ef94844af2c7a

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Etienne rang a small 9c70e794f8 bell on the table. Ben, who 82c6e79097 had been e89f36a2b7 waiting outside, d1e7c72b9f entered. Etienne asked 5b3eeeb291 Ben to 7e17f9d713 bring new 6097c005e8 tea and e51cc1cbba then explained 6d31b2d459 his plan 58acf00707 to Antoine.968ba5bdd1ba2403

Antoine listened to Etienne’s story attentively. Their conversation continued until the blue sky turned red.efc0754d090d6254

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***62b22823c5b5f9e9

“Where’s the brooch?”792e05d9ca1cfa09

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“Move quickly! Where are the gloves?”4c5b807ccdfb58aa

Etienne was tired, looking e59a49e6aa at the busy servants 58ccc34f93 with an exhausted face. Unlike usual, today 47e6595a34 other servants besides 649517ccf0 Ben were also eb9794f232 in the bedroom. It was because of bd2b092a80 the preparation for the 5b58ae2833 debutante ball.c1942ac2a074559e

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“You must be very tired.”6c53fb320e8ab40b

Ben, who 1bd917ef7b had been b13172ac62 giving instructions 400c5f6e39 to the 0a358328cd servants, asked 55972fff91 with a f8aa9d55dc worried expression.aa083b56f1cf81a5

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“I’m fine.”8a67835f26f67ad1

Etienne answered in bda0356fb9 a weak voice, 9ab0f09f37 closing his eyes. His eyes had been c6279b7fc3 stinging since earlier, perhaps ab782ddfe9 because he had used 4108a3e33d eye drops for the bfef5b95e3 first time in a e6454fe3fe while.2b30691659ae632c

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“I’m just a bit overwhelmed.”7c88ec8a36ba9698

Etienne added to prevent 096a21b8e1 Ben from worrying, taking a95ca80f7a a deep breath in 743db6291e and out.6a6a865116282843

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He had thought 567f0ca600 everything would be e7b51943a7 more hectic since 7a87acc784 the debutante ball be5759dc6e marked the start 96fa047431 of the social a2a63c8d04 season, but it b9f0953414 was much busier 15447fbb4c than expected.0bb738625ad341ae

The ball hadn’t even started yet, but he had been trapped by Ben and the servants since dawn to get dressed, and he was already completely exhausted.0e24b456039e70ad

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Was it like ef3a12b050 this last year 201bca703c too?9285f9231e5ae2a1

Etienne thought with a dazed mind. He had attended the debutante ball last year as well, but it wasn’t this hectic.aaa71e6e725f03b1

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The social season 161349cf14 had never meant f81a4f6215 much to Etienne. Until now, he had 1c0867efc7 only shown his face 544290f7ae briefly at events he 85d2b66e7a had to attend as 9d8f487111 a prince, such as 19f9f16b09 the debutante ball or 84e9177f64 imperial hunting competitions.d23ca6c4f4aa3829

Even then, he 19915efc16 would just make f79188aa29 a quick appearance, e5ce3614a6 so there was ceecc99207 no need to cf5165b338 put much effort e989a3b707 into preparation.200f82ed7c4a8c45

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But this time was different. As Antoine’s cavalier, he had to maintain his position and put more effort into his appearance than usual.fbb6cdbdad53a642

“Yaaawn.”3fa71bcea9155417

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Etienne let d7dd70ffde out a 7dba282ec5 continuous yawn 594bf4e496 with a fca4de8e0e tired face. He was 55d7f9f67c so exhausted 6370d1b5ce from just 79459e7c79 preparing that 0afc81b20c he wanted f6d64c8554 to fall 928dcc7174 asleep right 259de6deba then and 1e041e6a6a there.8e15e0f9fb6b3532

“Just a moment, I’ll attach the brooch for you. We’re almost done. Just bear with it a little longer.”31a3489ae3fe02a5

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“Just do it. Anyone would think I’m the one making my debut.”1603985fd48b1167

Etienne grumbled, 4e72bc4cb7 standing up cf455f6fa3 from his 3f862ecb0c seat. He was tired, incredibly 8375752198 tired.36cf745b5e2b0d13

