Chapter 11
Calix took me to the knights’ waiting tent.
Inside the tent, there were long stools large enough to lie down on and a display of weapons like swords, spears, bows, and shields. A soft oil lamp cast a gentle glow throughout the interior.
“Grand Duke, why are we here?”
After seating me on a stool, he spoke calmly.
“Why didn’t you say anything about the wound on your palm?”
“Oh, that’s…”
Like a child caught stealing, I tightly balled my right hand into a fist and hid it behind my back.
The bowstring must have been too taut; the friction had chafed my palm, leaving a raw wound. It had bled, so I had hurriedly applied pressure with a handkerchief.
I had kept my hand clenched on purpose, but the keen-eyed Calix had noticed.
Having brought bandages and ointment, he knelt before me without hesitation.
“Show me your hand. Why didn’t you speak up sooner? What if the wound becomes inflamed?”
“I didn’t notice because I was focusing on the match.”
“How many times do I have to tell you? Take care of your body.”
Calix frowned and chided me, yet his eyes were full of worry as he meticulously examined the injury.
He wiped away the blood with a wet cloth and applied the medicine.
My body trembled every time his touch reached the wound. I couldn’t tell if it was from the sting or the sensation of his fingers.
“Does it hurt a lot?”
The hand applying the ointment stopped. His blue eyes, filled with concern, looked up at me. I was slightly shaken by his tender attitude, but I didn’t let it show.
With swift movements, he wrapped the bandage around my hand. Seeing him treat me so seriously, a small laugh escaped my lips.
“What is it?”
“I just feel apologetic, as if I’m using the Grand Duke as my personal medic.”
Calix gently caressed my bandaged hand.
“It makes me angry every time you get hurt. It makes me want to take you back to the Ducal mansion right now. Especially at a time like this.”
Though there was no wind, the lamplight flickered restlessly.
Each time the light wavered, an unfamiliar emotion flickered like a shadow over his refined face before fading away.
For some reason, I felt suffocated; I exhaled as if gasping for air after being underwater.
“That will never happen. Absolutely not.”
My reason was incessantly sending out warning signals.
To me, love is ruin. Therefore, I cannot save him.
I am not… his love. Never.
“My savior and my friend, Erika Diel.”
He declared my name solemnly, as if confessing to God. I was captivated by that word-spell and couldn’t move.
Still kneeling, Calix kissed the back of my hand. Like that time before, but now with a much deeper heat.
“I, Calix, from this moment on, shall live as your faithful knight. Until death, and even beyond death, I swear that my heart belongs to you.”
Under the orange lamplight, Calix made an ancient knight’s oath. Exactly as he had done for Freesia in the original story.
This oath, used only in the distant past, was a declaration of offering one’s loyalty to a lord until the very end of one’s life and soul.
Calix had never made such a vow even to the King or the Crown Prince.
The only person he had offered his heart to was Freesia, the center of this world.
I felt fear and joy simultaneously.
I wanted to run away, but at the same time, I felt an impulse to grab him by the collar and kiss him.
The pure and upright knight waited for my answer while kneeling, as if obeying a master’s command.
I was neither a submissive nor a pure lady. Looking at the knight waiting only for my word, I burned with an insatiable thirst.
I gently caressed his face. As I stroked his elegantly high cheekbones and his heat-flushed cheeks, Calix’s pupils shook as if surprised.
When my fingers slowly traced his long, strong neck, his body flinched.
A man who did not fear the attack of a ferocious enemy was afraid of my clumsy touch.
My hand moved down without hesitation to his chest.
Behind the thin tunic shirt, his heart was beating rapidly.
Right now, Calix’s heart was in my hand.
“My knight, Calix.”
I whispered a feverish sigh into his ear.
Sparks flew from Calix’s eyes. A deep groan signaled that he had reached the limit of his patience.
I cupped his god-carved, perfect face with both hands. A burning heat bloomed on his cheeks, which usually looked like cold statues.
His long eyelashes fluttered like a lost butterfly.
I watched that movement as if possessed, drawn to the deep, seductive lips beneath his arrogant nose.
I slowly lowered my head toward him. His cobalt-blue eyes began to waver violently.
Ever since I was possessed, I had been plagued by anxiety.
I had possessed Erika, but what happened to the ‘me’ in reality? Is this body truly mine?
I wanted to forget the fear, to feel that I was ‘me’ for even a second. That is why I kissed him.
At the provocative kiss, his whole body shook as if an electric current had passed through him.
Without giving him a chance to react, I pressed my lips roughly against his. I applied pressure with the hands cupping his cheeks.
There was no technique.
Like a babe clinging to its mother’s breast, like a drowning person floundering for air.
Only after drinking in his burning warmth and feverish breath did I realize.
I am still alive within this strange body… I was still myself.
I slowly pulled away from him. I let out the breath I had been holding.
We exhaled like newborn babies crying out as they enter the world.
Now I understand why in fairy tales the princess must receive a kiss from the prince for the magic to break.
“Caliiix! My kniiight!”
The loud voice of the Crown Prince, drunkenly shouting loud enough to wake the neighborhood, struck the back of my head.
The intense heat between Calix and me froze in an instant.
The tent flap fluttered, and the degenerate Crown Prince, completely wasted, burst inside.
Startled, I practically kicked Calix away as I scrambled to my feet.
Calix glared at the Crown Prince with a face full of rage and irritation. Even in his stupor, Ludwig grasped the situation instantly.
“Hmm, am I interrupting a good time?”
“If you know that, then please leave.”
“No. You appeared at the perfect timing.”
As soon as the Crown Prince spoke, Calix and I answered simultaneously.
I slinked toward the tent entrance, keeping an eye on the two of them.
I had never been so glad to see the Crown Prince, who always seemed to pop up at the wrong time.
Thanks to him, I was completely sobered up. Sane enough to realize what kind of crazy thing I had just done.
I stole the male lead’s lips!
“Where are you going, Librarian Erika?”
That Crown Prince is unnecessarily quick-witted.
I forced a kind smile.
“Since the night is late, I must return to the library residence.”
I tried to give a quick greeting and flee, but a large hand caught my shoulder with a gentle yet firm grip.
“Erika, I believe we still have things to discuss.”
“Is that so? I don’t think we do. Well then, I’m busy, so…”
Grand Duke, we’ve done everything(?) there is to do, so let’s just part ways coolly.
Ludwig, who had been watching the invisible battle of nerves between Calix and me with blurry eyes, suddenly let out a sob.
“My knight, how cruel. To harbor another in your heart while leaving me behind, why?”
The Crown Prince covered his face like the tragic protagonist of a romance betrayed by a lover.
Wh-what? Is there some hidden genre in the original story?
I looked back and forth between Calix and Ludwig with suspicious eyes.
Calix squeezed his eyes shut and let out a low groan as if suppressing a surge of anger.
He grabbed the Crown Prince’s shoulders roughly with both hands and turned him toward the exit. It seemed he had thrown all etiquette toward the prince out the window.
