The coronation is now just a week away.
While the entire empire was busy preparing for the coronation, congratulatory delegations from various countries began to arrive one after another.
Of all the delegations, the one that received the most attention was Heglatan, as the Emperor himself, Blahar, was the leader of the delegation.
It was rare for a King of a country to personally join a delegation. The reason the Queen of Ryeo led the delegation was that she had a personal relationship with Targayel. However, Heglatan had no reason to do so.
What is their friendship? They are almost like enemies, but the Emperor himself came. Everyone was curious as to why Blahar had come as an envoy.
The nations speculated about the reasons from various perspectives, but the truth was simple. Blahar, who had become the Emperor, wanted to see Elze. And, very arrogantly, Blahar demanded that Elze be the one who would welcome him from Targayel.
Of course, the letter was outwardly polite. It was a personal letter, along with a beautiful sermon, saying that it would be most delightful if the war hero, Elijah, would come to greet him in person.
In fact, he had personally gone to the Emperor to congratulate him on his coronation, and it was only polite to grant such a request from a state guest. In the end, Targayel sent the Knights of Elijah as Blahar had suggested.
Unfortunately, Shan could not accompany Elze. He had to meet the Britain delegation. The Prince of Britain was desperate for Shan to come and meet him.
Shan gritted his teeth at the simple words of Elze coming to greet Blahar. But there was nothing he could do since he didn’t have two bodies. Fortunately, he only had to complete the short schedule of entering the capital and guiding them to their quarters within the palace.
If Shan had been forced to stay by Blahar's side for more than a day, he would have either destroyed the palace or killed Blahar.
“Captain, captain.”
Elze turned around at the sound of her name being called. It was Ivanna who had called Elze. She spoke with a slightly awkward expression.
“Because too many people are staring...”
As the Elijahs became the direct knights of Elze, they were now equipped with the formal attire of the Imperial Knights. The dark blue mantle, the black high-quality fabric with gold decorations, and the ceremonial attire had a simple, neat, yet heavy, splendor. They were also riding large warhorses, and their appearance was majestic enough to be worthy of the name of the Elijah Knights.
It was natural that all eyes were on Elijah as he crossed the center of the capital. There were whispers and longing glances from every corner. Ivanna was so nervous that she didn’t know what to do and looked around. Elze whispered to Ivanna as she followed on horseback.
“Just smile.”
Ivanna nodded with a slightly nervous expression. Following Ivanna, Tarkun also coughed in vain. He also seemed a little nervous. It was unusual for him to ride a horse in formal attire, and he was also unfamiliar with the attention of others.
Elze giggled inwardly at the sight of Ivanna and Tarkun awkwardly raising their lips. Fortunately, Rapine followed Elze with a calm expression as always. He even had the presence of mind to smile at the imperial citizens whose eyes met his.
There was no harm in building a good image when the opportunity arose. Elze also smiled brightly and greeted the people of the empire diligently.
As soon as they left the capital, passing through the bustling city center, Elijah began to pick up speed.
After running for a while, the surroundings gradually became deserted and only the bushes grew thick. And the place where they were supposed to meet with the Heglatan delegation was approaching. Elze slowly slowed down her horse. Following Elze in the lead, Elijah also slowed down. Elze frowned slightly and muttered.
“There it is.”
A magnificent procession was seen in the distance. A local nobleman who had been in charge of guiding the way to the capital spotted Elslze and waved his flag. Elze raised her hand in response. Now the guide would be sent away, and Elijah would take over the escort.
A man appeared at the very front of the line, shining brightly. Even though his features were not clearly visible from a distance, Elze immediately knew who he was. Blahar, whose face was as bright as sunlight, waved his hands as soon as he saw Elze. And he shouted loudly.
“Elzeeeeeee!!”
"...”
Oh my. Elze wanted to pretend not to notice his actions and hide, knowing no shame.
Blahar, whom she met after a long time, was the same. He was still cheerful, talkative, and self-indulgent.
“So, if Elze hadn’t come out to pick me up, I was going to just turn back.”
“...Ah, yes.”
“Why are you so indifferent? It’s disappointing.”
“...”
Then should I cheer every time you say a word?...
Elze struggled to control her expression as fatigue surged toward her. Blahar’s personality was truly poisonous. If she stayed still, she would be swept away and dragged to no one knew where.