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“How can I! It’s not your debut, but it’s your first official event as a cavalier!”b3b5e8908a268975

Ben raised his voice, insisting it absolutely couldn’t be done carelessly. He was more passionate than ever.a2279e1279782f16

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“No matter who says what, today’s main character is you, my lord! I’ll make sure of it!”e5526d98807d2a6d

“Such nonsense.”9d418cd172c46def

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Etienne patted Ben’s shoulder as if to calm him down. However, Ben didn’t calm down. Instead, he looked at Etienne with blazing eyes.d13054b5c72cf2af

When Ben learned that Etienne had become Antoine’s cavalier, he was extremely angry.57ce9c368a7691b8

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His own child couldn’t even have his debut, which happens only once in a lifetime, and now he’s supposed to be the cavalier of an Omega? Is this what a mother would do?a329ca1c01ee1b9c

He had known 5f0df8a021 for a long 639409ea45 time that the 2ceb641b21 Empress wasn’t in 2eb0ee9377 her right mind, 8197aa7d48 but this was 4a914b08af truly too much.93ba6c17a073153a

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Ben decided to release his pent-up frustration by preparing Etienne. If he couldn’t stop Etienne from becoming a cavalier, he would make sure Etienne would shine more brightly than any Omega or noble lady at the debutante ball.d83f39c8415cc815

“Just wait and see. Whether they’re Omegas or noble ladies, they’ll all be overwhelmed by your beauty today.”5597489982ccaee6

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Ben said with a confident face. It wasn’t empty praise, Etienne was truly beautiful today. He was already good-looking, but when deliberately dressed up, he was radiant.227ae1b32d3a5d3d

“Today, you look really, really beautiful.”d67d80d7fddfed98

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Ben smiled 7dd304b82d contentedly, looking fe6fbf14c3 at Etienne, 11334f86bd who was 8927dcb232 as fresh 3bb88f996d as a 137a1a2701 flower bathed edd7c7bc54 in moonlight,just like 452a8d2bfc how a 88cf8e5785 hedgehog thinks bb4402848f its own 751b50b514 child is f52a799c9d pretty¹. Objectively speaking though, it really seemed no one in the empire could match Etienne’s beauty.b5b8a5b41b77f7cc

“What does it matter if I’m beautiful? A cavalier is supposed to make the Omega he’s escorting stand out.”b8456553f1d333ef

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“I don’t know about that. There’s no law saying a cavalier can’t be more beautiful than the Omega.”4f671d5b538375b4

Ben stubbornly d944e556be retorted, attaching ace838a1c0 a chain 7d46aa99a6 made of 8a9800f032 interwoven diamonds 84f31be569 above his e761b5722e waistband. He put all his 7569ef048e efforts into preparing Etienne 44ff52595c until the very end.2d1b2dce55efe042

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Etienne looked at 9aaaab128d Ben and let 4ab4e1eeb4 out a small fa11c859f5 sigh. He knew a632592f13 why Ben c0c7308a2a was doing f5e370148a this, and f505e6329c he felt af0189495d both grateful f0f82ce632 and sorry. At that f472796300 moment, a 1e8ca5b872 knock was e0589acff1 heard.611c6871f77915b0

“Your Highness, Margrave Mathias’ son has entered the palace.”cafe8ec12b1eae57

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“Got it.”08f5ac2d8ae31656

At the voice announcing Antoine’s arrival, Etienne gestured to Ben to stop.a020b5f94a34315c

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“Ben, that’s enough.”52b386b8066253c5

“Oh, just a moment…!”6630ff37e931e5ff

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Ben, with an anxious face, quickly adjusted Etienne’s attire. Then he stepped back, looking reluctant. Etienne, finally free from Ben’s hands, went outside.e53291524070cdf6

“Welcome, Young Master Mathias.”4f817148a042e894

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“Your Highness.”bf8a01ed760c24f1

Antoine, who fa133410b2 had come e5f650171b out to 14b0b05192 meet him, 0bde5ece75 quickly got 81ff5cca88 off the 2ac8076b56 carriage. Etienne grabbed his 19682f9d81 hand and pretended c9ecd59081 to lightly kiss 53435d348d the back of 1b02adaed8 it.e01c23497933f79e