“You have overindulged. Return to the palace with the Royal Guard immediately.”
“I don’t wanna-aa. Are you treating me like an old man in the back room? I want to play too-oo.”
The Crown Prince stumbled and clung to Calix’s waist.
Unable to shake off the Prince, who was whimpering in a slurred voice, Calix rubbed his temples hard.
“Stop this before I resign right this second.”
“If you quit, I’ll quit being Crown Prince too.”
Do I have to gag the Crown Prince now?
I could see Calix using superhuman patience to resist the urge to punch Ludwig.
He glared at the Prince with eyes full of contempt.
“Is the position of Crown Prince something you can just quit on a whim? The noble blood of the kingdom flows within you.”
Ludwig gripped Calix’s clothes as if clinging for life and breathed heavily.
As if he were underwater and lacking oxygen.
“I didn’t choose to be born into the royal family. Do you have any idea how painful it is to bear this weight?”
“I don’t wish to know. That is a duty you must endure, Your Highness.”
At his mercilessly cold words, the Crown Prince wore a bitter smile.
“Because of the throne, my brother eventually died. It is a seat already stained with blood. His Majesty the King has long since become a rotting old tree, crushed by that weight.”
Ludwig’s voice creaked like breaking stones.
“I am afraid of the throne. It is a seat cursed so that once you sit, you can only descend after death. Beneath it, hyenas wait to slit my throat the moment I am weak.”
He whispered quietly, like a stone slowly sinking to the bottom of the water.
“I am truly… afraid of becoming King.”
The Crown Prince’s mask shatters and falls to the ground.
Beyond it stands a wounded boy who has forgotten how to cry, his face hollow.
Seven years ago. It was said that a pack of monsters appeared without warning at a palace banquet, killing the then-Crown Prince and many nobles on the spot.
Only Ludwig, who hadn’t been qualified to attend at the time, survived.
He was a prince who received not even the slightest expectation. Like the most useless tree guarding the mountain, he inadvertently survived to continue the royal bloodline.
He had to ascend to the blood-soaked position of Crown Prince. No one acknowledged his pain or guilt.
Even his father, the King, was so consumed by the pain of losing his eldest son that he couldn’t tend to Ludwig’s agony.
I quietly blocked the tent entrance.
I was afraid someone might accidentally walk in and witness this fragile man on the verge of collapse.
Calix clenched his jaw tight. His eyes burned with a fierce light.
“You are my liege, so I will say this only once. Listen well.”
“Calix…”
“Stop acting like a child and pull yourself together! You are the man who will become my King.”
He grabbed Ludwig’s shoulders firmly, cornering him as if he might headbutt him, and pierced him with a stare.
“Prove that you are worthy of my loyalty. Do not show such weakness in front of me again.”
He grabbed the Crown Prince by the collar as he was sinking deep into the water and forced him back up. So that his King would not lose his way.
The Crown Prince burst into a hollow laugh. His eyes, which had been floundering in despair, looked up at his magnificent knight as if dazzled.
“I have no such worth. I am a coward and a slacker. You are much better suited for this seat. The people and the knights all love you.”
“Ludwig!”
A warning fueled by rage struck like a bolt of lightning.
“Do not insult the honor of my family!”
Calix stared through the Crown Prince with eyes burning with a blue fire.
“The Reinhardt family has served the Ruberia Kingdom for hundreds of years. As my father did, I too shall follow that path. Therefore.”
He pulled Ludwig’s collar even closer. Two sets of hot, strong eyes locked together.
“Become a great King. That is the only atonement you can make.”
Light gradually returned to the Crown Prince’s hazy, blue-gold eyes.
Only Calix truly understood the Crown Prince’s pain, despair, and sorrow.
The useless prince must walk the path of the blood-stained throne, and the young Grand Duke must prove his family’s honor with his life.
Beyond a master-servant relationship, they were walking the same path of fate.
Silence settled between them. The lamp hanging on the pole flickered in the wind leaking through the tent gaps.
The shadows of the two men wavered in sync with the dancing light.
“I suppose I must… strive to prove I am worthy of your loyalty. Thanks to you, I’m completely sober. Calix.”
Ludwig slowly put his original mask back on. He returned to his usual playful expression as if nothing had happened. He then tapped Calix on the shoulder nonchalantly.
Calix said nothing, but he too seemed to have regained his composure.
The Crown Prince turned his gaze toward me, still guarding the tent entrance, and bowed his head as if apologetic.
“I have committed an impoliteness by raising my voice in front of a lady.”
“It’s fine. People usually get closer through fighting. Next time you argue, please tell me to leave. I felt like I was sitting on a bed of needles.”
At my words, Ludwig burst into a pleasant laugh.
“Haha, I’ll keep that in mind.”
The Crown Prince walked past me, but just as he was about to lift the tent flap, he paused and looked back.
“Still, I should make this clear.”
“Yes?”
“I am a greedy Crown Prince. My knight is precious, but…”
Ludwig glanced at Calix once, then turned his gaze directly to me.
“If possible, I’d like to keep my librarian by my side as well.”
Ludwig’s blue-gold eyes regained their sparkle.
I had been anxious the whole time, but I finally felt relieved.
He’s like a child you can’t leave alone by the water. He really is a high-maintenance Crown Prince.
“How should I proceed from here? Will you show me the way? As my ‘Book Leader’.”
The Crown Prince’s tone was playful, but his eyes were serious. Calix’s expression turned grim as he heard this meaningful remark.
I’m sorry, but I absolutely refuse and loathe a love triangle centered around me…
“You’ve misunderstood. The Grand Duke and I are nothing to each other.”
“Is that so?”
I spoke firmly, leaving no room for doubt. Perhaps I was too cold, because Ludwig looked back at Calix in surprise, his eyes filled with pity.
Did I just add fuel to the fire? Calix glared at me with a smoldering intensity, as if he might devour me.
His eyes, burning with blue flames, were interrogating me. He didn’t have to say it for me to know what he meant.
‘Then why did you kiss me?’
Yes. I confess. I am the sinner who kissed the male lead while drunk on the atmosphere. Even if Freesia grabbed me by the hair, I have no excuse.
So, this sinner shall make a quick escape.
“Your Highness, I will escort you. Let’s go.”
I said, quickly lifting the tent flap. It was then.
“Aaargh! A monster!”
Someone’s scream echoed from afar. It was coming from the arena.
What was that? As I reflexively threw the flap wide open, I froze.
It was a terror I had never experienced in my life.
Standing before me was a beast-man with the face of a wolf. Its massive body, nearly two meters tall, was covered in ash-gray fur.
Ludwig shouted in a voice filled with shock.
“A monster? Why is one here!”
Grrrrr!
The ferocious werewolf let out a sinister growl. The fishy scent of a beast wafted in with the cold wind.
Between its wide-gaping maw, which stretched to its ears, molars glinted chillingly in the moonlight.
