I Need the Emperor’s Child - Chapter 17

“Alright. I shall decide on this one.”

“An excellent choice. I will prepare it with all my heart, Your Imperial Majesty.”

There was Roabellin, trying on wedding dresses and selecting a design, and—

“Head Maid. I’m telling you, I just want a quick peek.”

—a man outside the drawing room, pleading in a whisper.

“Absolutely not, Your Majesty! Not even if you take my head. A groom must never see the wedding dress before the ceremony!”

In Prahenfelt, there was a superstition that a couple would live happily only if the groom did not see the wedding dress beforehand. Thus, under the Head Maid’s direction, the maids were strictly defending the villa’s drawing room against Kaisertern.

After the designer departed, Roabellin took a moment to breathe while sipping tea.

“Phew… I’m exhausted just from choosing among the options they showed me.”

Knock, knock.

At the sound of the knock, Roabellin answered absentmindedly, assuming it was a maid.

“Come in.”

As she held her teacup with both hands, the tips of black leather shoes and long legs clad in trousers entered her vision.

“Hm?”

The person who walked through the door was none other than Kaisertern.

“Oh? What brings you here at this hour? Shouldn’t you be busy with state affairs?”

He couldn’t bring himself to say that he had been waiting outside, and that he had only managed to slip in because the maids’ ironclad defense finally broke when the designer left.

“Well, I had a brief opening. I stopped by because I missed you.”

“Hmph, you see me every day.”

Despite her words, Roabellin couldn’t hide her pleased smile. Meanwhile, Kaisertern walked over to the sofa and sat right beside her instead of across from her. It was born from his desire to be as close to her as possible.

“Your schedule lately has been immense. I’m worried you’re overworking yourself. I’m afraid you might want to run away again because it’s already so busy and exhausting.”

Kaisertern asked tenderly. Indeed, along with wedding preparations, Roabellin was undergoing a crash course of intense study. Though she was already qualified to be the Queen of Aventador, there was much she had to learn regarding Prahenfelt: imperial etiquette, the history and diplomatic relations of the Empire, and the duties of an Empress.

At the warmth in Kaisertern’s voice, Roabellin gave a beaming smile.

“No, I’ve realized it now. No matter how much I run from you, my destiny to become Empress will not change.”

“Destiny?”

“Yes. Even after my family fell, after surviving brushes with death, and even after running away from you three times… eventually, I ended up becoming your wife and the Empress of the Empire. Being born a daughter of the Huga family means I cannot escape this fate. So, I’ve decided to embrace my destiny and do my absolute best.”

Kaisertern was so grateful and enamored by her declaration that she would no longer run. He pulled Roabellin into his arms. His chest felt tight with an overwhelming surge of emotion.

“Thank you, truly. I, too, will be grateful for the destiny of being your husband and do my best for you. So that you never regret this choice for the rest of your life.”

His pleasant, mid-low voice vibrated softly against her ear. Bathed in happiness, Roabellin raised her arms to embrace his broad, solid back.

But the warmth was short-lived. Soon, Kaisertern’s hand slid from her shoulder to brush against her waist.

“Ah… Kai.”

“I heard the imperial couple’s bedrooms are being well-prepared in both the Empress’s Palace and the Emperor’s Palace.”

Pulling Roabellin’s waist tight against his body, Kaisertern whispered into her ear. His voice was languid, and his breath seemed to have grown somewhat hot.

In the Imperial Palace, there were originally no separate bedrooms for the imperial couple; usually, the Emperor would visit the Empress’s bedroom on designated nights. However, Kaisertern had ordered two “couple’s bedrooms” to be created. Furthermore, he directed that even the individual bedrooms—where the Emperor and Empress would normally sleep alone—be equipped with very generously sized beds.

His logic was: ‘It is only natural for a husband and wife to sleep in the same bed, so why limit their shared quarters to only the Empress’ Palace?’ However, this Emperor already had a track record of conceiving an Imperial Prince before even getting married. Consequently, he was already rumored throughout the palace to be a man hopelessly devoted to his wife.

“The rooms are being prepared well… but what’s the use? We cannot officially share a bed before the national wedding. I felt like I was going crazy when you weren’t by my side, and I thought everything would be fine once I had you here. Now, it feels like I’m dying because I can’t even lay a finger on you despite you being right next to me.”

Roabellin’s face instantly flushed red, not expecting such a blunt confession. Kaisertern lightly kissed her heated earlobe before meeting her eyes. After a moment of gazing into each other’s eyes, their lips soon became deeply entwined. Though he explored her lips calmly at first, Kaisertern’s breathing grew heavy.

As she took in his hot breath, Roabellin’s upper body leaned back slightly. Keeping her locked in his kiss, Kaisertern slowly lowered her onto the sofa.

However, the moment his heated fingertips touched the front of Roabellin’s dress, his hand was blocked by hers.

“Hm?”

“Don’t try to sneak your way into this, Your. Imperial. Majesty.”

“No, Roa. Just a little…”

Kaisertern had been watching for any opportunity. As they say, the greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment. Roabellin felt as though a large, non-existent tail and ears on him were drooping sadly. She stifled a laugh that almost escaped and spoke with intentional primness.

“This is a drawing room. The maids could walk in at any moment.”

But to a desperate man, nothing else mattered.

“Roa, it’s truly difficult to have you beside me and not lift a finger. We already have a child together anyway. Who would say anything?”

He tried every trick and plea, but Roabellin had her reasons.

“Even so. As a person of Prahenfelt now, I’ve decided to uphold this country’s laws and customs. Furthermore, shouldn’t an Empress-to-be uphold the culture and values of her own nation?”

When the future Empress mentioned ‘upholding the values of the Empire,’ there was nothing more he could say. Kaisertern’s shoulders slumped.

“…You’re truly too much. Not even once.”

But Roabellin was not one to be weakened by such a display. She countered him expertly, leaving no openings.

“And, what if a second child is conceived before the wedding? People might gossip, saying ‘The Empress doesn’t respect the Empire’s customs because she is from a foreign land.’”

“That’s…”

He wanted to argue that such a thing wouldn’t happen, but realistically, the possibility was high. Thus, Kaisertern couldn’t deny it; instead, he muttered something that was either a vow or a threat.

“Once the wedding is over, I won’t let you be. You won’t be able to fall asleep easily for a single day. You’d better be prepared for as much as I’m holding back now.”

This time, it was Roabellin who stammered.

“B-but according to what I’ve learned… there are fixed days for the imperial couple to share a bed…”

“That must mean those are the minimum days we should spend together. No, damn it. That’s not even a law; it’s an imperial regulation. I’ll have to fix that before the wedding day.”

“What? But the ministers might object.”

“I don’t care. I’ll push it through by Imperial Decree. It is very important.”

Kaisertern’s dark golden eyes blazed with intense determination.

***

A few days later, Kaisertern quietly summoned the Minister of the Imperial Household and the Minister of Internal Affairs to his private office.

“I intend to amend some of the imperial internal regulations.”

“Pardon? Which regulations are you referring to?”

“Well, before I explain, let me state the reason. I have discovered a regulation that hinders the stability and prosperity of the Imperial Family…”

Though he attached various justifications, the conclusion was that while he wanted to keep the regulation regarding the minimum number of nights for the imperial couple, he wanted to abolish the regulation that set a maximum limit.

Since the Emperor’s gaze while demanding the amendment looked ready to snap at anyone, the two ministers had no choice but to comply. Just like that, Kaisertern kicked away a major obstacle.

***

Time flowed on, and the national wedding was now only three days away. Congratulatory delegations from various countries arrived at the Imperial Palace one after another, and among them was Iskal, the King of Aventador. He could have sent a diplomatic envoy, but he had come in person. While this was partly due to his connection with the imperial couple, his primary objective was Estina. He had heard news that she was staying at the Duke’s townhouse in Vicentium.

‘I heard Duke Hertenes is also staying at the townhouse during the wedding preparation period. Since we met when we were young, I can use greeting the Duke as an excuse to go.’

He sent a letter stating he would visit the Ducal house, citing various reasons. However, having prepared himself for a rejection, he was so overjoyed when he received a reply welcoming him that he was nearly moved to tears.

Laden with gifts, Iskal arrived in front of the Duke’s residence in an instant via a magic gate. Though he had come to Vicentium under the guise of celebrating the wedding, one’s footsteps naturally head toward the area of true interest first.

“Welcome, Your Majesty.”

The members of the Ducal house all came out to formally welcome the King of Aventador. Iskal sat in the drawing room with Itanistad, Estina, and Elina. It had been a long time since Iskal and Itanistad had met, but they remembered each other’s childhood appearances. After exchanging pleasantries and news, Itanistad offered his thanks.

“I heard from my aunt that Your Majesty helped my family a great deal while they were in hiding. Thank you very much.”

Iskal’s expression brightened, pleased that Estina had spoken of him to her family.

“As the Duke knows, Estina and I have a long history. I have always wished for the Lady to be safe and happy.”

He was referring to the fact that she had once been his betrothed. At those words, Estina’s cheeks, sitting beside him, turned red. Seeing this, Elina lightly nudged Itanistad with her elbow. It was a signal to let the two of them spend some time together. Itanistad quickly took the hint and suggested a walk to Iskal.

“Your Majesty. If you enjoy flowers, why not tour our garden while dinner is being prepared? My aunt will guide you.”

“That is an excellent suggestion.”

Thus, Iskal and Estina came to walk through the garden. In the late afternoon, a gentle breeze blew through the garden where roses were in full bloom. The wind, mixed with the scent of grass, brought a pleasant look to Iskal’s face.