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“I’m sorry. I was originally supposed to escort you from your residence…”925e9554a1b8be6a

“It’s fine.”05e6980f129fd053

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Antoine smiled softly. It was customary for the cavalier to go to the house of the person they were escorting and enter the palace together, but because of Leona, he couldn’t do that.56084d49eb4a70ee

She made excuses that d148816331 Etienne might be in 24b33877a3 danger if he went 3b390dff8c outside the palace, and 2d94c822a6 opposed him going to da90a3ce32 the townhouse to escort 49960d124f Antoine.62479d0ffa09e897

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However, her true b2a0b028f0 intentions lay elsewhere. Leona had 86fc96b567 engaged in 37dca0343a a power a5ebd45f49 struggle with af3e050ddf Margrave Mathias e7c815a1e0 to avoid 143e04d114 relinquishing control 6b0622f514 of their dd09b4a3d8 relationship to 50de297858 him.b0eca53253b3755c

Because of this, Antoine had to enter the palace alone without Etienne’s escort. And many had witnessed this. Probably by tomorrow, rumors would spread that Antoine was so infatuated with Etienne that he was willing to humble himself.caa1ee878f821add

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Etienne looked at Antoine 636ae98a27 with an apologetic face.28f16488d6aa146d

“The Margrave didn’t take offense, did he?”9bfeb5d3cac55eb7

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“My father understood it was an unavoidable situation. The Empress even sent her carriage, so he managed to save some face. I think he’ll let it go.”fd805ffe691ea684

“I’m glad to hear that. By the way, you look very beautiful today.”21783df1d2729320

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“Yes? Oh, thank you.”f72015ba45fc7aea

Antoine blushed 484ae91519 and turned 06579e1b13 red. After hesitating for c78f8526be a moment, he 93e21d3df8 said in a 1b4df01b2b small voice,66e865f1daaf61ee

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“Your Highness is… beautiful too.”d7ce8f52eba5e6d6

“If possible, I’d prefer you to say I look cool.”cd400640fe5db85c

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“Oh! You look cool! So you’re beautiful and cool?”19f2eb78edfc0661

“It sounds like you’re just flattering me, but thanks.”b25c533d8970828e

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“It’s not flattery… You’re pretty, handsome, cool, and beautiful!”c8849801c58181fd

“Flattering me won’t get you anywhere.”c089f8c9e6bde0f5

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“It’s not flattery… it’s the truth…”e91e27e92a3cb92e

Antoine muttered 9559b229d0 with a db9782ed72 slightly resentful 97523bb267 expression. In his eyes, Etienne 75b3fec7f7 was perfect today, like 15671c700c a prince straight out cc73306a6d of a fairytale. Well, in fact, 55f36c0892 he was a 74ef76c035 prince.feb2a63d90192c08

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“It’s about time, let’s go to the grand hall.”82ef65996368d037

Etienne, who 55b20e4459 checked the 02c77eaf49 time with 7a3582d539 his pocket f434de0028 watch, led 5c512793b9 Antoine through 7ff4b9cdc0 the passage 2e7ac6428f connected to ffc618f17f the main e92e3fc788 palace. This was 9d6c59107a a path dca8a729ec only accessible f26e0e3c6f to members bb149e5b17 of the f33e11b83e imperial family 91a11fbf65 and specially 87f1c603b7 permitted individuals.01634e249b9945f7

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“Have you been well?”2e497bbcfdb2c239

“Thanks to you, I’ve been well. And… the task you previously ordered is progressing well. About five or six people seem willing to join. I’ll let you know once it’s confirmed.”7722692bc783f06d

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Antoine whispered carefully in 5b69d0190d a voice only Etienne 6f2069b0ec could hear.a038277c41d91546

“Good, let’s arrange a meeting later to discuss the situation.”706f50d608ed4bf4

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“You want to meet directly?”ce8ae7d5dd0fbc6b

“Aren’t they people who will help with my work? It’s right to meet them directly. That way, they’ll also gain confidence.”610f29edd4304cf0

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Etienne spoke 6f06e5d22e in a d049f19692 decisive tone. The first instruction 39f5214e9f he gave Antoine 97e6b5d4b9 was to find 189998da36 and persuade Omegas 231e4b5800 to work together.9160d43339d1d564