I was dazed by the appearance of a surreal monster I had only seen in movies.
The glowing yellow eyes of the monster looking down at me flashed.
By the time I sensed the mortal danger, the monster’s sharp claws were already slashing toward my throat.
“Erika!”
The desperate voices of two men rang out simultaneously. My vision went dark, and a violent impact slammed into me.
Someone pulled me into an embrace, and we tumbled to the ground. Red hair fluttered across my field of vision.
Crown Prince Ludwig?
In that instant, Calix charged toward the werewolf with terrifying speed, sword in hand.
The beast flashed its sharp teeth and swung its claws at him. It was so ferocious that a single hit looked like it would shred skin to ribbons.
Calix lightly dodged the creature’s attack and swung his sword in one fluid motion.
A blue flash of a blade sparked.
The werewolf was sent flying out of the tent, spraying blood, and crashed into the ground.
With a death rattle, the monster turned into a handful of black ash and vanished.
“Erika, are you hurt?”
Calix rushed over, checking my head, cheeks, neck, and shoulders with desperate hands.
“I’m okay. Thanks to the Crown Prince saving me…”
“Ouch. Calix, isn’t this a bit much? You should ask if the Crown Prince is hurt first.”
Ludwig complained with a mix of exaggeration while massaging his shoulder. Calix gave him a short bow of gratitude.
“Thank you. Thanks to Your Highness, Librarian Erika is safe.”
Roaaaaar!
The roars of monsters could be heard sporadically from all over the arena.
Calix’s eyes burned with a fierce blue fire of hostility and rage.
“I will assess the situation. Your Highness and Librarian Erika, stay here.”
“I’m coming too.”
When Ludwig tried to step forward, Calix blocked him firmly.
“Your Highness, please stay here. After I grasp the situation, I will move you to a safe location.”
“How did a monster appear in the middle of the capital? Has the barrier between dimensions twisted again?”
“ I will check while requesting reinforcements. I’ll also contact Director William. There will surely be casualties.”
Calix dashed out of the tent like the wind. The Crown Prince stood there, brow furrowed, deep in thought.
I took a deep breath. The terror of the monster I had suddenly encountered had not yet faded.
Cold sweat ran down my spine, and my heart beat as if it might explode. My limbs were shaking so much I struggled to calm down.
I never could have imagined it. If the Crown Prince hadn’t pulled me away and Calix hadn’t instantly cut down the monster, I would have been ripped apart.
I almost met a ridiculous end, being murdered by a monster.
Did monsters appear in the original story?
There were descriptions of Calix fighting monsters on the battlefield, but no events where they were directly encountered were depicted. The original was a romance, not a horror story.
Trying to calm my fear, I looked around the tent, and my gaze stopped at the weapon display. I saw a familiar bow and quiver.
Seeing the weapon, my fear subsided. My trembling hands and racing heart gradually found peace.
If it were the original me, I would have just stayed there crying in fear. Strangely, my mind grew calm.
This was no time for idle thoughts. First, I grabbed a bow and quiver for myself and handed a shield and sword to Ludwig.
“Your Highness, you know how to use a sword, right?”
Ludwig took the sword and shield with a look of surprise.
“Librarian Erika, aren’t you afraid? You were just attacked right in front of your eyes. You’re as calm as a brave knight.”
“It’s better to prepare a countermeasure than to spend time being afraid. Is there a weakness to monsters?”
“A weakness…”
Ludwig rested his chin in his hand, lost in thought. I too closed my eyes and recalled the countless books I had read in the library. Among them was an encyclopedia of monsters.
I didn’t realize it when I was reading, but once I finished a book, I could recall its entire contents. Is this also a benefit of being a ‘possessor’?
It didn’t mean I had become smarter, though. My terrible math skills remained the same.
Once a math-hater, always a math-hater.
I began to recite the contents of the book.
“The werewolf is a wolf-shaped monster. Its main attacks are its blade-sharp teeth and claws. Its strength is so great it can rip out a grown man’s heart in a single blow. It is a difficult foe even for elite knights, but if I had to name a weakness, it’s vulnerable to fire and silver. Yes, it was definitely written that way. Your Highness! Werewolves are weak to fire and silver!”
Ludwig stared at me, his mouth agape.
“Librarian Erika, what on earth happened to you? You’re… just like William!”
Um, is being told I resemble William such a shocking thing?
“It’s complicated to explain. I’ll tell you later.”
First, I had to find a way to attack with fire.
As I hurriedly tried to leave the tent with my bow, Ludwig quickly grabbed my arm.
“Where are you going? It’s dangerous out there!”
“Sir Michael is out there. Others too. I have to save them.”
“I understand how you feel, but there are many elite knights in the banquet hall. They are veterans accustomed to fighting monsters. They’ll be fighting them off right now, so wait here for a moment.”
“It’s not safe here anyway. Do you think this thin tent will serve as a shield?”
Calix had told me to stay put, but I could feel the chaos outside drawing closer.
There was no telling when another monster might burst in. It was better to gather with the others and head toward a secure zone.
The urgent shouts of knights and ear-piercing screams mingled with the rage-filled howls of the monsters.
Ludwig’s expression hardened instantly.
“Librarian Erika, do you have the artifact I gave you?”
“What? Oh, it’s right here.”
I pulled a small jewelry box from my bag and showed it to him.
“That is an artifact that generates a protective shield. See that red gem? If you press it and throw the box, a barrier will form. It should be enough to hold off the monsters for a while.”
“Really? Ha, what a relief. We should use this to escape together.”
“Give the box to me.”
“Pardon?”
Ludwig’s blue-gold eyes wavered solemnly in the lamplight.
“I will go personally and deploy the shield.”
“What? Your Highness, you’re going yourself?”
I had given him weapons, but that was strictly for safety on the way to joining the other knights.
To deploy the shield, one would have to dive right into the middle of the monsters. I had absolutely no intention of letting the Crown Prince do something so reckless.
“It is a disgrace for royalty to save only their own life when my subjects and knights are in danger.”
Ludwig’s expression was sincere; there was no trace of fear. His red hair seemed to burn like a crown.
Only then did I feel I understood why Calix wanted to establish Ludwig as King.
Though it was the same incompetent royal family that had caused his father’s death, had he seen a final spark of hope in Ludwig alone?
The true face of Ludwig behind the mask was not the cruel and heartless villain of the original story. He was a Crown Prince who valued his people and knights more than his own life.
Even if he hadn’t ascended the throne yet, he was already a King protecting Ruberia.
‘Wow, he’s actually pretty cool. I might just fall for him.’
A smile crept onto my face despite myself.
“Protecting the people is the duty of the knights. Your Highness’s duty is to ensure you ascend the throne and rule the kingdom well.”
I put the artifact back into my bag. I slung the quiver over my shoulder and notched an arrow.
“Therefore, I will take on this mission.”
“Erika!”