“You’ve put a lot of effort into the garden for a townhouse. It’s truly beautiful.”

But looking at him, Estina recalled the time she had left him.

‘We left each other saying we should do what we needed to do first.’

Furthermore, she had even moved in a hurry afterward to shake Iskal off. She felt apologetic and awkward. At the same time, seeing his jawline, which seemed sharper than before, and his broad shoulders, which felt somewhat unfamiliar, her heart fluttered despite herself. It was a complicated feeling.

“…Congratulations once again on ascending the throne. You’ve returned to your original place.”

Iskal lowered his eyes and gave a small smile in response.

“Thank you for the congratulations.”

Estina watched his handsome face for a moment before speaking.

“Back then, I was truly grateful.”

“Back then?”

“For helping with the investigation at the Aventador Palace. Thanks to you, we were able to properly find out what the former King and Queen had done.”

At her words, Iskal waved his hand dismissively.

“No, I was the one who received your help. Thanks to you, I learned how my father died, and I was able to easily prove the legitimacy of my throne. If it weren’t for you, things wouldn’t have been resolved so smoothly.”

Iskal quietly reached out and carefully took one of her hands. Estina looked surprised but did not pull away. Iskal looked into her eyes and spoke with a voice more serious than ever.

“Estina. Like my destiny, I want your destiny to return to its original place as well. Even if it’s out of pity for me, won’t you come to the place that was yours from the start?”

He was, quite literally, asking her to be his Queen. After a brief silence, Estina slowly opened her mouth.

“But I am now just a member of a collateral branch of the Huga family. There has been no instance in history where a daughter of a collateral branch became the Queen of the main state of Aventador, let alone a foreign one.”

In truth, Estina felt a debt in her heart for the way she had fled from Iskal back then. Because it felt shameless to accept him only after he had ascended the throne, she had made an excuse. However, since this was also a factual point, Iskal was momentarily at a loss for words.

“Then, what must be done? Is there a way…?”

Hiding her apologetic feelings, Estina replied calmly and textbook-perfectly.

“Someday, when Itan has a daughter, that direct descendant of the Huga family could be married to your son later on, Your Majesty.”

Iskal was dumbfounded, but no rebuttal came to mind.

“I will return and check the entire royal genealogy to see if a daughter of a collateral Huga branch has truly never married a King of Aventador.”

Though flustered, Iskal did not let go of her hand. He felt there must be a way, but no clever solution came to him.

The next day, Iskal entered the Imperial Palace to have an audience with the prospective imperial couple. An enormous pile of wedding gifts from other countries was already stacked on one side of the great hall, and Iskal added several of his own to the collection.

“Your Imperial Majesty, Your Imperial Majesty. I offer my heartfelt congratulations on your national wedding.”

“Oh, King of Aventador. You’ve come in person.”

As it was an official setting, Kaisertern greeted him warmly with due courtesy. Beside him, Roabellin also offered a bright smile and a greeting.

“I heard that Your Majesty has become the King of Aventador, my home country. My sincere congratulations. And thank you for ousting the former King who brought such ruin to my family. I don’t know how to express my gratitude.”

Iskal was about to give a formal response to her greeting, but then a thought struck him and his eyes twinkled.

“It was merely my duty, but if you truly wish to express your gratitude, I shall not refuse. It would be an honor if both Your Imperial Majesties could attend my own wedding when it happens in the future.”

Roabellin’s eyes widened at the unexpected response.

“Oh my! Is there someone you have promised to marry?”

“It is not quite like that. The wedding I mentioned was spoken in the sense of ‘someday’… but yes. As Your Imperial Majesty knows well, there is a person who has been destined as my partner since birth. Now that the obstacles have been cleared, I intend to plead with her to come to me.”

Roabellin understood that he was speaking of Estina.

“Ah, I’ve heard about how the two of you investigated together at the Aventador Palace. Since things have turned out so well, I don’t think she would refuse your proposal.”

Despite Roabellin’s encouragement, Iskal lowered his eyebrows and put on a deliberately pitiful expression.

“Ah, about that… I visited the Ducal house yesterday and spoke with her, but it seems there is something weighing on her mind. So, I was wondering if Your Imperial Majesty might be able to have a word with her.”

Needless to say, Roabellin accepted his plea.

***

The next day arrived—the eve of the national wedding. Estina was at the palace helping with the final check of Roabellin’s wedding dress.

“Great, it’s perfect! You’re so beautiful. I think the Emperor won’t be able to close his mouth tomorrow.”

The two had agreed to speak comfortably as they used to whenever they were alone or with only a few maids. Roabellin also briefly set aside her unfamiliar, dignified Empress persona and returned to being the lively niece before her aunt.

“Hehe, I hope so. Oh, by the way, the King of Aventador came yesterday as a wedding envoy.”

Estina’s hand, which had been smilingly checking the finish of the dress, faltered.

“Ah… I see. You met him after a long time, right? Was it the first time since you were young?”

“No. Actually, when I was young, he had already become a Grand Duke and left, so I met him for the first time just before I left the palace last year.”

“Ah, right, right.”

Roabellin noticed the emotional turbulence as she watched Estina fluster.

“Aunt, what do you think of him? He was your original fiancé. You said you investigated together at the palace. Didn’t you get a bit closer then?”

Estina had already reunited with him and confirmed their feelings during her time at the magic school, but she hadn’t told the young Roabellin about it back then. And because she hadn’t mentioned the story of dating Iskal while investigating at the palace out of shyness, Roabellin didn’t know how deep their feelings were.

“That… is true, but.”

“He’s ascended the throne, he has a fine appearance and personality, he’s the greatest mage on the continent, and above all, he’s your former fiancé! What is lacking that makes you hesitate?”

At Roabellin’s questioning, Estina murmured an answer.

“Actually, after the investigation was over, His Majesty did try to hold onto me. But I thought that if he, who was the Chief Mage of the Palace then, found out you had come with the Emperor’s child, we could be in danger. So I refused. I still feel sorry for leaving like that. Um… and above all, I am a member of a collateral branch of the Huga family now. There’s no precedent for a daughter of a collateral branch becoming the Queen of the main state of Aventador.”

“That is true, but…”

Roabellin pondered her answer before her eyes sparked with realization.

“You can just talk through the apology part and settle it. From what I saw, His Majesty didn’t seem to mind that at all. And as for the collateral branch issue… Aunt. Itan hasn’t had any children yet, right?”

“That’s true, but why?”

“And I’ll be getting married tomorrow and leaving the Hertenes family. Then, who is the only unmarried direct daughter existing in Hertenes at that moment?”

“That is…!”

Startled by the answer she realized, Estina dropped the edge of the wedding veil she was holding. The chiffon veil edge slipped from her hand and fluttered down silently.

True to a family that produced Queens, the Huga family strictly distinguished between direct and collateral lines based on the daughters. Even if there were sons in Estina’s next generation, if there were no daughters, Estina—as the daughter of the most recent generation—would be the only direct daughter of the Huga family, meaning she would be the candidate for Queen. No matter how many sons there were, or how many generations of only sons passed, a son could not become a Queen.

Watching Estina stand there blankly with her mouth open, Roabellin giggled mischievously.

“Then I guess it’s settled. Since Hertenes is now a noble house of the Empire, I’ll create a situation where an Imperial Decree ‘pushes’ you into it. That would make it easier for you, right?”

At Roabellin’s mediation plan, various emotions tangled within Estina. Roabellin approached Estina and took both of her hands firmly.

“Aunt. Let’s be happy together. You sacrificed yourself for me for such a long time. I want you to find your own happiness now.”

As she met Roabellin’s eyes, tears slowly filled Estina’s eyes. Roabellin pulled her aunt into a tight embrace.

***

The morning of the national wedding dawned. Roabellin began her preparations before daybreak, starting with a bath in water filled with fragrant flower petals.

Her heart pounded.

‘Is it because today is the day everything changes?’

She had been taught since birth that she was destined to be a Queen; it was simply that the destiny was being fulfilled in a different country.

‘It feels strange to think that in a few hours, I won’t be able to return to my old life.’

Once the bath was over, however, there was no more time for sentimentality. She spent far more time on her grooming than usual, and by the time she donned her dress, the ceremony was fast approaching.

The wedding dress featured an off-the-shoulder design, crafted entirely from chiffon infused with mysterious elven power. Though its actual color was pure white, the rare material was nicknamed “Golden Chiffon” because a mere handful of it cost as much as a gold ingot.

The bodice and waist were densely encrusted with diamonds of various sizes, while the voluminous skirt, spreading from the hips, was scattered with tiny diamonds like stars. The veil was the same. The value of the diamonds on the dress alone was enough to buy four or five castles of provincial lords.

Combined with Roabellin’s natural beauty, the result was a truly dazzling presence. She looked like a goddess descended from the heavens. Yet, even she had a complaint.

‘Ugh… Kai pulls the “Imperial Dignity” card whenever he wants to make sure I can’t refuse.’

In truth, a dress this expensive and ornate hadn’t been Roabellin’s idea. However, Kaisertern had set a minimum price for the dress, leaving her no choice.

‘He says wearing a dress cheaper than five fortresses would damage the imperial dignity? Once I’m less busy, I’ll have to check the Imperial Protocol Books to see if that’s actually true.’

As she made this silent vow, the Head Maid, Countess Molly, bowed politely.

“Your Majesty, it is time to move to the Temple.”

As Roabellin left the room with her maids, she found Letis standing guard at the door in full formal uniform. She had recently been appointed as the Empress’s personal knight and had begun her duties.

“Let’s go, Dame Berfen. I’m counting on you today.”