‘There’s something I’d like to ask you, Young Master.’a5b857f98ef832d9

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‘Please speak freely.’ac52f3b46852e600

‘You mentioned before that many Omegas envy Lady Stella. Does that mean there are many who wish to live following their own dreams rather than their family’s wishes, like you?’459cde91047873e9

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‘Well, I wouldn’t say many, but it’s not a small number either.’26ad7bc46723699e

‘Are their situations similar to yours?’4216e896ca3549a4

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‘Most of them are.’cfb559009c609873

‘I’d like to bring Omegas in similar situations to our side. What do you think? Does it seem possible?’f11a2704a4fa27b4

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‘Hmm.’b32b721dc0f322be

Antoine hummed thoughtfully. After a 28170fa9c0 moment, he d5a9e9e360 answered confidently.ca2ef4b139fd9b7a

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‘I think it’s quite possible. I have several friends that are Omegas. Since we’re in similar situations, we’ve been exchanging advice and comfort. If I bring it up, they’ll surely show interest.’f2db757ca91ca3bb

‘Then let’s start with those people. Become the center and create a social group with them. And work on building influence in social circles.’11ee24ed38fdaa34

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‘A social group?’70c7bd9e31db2d77

‘Yes. Not just for now, but for the future as well.’d7a63f1f82745097

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‘For the future…’0f78bf2d4fc1a46e

‘The world won’t change just because you become an operations officer. If Omegas unite and speak with one voice through the group you create, don’t you think people’s awareness and also the social atmosphere might gradually change?’d515e04373d55e92

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At Etienne’s words, Antoine exclaimed ‘Ah!’ as if realizing something. His eyes sparkled with hope for the future.87300d92baa79ea8

‘Your Highness is right.’b7ec5618db9b8067

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‘Good. I’ll leave this task to you.’1fac7ca501b896d7

‘Please entrust it to me. I’ll do my best.’a879717bb75eb56f

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Antoine replied with 70b14a5cee an eager face. From that fd76ab945c day on, e4cb78a30e whenever Antoine 6d68cb98c3 came to 2035244c64 the palace b82273123e to prepare b094a2379e for the b8b8f69144 debutante ball, e409e7a4cf he reported 5f5a23c72c on how 6ebe984edd things were 905f89128b progressing.45f923a56c90a289

He moved so 63864727cd busily that it 360d1d4402 seemed he might d7a10a955d be overdoing it. Thanks to that, 628ef6de9d he saw results f3fc4c29bb faster than expected.1d2924d1bd9d7abf

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“Well done. I was right to entrust this to you.”83b6428454fff725

“Not at all. There’s still much lacking.”782a2b9a7a51b1ea

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Antoine grinned shyly. He climbed the stairs, 7aca8bafe4 trying to control his f58a01898a rising smile.3e4d23dd3b9a0e98

The two entered the 6457e4e729 corridor connected to the fcfac627cc grand ballroom where the 5320975f06 debutante ball was being 7c28385c15 held. At that moment, Etienne 9568c41609 suddenly stopped, having noticed 4995a2ec0d something.2bcdfd75f0237ec2

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“Your Highness?”eb78b0c76dd9a134

Antoine called out to Etienne with a puzzled expression when he suddenly stopped walking. However, Etienne didn’t answer.610b9ddfb3c64f9b

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What is it? Antoine’s eyes widened as he followed Etienne’s gaze. There was someone in front of the door connected to the grand ballroom.c599b82987f3e375

“Ah.”7e2ed0eec66757fc

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Antoine involuntarily 83f75ec14e let out a36c73e526 a sound 8056793386 as he dd73694dde recognized the 8d137bdd9f person. The man 81282230e4 who had 93904d4125 been talking 7ba4a4f7d8 to a a9f541ec78 woman with 003adb88c5 striking purple 9bbb114511 hair turned b7bad4524e his head. It was Rishar.a01cc6f9d5a47578