Blahar kept saying that if Elze hadn't come as his escort, he would have really returned to his home country. That didn't sound like a joke, because from what Elze had known so far, he was more than capable of doing that.
It would have been better if he had just returned peacefully. If it had been Blahar, he might have caused a commotion by dragging the knights he had brought with him as a delegation and demanding Elze be handed over.
Elslze briefly recalled the conversation she had had with the nobleman who had guided Blahar here. He had expressed his feelings about Blahar shortly and concisely.
"It was a bit... difficult."
And even though he had come all the way to the capital, he didn't even think about watching the coronation ceremony and ran away back to the provinces.
Although Shan hated it very much, Elze thought it was fortunate that she had come forward as Blahar's escort. If it had been someone other than Elze, it would have been quite a struggle.
Elze guided Blahar, feeling ambiguous as to whether she should express this as a blessing.
On their way to the capital of Targayel, Blahar spoke to Elze nonstop. Unlike Blahar, who seemed very excited, Heglatan's delegation was generally calm.
In particular, Serev Kamysh, who could be said to be Blahar's closest aide, had a blank expression the whole time. He already had a cold image due to his gray hair and eyes, but with his face hardened, he looked even more so.
Except for Elze and Blahar, the atmosphere between the delegation and their escorts, the Elijahs, was cold.
In fact, it was a relationship that could not have been good. Ivanna and Tarkun had been captured by Heglatan and locked in a laboratory. Rapine also went to the Heglatan palace to rescue them, but he and Elze had to go through all sorts of hardships.
And Elze was wrongly caught by Blahar and was suffering until this very moment.
“So, Elze, now I am the Emperor.”
“...Yes. I see.”
Despite Elze's indifferent answer, Blahar continued to speak stubbornly.
“But I want Elze to continue to treat me comfortably. We’re friends!”
Elslze could not sympathize with Blahar's thoughts at all. If friends are like this, then everyone in the world who steps on the ground is a friend.
“I guess it’s because I’m the Emperor, so it’ll be hard for me to speak informally to Elze in official settings... but when we’re alone, let’s just speak informally. Yes? Or I’ll just speak informally to you when I’m alone!”
As Elze was riding her horse, dealing with Blahar, who was chattering loudly while standing right next to her, she soon found herself entering the city.
As soon as they saw the procession with the flag of Heglatan raised high, the people of the empire were startled and panicked. They ran away as if they were running away before anyone could tell them to get out of the way. The fainthearted even shed tears.
The war was over, but the bloody feelings had not been resolved. The people of the empire had not yet forgotten the suffering they had endured during the Hundred Years' War.
But not everyone was afraid. Some even glared at him as if they were going to kill him.
The animosity that had gathered was great and heavy.
The Heglatan people must have known that the eyes looking at them were fierce. But they all seemed to not care. Blahar in particular was even more so. He was so calm that it almost seemed shameless.
He even smiled and waved at the imperial citizens whose eyes met his, which made the imperial citizens feel embarrassed. Elze, who was watching, thought that was also a skill.
Elze was leading the way in an unpleasant atmosphere. A child's cry was heard from the corner. The child cried out in a tearful voice.
“Monster! Monster Heglatan!! Why doesn’t Elijah defeat Heglatan?”
It was a story that would have been buried in the commotion, but unfortunately, Elijah and all of the Heglatan delegation heard it.
The atmosphere suddenly became tense. Everyone's eyes turned to the child. The child who was throwing a tantrum at his mother was so startled that his feet twisted and he fell backward. The mother who was with the child turned pale and covered the child's mouth with her hand.
Blahar raised an eyebrow. Then he called out to Elze.
“Elze.”
He tilted his head and asked.
“Did you hear that?”
“...I heard.”
Then Blahar asked Elze a question in a gentle voice.
“How does the Targayel Empire deal with commoners who are rude to state guests?”
The way he smiled was infinitely lighthearted. However, the words he spoke were very serious.
He was demanding that the child be punished. The child had been rude to important state guests. If Blahar wanted punishment, then so be it. But...
Elze looked at the child. His large eyes were filled with fear as he looked at Elze. The child, who could not even cry properly and was whimpering, looked at Elze desperately. As if Elze was a hero who would save him.