“Yes, Your Majesty. I will provide close escort to the Temple Hall and watch over you as closely as possible during the ceremony.”

Roabellin gave a bright smile and turned, with Letis following immediately behind her.

Only invited guests—the imperial family and nobility of Prahenfelt, foreign royalty, and envoys—could enter the main hall of the Great Temple. Outside, tens of thousands of citizens who wanted to participate in this auspicious day packed the square. The atmosphere was already festive.

Roabellin was guided by a priest through the back entrance of the Temple. Since the couple is not permitted to see each other on the wedding day until the ceremony begins, Kaisertern would have entered through a different passage.

Despite the noisy and chaotic surroundings, Kaisertern was the only thing on Roabellin’s mind. Even though she knew she would see him soon, she wanted to know if he had arrived, and how handsome he looked.

‘No, I just miss Kai.’

Earlier that morning, she had felt a mix of various emotions, but strangely, as the time for the ceremony drew nearer, all other feelings faded away. Only the anticipation of meeting him swelled like a balloon.

Shortly thereafter, the bells atop the Temple tower rang out, announcing the start of the ceremony.

Dong, dong, dong—!

As the bells chimed, the crowds gathered in the square erupted in cheers.

“Waaaaah—!!!”

Using the cheers as her signal, Roabellin set off toward the entrance of the main hall. She arrived at the doors just after Kaisertern had entered. Inside the hall, she heard a fanfare followed by the applause of the guests. A moment later, the music changed. It was Roabellin’s turn to enter. The large, high doors opened slowly, and every gaze in the hall fixed upon Roabellin standing outside.

Under the weight of hundreds of eyes, she began her entrance with an elegant stride. Two maids followed, holding her long train and veil.

“Whoa…”

“My goodness. She was already a great beauty, but today she is so radiant it’s almost overwhelming to look at.”

Quiet gasps of admiration were heard throughout the seating area, but she did not look around. From the moment the doors opened, her gaze was locked on Kaisertern, who was watching her.

He wore a white ceremonial uniform with sleeves and collar lavishly embroidered in gold thread. Wearing the Emperor’s crown, he had his hair styled back to reveal his forehead. With his handsome face fully exposed, Roabellin found it impossible to look away.

Kaisertern felt the same. Though he almost always wore a cold expression, at this moment, he didn’t even realize his mouth was slightly agape. Roabellin, walking toward him to become his wife, was simply too beautiful.

As Roabellin finished her walk down the long red carpet and reached him, Kaisertern smiled and offered his hand. Roabellin gracefully placed her hand in his, and the two ascended the steps together. After receiving the blessing of the High Priest on the dais, they exchanged their wedding vows.

“I, Kaisertern Erlenkönig Prahenfelt, take Roabellin Carthenna Hertenes as my wife,”

“I, Roabellin Carthenna Hertenes, take Kaisertern Erlenkönig Prahenfelt as my husband,”

They read the latter part together in unison.

“And vow to love and respect you with all my heart for the rest of my life, fulfilling the duties of a husband and wife.”

After the vows, Ezekiel appeared, held in Itanistad’s arms. Ezekiel, dressed in an imperial prince’s formal uniform, held a small ring box. Despite the crowd of strangers, Ezekiel was delighted to see his parents and giggled happily.

“Kyaaa… Ma… Pa!”

The guests seeing Ezekiel for the first time could not hide their amazement at the baby who looked exactly like Kaisertern. Especially for the foreign guests, seeing the Emperor of Prahenfelt—often called the “Reaper of the Battlefield”—replicated in a tiny, gently smiling form created a massive sense of disparity.

“Will that cute Prince become like that when he grows up…?”

Of course, those whispers reached Kaisertern’s ears. However, he selectively listened only to the part about his child being cute, and the corners of his mouth twitched slightly.

Kaisertern lightly stroked the cheek of the beaming child and took the ring box from his hands. The small box contained a pair of rings: one relatively simple, and one ornate. The ornate ring emitted a peculiar radiance. Roabellin’s eyes widened upon seeing it.

“This is…”

The High Priest, watching happily, spoke in a low voice.

“This ring was specially commissioned by His Imperial Majesty from the Great Temple. It was crafted by artisans with divine power, and I also infused an immense amount of my own divine power into it. It will protect and maximize Your Imperial Majesty’s divine power.”

It was truly a ring custom-made just for her. This ring, which Kaisertern had meticulously designed, was exactly to Roabellin’s taste.

Following the exchange of rings was the coronation of the Empress. In Prahenfelt, it was custom to combine the coronation of the Empress or Crown Princess with the national wedding ceremony. Kaisertern stepped aside, and the High Priest spoke solemnly.

“Would Lady Hertenes please kneel?”

Supported by two maids, Roabellin knelt slightly, and the High Priest asked her: “Do you, Roabellin Carthenna Hertenes, swear to be the Empress of Prahenfelt and devote your loyalty to your country?”

Roabellin replied in a voice that was soft yet clear.

“Yes, I solemnly swear before the god Dominat.”

The primary god of the continent’s shared mythology was called Dominador in Aventador and Dominat in Prahenfelt. Once Roabellin answered, the High Priest lifted the prepared crown and placed it upon her head. It was a heavy, magnificent crown.

“May the grace of the god Dominat be with you, and may you watch over all the citizens of the Empire with deep care.”

It was a brilliant and meaningful Empress’s crown, filled with the finest gemstones representing each region of Prahenfelt. Along with the weight of the crown, a heavy sense of responsibility settled on Roabellin’s face, adding to her imperial dignity. As she straightened her knees and slowly stood up wearing the crown, the High Priest made a loud proclamation.

“I now declare before the god Dominat and all the citizens that Lady Hertenes has become Empress of the Prahenfelt Empire!”

A fanfare echoed, and loud applause erupted from the audience. She had now become “Roabellin Prahenfelt.” The moment of her status changing felt surreal. As Roabellin trembled slightly at this strange sensation, Kaisertern, who had been standing a step away, approached and took her hand.

“Congratulations, my Empress. And welcome to our imperial family.”

“Your Majesty…”

Overwhelmed by an indescribable emotion, Roabellin’s eyes welled with tears. Itanistad and Estina in the front row, and Letis standing nearby, were dabbing at their eyes, while Lisa, who was holding Ezekiel, was outright sobbing.

“Waaaah, Milady… To think I’d live to see this day… Waaaah!”

Once the proclamation was finished and the High Priest stepped down, the new Imperial Chief Mage ascended the dais. This was for the final segment added specifically to this wedding, which was not part of a standard ceremony.

“At the request of His Imperial Majesty, we shall perform the final sequence: the ‘Vow of Magic.’”

Originally, Kaisertern had intended to do this as soon as they returned to the palace. However, choosing a new Chief Mage took longer than expected. Kaisertern decided that if that was the case, it would be better to do it during the national wedding ceremony when the most people were watching. Performing magic in a temple, of all places, was unusual. However, as long as it didn’t involve evil forces, coordinating with the Temple wasn’t very difficult.

The Chief Mage summoned a meticulously drawn magic circle in front of the imperial couple.

Flash—

As the magic circle, filled with complex ancient languages and mysterious patterns, glowed blue, curiosity appeared on the faces of the guests.

“Pardon me for a moment.”

The Chief Mage approached Kaisertern and pricked his finger with a needle.

“Your Majesty, please drop a single drop of blood into the magic circle.”

As Kaisertern dropped the blood, it was absorbed and disappeared. Then, the light of the magic circle turned red, emitting a glow shaped like flickering flames.

“Now, would the swearer, His Imperial Majesty, please step into the circle.”

At the Chief Mage’s words, Kaisertern let go of Roabellin’s hand and stepped into the circle. The red light wriggled and soon enveloped Kaisertern’s body. After waiting a moment for the flow of mana inside the circle to stabilize, Kaisertern spoke his vow.

“I, Kaisertern Erlenkönig Prahenfelt, vow that for the rest of my life, I shall have no other wife or mistress besides my wife, Roabellin Carthenna Prahenfelt. I swear that I will never love another woman, nor father a child by another woman.”

Once the vow was finished, the red light that had enveloped him like fire gradually faded and soon vanished.

“The magic of the vow is complete. There is currently no known way to dispel this magic, and should His Imperial Majesty break the vow, his entire body will instantly be twisted… and he will p-pass away in agony. …I reiterate that this magic was performed at the explicit request of His Imperial Majesty.”

The new Chief Mage offered this explanation as if making an excuse and quickly hurried off the dais while glancing at the guests’ reactions. Indeed, the guests all looked shocked. No emperor in history would have voluntarily cast a vow of magic that held their own life as collateral.

In fact, casting the vow of magic so publicly was exactly what Kaisertern intended.

‘Now that I’ve gone this far, no one will dare push other women on me, telling me to take a concubine or father more heirs.’

He could already see the disappointed faces of certain nobles who might have held onto hope of getting a concubine’s position for their daughters until the very end.

‘I’ll consider this a small revenge for the pestering I’ve endured.’

Kaisertern smiled with satisfaction.

After all the ceremonial steps were finished, the newlywed couple headed to the balcony facing the square. As the imperial couple appeared on the balcony, the tens of thousands of citizens filling the square let out a thunderous cheer.

“Waaaaah—!!!”

“It’s the Empress!”

“Congratulations!!!”

The imperial couple greeted the citizens with bright expressions and waving hands. Most citizens didn’t even know the face of Kaisertern, the Emperor, but they were more curious about the face of the new Empress, about whom there were so many rumors.

Seeing Roabellin, radiant in her white wedding dress and wearing the red velvet sash that symbolized the Empress, the citizens stood with their mouths agape in shock. With her natural beauty now draped in an imperial aura, she seemed to literally glow.