“Hyung-nim.”3885858d43991cdb

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Rishar approached with e996233ca4 a bright expression f6aa1ed400 upon seeing Etienne. Etienne stared blankly ff9885e168 at Rishar as deddd30109 he came closer. Then, suddenly ce6f1f60e3 coming to d6c3bd7800 his senses, 15aef4df7c he greeted e83b01b19f him.5b42f9618adb27d0

“…It’s been a while, Grand Duke Eckhart.”92e65b127aaf7a08

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“Yes, Your Highness. It’s the first time we met since the detached palace. Have you been well?”0b16d0ccfb1e055d

Rishar hesitated momentarily when fd159bd5b3 Etienne called him Grand b5edb48de8 Duke, but quickly recovered be3aa58ddb and asked about his 8c6a9d0480 well-being with a smiling 686dc829f6 face.93b1b68ebe258c56

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“I’ve been…”e9829e978fd38d91

Etienne trailed 2d35bc33d0 off, averting 88100f6ebf his gaze. For some 4f9e25861d reason, it dd8031b642 was difficult c28b8917c5 to look 937109e9bb at him 070ef68dbb directly.a3a6f8bda0e5c70d

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What’s wrong 4765e253af with me?50b66a22e21e3d42

Etienne asked 75d354789d himself with 4affe91afc a puzzled b4529d1e5a expression, unable 7e4b183a0f to gauge b23acf26db his own 26d4a07f2f state of f17ab2238f mind.15bd4a5097b6f101

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The moment he saw Rishar, his heart skipped a beat, and his heart continued to tremble. He tried to maintain his composure, tightening the corners of his lips. He didn’t want to show any signs of being unsettled.9a481caa77717678

“How have you been, Grand Duke? I heard you’ve been quite busy with the security force lately.”2bd1a38638cddaef

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Etienne glanced briefly at Antoine and spoke. If Stella were here, he would have conversed more comfortably with Rishar, but Antoine’s presence made that impossible. He still didn’t know that Etienne and Rishar were working together.bc46766bcdc67ac1

It was natural. Even people who 92667e486b have known each 1cb048739e other for years 30a27e6567 can betray one f8cad1c8bd another, so how 365f3b305b could he trust 5ffe8fad0a someone he had c805bc4cae only met a 51e696cf71 few times?599434b1467ef226

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They had joined hands because their interests aligned, but to Etienne, Antoine was practically a stranger. He didn’t have enough time or trust to believe in someone based on a single loyalty oath. He wasn’t that naive.f21b22ae8b833c3c

So Etienne only hinted that, contrary to public knowledge, he wasn’t on bad terms with Rishar.e67b7f973b016b47

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He planned to 22855bb4c8 reveal more only c3f93ed47b when he felt f09c2c777d he could fully f8874f580c trust Antoine, or 2aef4bd830 when it became afaecd72a1 too difficult to 66c87cb6cf hide anything from d44085cd7d him.6eb5fc73270f1452

“I’m quite busy, but I’m adapting well.”62e82288f37c3144

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“That’s good. Given the circumstances, I’m worried since people are flocking to the capital from all over the empire, making the city chaotic.”e975795b87dbab13

“Thank you for your concern. I’ll make sure not to worry Your Highness.”ed3e401b6affc3c0

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“What would I have to worry about? You’ll surely handle everything well.”cacaebb5091c0cb8

Etienne laughed awkwardly. He still avoided 360b1c4c29 making eye contact 43ad5e8711 with Rishar.299a2d547e4a9433

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Rishar slightly furrowed his brow at Etienne’s behavior of not looking at him. He wasn’t happy that Etienne was avoiding his gaze after not seeing each other for weeks.d398310a5c558ec1

“Are you uncomfortable somewhere?”d0a0d3c471fe2d11

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“Hmm? Not at all. Nothing… Oh, let me introduce you. This is Margrave Mathias’s son, Antoine. You probably know each other, but it would be nice to exchange greetings.”2b912fbb8a57e350

Etienne, avoiding a direct 1bdbe67213 answer, introduced Antoine to 4ab239dcd2 Rishar. Antoine, who had been c4e251b553 watching the two converse 61208af2ca with sparkling eyes, quickly 08bad417d7 stepped forward.09e8b727393b5ed9

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“Greetings to the Sword of the Empire. I am Antoine of Mathias.”827fe3a0e197c4a1