Ludwig shouted to stop me, but it was too late.
As I stepped out of the tent, a chilly wind brushed my cheek and the metallic scent of blood stung my nose.
“Aaargh! A monster!”
“Save me!”
“Ugh, get away, you beast!”
The arena was a scene of utter carnage. Screams, terror, and confusion were entangled in a site of slaughter. Dishes were shattered, and food and chairs lay strewn across the ground.
The performing band had scattered, replaced by the sounds of wailing and shrieking echoing from every corner.
In the midst of the mayhem where a dozen massive monsters were tearing through the arena, I saw Calix and the Shadow Knights holding the front line.
Nearby, several knights lay bleeding on the ground.
The attack of the werewolf pack was ceaseless. Just when it seemed one was finished, another monster from behind would lung forward, claws bared, with relentless tenacity.
Other knights joined the fray, but many seemed hampered by their intoxication, struggling to display their true skill. They were barely holding on, fending off the fierce assaults.
The civilians were huddled near the central bonfire. Perhaps they had retreated there knowing the monsters’ aversion to fire.
People had set up long tables and chairs as makeshift barricades, hiding behind them. The knights of various nobles were risking their lives to confront the monsters and protect their lords.
A few knights brandished torches threateningly, but the monsters continued to prowl the perimeter like scavengers waiting for an opening, howling at the sky.
Among the terrified crowd, I spotted a panic-stricken Michael. The young lordling was also looking around frantically, clearly searching for someone.
Our eyes met from a distance. Michael looked startled but let out a visible sigh of relief. I bit my lower lip hard enough to draw blood.
‘Michael, I will definitely save you.’
“Erika! Get back in the tent! It’s dangerous here!”
Ludwig, who had chased after me, grabbed my arm. Just as I was about to shake him off, a dozen Royal Guards and a group of nobles came rushing toward us in desperation.
“Your Highness! You are safe! Thank God for watching over Ruberia!”
Count Lawrence, leading the group of nobles, ran toward us, unable to hide his joy.
The Captain of the Guard stepped in front of the Prince with a grave expression.
“You must evacuate immediately. Their numbers are too great.”
“Guards, save those people first!”
Ludwig ordered, pointing toward the crowd gathered in the center.
“It is difficult to protect Your Highness’s safety while engaging the pack. We have a carriage ready; your escape is the priority.”
“He is right! You must evacuate before the monsters attack this position. Hurry!”
As Count Lawrence shouted urgently, the other nobles chimed in with unanimous agreement.
“That is an order! I am fine, so save them!”
“I will accept punishment later. Please forgive my insolence, Your Highness.”
The Captain of the Guard attempted to forcibly escort the Prince away. I stood in front of them, arms spread wide.
“You can’t! Are you going to leave the people as bait and run away?!”
A flicker of painful guilt crossed the eyes of the Captain and Count Lawrence. However, their expressions soon shifted back to a look of grim determination.
The Captain of the Guard stepped forward, his face a mask of cold resolve.
“Lady, move aside. The safety of the Crown Prince is paramount.”
These men were serious. They were truly prepared to abandon everyone else for the sake of the Prince.
“What do you think you are doing?!”
Calix came running up, his sword stained with blood. His pristine white tunic was splattered red.
For a moment, my heart plummeted, thinking it was his blood. On closer inspection, it was the blood of the monsters.
Calix frowned and flicked the monster blood off his blade. He barked a sharp command at the Royal Guards.
“Is this the time for idle chatter? Captain! Evacuate the Crown Prince and Librarian Erika immediately. I will save the people.”
“I obey your command, Commander-in-Chief!”
The knights, having received Calix’s order, approached to seize me.
‘No, I have a way to save everyone right now!’
“Wait! Please! I have a way!”
Shaking off the knights’ hands, I shouted with all my might.
Calix, who had been about to charge back into the fray, stopped and turned around.
I couldn’t let him be a shield like this.
I wouldn’t let him fight the monsters alone anymore.
“What kind of way?”
There was a firm sense of trust in the gaze he leveled at me.
Only then did I realize: Calix had always faced my thoughts and opinions directly and listened to them.
“Please lend me a dagger.”
Calix didn’t ask why; he simply instructed a nearby knight to hand me a dagger.
As soon as I received it, I quickly tore a long strip from the hem of my skirt.
Calix instinctively stepped in front of me, and the men averted their eyes in embarrassment. It was surprising that even the playboy Crown Prince turned his head.
“Erika, what are you doing?”
Calix asked in bewilderment, but I had no time to explain.
I tore the skirt fabric into thin strips and wrapped them tightly around the arrowheads. I took out the oil dish from a lamp hanging on the tent pole. I soaked the tips of the arrows thoroughly in the oil.
“Librarian Erika, are you planning to attack with fire?”
Ludwig asked, catching on immediately.
“That’s right. Werewolves hate fire. If I distract them by firing fire arrows, the Grand Duke and the guards can attack. I’ll use that opening to deploy the shield for the people.”
“That is a dangerous operation! You expect us to risk our lives on the word of a young lady? We must escort the Crown Prince at once!”
Count Lawrence waved his arms in fierce opposition. Other nobles also raised their voices in protest.
Ignoring their chatter, I focused on the task of creating the fire arrows.
Ludwig looked at me for a moment and then wore a bitter smile.
“It would be a disgrace to flee after seeing such courage. Grand Duke Reinhardt, proceed as Librarian Erika planned. Saving those people is the priority!”
Count Lawrence and the nobles shouted in frantic surprise.
“Your Highness!”
“I would rather die than be a cowardly royal who abandons his subjects. Now, draw your swords!”
Ludwig gripped his sword tight. Inspired by the Prince’s lead, the nobles exchanged glances and drew their swords, steeling their resolve.
Count Lawrence stood at the front and nodded heavily.
“We shall follow your will, Your Highness. This old man will protect you until the end.”
When Count Lawrence raised his sword, the other gray-haired elder nobles followed suit. It was the spirit of veteran warriors who had supported Ruberia for decades.
Ludwig gave a satisfied smile.
“It’s been a while since I’ve seen Sir Lawrence’s skills. Don’t overdo it, though. Keep your age in mind.”
Ludwig turned his gaze toward me.
“Librarian Erika, are you ready?”
“Yes. I’m going now.”
I lit the oil-soaked arrowheads and stepped forward. The heat from the flames on the arrowheads was intense, but bearable.
Calix approached my side. He glared coldly at the werewolves ahead.
“I will cover you so that not a single monster gets near you. Don’t worry, just focus on firing your bow.”
“I thought you would object.”
It was strange to see him follow my lead so readily, when he usually scolded me for not being careful.
The steady gaze he fixed on me was filled with loyalty and trust.
“Because I trust your judgment and your courage.”
Hearing his words, the fear and hesitation within me vanished. My arms, which had felt heavy as stones, became light.
“I’ll try my best not to accidentally hit you, Grand Duke.”
I ran forward, aiming my fire arrow.