“Her name is ‘Roabellin.’ Doesn’t she look exactly like the goddess Roabellin from the myths?”

In fact, her name had been taken from the goddess of beauty and fertility, and people immediately associated her dazzling beauty with that goddess.

“Ah, I heard rumors that she has divine power?”

“I heard that too! Then she really is a goddess! The god Dominat has sent a goddess down to our Prahenfelt!”

Eventually, the citizens began to get excited, claiming that a demi-god had descended to Prahenfelt to become the Empress.

“Long live the Empress! Blessings to Prahenfelt!!”

“Empress! You are our ‘Goddess Roabellin’!”

The citizens’ cheers grew louder and louder. While waving gracefully to them, Roabellin spoke to Kaisertern beside her while maintaining her expression.

“…What should I do? It seems a strange misunderstanding is spreading.”

She was flustered, but Kaisertern, who had lived as an Emperor for several years, looked unfazed.

“Other kings are desperate to deify themselves. It’s a fact that you have divine power, so it’s not entirely a lie. What’s the problem?”

“Ugh, still, being called a goddess is a bit… embarrassing.”

“You are a goddess. At least to me.”

At his words, tossed out nonchalantly while staring straight ahead, Roabellin’s face turned bright red despite her also looking forward. When Kaisertern subtly wrapped an arm around her slender waist, the cheers of the citizens became even louder.

After the greeting, the imperial couple went back inside, and as food was provided in the square, the city of Vicentium quickly transformed into a festival ground. People’s faces were full of hope and happiness, and the streets were filled with the noise of abundant food and exciting music. Long into the night, the music and dancing of the festival did not stop throughout Vicentium.

The imperial couple, having changed into more comfortable formal wear, attended a banquet for distinguished guests. After receiving and offering countless congratulations and thanks, night eventually fell.

“Your Majesty, we will now escort you to the Empress’ Palace.”

Having finished all the events, Roabellin was finally guided to the Empress’ Palace. The palace had been renovated during the wedding preparation period, completely erasing any signs of it having been empty for a long time. Though it was decorated lavishly and elegantly with only the finest materials, it barely registered to Roabellin, who was exhausted.

“Phew… Is everything finally over?”

At her mutter, which was almost to herself, the Head Maid, Countess Molly, gave a peculiar smile.

“No, ma’am. There is one final step remaining.”

“Hm? What else is left?”

“The consummation remains.”

For some reason, the Countess looked more joyful than she had all day.

“A-ah. Right. But is that an official step too?”

“Of course. If you do not consummate the marriage tonight, the wedding is not considered complete. Only after the consummation is finished will it be proclaimed tomorrow morning that you have become a full couple.”

While it was wrapped in the mild word “consummation,” its meaning was deeply private. Roabellin felt bashful once again at the realization that for an imperial couple, even that was such a public and official procedure.

“Does… the proclamation include the fact that the consummation took place?”

“Everything about an imperial couple is nationally significant. It’s also linked to producing an imperial heir. You already have the Prince, so please think of it comfortably.”

She likely meant there was no reason to be shy since they already had a child.

‘No matter if he’s my husband, and no matter if we’ve already had a child! Telling the whole world that “the two shared a bed last night” is a different matter…!’

Roabellin swallowed the words she couldn’t say and stepped into the prepared bath. As her tired body sank into the warm water, a groan escaped her lips. After a bath and a meticulous massage, she felt much refreshed. Dressed by the maids in a semi-transparent, flowing nightgown, she walked into the bedroom alone to find everything perfectly set up.

Rose petals scattered on the large bed, candles glowing dimly throughout the dark room, the enticing scent of ylang-ylang drifting through the air, pleasant music from a magic music box playing softly, and even a tray of late-night snacks for the two who hadn’t been able to eat properly.

“Wow… The atmosphere is incredible. But being this tired… AHHH!!!”

As she looked around and talked to herself, Roabellin was startled to find a black figure on the sofa in the dark corner of the room. It was, of course, Kaisertern, sitting silently. With his black hair and a black bathrobe, he hadn’t been easily visible in the darkness.

“I was waiting for you to notice me.”

Kaisertern stood up with a grin and strode toward her.

“You—you scared me! How long have you been here?”

He hugged Roabellin from behind and gave a light kiss to her earlobe. She shivered slightly at the ticklish sensation.

“I’m not sure. I came right after my bath, but you took quite a while. And even when you came in, you didn’t notice I was here right away. It reminded me of old times.”

He was referring to the time she first became his personal maid, when she encountered him in the Emperor’s bedroom while still thinking of him as “Kai, the mysterious youth I met at the festival.” The day she had internally screamed, ‘Kai, why are you coming out of there?!’

“Ah, that was…”

Before Roabellin could find an answer, his low voice tickled her ear.

“Empress. Today, you need to be punished a little.”

Even in the dimly lit room, Roabellin’s face instantly flushed.

“W-what do you mean by…!”

Kaisertern didn’t seem interested in answering. He moved slowly, kissing her ear, neck, and shoulders. Roabellin bit her lower lip at the strange sensation.

“I’ve been holding back for over a month with you right in front of me… Phew…”

Kaisertern’s breath and the body holding her were hot.

“I’ve been waiting only for today, but my wife didn’t even recognize her husband in the same room.”

Even in that moment, the words “wife” and “husband” struck Roabellin’s heart.

“Ah, I see. We’re a married couple now.”

They were now a pair acknowledged by everyone, no longer needing to hide. At her words, the movement of Kaisertern’s hands became even more intense.

“Yes. Now, nothing we do together will be seen as strange.”

Was it because of his words, or was the heat from his body transferring to her? At his hot breath against her ear, Roabellin felt her own body gradually heating up.

Then, Kaisertern’s hands wrapped around her navel and lower abdomen. Just as Roabellin turned around in wonder, a warm energy began to spread from Kaisertern’s hands into her stomach.

“Ah, this is…”

Kaisertern laughed lowly and rubbed his nose and lips against her neck. It was as if a large tiger was purring, pretending to be a gentle cat.

“I thought you might be tired today. This is an advance on the stamina you’ll need tonight.”

In the next moment, her vision spun.

Before she knew it, Roabellin was being carried in his arms like a princess.

“Ah…”

Kaisertern kissed her forehead lightly and spoke.

“I promise. For the rest of our lives, you will never walk to the bed on your own feet when we sleep together.”

“For… the rest of our lives?”

“I even made a vow on my life; that much is easy. You just have to be with me for the rest of your life.”

Since the front of Kaisertern’s robe was open, Roabellin had to bury her face against his firm chest muscles. During the few steps to the bed, she felt a light tremor of anticipation and nervousness.

Laying Roabellin gently on the bed, Kaisertern untied the belt that was barely holding his robe closed and came to her.

“Now, shall we punish you a little?”

His tone was playful, but his eyes were dark with desire. Kaisertern immediately captured Roabellin’s lips. Simultaneously, his hands were busy lowering the thin shoulder straps of her nightgown.

“Mmph… Mm…”

Kaisertern whispered as he kissed his way down her lips, neck, and collarbone.

“Roa, my Roa… I will never lose you again. I will never let you go.”

“I… will stay, ah, I won’t leave your side.”

The bedroom was soon filled with the heat and sounds of their bodies. As if releasing everything he had held back, Kaisertern did not let go of Roabellin until late into the night.

***

“Uung…”

A beam of sunlight coming through the window shone on Roabellin’s face. Waking up, she rubbed her eyes and slowly sat up. Despite the exertion, she felt relatively fine. As she sat and looked around, the sight of the bedroom in the Empress’s Palace still felt unfamiliar.

‘Last night, I didn’t even have a chance to properly look around the room.’

As she was thinking that, Kaisertern approached, drying his damp hair with a towel. It seemed he had washed up on his own without calling a servant for the sake of the sleeping Roabellin.

“Are you awake now?”

“Ah, Kai. You woke up early. Aren’t you tired?”

Kaisertern shrugged at her question.

“You must not have heard the rumors that I’m not human. How about you?”

He was referring to his inhuman stamina, inherited from dragon blood.

“Hehe, I heard. I’m a bit sleepy since we slept so late, but I’m okay too. Thanks to…”

As she spoke, Roabellin recalled the end of the previous night.

***

“You, haa… You really don’t get tired. How is your stamina… Even if I attribute mine to the recovery magic, haa.”

Roabellin collapsed onto her pillow, gasping for breath. The duration of the recovery magic had nearly ended, and her face showed clear signs of exhaustion.

“I could cast the spell every night, but Roa, you need to build up some stamina too. You’re too weak.”

“That’s… because you’re too strong, Kai.”

Roabellin made an indignant face.

“Anyway, you are my companion, and I even cast a vow magic that I will only look at you. From now on, you are the only one who will have to handle this stamina of mine every night.”

“Every night?! But according to the imperial regulations,”

“Ah, that. It was changed recently. It says the imperial couple must do their best every day, for the stability of the imperial family, until they have sufficient heirs. And even if they have enough heirs, they must always do their best to deepen their affection. The restrictions on dates or intervals of shared nights have also been removed.”

“What? Changed? Who…”

Roabellin was about to ask who on earth had changed the regulations so quickly when she saw Kaisertern’s playful, feigning-innocence face. Well, who else could it be? The only person with the power and will to change internal regulations about the imperial couple’s nights right before the wedding.

“Oh, you really!”

But it was so perfectly legal that she had nothing to say, and honestly, it wasn’t a change Roabellin disliked. She tried to say something, but eventually gave up, only pouting her lips a few times. Kaisertern looked at her lovingly and remembered something.