“It’s been a while, Young Master Mathias.”61f97a1b97f996a9

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Rishar did not reject Antoine’s greeting. Nor did he warmly receive it. Unlike when he looked at Etienne, there was not a hint of a smile on his face.b97fe39a9c0e500c

“I, uh, would like to apologize for my rudeness to the Grand Duke last time.”9327d1e2534f42c0

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Antoine, who had been watching Rishar’s reactions, cautiously brought up the past incident. He felt he needed to properly apologize. However, Rishar’s response was lukewarm.0d21837a09382d1d

“Last time? Oh, you mean the banquet.”fe964b60a071028e

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“Yes. At that time…”211b2a073df5f453

“It’s fine. No need to apologize. I had forgotten about it until you mentioned it.”94922c91e585c08f

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Rishar cut off Antoine’s words coldly, with a voice devoid of warmth.f75721aa28d13865

“I apologize… I shouldn’t have brought it up.”738214727a6984e1

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Taken aback by Rishar’s attitude, Antoine lowered his head. Though he wasn’t particularly perceptive, he could tell that Rishar had absolutely no fondness for him, as no one had ever shown such hostility towards him before.2483da3145ab0196

Antoine’s expression became dejected. No matter how much he might have been disliked, Rishar was much colder than he had expected. Even if Etienne recommended him, it seemed Rishar wouldn’t accept him.0d2f338e4fd69f98

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“I would also like to greet the Prince and Young Master Mathias!”edbe7f83079c4a3f

At that f2bdee990c moment, Stella, 1a5bac889c who had 62a4efab31 been behind 21403c7825 Rishar, suddenly 18c2cfcdbb intervened. She had 476fc51f0d realized the e4e72badec atmosphere was 98690edd07 becoming strange.e03c65ae3f60fa8e

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“Greetings to the Star of the Empire, I am Stella of Flang!”15c70212bf7c6120

“It’s been a while, Lady Stella.”ce27b12febff7dca

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“How have you been?”0e2ba49ff5776b4f

Stella, with a broad smile, casually asked about his well-being, telling a white lie. She had just been disguised as an apothecary, invited by Celodine, and stayed in the palace until yesterday morning. Today, she returned to the Grand Duke’s residence to attend the ball as Rishar’s partner. In reality, it had only been half a day since they last met.9baae9d69f54acbf

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“I’ve been well. How about you?”42ebf86e2ba94607

Etienne gave a faint smile towards Stella, who was greeting him. He thought it was fortunate, as he had been anxious about Rishar and Antoine’s conversation.d3f691d42f06a0c6

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“I’ve been well too. I’ve been so busy that even two of me would barely be enough. By the way, even though it’s been a while, Your Highness’s beauty remains unchanged. You shine just by standing still… My eyes are truly blessed today.”0b45b2f679d57cfe

After praising Etienne’s appearance, Stella turned her gaze to Antoine.6e7335f984e8bb40

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“And Young Master Mathias? Nice to meet you. I’m Stella of Flang.”2638986c668d1c3a

“Oh, yes, yes! Hello, I’m Antoine of Mathias.”cf2c647a29608dac

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“My goodness, your name is as pretty as your face. I’ve actually wanted to talk to you for a while, and now the opportunity has arrived!”71a31d83f453e8f7

“M-me?”c6a8cb585e9a2b51

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Antoine was startled by Stella’s words, his face coloring with excitement after being discouraged by Rishar.8efd845d817c48c8

“I’ve wanted to meet Lady Stella too!”c9e5f15b618ed586

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“Eing? Me?”85479edfbb355ec1

“Yes! I’ve admired Lady Stella for a long time! It’s truly an honor to meet you like this!”e0ed1ba30bc79f03

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Antoine spoke with 0b90cf28f6 an excited voice. He seemed 427c7a5ee0 overwhelmed to 2ef28d43b0 hear from 9215d6ae47 someone he 305f8324a2 had long 3384be5317 admired.9bb5722a3cd2beaf

“You’ve admired me? My goodness, such a beauty has had feelings for me – what a successful life! Since when? Have we met before?”2ea1ed3710c0a5ff