There was no time to hesitate or be afraid. I had to save Michael and the others.
I saw a monster up ahead threatening to pounce on the crowd.
I pulled the bowstring back to my ear with all my strength and released it at once. A ball of fire streaked through the air, shedding light.
Fwoosh! Thwack!
KRRRAAAGH!
The fire arrow struck the werewolf squarely in the back. The monster, transformed into a ball of flame, staggered before collapsing into a blackened mass.
I quickly moved to a nearby bonfire, lit another arrow, and fired at the next target in succession. The monsters howled in confusion at the sudden, preemptive strike.
Every time Calix’s sword cut through the darkness, monsters fell like autumn leaves. Seeing this, the werewolves let out enraged roars and charged.
Calix blocked the attacks at the front and coordinated with the knights. The nobles, swords drawn, were protecting Crown Prince Ludwig.
Taking advantage of the monsters’ focus shifting there, I gripped the jewelry box and ran with everything I had.
As I reached the giant bonfire, I saw Michael’s pale face beyond the crowd.
‘Michael, it’s okay now. I’m going to save you…!’
Just as I was about to throw the box with all my might, a black shadow lunged at me.
I didn’t even have time to reach for an arrow. A massive werewolf, easily over two meters tall, looked down at me with bared fangs.
Its bloodshot, crimson eyes glared at me. The foul stench of a beast stung my nose through its ragged breaths.
The monster’s claws looked sharp enough to shred a body to pieces with a single swipe.
Like a helpless herbivore before a predator, I could neither scream nor run.
I tried to at least throw the jewelry box, but the monster was blocking my way, making it impossible.
It was an operation I had proposed, but it had failed spectacularly.
‘Haha… it’s so absurd I’m actually laughing.’
The black night sky beyond the werewolf’s head and the twinkling stars were contrastingly peaceful. A werewolf on a night without even a full moon. It was surreal.
In the end, this was it. I didn’t want to die in front of Calix and Michael.
“Erika!”
“Sister!”
Calix’s grief-stricken cry and Michael’s sobbing wail echoed in my head as if they were vomiting blood.
‘I’m sorry, Calix. I didn’t want to become your nightmare, too.’
Tears welled up, but I forced my eyes open. I didn’t want to miss a single second.
I wanted to remember him until the very end—the man who was desperately running toward me while cutting down monsters.
‘I’m glad. I got to see you one last time.’
The monster growled threateningly low, its hackles raised. Its claws rose high. I closed my eyes, sensing the end.
But then.
Nothing happened.
The monster simply leaped over my head. Then, it lunged toward Calix with terrifying momentum.
Why?
It wasn’t trying to attack me? Why did it just go past?
Calix leaped off the ground and flew toward the incoming monster.
Just as the sharp claws were about to strike him, a cold blade struck the creature’s head first.
As the monster fell, spraying blood on the earth, Calix looked back at me with a startled expression.
In those short few seconds of eye contact with the monster, a strange sensation had instinctively echoed in my mind.
The monster was a being that shouldn’t exist in this world. The same was true for me.
I felt a sickening sense of kinship from the monster.
The monster’s body crumbled into black dust. The black ash brushed my cheek and disappeared into the night sky.
“Erika, are you alright! Are you hurt?!”
Calix grabbed my shoulder. Feeling like he was about to embrace me, I instinctively stepped back. I felt his startled gaze, but I immediately turned away.
“I’m fine. I’ll deploy the shield, so please cover me!”
“It’s dangerous! I’ll do it!”
“There’s no time! We have to save Sir Michael!”
Yes, what’s in front of me is what matters right now.
I started running, evading Calix’s attempt to catch me. When I pressed hard on the red gem embedded in the box, a brilliant yellow light began to swirl.
I threw the box with all my might toward the crowd. From the jewelry box suspended in the air, a hemispherical shield unfolded along with a dazzling light.
At that moment, werewolves broke through the knights’ line and lunged at the shield.
“The—the monster is coming!”
“Aah! Save me!”
The people inside the shield shrieked in terror.
The moment the monster’s claws struck the barrier, a flash like lightning exploded. With a boom, the monster was sent flying back.
The knights protecting the people were initially confused by the sudden appearance of the shield, but they soon felt relieved and began to fight the monsters with everything they had.
“Form up! Kill every last monster!”
Under Calix’s command, the knights moved in perfect unison. They formed a square, fending off the werewolves leaping in from all sides.
The knights thrust and slashed their swords without rest, and the monsters turned to black ash as their blood was spilled.
Calix was also in the middle of a fierce battle with a werewolf. The roar of his sword clashing against the monster’s claws rang out.
In the original story, he was described as a great hero—a Sword Master possessing immense power.
So I thought the battles would be cool and glamorous.
But the reality was different. He rolled on the muddy ground, covered in the blood of monsters. The scratches and gouges on his arms multiplied. His white tunic was stained red.
His keen blade cut through the monsters without hesitation, but his blood-splattered face was filled with pain and emptiness.
Calix’s gaze was not on the monster before him, but beyond it. Surely, he was seeing his father, whom he couldn’t protect seven years ago.
He was pursuing an eternal revenge, chasing the phantom of one who would never return, even if he killed hundreds of monsters.
I felt suffocated. My heart felt so tight with pain I could hardly bear it.
They said he had fought desperately for seven years. Even now, he was killing monsters in his nightmares—slowly killing himself in the process.
Krrr-agh!
Struck by a blow, the last monster vanished into black ash. With that, the pitch-black darkness was pushed away by the bluish dawn.
“It’s all over.”
Ludwig looked around the arena with a satisfied smile.
Only then did the knights sit down in relief or lean against their swords, gasping for breath.
The magical shield naturally deactivated, and the people who had watched the situation in terror stood up cheering.
Calix and I ran to Michael as if by appointment. The child rushed into our arms with a bright smile.
Only after smelling the soft, sun-dried scent from Michael did it finally feel real. The terrible night was finally over.
“Brother, Sister Erika, are you okay?”
“Yes. It’s all over. Rest easy. I’m glad you are safe.”
Calix stroked Michael’s hair and let out a deep breath. I could see the taut string of tension finally snapping.
Michael looked pained at the sight of his blood-covered brother. His eyes grew red as if he were about to cry.
“Brother, you… fought a hard battle. You worked so hard.”
Michael swallowed his tears stoically, like a young lord of the Reinhardt family. Instead, he squared his small shoulders and looked up at Calix with eyes full of respect.
The young lord’s gaze then turned toward me.
“Lady Diel, thank you for saving me and the others.”
‘What? Why the sudden polite formal speech?’
I waved my hands in embarrassment.
“What? I didn’t really do much. It’s thanks to the Grand Duke and the knights risking their lives.”
“If it weren’t for your quick judgment and courage, we wouldn’t have been able to save the people, Lady Diel.”
Calix looked at me with a smile as soft as a spring day. His voice was filled with pride and joy for me.