“Ah, right. There was something I wanted to do for you once we got married and shared a bed.”

Having already received more than enough gifts during the wedding process, Roabellin looked at him as if to say, ‘What else is there?’

“The first day we met—I mean, for the first time after we became adults.”

The two had been surprised to learn, while talking about Roabellin’s journey after leaving home, that they had crossed paths at a magic item shop in a village where a magic tower was located.

“At that time, you were trying to meet the Tower Master. To unblock your meridians and recover your divine power.”

“Ah, that’s right. Now that I think about it, that Tower Master is in the palace now, so I could get treatment.”

At Roabellin’s innocent words, Kaisertern furrowed his brows deeply.

“No, you can’t. Absolutely not.”

“Eh? Why? Divine power would be helpful for Empress duties too…”

“No, I will do it for you. I’ve learned it from the Tower Master.”

“Ah, it would be convenient if you did it. But wouldn’t it be better to have the former Tower Master perform such magic?”

“Absolutely not.”

After a moment’s hesitation, Kaisertern spoke as if gritting his teeth.

“They say that for that magic, there must be no clothing between the caster’s hand and the patient’s meridian points.”

“What?! T-that…”

Startled by the unexpected information, Roabellin stammered.

“Yes. So, I’m going to do it now. It just so happens to be a suitable state for the procedure. Now, lie face down.”

Following what he had learned from Iskal, Kaisertern located the meridian points on Roabellin’s body and carefully injected mana. Since it involved unblocking, Roabellin felt a bit of pain, but her body gradually felt refreshed. Contrary to how long her power had been suppressed, the procedure ended sooner than expected.

“There, it’s done. How do you feel?”

“My body feels lighter. But since I haven’t used divine power properly for a long time, I think I’ll need to practice how to use it again.”

Even as she said that, Roabellin was already pulling out divine power and shaping it into a sphere. It was the gold-dust-colored light Kaisertern had seen before: the divine power of healing. A look of wonder appeared in his eyes as he remembered past events.

“What I saw at the Aventador Palace hunting grounds and the Vicent festival was thin like thread, but now it’s almost the size of your head.”

Roabellin was also looking in wonder at the golden sphere she had created.

“I know. I tried to make it as large as possible. It’s amazing to me too. This is the first time in my life I’ve made something this big. And I don’t feel as tired as I used to after pulling out such a large force at once.”

It seemed that her divine power had grown along with her body over time. Roabellin, who had been happy, suddenly took on an emotional expression.

“If I had this much power when I was twelve… would I have been able to stop those people that day? If so, could I have saved my family?”

It seemed she had been dwelling on the day of the family’s destruction all along.

“…”

Kaisertern looked at Roabellin with a slightly somber face before gently pulling her into his arms.

“Most people who lose their family go through a period of self-blame after grieving. Thinking that if they had done this or that, they might have saved them.”

He knew that feeling well.

“When I was young, I thought about it every day. If I had used my mana to get rid of those concubines—no, everyone who made my mother suffer. Then my mother might still be by my side.”

It was the story of Kaisertern’s mother, who had died amidst the indifference of her husband, the Emperor, in a palace noisy with concubine infighting. Roabellin looked up at him blankly. This was the first time she had heard such a story. On his face, which always looked strong, she suddenly saw the face of the young boy who had lost his mother. It seemed that boy had also tortured himself with guilt for a long time.

“I was tortured by those thoughts at the time… but as I grew up, I realized it wasn’t realistically possible. For me to become the Emperor instead of a criminal who killed his father’s concubines. Thinking like that wouldn’t bring my mother back, anyway. It was just a thought that uselessly tormented me.”

His face looked both peaceful and bitter as he spoke.

“Your divine power is mainly specialized in healing. By its very nature, it’s not a power suitable for killing people. So even if you had your current power at twelve, it would have been difficult to change what happened that day. I know that not only knights but also quite a few high-level mages were sent that day. Don’t blame yourself for what happened because you couldn’t stop it. It wasn’t your fault, but the fault of those who did it.”

Listening to his calm, low voice, Roabellin’s vision blurred with tears. The guilt for her deceased family that had remained in a corner of her heart for so long was slowly shrinking.

“Nothing that happened that day was your fault. Just by surviving, your twelve-year-old self did more than enough. I am more grateful than words can express to you for surviving that hell.”

Kaisertern held Roabellin in his arms and kissed her forehead lightly. She buried her face in his firm chest to hide her escaping tears. Kaisertern held Roabellin tightly and whispered in her ear.

“Thank you, Roa. For staying alive, and for eventually coming to me.”

At the warm voice soothing her wounds, her tears finally burst forth. Roabellin sobbed and said peevishly: “You… unexpectedly have a talent for making me cry.”

Kaisertern gave a playful smile at her words.

“As you know, I have many talents. I’m good at everything. Like earlier, you liked it so much because I’m so good at—”

“Ugh, you don’t have to say such things out loud!!”

Roabellin’s tears disappeared as she playfully slapped his arm and chest out of embarrassment.

***

“Are you leaving already?”

“Haha, I appreciate the sentiment, but I am a King by title; I cannot leave my seat vacant for too long, can I?”

Iskal had stopped by to bid farewell to the Imperial couple before returning to Aventador. Since this was an official audience and every word was being recorded, Kaisertern was also speaking with the formal courtesy due to a foreign monarch.

“Your Majesty the King helped me greatly as a Grand Mage for several years. As a token of my gratitude, I would like to recommend a marriage with a lady from a prestigious family of the Empire. It is my wish that the relationship between Aventador and the Empire deepens further.”

It was a kind offer, but Iskal’s expression became troubled.

“I am grateful for the words, but as you know, I…”

“At least hear the introduction first.”

At the Emperor’s firm insistence, Iskal replied with a look of predicament.

“…Very well. I shall listen for now. Which lady is it?”

As if he had finally caught his prey, a slight arc formed on Kaisertern’s lips.

“It is Lady Estina of the House of Duke Hertenes, the Empress’ own family. Not only is it the most prominent rising noble house in the Empire, but she is also a lady so magnificent that I wish to command this marriage by Imperial Decree.”

Iskal’s face, which had been clouded with worry, instantly brightened. Seeing Roabellin beside him wearing a mischievous smile, he guessed that the matter had already been settled with Estina herself. Now that he even had the perfect excuse—that the ‘Emperor commanded it’—nothing stood in his way.

Unable to hide his elated face, Iskal replied.

“How could I refuse an Imperial Decree? If my marriage makes the alliance between our two nations even firmer, I shall gladly accept the command.”

At his answer, which maintained perfect formality despite his playful expression, the Imperial couple could not hide their emerging laughter.

‘He’s probably dancing for joy inside, yet he gives such a dignified answer. He really is like Aunt in that regard.’

Kaisertern and Iskal were both speaking with smiles, maintaining outward formalities while fully aware of the situation and each other’s hearts.

“Haha, I am grateful that you are cooperating so smoothly with such a significant matter as a national wedding. I have already sent word to the House of Hertenes, so please proceed with the wedding procedures immediately.”

At the thought of sending a formal proposal to the Hertenes House, Iskal’s face became filled with both deep emotion and fluttering excitement. Kaisertern smiled and continued.

“As you requested, our couple will also attend the national wedding. Once we both become sons-in-law of the Hertenes House, everyone here will truly be family.”

Roabellin, who had been listening with a pleased expression, added a word.

“Oh, that’s right. Your Majesty, please take good care of my aunt. And please remember that I—or rather, the Prahenfelt Empire—stand right behind her.”

At Roabellin’s chillingly protective request disguised as a joke, Iskal smiled and replied suavely.

“Yes, I shall spend my life in awe of Lady Hertenes and her formidable backing as I do my absolute best for her.”

“Hehe, yes. I shall see you again on the wedding day.”

Iskal, who was about to turn and leave after a pleasant farewell, suddenly turned back as if remembering something.

“Ah, one more thing. Your Imperial Majesty, did you perform the healing magic I taught you on Her Imperial Majesty? The procedure to unblock the twisted meridians, I mean.”

“Yes, it seems to have gone well. The Empress appears to have recovered all of her divine power.”

Knowing that the procedure required the absence of clothing, Roabellin’s face turned bright red even though it was Kaisertern who answered.

“I am glad. However, there was one thing I told you regarding that magic that wasn’t entirely true.”

Since Roabellin’s treatment had concluded successfully, the Imperial couple looked at him with puzzled faces.

“Actually, the presence or absence of clothing has no effect on the outcome of the procedure. At the time, Your Majesty mentioned treating someone, and since it seemed the counterpart was a lady, I added a bit of a joke.”

“W-what did you say?”

“Haha, but thanks to that, I trust the two of you spent some very intimate time together.”

‘…Well, that part was true.’

Kaisertern opened his mouth to say something in return, but Iskal quickly added.

“And is it not true that the procedure requires touching each meridian point anyway? Even if it could be done through clothing, Your Majesty wouldn’t have left her in my hands regardless, would you?”

That was also true.

“Hahaha. Infusing mana into the meridians like that occasionally does help Her Imperial Majesty’s vitality. And of course, it must be beneficial for your marital harmony as well. I wish you both many wonderful moments. I shall see you again at my wedding.”

Leaving the Imperial couple speechless and gaping, Iskal turned away with a jovial face. Upon leaving the audience chamber, he immediately called his attendant and ordered a delay in their departure.

“Pardon? So suddenly…?”

“I intend to proceed with the proposal and return with the prospective Queen.”

“What?!”

At the sudden news, the attendant could only repeat “What?!” like a broken record. Regardless, Iskal simply stated his business.