Elze noticed two wooden sticks tied to the child's waist, one long and one short. Elze immediately recognized that they were imitations of a rapier and a mangosh.
The child's mother knelt on the floor. She begged, forcing the child's head down with her hands.
“He is a child who doesn’t know anything. Please, please... show mercy...”
The stammering voice was full of fear. The imperial citizens who were watching the procession held their breath and watched.
It was a difficult situation. If the child was not punished here, Blahar would protest. If the child was punished, however, it would give the impression that Targayel was bowing down to Heglatan.
In the ambiguity, Elze felt Blahar's gaze smiling brightly. He was watching with interest what Elze would do with the board spread out.
What are you going to do, Elze?
Even without saying anything, Blahar's voice seemed to be heard. Elze sighed. And she steered closer to Blahar. Elze leaned close to him and whispered.
“Just look at it once.”
At Elze's words, Blahar smiled and whispered in return.
“You don’t like it?”
This annoying little punk...
Although she was angry inside, Elze endured it intending to sacrifice herself for the Targayel Empire. Blahar said with a chuckle.
“So where do you want to negotiate? Present your conditions.”
In short, it was a catch. Elze was a fish that ate the bait on a clearly visible fishing line. Even though she knew she was being fooled by him, she had no choice but to ask.
“What do you want?”
Blahar's eyes sparkled. He said simply.
"You."
“...I said that I'm a married woman.”
“I know. I was joking.”
Blahar, who had no joking expression at all, was right on target. He brought his face closer to Elze as if he was friendly with her. And he whispered affectionately.
“Then how about just one date? How about showing me the Targayel mansion?”
“If you don’t mind watching under the supervision of my husband.”
“Shan Cirxus? Oh, now he's a Duke. Anyway, I like it.”
“...”
There was nothing more to say since it was okay to be with Shan. Elze nodded to him. Blahar smiled brightly and said,
“Yes, the deal is done!”
“There’s no point in talking about it later.”
“Graham.”
As soon as she heard Blahar's cool and definitive answer, Elze jumped down from her horse.
A dark blue cloak fluttered over the black robe. The rapier and mangosh worn on her waist made a small clanking sound. Her ivory hair, tied high in a ponytail, swayed in the wind, and her black leather boots settled lightly on the floor.
“...!!”
The mother, who was holding the child, looked at Elze with a face that seemed to be about to faint. Elze smiled cautiously at her, who was terrified that she might draw her sword. Then she bent down and lowered herself to the child’s eye level.
The child's face brightened, forgetting that he had been crying just a moment ago. The child pushed away his mother's hand that was covering his mouth and shouted with bright eyes.
“Elze...It’s really Elze!”
The child spoke quickly with the aforementioned face.
“I, I like Elze even if she’s a woman! I like the mercenary Elze, and the knight commander Elze! Because Elze is a hero!”
The mother almost lost her mind because of the child who called the distant nobleman's name without permission. Elze gave her a small wink to tell her that it was okay, as she was anxious and didn't know what to do. Then she smiled and said to the child.
"Thank you."
As soon as he heard Elze's thanks, the child's face turned bright red as if it was going to burst.
“Uh...uh...”
The child, who didn't know what to do because he was so happy, just hugged Elze tightly.
“Elze!!”
How cute was the sight of the child crying and burying his face in her arms? Elze hugged the child back. Only the child's mother hesitated and pulled the child away. She was worried that the child in dirty clothes would get dirty on her shiny uniform.
“I’m sorry, I don’t know what the kid is doing...”
And she didn't forget to beat the child harshly.
“Don’t fall down!”
"It's okay."
Elze smiled slightly and tried to stop her. Then she swept the wooden stick hanging from the child's waist with her hand. Elze spoke in a small voice toward the pebble-like eyes staring at her.
“The most wonderful rapier and mangosh in the world.”
“Really?”
The child hesitated and then spoke to Elze.
“I will become a great mercenary like Elze someday!”
“It will definitely happen.”
At that moment, a shadow fell next to Elze. A cheerful voice was heard.
“Little one.”
The child looked up and jumped up with a hiss. Blahar had dismounted from his horse and was approaching.
The child was barely able to hold back from shouting at Blahar that he was a monster. Tears were already welling up in his eyes. Blahar looked at the child with a tearful expression and said,
“I was taken prisoner by Elijah’s Elze.”