His blue eyes were no longer wandering in a nightmare. My heart, which had been aching, finally began to beat softly.
For the first time, I thought: ‘I want to make his nightmares stop.’
“Grand Duke Reinhardt is absolutely right.”
Just then, Crown Prince Ludwig came toward us with his entourage. The surrounding people and knights bowed their heads in unison.
The Prince looked at me with a warm smile.
“Thanks to Librarian Erika’s operation, everyone is safe. Without your excellent archery and courage, the knights wouldn’t have been able to fight at full strength. Your contribution is great.”
The Prince looked around as if seeking agreement. The eyes of the crowd turned toward me, one by one filling with admiration and respect.
Even Count Lawrence and the Captain of the Guard, who had vehemently opposed my idea, nodded, and the Shadow Knights offered their applause.
Gilbert, who had taught me archery, even wiped away tears like a master proud of a student’s growth. Even Zeke shuffled toward me, gave a polite bow, and then left.
‘Um, being in the spotlight is so awkward and embarrassing.’
While I was standing there with an awkward smile, surrounded by people, the sound of hooves thundered across the ground.
Beyond the arena, dozens of knights were rushing toward us in haste. At their head, I saw Director William on horseback.
Calix frowned in disapproval.
“Director William, arriving only after the situation is over.”
William, having brought his horse to a sudden stop, dismounted with a nimbleness uncharacteristic of a mage.
He immediately greeted the Crown Prince and then turned to Calix.
“I thought you’d leave at least one monster for me, but you’ve taken care of them all, Grand Duke Reinhardt.”
“Next time, I’ll throw a werewolf into the Director’s office.”
What a savage expression of friendship. Stop fighting, you two. You might actually start to like each other.
The Prince approached William and clapped him on the shoulder, welcoming him.
“Director William, it’s a relief you’re here, regardless. Get a detailed report from the Captain of the Guard, and for now, begin the transport and treatment of the wounded.”
The knights and magic healers William brought moved in perfect order. William, who was heading toward where the critically injured were gathered, suddenly looked back at me.
His gaze swept over me quickly. Once he confirmed I had no injuries, he let out a small sigh.
“I’m glad you are safe.”
‘I keep causing my guardian worry.’
Feeling somewhat apologetic, I gave a broad grin and nodded. William also smiled in relief and walked away briskly.
***
The support healing mages moved the wounded to one side and began casting their spells. Knights searched for any available carriages or horses to transport people away.
The Crown Prince, Michael, and I decided to take a short rest in the knights’ barracks.
Ludwig sat with his arms crossed, deep in thought. Michael and I were wrapped in blankets, slowly regaining our composure as we sipped warm tea.
My mind felt much more at ease, but my body was uncomfortable. A sharp, stinging pain had been radiating from my ankle for a while now.
‘I must have sprained it when I was startled by the monster earlier. It’s embarrassing to call a magic healer for a mere sprained ankle, so I’ll just bear it for a bit.’
Just then, William and Calix opened the tent flap and walked in.
“The evacuation of civilians and the treatment of the wounded are complete.”
The Crown Prince nodded, seemingly satisfied.
“Then let’s discuss the most urgent matter. Why did a werewolf appear in the middle of the capital? Was there any word from the monastery?”
William started to speak but paused, glancing at Michael. It was a look that requested he step outside since this was a top-secret matter. Quick-witted Michael stood up immediately.
“I will take my leave for a moment.”
Calix patted Michael on the shoulder.
“The Shadow Knights are waiting outside. Wait with them.”
I started to stand up as well, but the Crown Prince smiled and waved his hand.
“Our Book Reader should stay seated.”
“Pardon? I have to listen too?”
To be honest, I didn’t want to get involved any further.
More than that, as a mere side character, I was terrified that hearing state secrets would only lead to me being killed to keep me quiet.
…I feel like I’ve had similar thoughts before. It must be my imagination.
I reluctantly sat back down. William gave Calix a quick nod, and the latter moved to block the tent entrance.
‘Is this really so important that no one else can come in? It’s getting a bit scary.’
William began speaking in a serious tone.
“We received a report from the monastery that the dimensional barrier at the Kral Mountain Range is warping. It seems the capital’s barrier fluctuated in the aftermath, causing the monsters to appear.”
“Strange. Before this, monsters only appeared in the outskirts or border regions. They haven’t appeared in the capital since… ‘that time,’ right?”
Ludwig stroked his chin with a worried expression.
At the mention of “that time,” a flash of anger crossed Calix’s eyes before vanishing.
Was he talking about the incident seven years ago?
“We will investigate further to see if today’s events are linked to the dimensional barrier. For now, we will check the Order and the surrounding areas for any traces of minor barrier ruptures.”
Now, I’m the type of person who can’t stand not knowing something.
I had looked into the “Dimensional Barrier” at the library, but strangely, there wasn’t a single book related to it. It was as if the barrier itself was a state secret.
“Excuse me, may I ask a question?”
When I raised my hand like a model student, Director William smiled and looked at me.
“I would be happy to answer, Miss Erika.”
“Is the dimensional barrier only at that mountain range? Or does it appear at any time? Can it only be created with a magic book?”
“The dimensional barrier was originally only at the Kral Mountain Range. However, when the barrier warps, minor barriers appear in unpredictable locations, mostly in remote or border areas. This particular case is extremely rare—enough to be reported to the academic community…”
“William, you look like you’re about to write a thesis right here.”
Calix cut him off firmly.
“We should be thankful the monsters appeared late at night. If they had shown up during the competition, there would have been massive casualties. Tell the monks and mages to manage the dimensional barrier more strictly, William.”
Ludwig nodded in agreement.
“The Grand Duke is right. It’s a relief Grand Heir Schpern evacuated early. If he had stayed, things would have become more complicated and tiresome.”
Director William looked puzzled.
“Your Highness, the one who first informed me of the monster attack was Grand Heir Schpern.”
Calix’s gaze shifted.
“What do you mean? Our Order sent a messenger bird.”
“A servant from the Schpern family arrived at the Royal Library first. They came in a hurry, saying monsters had appeared at the arena. Your messenger bird arrived after that.”
Ludwig shook his head as if he had been outmaneuvered.
“I see. A meticulous man. He must have had a confidant at the arena.”
The moment Franz’s name was mentioned, my head felt foggy, as if I had been hit.
Everything sounded distant, like I was submerged alone in deep water.
His voice echoed in my head.
“You’re mistaken. The winner hasn’t been decided yet.”
“I hope you enjoy the banquet. Tonight, do not leave the Grand Duke’s side.”
Those words were a warning and a threat.
He knew that a werewolf attack would happen at the arena tonight.
No, perhaps he was the one behind it all.
A chill of terror belatedly washed over me. My pulse throbbed as if I had been running without rest.
I’ve worked so hard not to die according to the original story.
I cooperated with the kingdom and got a job as a librarian at the Royal Library to gain immunity. I tried my best not to get involved with Franz.