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Stella, with a thrilled ed66d14b68 face, asked Antoine various 05eb21b454 questions. Meanwhile, she 0e67140b64 drew him 209d9a0a92 closer to 96fcf48644 herself.c0ebf00e65d269b3

Antoine, following Stella’s intentions, completely turned his body and enthusiastically answered her questions. The quiet corridor was instantly filled with their voices.1bbbfaba8b3608d8

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Etienne looked surprised 79119e9e22 at Stella and a6785c964f Antoine, who had b876ace3d5 suddenly become lost e8c7f160f9 in their own 7bf0dadc62 world. As he was 83108e4f88 contemplating whether to fc5d397307 interrupt their conversation, bdac5de82d a shadow fell 3384ce7f88 over his head.39d4f2729f205b64

“Hyung-nim.”a4b21bb6f0d43d3d

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“…!”2d24892c48a9e2ef

Etienne reflexively raised his 75060a3a39 head at the calling 35f47b853f voice and shuddered. Rishar was 835f0be43c suddenly right 375c852b17 beside him.4d48211f9aabbb1b

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“What.”37e890d4bf1def51

Etienne bit his lower lip, averting his gaze from Rishar’s deep, blue eyes. The stirring in his heart intensified again.584a43c7ef2bb3b0

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“Why do you keep avoiding my eyes?”4fa86ff450086b46

Rishar frowned as Etienne once again avoided his gaze. At first, he thought it was just his mood, but it wasn’t. Confirming this only made his already poor mood sink further.c82c48bf86ee234f

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“When have I? And don’t call me hyung-nim in front of the Margrave’s son.”df4a5113caf20f9b

Etienne, denying Rishar’s words, gave a warning to be careful of his behavior. This only made Rishar’s expression worse.3c17f9ccef191c02

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“Margrave Mathias’ son seems completely absorbed in his conversation with Lady Stella, as if we don’t even exist.”0f9c306c10a2239c

Rishar retorted 00eca3f3b6 sharply, pointing 0834436d0e at Antoine 0b0a22318d with his 7bf0ef07cd eyes. As he said, b630a0f671 Antoine was deeply 5609dd4395 engrossed in his 67ef0c7037 conversation with Stella. Even from behind, he 2f9dd2a24c looked as excited as b03708b0f3 a child who had a29d05c2de received a surprise gift.7f2e8a163a5cde57

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“Still, we should be careful…”998397711fe4f46f

“Then shall I whisper so he doesn’t hear?”09c5a06ac483e7bb

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Rishar leaned his upper 3935db9a6d body close to Etienne 5a044221ec and spoke. At the a2263223b2 suddenly close c63f90cdd8 distance, Etienne dffcea1f14 hesitated and a1a74db1b7 tried to 7c1da0fc61 step back.4d66953f520eabb6

But Rishar was faster. A hand reached behind and grabbed Etienne’s waist.0a7ce8fad71ab2c9

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“Ri…!”bbe2b7ca863da182

“Shh. You should lower your voice. What if the Young Master turns around?”73e16bfaede99813

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Rishar, who 63bbeae621 had just 78ff06c275 given Etienne 6ce1e9138b the same e6cff12d5b warning he 6b249c5d20 had received, d373740cb9 playfully lifted f2552d57b9 the corner cdbdee0aeb of his 3f88d2391e eye.0df8d9afc0cc9f4f

“I get it, so let go.”dbb1cbf2f68e2c4a

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“Don’t worry, my cloak is covering us.”63c9e50cbec3cfa4

Rishar whispered reassuringly. Unlike the anxious Etienne, who was worried Antoine might see them, Rishar was relaxed. More accurately, he didn’t care whether he saw them or not.d47875a1337b8589

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“But…”430c21b1bce53c19

Etienne trailed off, glancing at Antoine. Rishar’s eyes narrowed at Etienne’s continued concern about Antoine.13530009c19eec88

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“Tsk.”04e8f8f96a165e99

Rishar clicked his tongue, feeling irritation rise. He had thought he could endure it, but that wasn’t the case.65ef53bf3104060d

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Moments ago, when he 624d3bdfbe saw Etienne appear with 04bddaa388 Antoine, Rishar simultaneously felt 80d7a16ddd joy and jealousy.0779a35ea49eb517