“Prisoner, prisoner...?”
The child looked at Blahar in bewilderment at his words. Blahar nodded and said.
“Yeah, don’t cry, it’s Elze’s victory.”
The child stopped crying little by little. Blahar stroked the child's head. He seemed surprisingly affectionate. Now that she thinks about it, Blahar seemed to have some good qualities. Not many, just a little.
The child asked Blahar, looking at him with eyes that still hadn't let their guard down.
“Prisoner? What kind of prisoner?”
"Ah."
Blahar chuckled at the doubtful voice and spoke cheerfully.
“A prisoner of love?”
"...”
The child forgot that he was crying in surprise and opened his mouth wide to look at Blahar. Elze put her hand on her forehead.
That bastard's snout is really...
Elze briefly reflected on her thoughts about what a good person she had thought of herself.
Shan was directly involved in designing the uniforms of the Knights of Elijah.
He entrusted the design and production to Sophiana's costume shop, which was in charge of Targayel's costumes, and carefully checked all the drafts that came out. Since Elze was going to wear it, he didn't want to make even the smallest thing carelessly.
The uniforms of the Knights of Elijah were made more splendid than those of any other knightly order, thanks to the fact that His Excellency the Duke of the Empire came forward and checked them one by one.
When he first saw Elze in her uniform, Shan felt more proud than ever. Dressed in black with a blue cloak, and with a rapier and mangosh at her waist, Elze had an elegant yet restrained dignity.
Of course, Shan would have said that even if Elze was wearing a patchwork of rags, she looked as pretty as if she had just gotten the latest dress from the costume shop.
“...But I feel like Blahar did a good thing.”
Shan had only seen it a few times, but the Blahar gnome had already picked it up and eaten it. Elze smiled apologetically next to Shan, who was grimacing and grumbling.
The two walked down the palace corridors to meet Astin and Heyla. Shan, wearing the red cloak of the Imperial Knights, and Elze, wearing the blue cloak of the Knights of Elijah, were visible from afar.
The sight of the Duke and Duchess of Cirxus walking side by side in their uniforms was a sight to behold. The maids passing by looked at them with admiration. However, the couple was engaged in a serious conversation without even caring about their gazes.
“So Blahar is coming to Targayel Manor?”
“That’s what happened.”
Shan let out a sigh as if the ground was falling apart.
"Ha..."
Elze smiled faintly at Shan's reaction. It was a smile that said, "Look at me." Elze's smile was truly effective. Seeing her smile, the heart that had been tightly shut just a moment ago melted away. However, Shan pretended not to notice and spoke.
“You shouldn’t laugh like that. Why did you accept that guy in the first place...”
“But Shan. We need to talk to Blahar anyway.”
“...”
Shan narrowed his eyes instead of answering. He hated to admit it, but it was definitely true. The reason Blahar had personally led the delegation to the Empire was, of course, because of Elze. But there was another reason behind it.
The Targayel Empire and the Heglatan Empire.
The two new empires that emerged on the continent recognized each other as opponents that must be defeated. The dark clouds of war were clear, and war seemed to be a predetermined fate.
However, both empires were suffering from the aftereffects of the Hundred Years' War and civil war. Both countries also had a desire to maintain peace without war if possible.
There was no way that the fox-like Blahar had not thought about this. He must have thought it through before making the offer to visit Targayel's mansion.
“I understand what you mean, but I don’t want to see him talking nonsense for whatever reason.”
If Blahar ever came to the Targayel mansion and started whining about wanting Elze again, Shan would kick his ass and throw him out.
As Shan was gritting his teeth, Elze silently crossed her arms. The pressure of her hand gently squeezing his forearm was affectionate. It couldn't have felt so good.
Shan thought for a moment. How could he be angry at her when he could become like this with just one touch? He would probably live for several years, held tightly by Elze.
Shan placed his hand on top of Elze's hand, which was holding her forearm. He played with her hand and said,
“You can never be alone.”
“Of course.”
Shan, who had received a definite answer from Elze, sighed again and said.
“But why the Targayel Mansion? There are plenty of other places to meet.”
“Ah, Blahar wanted it too... and I also found it personally interesting.”
"Interest?"
Shan's nerves immediately became sharp at the word interest. Shan tried not to react too sharply and asked slowly.