And yet, I still can’t escape him by even a single step. It feels like I’m trapped in a nightmare.
I forced back the urge to scream. Calix peered into my face with a worried look.
“Erika, are you alright? You look pale.”
I stared up blankly at him as he wiped the cold sweat from my forehead with his hand.
Director William reached out his hand to cast a spell, and Crown Prince Ludwig watched with a concerned gaze.
Meeting the kind eyes of these three people who cared for and trusted me made the fear and dread fade away.
‘With them… I can say it. They will believe me, for sure.’
I took a deep breath. The words that had been stuck in my throat came out naturally.
“Grand Heir Schpern… I think he knew about the monster attack.”
“What do you mean by that?”
Ludwig asked sharply.
“He warned me during the joust. He seemed to know that something would happen during the banquet.”
I relayed what Franz had said to me, word for word.
Even as I told them the truth, it was hard to completely shake off the irrational fear.
I was afraid the way they looked at me would change. I feared they might see me as someone colluding with the enemy.
Above all, I was terrified that Calix’s gaze—the way he looked at me so directly—would change.
Calix’s expression darkened instantly, revealing intense hostility and anger. He ground his teeth. A blue light even flickered in his eyes.
“I shouldn’t have shown mercy to the Schpern family. I should have crushed them long ago.”
Calix looked ready to lead the knights and storm the Schpern estate this very second.
‘Oh no, did I say the wrong thing? Did I just pour oil on the fire? Is a war between the two Ducal houses going to start because of me…?’
Ludwig patted Calix on the shoulder to calm him down.
“You’re unusually agitated. Why do you lose your cool whenever it involves Librarian Erika? Calm down.”
Ludwig soothed Calix with a light smile. But as he paused, his lapis lazuli eyes began to burn slowly.
“If it’s the Schpern family, they must already know the identity of the Book Reader. But they’ve crossed the line this time. Daring to threaten my librarian. I shall take this as a challenge to the royal authority.”
‘Excuse me? The one who needs to calm down is you, Your Highness. Besides, I’m not a palace librarian. Taking a threat against a librarian as a challenge to royal authority is a bit too much of an escalation.’
I looked toward the rational and logical William for help, rather than these two men who were on the verge of exploding.
“Director, could you please stop His Highness and the Duke?”
William’s monocle glinted in the light.
He was muttering something with a serious expression. It sounded ominous, like he was chanting a curse.
“What are you doing?”
William smiled as if to tell me not to worry. Of course, his eyes weren’t smiling.
“I was considering if there were any useful black magic spells. Many are forbidden, but it is the most certain way to secretly eliminate an enemy from a distance. Rest assured. As your guardian, I will make sure he pays for the crime of threatening you.”
‘William, even you…!’
Suddenly, I had a headache. Please, someone stop these men!
“All three of you, stop it and focus. We don’t have evidence anyway, only suspicion.”
I crossed my arms and glared at the three men who were overreacting pointlessly.
William, the most rational of them, cleared his throat in embarrassment.
“The Schpern family either anticipated the monster appearance or perhaps artificially opened a minor barrier to let the monsters through.”
Ludwig regained his usual sly smile.
“Is there a mage of that caliber in the Schpern family?”
“According to our information so far, there is none. Since about a dozen werewolves appeared, it must have been a minor barrier.”
Ludwig gripped the arm of his chair so hard it looked like it might break.
“We must thoroughly uncover the truth. For monsters to appear in the heart of the capital… Ruberia was almost in great danger. Find the culprit behind this and hold them accountable.”
The Crown Prince’s red hair seemed to blaze like fire. A storm of heat swirled in his lapis eyes.
Now I finally understand why he was called the “Prince of Flames” in the original story.
His anger will not subside until his opponent is completely destroyed.
William shook his head in disbelief.
“It’s unlike the Schpern family’s usual way of doing things. If they were behind it, they wouldn’t have reported the monster attack in the first place.”
Calix set his jaw with a grave expression.
“With their methods, they would have handled it more decisively. Even by massacring the knights at the arena. However, the monsters that appeared this time weren’t at a level that was fatal to us. This incident is almost as if…”
“They were trying to cause confusion, or perhaps confirm something.”
The words came out of my mouth with conviction before I knew it. All three of them focused their attention on me.
“If it’s the former, they succeeded. Once word spreads tomorrow morning, the entire capital will be in chaos.”
Ludwig pressed his temples as if he had a headache. William’s calm gaze turned toward me.
“I agree with Librarian Erika. They might have opened a minor barrier artificially as an experiment. But it’s strange. We have no information that the Schpern family is harboring a high-ranking mage.”
Ludwig looked toward Calix.
“Duke Reinhardt, what are the Schpern family’s recent movements?”
“The head of the Schpern family’s illness is worsening, and there are no military movements. Grand Heir Franz is handling official duties as the acting Duke. There are no major issues publicly.”
Ludwig curled his lip into a smile.
“A Ducal family with a sick head, secretly conspiring with a high-ranking mage to experiment with monster summons. If that’s true, it wouldn’t be strange for the Schpern family to be annihilated tomorrow.”
“The problem is the lack of evidence, Your Highness.”
When Director William pointed this out, Ludwig frustratedly ruffled his hair.
“Ha, this is infuriating. I have a guess who’s behind it, but no proof and no motive! We’re just dancing to their tune!”
‘Motive.’
Suddenly, something clicked in my mind.
Maybe Franz noticed that I came from another world.
What if he knew that I wouldn’t die even if I encountered a monster?
And what if he released the monsters at the arena just to confirm that?
It might be a wild guess. But…
“Librarian Erika, do you have any more guesses?”
I couldn’t say anything to William when he asked for my opinion.
Just a moment ago, I was going to tell them everything honestly. But I can’t say this one thing—this one truth.
That I came from another world. Just like those monsters.
I shook my head awkwardly, like a wooden puppet on a string.
“I’m not sure either.”
I told a lie for the first time.
I had a bad feeling. Maybe I’ll have to keep lying until the end.
In the end, I… am acting just like the original story.
William let out a deep sigh.
“In the end, all that’s left is the cleanup. I’ll search for traces of minor barriers in the area and investigate the recent movements of high-ranking mages. There must be a mage who helped open the barrier.”
Ludwig shrugged as if he had no choice.
“Please take care of it. Let’s head out for now. Count Lawrence must be waiting anxiously.”
They stood up with nonchalant expressions. The serious and heavy atmosphere from moments ago had vanished.
‘Is the strategy meeting over already? Is this it? Shouldn’t we be setting up some countermeasures?’
Seeing the three of them respond so calmly made me even more anxious.
“Um, what are you going to do now?”
I asked, suppressing my guilt and hiding my trembling voice. All three of them turned to look at me at once.
“Don’t you usually have to set up countermeasures or strike back?”
Calix’s gentle gaze looked down at me.