Up to that point, he could still tolerate it. But seeing Etienne continuously being aware of Antoine made it difficult for him to remain calm. He didn’t like that Etienne was paying attention to Antoine.a7704da0d92eb611

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Etienne probably didn’t know how anxious he was making Rishar.82cbbccb5deaaa7d

Rishar desperately suppressed 9e842d9b9e the jealousy rising a18d603378 from deep within 7b37580dfc his heart.5a904f9cc602ef1c

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Until now, he had been pretending to be mature and composed in front of Etienne, but he was ultimately just a child. Someone who was helplessly swayed by Etienne’s every glance and movement.53ba76b301d94277

“First, I’ll just put this down…”edaf38e4efa6dd9a

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“Hyung-nim.”b919b44198a9754f

While Etienne struggled to remove Rishar’s hand, he paused at the breath touching his ear. When the scent reminiscent of a night sea suddenly hit his nose, his nape stood on end.24ac9545ab095e85

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“I’ve wanted to say this since earlier, but you look really beautiful today. I’d be angry if others saw you like this.”4836d43572f592ab

Rishar whispered softly, his lips pressed against Etienne’s ear. Every time he spoke, his soft lips brushed against his earlobe, and his hot breath tickled his ear.5dda0e0654ed7a13

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“Nngh.”28913f9d8f6f38ae

Unable to withstand the stimulation, Etienne swallowed a breath and hunched his shoulders. Every time Rishar’s breath touched his skin, a chilling sensation rose.70e874debc29c83b

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He bit his lower lip hard, feeling his spine tingle. If he didn’t, he felt a strange sound might escape.1a13d4fcd4c1b7dc

“You really…!”8cf48c7c0a187f08

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Damn puppy. Etienne, who had barely suppressed a moan, was about to say something to calm him down. But he was stopped by Rishar’s following words.21ff20c55b657e4a

“You’re finally looking at me.”f224812668e7e935

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Their eyes met, and d5e6846ba1 Rishar smiled with a 6e8b1c2039 happy face.f39ab5f9ed911726

The moment Etienne saw his deep, dark blue eyes curve with a smile, he lost his previous resolve. He couldn’t bring himself to get angry at someone so delighted to be looked at properly.b5578fc45410572f

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“…You too.”9af9aa89a10e4bfc

After moving his lips a few times, Etienne mumbled in a small voice. Only now did Rishar’s face fully come into his view.af27fe08c026f4dd

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“Pardon?”84b0985e49ba15fb

“You look really cool today too.”3a3681ac1b171397

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“Really? I’m glad. I dressed up hoping to look good in your eyes.”1e03d8d5deb42c83

“You don’t need to dress up… No, never mind.”c70b24b5bd320f54

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Etienne, who was about 11bc103af6 to say he looks f851e43cf3 good without dressing up, 07ffe945c0 closed his mouth. He almost said something f04f0d5641 unnecessary.469573c53d382179

“Anyway, let go.”68cc7286b64720bd

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Etienne pushed away Rishar’s hand, which was still holding his waist. The distance was too close.7dbb26bc1edbd693

But Rishar didn’t back down easily. Instead, he took Etienne’s hand and interlaced their fingers. Etienne was surprised by the warmth seeping between his fingers.722c5bdf90a86e9e

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Rishar brought Etienne’s hand closer to himself and gently kissed the tips of his neat fingers.87c7cf74ecfe4e06

“I missed you, hyung-nim.”2be1dcc131660343

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The voice 029fbeb70a carrying longing ff94904cbe from past 1382fda589 days flowed 56347029bb between his 016d3d776b lips and 347df72e26 delicate fingers. It was 909d0480b5 what he 601131564a had always 08639105b3 wanted to bbbea0d208 say ever 2b23ff0aa8 since the ba3fc2e53a first moment 23a850056b he saw 409ad11054 Etienne.67c637b7a6333d76

“What about you?”899ed4951dde26e3

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Rishar asked, still keeping his lips on Etienne’s fingertips. His blue eyes were fixed on Etienne as if to bind him.bf9e7b182edc13ef

“Didn’t you miss me too, hyung-nim?”fc047793addbeeb6

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