“What interest do you have in him?”
“The Queen is staying in the mansion.”
"...No way."
"That's right."
She said with sparkling eyes.
“Don’t you think it would be fun if these two met?”
At Elze's words, Shan couldn't hold back his laughter and burst out laughing. Blahar and the Queen were polar opposites.
A meeting between an extreme male chauvinist and a female chauvinist!
In addition, their social status was so close that it was difficult for them to treat each other carelessly. The scene of enjoying a fireworks display was already pictured in his mind.
The part he liked the most was that both Blahar and the Queen had been harassing Shan recently. The thought of their clash was thrilling. Shan spoke with sincerity.
“Suddenly, I feel very happy about Blahar’s visit.”
Shan and Elze looked at each other and smiled their evil villainous smiles.
As they chatted about the matter, they arrived at their destination. The two arrived at the Empress's Palace. The maid who had been waiting for them guided them inside. Elze and Shan walked through the quiet hallway and headed to the study. The maid politely announced the guest's arrival at the study's door.
“The Duke and Duchess of Cirxus have arrived.”
There was a loud noise from inside the room. Then came the voice of “Come in quickly.” When the maid opened the door, lively voices came from inside.
“Are you here?”
“Welcome!”
Astin and Heyla greeted Elze and Shan with faces full of emotion. They were both holding books in their hands. Elze and Shan smiled and greeted them politely.
“I greet Your Majesty the Emperor and Your Majesty the Empress.”
Then Astin and Heyla both looked equally embarrassed. They were disgusted as soon as the maid closed the door and stepped away. Heyla waved her hands wildly and said,
“Oh my! Seriously, I may be used to everything else, but I just can’t do this.”
And Astin continued:
“That’s right. I think we’re the most comfortable when we’re together like this.”
Astin and Heyla became the highest in the Empire. However, they wanted to be comfortable with Elze and Shan. It was because they felt that being honorifics from them would be more than awkward; it would make them cringe. So they promised to treat each other as they used to, without any eye contact.
Sitting across from each other at the table in the study, the four chattered. The new Emperor and Empress were ardent scholars. Astin and Heyla recommended books they had recently read and spoke enthusiastically about how much they had enjoyed them. The two of them talking about books were so well-matched that it was almost thrilling to watch.
While they were chatting away until the tea on the table had cooled, Astin and Heyla suddenly looked at each other. There was something meaningful in the look they exchanged.
“...?”
Elze looked puzzled, but Heyla said,
“Actually, there’s something I’d like to ask you both for advice on.”
“Advice?”
Astin coughed briefly at Elze's question. He fiddled with his fingers, then looked at Shan and Elze and said.
“Ahead of the coronation ceremony...”
Astin pushed up his neat glass glasses and muttered quietly.
“To be honest... I’m really nervous.”
Astin's fingertips trembled slightly. Then, Heyla, who was next to him, grabbed Astin's hand tightly. Astin took a deep breath and spoke.
“I want to do well, and I am even more greedy. That is why I feel inadequate even after chewing over and looking back on it over and over again.”
Astin's gaze was clear and straight, but it was trembling faintly.
“There are times when I lose confidence in whether it is the right thing for me to do in this position.”
After Astin's words, there was silence for a while.
Astin entered the palace, performed his duties as Emperor of Targayel, met with the people, and now he was to hold a coronation ceremony to announce the new Emperor to the entire Empire. The winds of change were blowing around him. It was truly a tumultuous life and a storm of destiny.
Astin had become much more dignified and solid than before. But in this situation, anyone other than Astin would have been anxious and nervous.
Even though he had accepted it after much deliberation, it was still the crown. There was no need to guess how heavy that title was.
Elze could tell what Astin needed most right now.
It was encouragement.
Elze tried to think of several words to encourage Astin. But before Elze could open her mouth, Shan spoke first.
"Your Majesty."
“...!”
Astin's eyes widened slightly at the title of Your Majesty. Although they had promised to speak comfortably in a quiet place, Shan began to speak with extreme respect.
“I am good at killing people, and I am also good at trickery and schemes.”
Shan's voice was soft yet heavy.
“But I do not know how to embrace. This is because I do not know how to pity or sympathize with my enemies.”