“I believe even you can guess who that is. Now, I’ll open a gate for you; go to the royal palace and bring back all the jewels and ornaments listed here. And tell the people to prepare to welcome their Queen. Spread the rumors I’m about to tell you throughout the city.”

After giving detailed instructions to his attendant, Iskal dashed straight to the Hertenes townhouse. Itanistad greeted the hurried visitor with a curious face.

“Welcome, Your Majesty. Are you on your way back to Aventador now that the wedding is over?”

In truth, he had heard everything from Estina. However, he intentionally played dumb, feigning complete ignorance.

‘Did the message not reach the Head of the House for such an important matter?’

At Itanistad’s lukewarm reaction, Iskal felt a cold sweat on the back of his neck.

“No. Well… I’ve come to propose. That is, I’ve come to offer a marriage proposal to the Duke.”

He meant he was offering a proposal to the family, but Itanistad unexpectedly turned his head away with a bashful look.

“Ah… I appreciate the offer, but it would be difficult as I already have someone I’ve promised to marry.”

“…”

While Iskal stood stunned, trying to find words, a soft laugh was heard from the side.

“Haha, Lord Head. Please let the King go now. Your Majesty, you have business with me, correct?”

Estina, who had approached unnoticed, was gazing at Iskal with her pale violet eyes. Staring blankly into her clear, laughter-filled eyes, Iskal soon snapped back to his senses.

“Ah, yes, indeed. I’ve come to… propose to you. I’ve prepared everything as quickly as I could… Duke, would it be alright to proceed with the formalities immediately?”

At the mention of a proposal, Estina’s cheeks flushed with joy, and Itanistad, seeing her expression, nodded with a serious face.

“Of course. A marriage with the King is the very reason for the Huga family’s existence and a command the House of Hertenes must rightfully uphold.”

At his consent, Iskal’s face bloomed with excitement.

Once preparations were complete, Iskal approached Estina holding a meticulously written proposal. A proposal from the King of Aventador was similar in framework to that of the Prahenfelt Emperor, but the difference lay in addressing the individual party directly rather than the Head of the House.

Standing face-to-face, the two looked into each other’s eyes in silence for a moment. It was a connection destined before they were even born. Though situations kept changing—as if they were meant to be, then not—they had finally come to face each other here.

As they gazed at one another, their eyes grew misty with nostalgia.

“Ahem, let us begin.”

Composing his emotions, Iskal opened the proposal and read. Much like Kaisertern’s, it was in the format of a Royal Command rather than a desperate plea, despite Iskal’s true heart.

“I, Iskal Straben Aventador, King of the Kingdom of Aventador, command a national wedding to Estina Mariaslan Hertenes, daughter of Hertenes House. You shall become the Queen and lead Aventador toward strength and prosperity alongside me.”

Hearing his command-like proposal, Estina smiled. She lifted her skirt slightly with both hands and replied with downcast eyes. Though her posture was demure, her beautiful face revealed a joy she could not hide.

“It is the honor of my house. I, Estina Mariaslan Hertenes, accept the Royal Command with a joyful and loyal heart.”

At her acceptance, the tension left Iskal’s face, replaced by a radiant glow.

“Thank you, truly thank you…”

He took a careful step forward and pulled her into his arms. They stayed embraced for a long time, wearing the happiest expressions in the world.

About two weeks later, Estina finished her preparations and headed for Aventador. Naturally, Iskal, who had returned first to tend to state affairs, had come back to the Hertenes townhouse in Vicentium to fetch her.

Just before stepping into the magic gate while holding her hand, Iskal spoke to Estina.

“There will be quite a lot of people out there. Don’t be surprised.”

“You didn’t summon the entire civil and military officialdom to the palace, did you?”

“Well, many officials have likely gathered. I’m just telling you so you know before we cross over.”

“Hehe, I’ll be prepared. Let’s go.”

The moment the two stepped through the gate and appeared in the heart of Aselenton, the capital of Aventador, a thunderous cheer erupted throughout the central district.

“Waaaaah—!!!”

The main road was packed with a welcoming crowd. At a glance, it looked to be over tens of thousands of people. Estina, who hadn’t expected this much, stared with wide, surprised eyes. Feeling a bit dazed, she quickly whispered to Iskal.

“W-what happened?”

Iskal looked at her lovingly and replied.

“They are welcoming the daughter of the Huga family who will become their Queen. Everyone believed the Huga bloodline had ended, so imagine how happy they are that a direct descendant with platinum-blonde hair and violet eyes has returned alive. I gave the citizens a little hint.”

Tears slowly welled in Estina’s eyes as she watched the citizens welcoming her so passionately.

“When I left Aventador like that… I thought I would never be able to step foot on my home soil again with my original name, unless it was in secret. To think I would return to such a grand welcome…”

Iskal wrapped an arm around Estina’s shoulder. He stood side-by-side with her, looking out at the people.

“In Aventador, everyone except for exactly three people have been waiting for you. And those three are no longer here. Don’t ever think like that again. This is your home and your house.”

With an overflowing heart, Estina leaned deeply into Iskal’s embrace. Though the wedding had not yet taken place, the capital was already in a festive mood.

***

A month later, the national wedding of Iskal and Estina was held with great splendor, and Estina became the rightful Queen of Aventador. The Imperial couple, Itanistad, and Elina returned to Prahenfelt after spending the ceremony and the following celebration period there.

One would expect them to take some leisure time to rest, but upon their return to the Imperial Palace, the couple was locked in a mild dispute.

“Roa, it’s a truly gruesome place. Do you really have to go yourself? You might faint if you see the horrific state of things there. It’s a hellscape.”

Kaisertern was earnestly trying to dissuade Roabellin from visiting the underground dungeon. However, her resolve was firm.

“I’ll be fine. Your Majesty, don’t worry—I’m stronger than you think. I need to see with my own eyes what has become of those sinners.”

Realizing he couldn’t sway her, Kaisertern sighed and opened the door. Itanistad was standing outside.

“I tried to stop her one last time, but the Empress has no intention of changing her mind. Phew… I’ll go with her.”

“I wondered if she might listen to Your Majesty’s persuasion. Very well, then.”

Itanistad bowed his head slightly, as if he had expected this outcome.

The three arrived at the entrance of the detached palace’s underground dungeon. In addition to the gatekeepers, the new Chief Mage was waiting for them.

“You’ve arrived.”

Roabellin, visiting the underground prison for the first time, looked at the magical barriers in wonder.

“I see. So… you’ve installed barriers made of mana starting from the very exterior of the detached palace. On the outer walls, every door we passed, and even here at the entrance.”

“Yes. In addition to mana, multiple layers of physical blocking devices are installed. Inside the prison, the mechanisms are even more powerful.”

The Chief Mage replied politely. Itanistad, who could not sense mana, looked at his sister with newfound envy. The Chief Mage continued his guidance.

“Before entering, please cast basic protective shields on yourselves. This is to prevent suffering from the hellish chill, the mental attacks that feel like malevolent spirits tightening around you, and the various foul odors.”

Only after everyone was firmly enveloped in protective shields did the Chief Mage order the gatekeepers to open the door leading down to the prison.

“I will lead the way.”

The three followed the Chief Mage down an endless flight of stairs. The further they descended, the more a dark, heavy energy pressed against all their senses.

“Wow, if even I, who can’t feel mana, sense it to this degree… I wouldn’t have lasted a moment without the shield.”

At Itanistad’s murmur, the Chief Mage spoke quietly.

“Without a shield, even I couldn’t endure it here.”

Kaisertern, right behind the Chief Mage, added his voice.

“That’s how vile this place is. That’s why I didn’t want the Empress to come…”

Kaisertern still looked displeased, but Roabellin’s face was determined.

“I cannot miss seeing their end. I am fine.”

Understanding her heart, Kaisertern didn’t try to stop her further and simply let out a sigh.

After descending for quite a while longer, a flat stone floor finally appeared. It was impossible to tell how deep they were buried underground. Pitch-black darkness surrounded them on all sides, and despite the shields, a faint, sickening smell of something rotting pricked their noses.

It felt as though a heavy energy was suffocatingly tightening around them. Startled by the alien sensation, Itanistad trembled slightly and looked around at the blackness.

“Ugh, what is this feeling?”

“I come here occasionally, but every time, I feel it is a truly wretched hell. Let’s all reinforce our shields a bit more before proceeding.”

The four of them, feeling more comfortable only after casting stronger protection spells, walked further into the darkness following the light emitted by the Chief Mage.

“Now, we have arrived. First, the former Royal couple of Aventador.”

At the mention of their names, Itanistad swallowed hard, and Roabellin took a silent, deep breath.

As the magical boundary set by the Chief Mage began to glow, two wretches could be seen on the other side, staggering and almost crawling. They were skin and bones, their hair tangled with filth like large clumps of dust. Dressed in tattered rags and barefoot, they bore no resemblance to the King and Queen they once were. Their hollow eyes stared blankly into space, looking less as if they were seeing anything and more as if their spirits had left their bodies. Roabellin, knowing their former selves, felt goosebumps at the sight of these walking corpses.

When the boundary glowed a hazy white, the two approached like moths drawn to a flame. Their staggering approach was so grotesque that Roabellin instinctively covered her mouth and flinched.

“Ah…”

Kaisertern, standing beside her, firmly wrapped his arm around her shoulder.

“It’s alright. There’s the boundary, and I’m here. The Chief Mage is here too. If it’s too hard to watch, we can go back right now.”

But Roabellin shook her head slightly.

“No. I’m okay.”