“You made a great sacrifice today. I want you to leave the rest to me and rest comfortably.”
Crown Prince Ludwig burst into laughter and tried to pat my shoulder, but Calix quickly blocked him, leaving the Prince to lower his hand awkwardly.
“Don’t worry, Librarian Erika. This sort of thing is a daily occurrence. I’ve been attacked often and have even swallowed poison a few times. A year ago, rebel forces tried to assassinate me. Each time, my loyal knight and wise Director protected me. This time will be no different.”
William comforted me as if he were soothing an anxious younger sister.
“Don’t worry about anything and go back to the residence to get some good rest, Erika.”
‘Is it really okay like this? I didn’t tell them the most important thing.’
Anxiety spread through my heart like slow-acting poison. It was the poison Franz had planted in me.
I shook off my thoughts and pulled back the curtain.
When I stepped out of the tent, Count Lawrence and the Captain of the Royal Guard were waiting with anxious expressions. Michael and the Shadow Knights were there too.
Count Lawrence approached hurriedly and asked about the plan.
“Your Highness. How shall we handle this monster attack? Even if we keep the knights quiet, there were too many witnesses.”
“Ha, the thought of the cabinet meeting getting noisy gives me a headache too, Count.”
“I’m worried about the backlash from other nobles. They’ll surely find any excuse to nitpick.”
After thinking for a moment, Ludwig gave a playful glint in his eye.
“Bad news is best covered with good news. If rumors are going to spread anyway, let them spread as a hero’s tale. It might be good to produce an extra edition of the newspaper to inform the whole capital. ‘Grand Duke Reinhardt, the Hero of Ruberia, Repels Monster Attack’—how does that sound?”
The court aide took a quill and wrote down the Prince’s words on paper. Suddenly stopping, Ludwig’s gaze fell on me.
“I almost forgot.”
He grinned like a predator who had found its prey.
“Be sure to write that Lady Diel, a librarian of the Royal Library, saved people from the monsters with the courage of a brave knight and the wisdom of a great mage.”
The Crown Prince winked at me.
‘Wait a minute, what? An extra edition? Isn’t that the famous gossip rag that circulates in capital society?’
The extra editions served as a newspaper informing people of everything from court news to various rumors and events in noble society. They were delivered to the library every week.
If I ended up in that, it would only be a matter of time before everyone in the capital knew who I was.
‘I want to live quietly in the library, okay? Please just leave me alone.’
“Your Highness, excuse me, but please refrain from putting my story in the extra edition.”
“What’s the problem? It’s the truth. If it weren’t for you, a great tragedy would have occurred.”
Ludwig gracefully took my hand and kissed it. It was such a natural movement that I couldn’t even dodge it.
‘Do nobles take a separate course in the ‘hand-kissing’ skill? Why are they so casual with physical contact?’
My eyebrows furrowed automatically. I quickly rubbed the back of my hand against my clothes.
It seemed I wasn’t the only one uncomfortable with the Prince’s hand-kiss; Calix and William’s expressions turned sharply grim.
“You, firing those fire arrows, were as strong and beautiful as the Goddess of War descended. I want to have the court painter paint you so all the people of Ruberia can see.”
Like a troubadour singing praises of a lady, Ludwig whispered in a sweet voice.
‘Arrgh, I’m so embarrassed I can’t lift my head. A portrait? I have goosebumps all over.’
“Please stop! If that extra edition is published, I’ll burn it all!”
“Hahaha, don’t be shy. I shall bestow a great reward upon you soon.”
Ludwig laughed with infuriating composure and climbed into the carriage. Before the carriage door closed, the Prince looked at Calix and William with a gaze of deep trust.
“I leave the rest to you.”
The carriage departed with the Royal Guard amidst the salutes of the knights.
I watched the carriage disappear into the dust and clenched my fists.
‘If he really gives me something like a portrait, I’ll kick him in the shins. Give me a mansion or gold and silver instead. Or permanent immunity. I’ll throw in my resignation and live in peace.’
“Miss Erika, is your body alright? You aren’t hurt anywhere?”
Director William approached me quietly and asked.
“Ah, yes. I’m fine.”
“You mustn’t lie to me. I heard everything from Calix. Quickly, show me your hands.”
‘He told William already?’
I shot a quick glare at Calix, but he was busy giving orders to the Shadow Knights.
William looked at the wound on my palm and looked as distressed as if he were the one hurt. Then, before I could stop him, he began casting healing magic.
“I heard you fought the monsters. Why did you do something so dangerous?”
His voice was calm, but I could feel the suppressed anger.
“I was in a situation where I had to step in.”
“Brave knights can fight even without you. Above all, Grand Duke Reinhardt is here. Please… don’t get hurt anymore.”
His voice, which had felt stern, turned into a heart-wrenching plea at the end.
I felt sorry for causing my patron worry once again.
“I’ll be careful next time. Truly.”
William stared at me intently for a moment, then stood up with a resigned sigh.
“For now, let’s head back.”
I nodded quickly and turned around. Then, I froze.
In the arena, there was one werewolf left, lying down with a fatal wound.
It was trembling all over as if about to take its last breath; it looked like it would die soon.
As if possessed, I walked toward the fallen monster. Its unfocused yellow eyes were staring straight at me.
It should have been a lowly monster crazed with slaughter, but there was emotion in the werewolf’s eyes.
‘Why… can I feel it? Why do I know?’
I wanted to look away. Why should I care about the feelings of a monster that’s less than a bug?
And yet, at the same time, I wanted to run to it.
I wanted to run and scream.
Why are you looking at me with those eyes?
It’s like…
“It’s dangerous to go any closer.”
William’s arm blocked my path. I stopped and watched vacantly.
The bluish dawn retreated as the brilliant sun began to rise. Its touch of light slowly caressed the arena.
Finally, the monster let out its last breath. In an instant, the light in its eyes went out.
The monster turned into a handful of ash and vanished upon touching the sunlight. As if it had never existed in the first place.
“Why do monsters… turn to ash and disappear when they die?”
I asked while staring blankly at the scene. William explained calmly.
“Monsters are beings that should not exist in this world. Even rest is not permitted to them. They simply vanish upon death.”
The monsters I encountered at the jousting arena definitely avoided me.
It wasn’t that they didn’t see me, but rather that they seemed to recognize me as the same kind of being—as one of them.
Just like that monster that watched me until its final moment.
‘Then, will I also turn to ash and disappear when I die? Because I am also a being that shouldn’t be here in the first place.’
My mind was a tangled mess of confusion. Belatedly, my ankle felt like it was burning.
Finally, the strength left my legs and I stumbled. Like a puppet with its strings cut.
“Erika, what’s wrong?”
A familiar deep voice—it was Calix.
My pulse was racing so loudly that I couldn’t hear what he was saying. My vision spun and my eyelids grew heavy.
The warmth of a strong arm caught me urgently.
Like a drowning person, I clung to that arm alone as I faded into unconsciousness.