The concise words were stable and had a sense of weight, which helped to stabilize his anxious and wavering heart.
“The throne is not a place for those who are good at war, nor for those who are intelligent. Even if such a person were to become Emperor, he would only rule the empire for his own safety.”
Slightly sunken purple eyes stared blankly at Astin.
“I believe that the Emperor should be someone who knows how to love the empire and its people. And Your Majesty is someone who knows how to embrace the weak.”
“Duke Cirxus...”
Astin called Shan in a damp voice. Shan smiled at Astin and said.
“Serving Your Majesty as Emperor is the greatest thing I can do for the Empire.”
Astin's eyes grew wide. Even though he had become much more mature and strong, he was still a tenderhearted Astin. Heyla gave a small nagging at Astin, who looked like he was about to cry.
“You, why are you crying!”
Astin answered Heyla, sobbing.
“Just, just...”
Heila said, “Ugh,” and took out a handkerchief and held it out. Astin took off his glasses and wiped his tears with the handkerchief. In many ways, they were a perfect match. Astin, who had stopped crying, clenched his fists and made a promise.
“I will work hard! I will definitely do my best to live up to the trust you have placed in me!!”
Shan and Elze smiled proudly at the sight of Astin's refreshed appearance.
The conversation continued after that. It was mainly about the coronation ceremony and state affairs. After talking for a while, Elze and Shan decided to go home.
They boarded the carriage back to Targayel Manor, escorted by Astin and Heyla. As soon as they boarded the carriage, Elze spoke to Shan.
“Shan, about the conversation we had earlier.”
As soon as Elze opened her mouth, Shan smiled and said.
“What, thank you?”
“..l..”
It was Shan who left people speechless. But it was true that she was grateful to him. Elze spoke with sincerity.
“Yeah, thanks. I don’t think I could have cheered Astin up like that.”
“Don’t talk about this much.”
Shan smiled, handing it over gently. Elze suddenly felt playful at his reaction.
“But what you said.”
Elze asked, poking Shan's ribs.
“Then you didn’t become Emperor because you didn’t love the Targayel Empire?”
"Of course."
Elze opened her mouth slightly. It was a question she had asked jokingly, but she had not expected him to answer without hesitation. It was a firm answer that was almost disappointing. Elze’s face slightly clouded. However, Shan remained firm even after seeing that. He asked Elze back.
“Where is the love to share with the empire?”
"...huh?"
Shan grabbed Elze's hand, who was looking puzzled. And pulled her towards him. Shan, who was caressing each of Elze's finger joints, lightly licked her fingertips.
“Ugh, Shan!”
Elze, surprised, pushed her hand away. He whispered with shining eyes.
“It’s not enough to contain you completely.”
“...Ugh.”
It's embarrassing. It's so embarrassing she could die... Elze blushed. And Shan smiled mischievously.
While the entire empire was busy preparing for the coronation, congratulatory delegations from various countries began to arrive one after another.
Of all the delegations, the one that received the most attention was Heglatan, as the Emperor himself, Blahar, was the leader of the delegation.
It was rare for a King of a country to personally join a delegation. The reason the Queen of Ryeo led the delegation was that she had a personal relationship with Targayel. However, Heglatan had no reason to do so.
What is their friendship? They are almost like enemies, but the Emperor himself came. Everyone was curious as to why Blahar had come as an envoy.
The nations speculated about the reasons from various perspectives, but the truth was simple. Blahar, who had become the Emperor, wanted to see Elze. And, very arrogantly, Blahar demanded that Elze be the one who would welcome him from Targayel.
Of course, the letter was outwardly polite. It was a personal letter, along with a beautiful sermon, saying that it would be most delightful if the war hero, Elijah, would come to greet him in person.
In fact, he had personally gone to the Emperor to congratulate him on his coronation, and it was only polite to grant such a request from a state guest. In the end, Targayel sent the Knights of Elijah as Blahar had suggested.
Unfortunately, Shan could not accompany Elze. He had to meet the Britain delegation. The Prince of Britain was desperate for Shan to come and meet him.
Shan gritted his teeth at the simple words of Elze coming to greet Blahar. But there was nothing he could do since he didn’t have two bodies. Fortunately, he only had to complete the short schedule of entering the capital and guiding them to their quarters within the palace.