Though she said that, she gripped Kaisertern’s hand tightly. The Chief Mage stood before the boundary and muttered something as he cast a spell on the staggering figures. As a blue light hit their heads, their unfocused eyes gradually regained clarity.

“Have you regained your senses?”

Kaisertern asked. However, Euraxiz and Aklis were too bewildered by their situation to answer.

“Ha…? Why are we in a place like this…?”

“How dare you put me, the King of a nation, in such a place…!”

Euraxiz habitually tried to roar without even recognizing who was standing before him. But his face soon went blank again. He seemed to be slowly remembering the sequence of events that led him to this prison.

“Ah…”

“Judging by your expression, you remember. You are no longer a King, but merely a prisoner in the deepest dungeon. And I’m sure you recognize who this lady is.”

At Kaisertern’s words, Roabellin took a step forward. She raised her violet eyes and looked them squarely in the face.

“I know everything you planned and everything you executed against House Hertenes. One of the daughters of Hertenes whom you persecuted is now the Empress of Prahenfelt, and another has become the Queen of Aventador. Meanwhile, you will meet your end here. It is karmic retribution, so I cannot say I’m sorry for you. I would wish for you to live the rest of your days in repentance for what you’ve done… but it looks like you’ll lose your minds again soon.”

As Euraxiz and Aklis bristled at Roabellin’s cold words, the Chief Mage interjected.

“Your Imperial Majesty, do not worry about that. We periodically restore the prisoners to their right minds. If they were to lose their sanity and escape into unconsciousness, there would be no meaning in their punishment in this hell.”

This was precisely why this prison was so cruel. If a prisoner lost their mind due to the impossible environment and deep despair, their sanity was repeatedly pulled back to reality. A place where one could not even go mad or die at will, bound to suffer endlessly in this hell.

“…I see. I understand now why this place is called hell.”

Itanistad nodded slightly. Then, Aklis, who had regained some sharpness in her eyes, asked urgently: “So Iskal became King! Then, what happened to our Skark?”

To use such a tone in front of the Imperial couple showed she had no realization of her status as a prisoner. But Roabellin didn’t even feel like pointing it out. After all, news of Skark would be punishment enough for them.

“I heard he died.”

“What?!”

Now Euraxiz also clung to the boundary with desperate eyes.

“Iskal, that bastard finally…!!”

“Did he do that because he was afraid of our Skark?!”

As they screamed like demons in disbelief, Roabellin spoke calmly, her face devoid of emotion.

“No. The current King merely banished him from the palace. That was the only punishment he gave. I heard Skark died in a street brawl with local thugs in a village near Aselenton.”

The two stopped their shrieking and stared blankly at Roabellin. They could not accept the death of their son—the son of a Grand Duke and once a Prince—especially such a miserable and lowly death. Soon, Aklis began tearing at her own filth-matted hair.

“Aaaah! No! That can’t be! Nooooo—!!!”

Beside her, as she wailed like a madwoman, Euraxiz collapsed on the spot in utter disbelief.

“It’s impossible. My son, our Prince…”

Watching them, Kaisertern quietly turned his gaze to the Chief Mage.

“They’ll return to that state soon. This time, come back a bit earlier to restore their sanity.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Shall we move to the next area?”

The Chief Mage kept the boundary active and guided them further. Occasional sounds of sobbing, cackling, and screaming echoing from the darkness chilled the group’s hearts.

“We have arrived.”

The prisoners approaching the boundary this time were none other than Heymelic and Radak. Radak, who reached the boundary first, was visibly in poor condition, but it seemed he still had his wits about him.

Squinting to assess the situation, his gaze landed on Roabellin, who was standing just beyond the boundary. Radak’s eyes slowly widened as he saw the platinum-blonde hair that seemed to glow even in the darkness.

“Ha, you are…”

He licked his lips with his tongue as he scanned the now even more beautiful Roabellin. It seemed greed still remained within him despite his circumstances.

“Don’t tell me you came to see me? Heheh… Why, did you miss me?”

As he spat out nonsense in a raspy voice, he suddenly noticed that her dress was made of the highest-quality material. Having been born and raised in the Imperial Palace, he knew.

“Ah, lace woven with thread mixed with fairy dust. Seeing you in something that expensive, I guess you became the Empress while I wasn’t looking. I thought you were pretty in a maid’s uniform, but in proper clothes, you are truly a peerless beauty.”

Roabellin stared at him without expression, while Kaisertern and Itanistad’s expressions grew increasingly grim. But Radak, oblivious to them, continued to ramble.

“I guess you really were destined to be Empress. If I had just taken you for myself, I would have been the Emperor. What a waste. A real waste. I shouldn’t have tried to persuade you at the Imperial Clinic back then; I should have just taken you. Why did I just walk out?”

Thinking he was destined to die here anyway, he held nothing back. Just as Roabellin’s brow furrowed, Kaisertern quickly reached out a hand. Infusing his hand with mana, he tore through the boundary and grabbed Radak’s throat roughly. It happened in an instant.

“Gack! Ack, ack!!!”

Radak gagged in pain, but Kaisertern’s lips only twisted cruelly. Though he had once trusted this half-brother when they were young, the face Kaisertern wore now was nothing but cold.

“How dare a mere prisoner speak to the Empress in such a manner.”

Kaisertern looked at Radak with eyes of loathing and slowly tightened his grip. Radak’s eyes rolled back as he lost his breath. Unable to watch any longer, Roabellin grabbed Kaisertern’s arm to stop him.

“Calm down. You’re not planning to kill him like this, are you?”

However, Kaisertern didn’t seem particularly inclined to let him live. He spoke while keeping an intense gaze fixed on Radak.

“I can summarily execute him for lèse-majesté against the Imperial family. Or is it treason, since he also coveted the throne?”

As his grip tightened further, Roabellin urged him urgently.

“He was disrespectful, yes, but I don’t want to see anyone else die before my eyes. Please, just let him live to be punished for a long, long time. That will be a greater punishment than dying so easily.”

The scene of her family dying and their bodies being burned was her long-standing trauma. Because of that, she never wanted to see someone die again, no matter how evil they were.

Kaisertern could not win against Roabellin. Eventually, he pulled his hand back from the boundary. Then, with a look of disgust, he pulled off the glove he had been wearing on that hand and tossed it onto the floor. Radak, having likely suffered damage to his neck bones or ligaments, could not hold his head up straight and groaned in agony. The dark handprint on his neck would soon become a black bruise.

“Ugh… Grk… Gack…”

Looking at him, Kaisertern commanded the Chief Mage in a cold voice:

“Make sure he lives a long life in that state—neither healing nor dying. Having a painful memory might actually teach him something.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

As the Chief Mage cast a status-fixation spell on Radak, Kaisertern spoke:

“Good. Now it’s Heymelic’s turn.”

At the Emperor’s command, the Chief Mage shot a blue light into the head of Heymelic, who was beside Radak. Clarity returned to his dim eyes, and Heymelic shook his head slightly. Looking around, he let out something like a hollow laugh.

“Ha, I knew it. Dreams or reality, it’s all the same. Oh, look, if it isn’t our Emperor. And the beauty beside him… ah, yes. I’ve seen her before. The daughter of the Huga family.”

Squinting, Heymelic managed to recognize Roabellin even in his barely lucid state. Kaisertern’s forearm tensed with anger. Seeing this, Roabellin quickly grabbed his arm.

“Wait, please hold back. My brother and I have something to say.”

At her words, Kaisertern reluctantly relaxed his arm. Roabellin took a step forward and spoke to Heymelic.

“It is a pity to meet the man who was my husband’s brother in a place like this.”

“Ha, so you really became the Empress. What brings such a noble lady to a place like this?”

For some reason, Heymelic was also unrestrained in his speech. Perhaps it was because Kaisertern looked as though he would never grant a pardon even if the world ended, or perhaps his mind was too broken to judge the situation. Roabellin let out a small sigh and spoke again.

“Tell me with your own mouth why you did that to my family.”

She had heard it from Kaisertern, but she wanted to hear it directly from the person involved. There was also a part of her that wondered if she might receive an apology. However, Heymelic’s reaction was something she hadn’t expected.

“Hm? Your family? House Huga?”

“Yes, House Huga. The House of Duke Hertenes in the Kingdom of Aventador.”

“Hmm, Hertenes. What happened there again?”

“Haa…”

Itanistad stepped forward instead of the exasperated Roabellin.

“You ordered the attack on our Duke’s estate! Because you found out our Empress was the Emperor’s first love!”

As he shouted, Heymelic thought deeply for a moment before a look of recognition finally crossed his face.

“Ah, I think I remember… Are we talking about when Kai exploded?”

The siblings’ faces contorted at his nonchalant attitude.

“Yes, that event. Because of it, we lost our parents, our younger brother, and our entire house when we were just children.”

Itanistad growled in a voice full of rage. Then, after appearing to think for a moment, Heymelic’s expression suddenly changed.

“I am sorry! Noble Empress, please show mercy and forgive this miserable wretch!”

Itanistad looked down in disbelief at Heymelic, who was prostrating himself on the ground and bowing repeatedly with a servile face.

“What…?”

Then, after a moment, Heymelic slowly raised his head. His eyes gleamed with an eerie light, and the way one corner of his mouth curved up into a grin made him look like a demon.

“Heheh… Were you surprised? I thought you might want something like this, so I played along. How was it? Did you like it? If I do it some more, will you let me go? Kehehe…”

“What did you say?”

Itanistad furrowed his brow, but Heymelic remained unfazed.

“Look, I was the Emperor back then. Do you know how many people’s lives are in the hands of an Emperor? An Emperor is a god of the Empire. A living god. I can do anything. Besides, Aventador isn’t even an empire; it’s a kingdom of lower status. Do you think wiping out a single noble family of a kingdom is a big deal to an Emperor? My memory of what exactly happened is a bit fuzzy.”

“You slaughtered our innocent family and say it was nothing…?”

The siblings were so stunned they couldn’t even speak. Regardless of their reaction, Heymelic’s interest was directed toward Kaisertern.

“Heheh, I’m satisfied since I stopped our third Prince from marrying his first love right away back then. Though it looks like you eventually did. You certainly are persistent.”

Heymelic continued nonchalantly, watching the veins pop on Kaisertern’s arm.

“Look, Kai. No, Your Majesty. We may have different mothers, but we share the same father, don’t we? I was an Emperor once too; this treatment is a bit much. Fine, I lost. I won’t covet the throne or the daughter of House Huga anymore, so just give me a Grand Duchy. I’ll live there quietly.”

The sheer audacity of his words made even Kaisertern’s neck go stiff. Roabellin and Itanistad were completely revolted.

“…”

Breaking the short silence, Roabellin spoke. Her voice, emphasizing every single syllable, carried the rage she had tried so hard to suppress for a long time.

“I wondered what if he sincerely apologized. What if he cried and begged for forgiveness? I was worried my heart might soften, but it seems that was all for nothing. Thank you for making it an easy decision.”

She turned her head toward Kaisertern.

“Your Majesty, please let this man live in a state worse than death. He just threw away his last chance to repent and apologize.”

Despite her cold voice, tears were welling in her eyes. Kaisertern nodded as he saw the tears she hadn’t let fall.

“I shall do so. Chief Mage, maximize this prisoner’s senses of pain and smell. Make his nerves hypersensitive, yet ensure he doesn’t easily go mad. Since he was once an Emperor, he should experience this hell far more vividly than ordinary people.”

Heymelic’s eyes widened as if they were about to burst. Only then did he cling to the boundary and scream at the top of his lungs.

“W-what? Kai! How can you do this to me! For the sake of a mere girl, you’d treat your brother like this—!”

Before he could finish, Kaisertern’s hand tore through the boundary again. He grabbed Heymelic’s throat and immediately applied pressure. This time, an eerie sound of something snapping—crack—was heard.

“…You fool, you finally made me lay a hand on you.”

A hint of madness flickered in Kaisertern’s deepened golden eyes. Heymelic looked as though he was about to faint, unable even to make a sound.

“But what to do? I’m having trouble controlling my strength right now.”

Just as he was about to apply more pressure, Roabellin grabbed his arm. The moment he saw her worried eyes, the murderous intent surging within Kaisertern vanished.

“I am furious too… but please. Don’t kill someone before my eyes, dear.”

At the word “dear,” Kaisertern’s grip loosened. When he let go of the throat he had been squeezing as if to break it, Heymelic slumped to the floor like a paper doll. His neck was bent at a grotesque angle. Kaisertern pulled off the other glove he had been wearing on the hand that gripped the throat and commanded the Chief Mage:

“This is an addition to the previous punishment. Coordinate with the Great Temple to ensure this prisoner’s soul cannot find freedom even after death. Make his tattered soul wander here eternally.”

He meant to curse the soul to be bound to this hell. An eternal punishment where even the soul, having left the body, could not rest and would wander within the magical boundary of this prison forever. It was one of the worst punishments in the long history of Prahenfelt, with almost no precedent. Heymelic, unable to even make a sound due to his broken neck, stared with wide eyes. Kaisertern looked down at him and delivered the final blow.

“Have you heard news of your mother?”

Heymelic could only roll his eyes to look at Kaisertern. He was grimacing in agony, likely due to the extreme pain in his broken neck.

“When she heard you were imprisoned here, she went half-mad and hired a mage to cast a curse on me. It was discovered and an investigation began; apparently, she was so afraid of the punishment that she threw herself off a cliff before she could be arrested. Mother and son both guilty of treason—how impressive. You’ll only meet your mother in the true hell after you die. Actually, no—since your soul is now trapped here, you won’t even be able to reunite with her in death. That, too, is a result of your own sins.”

At the news of his mother’s suicide, Heymelic’s eyes widened once more.

“Uu… uuugh…!!”

Kaisertern turned away, leaving him wailing on the ground.

“Let’s leave.”

After ascending for a long time, the group returned to the surface. In contrast to the sunless underground, the surface was bathed in bright sunlight as it was just past noon.

“Your Imperial Majesty. Let us move you to the shade.”

The maids waiting outside approached and held a large parasol over Roabellin, who was squinting at the sudden sunlight. The Chief Mage and Itanistad left immediately to attend to their duties.

Even after they left, Roabellin stood there for a moment. This world felt so different from the place she had just seen that she needed time to adjust.

“Haa… That place was so different from here. It feels surreal, as if I just woke from a dream.”

Kaisertern wrapped his arm around her shoulder as she stood there looking a bit dazed.

“It will be hard to forget what you saw today. But don’t take it to heart; just think of it as a small glimpse into hell. You merely saw serious criminals paying the rightful price for their sins.”

Roabellin leaned her head gently against Kaisertern’s broad, firm shoulder.

“Looking at them, I thought about how heavy the price for killing innocent people is. I thought of my late parents, my younger brother Emilique, our knights, and our collateral relatives too. Will they… finally feel that justice has been served? Did I achieve revenge for my family…?”

Rather than feeling relieved, Roabellin seemed to be deeply feeling the loss of those who had closed their eyes in injustice.

“I think your family would be more satisfied with you being happy now than with revenge. Ah, and also.”

Kaisertern suddenly remembered something.

“Regarding your family’s graves. I’ve had someone find a good spot. Once you check it and if it’s alright with you, I plan to relocate them. They are the Empress’s family; I can’t let them all stay buried in such a place.”

Roabellin’s eyes widened at the unexpected words.

“Oh my… I was so busy I hadn’t even thought of that. Thank you, truly…”

Due to her packed schedule since entering the palace, Roabellin hadn’t even been able to visit her family’s graves near the capital. Just as tears were about to form in her eyes, Kaisertern made a half-joke.

“No matter how grateful you are, you don’t need to make separate graves for my family members we just saw. I’ll take the thought for what it’s worth.”

Roabellin gaped in shock, and Kaisertern laughed playfully at her expression.

“Once they die there, their bodies won’t even be found. Besides, they are no longer my family.”

“Ugh, I was just about to be moved and you say something like that!”

Roabellin slapped Kaisertern’s arm. But his arm was so firm that her hand ended up hurting instead.

“Ouch!”

Kaisertern laughed and looked down lovingly at her as she made a pained face.

“You hitting my arm and then hurting your own hand—was that what happened on our first date?”

“Ah, back then. When Kai asked me to participate in some strange event…”

Remembering that day, Roabellin gave him a sharp but playful look.

“Haha. We couldn’t participate on the first day, but we did the next day.”

Kaisertern glanced at the maids and servants standing politely behind them and whispered softly into Roabellin’s ear.

“The kissing event. With all those people watching…”

The day they had their passionate first kiss on a stage. As Roabellin’s face turned red, Kaisertern whispered into her ear again.

“Thinking of that makes me remember that night as well. …Shall we head to the bedroom in the Empress’ Palace now? Otherwise, I might feel like talking loudly about my memories of that day right here.”

It was a playful threat filled with laughter. Even though they were a married couple and could speak openly, Kaisertern always liked to add a bit of mischief. It was because he found Roabellin’s embarrassed reactions cute every time.

Sure enough, Roabellin’s face turned bright red. Kaisertern gave her a light kiss on the cheek and wrapped his arm around her.

“Shall we go?”

“Oh, honestly. Yes, let’s go.”

Roabellin answered with a happy smile. The two began to walk together through the beautiful garden where various flowers were in full bloom. The servants and maids followed behind.

The clear, warm weather and the sweet breeze reminded Roabellin of the life she had before the tragedy. The weather on the day she was eleven, running around with her brother Emilique and their dog Ben and getting a scratch on her face—was it like this?

In an instant, she had lost her family, her status, and the meaning of her life, and had lived in hiding for a long time, trembling with fear. There were days she wandered through the abyss, frustrated by the lack of hope. There were times she suffered while doing menial labor in the Imperial Palace. But now, she was walking through a beautiful day that reminded her of her happy childhood.

“The breeze, the scent of flowers carried by the wind, and you by my side… everything is wonderful, dear.”

Kaisertern, looking down at her with a pleased smile, gave her shoulder a firm squeeze.

“Me too. Thank you for enduring so much to come to me. Thank you.”

Leaning her head against Kaisertern, Roabellin said languidly:

“Since I’m by your side, all those hardships are now just memories. I’m going to brush away all the painful ones now.”

Kaisertern knew well how much she had struggled to be able to say those words. He, too, had witnessed that gruesome scene and turned away in tears. But the boy from that time was now the Emperor of a great empire, and the girl who lost her entire family had become the Empress, referred to as a goddess of the empire.

“Roa, you just be happy from now on. I will always stay by your side. Let’s always… walk together like this.”

Feeling her heart fill with happiness, Roabellin looked at Kaisertern. Their eyes met, full of love for each other.

“Yes. Let’s stay together, always… forever.”

With their fingers interlaced and looking in the same direction, the two walked along as if floating on a cloud of flowers.

[End of Main Story]

That’s the end of the main story, everyone! I’ll admit that while I didn’t like how long the seperation lasted until, I still really liked the story. And, since it’s the volume version, I suppose that the percentage must’ve been more reasonable. There are three side stories so I hope you enjoy them when they’re released.

Chapter 17

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Chapter 17

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Chibipinkbunny

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