If Shan had been forced to stay by Blahar's side for more than a day, he would have either destroyed the palace or killed Blahar.
“Captain, captain.”
Elze turned around at the sound of her name being called. It was Ivanna who had called Elze. She spoke with a slightly awkward expression.
“Because too many people are staring...”
As the Elijahs became the direct knights of Elze, they were now equipped with the formal attire of the Imperial Knights. The dark blue mantle, the black high-quality fabric with gold decorations, and the ceremonial attire had a simple, neat, yet heavy, splendor. They were also riding large warhorses, and their appearance was majestic enough to be worthy of the name of the Elijah Knights.
It was natural that all eyes were on Elijah as he crossed the center of the capital. There were whispers and longing glances from every corner. Ivanna was so nervous that she didn’t know what to do and looked around. Elze whispered to Ivanna as she followed on horseback.
“Just smile.”
Ivanna nodded with a slightly nervous expression. Following Ivanna, Tarkun also coughed in vain. He also seemed a little nervous. It was unusual for him to ride a horse in formal attire, and he was also unfamiliar with the attention of others.
Elze giggled inwardly at the sight of Ivanna and Tarkun awkwardly raising their lips. Fortunately, Rapine followed Elze with a calm expression as always. He even had the presence of mind to smile at the imperial citizens whose eyes met his.
There was no harm in building a good image when the opportunity arose. Elze also smiled brightly and greeted the people of the empire diligently.
As soon as they left the capital, passing through the bustling city center, Elijah began to pick up speed.
After running for a while, the surroundings gradually became deserted and only the bushes grew thick. And the place where they were supposed to meet with the Heglatan delegation was approaching. Elze slowly slowed down her horse. Following Elze in the lead, Elijah also slowed down. Elze frowned slightly and muttered.
“There it is.”
A magnificent procession was seen in the distance. A local nobleman who had been in charge of guiding the way to the capital spotted Elslze and waved his flag. Elze raised her hand in response. Now the guide would be sent away, and Elijah would take over the escort.
A man appeared at the very front of the line, shining brightly. Even though his features were not clearly visible from a distance, Elze immediately knew who he was. Blahar, whose face was as bright as sunlight, waved his hands as soon as he saw Elze. And he shouted loudly.
“Elzeeeeeee!!”
"...”
Oh my. Elze wanted to pretend not to notice his actions and hide, knowing no shame.
***
Blahar, whom she met after a long time, was the same. He was still cheerful, talkative, and self-indulgent.
“So, if Elze hadn’t come out to pick me up, I was going to just turn back.”
“...Ah, yes.”
“Why are you so indifferent? It’s disappointing.”
“...”
Then should I cheer every time you say a word?...
Elze struggled to control her expression as fatigue surged toward her. Blahar’s personality was truly poisonous. If she stayed still, she would be swept away and dragged to no one knew where.
Blahar kept saying that if Elze hadn't come as his escort, he would have really returned to his home country. That didn't sound like a joke, because from what Elze had known so far, he was more than capable of doing that.
It would have been better if he had just returned peacefully. If it had been Blahar, he might have caused a commotion by dragging the knights he had brought with him as a delegation and demanding Elze be handed over.
Elslze briefly recalled the conversation she had had with the nobleman who had guided Blahar here. He had expressed his feelings about Blahar shortly and concisely.
"It was a bit... difficult."
And even though he had come all the way to the capital, he didn't even think about watching the coronation ceremony and ran away back to the provinces.
Although Shan hated it very much, Elze thought it was fortunate that she had come forward as Blahar's escort. If it had been someone other than Elze, it would have been quite a struggle.
Elze guided Blahar, feeling ambiguous as to whether she should express this as a blessing.
On their way to the capital of Targayel, Blahar spoke to Elze nonstop. Unlike Blahar, who seemed very excited, Heglatan's delegation was generally calm.
In particular, Serev Kamysh, who could be said to be Blahar's closest aide, had a blank expression the whole time. He already had a cold image due to his gray hair and eyes, but with his face hardened, he looked even more so.
Except for Elze and Blahar, the atmosphere between the delegation and their escorts, the Elijahs, was cold.
In fact, it was a relationship that could not have been good. Ivanna and Tarkun had been captured by Heglatan and locked in a laboratory. Rapine also went to the Heglatan palace to rescue them, but he and Elze had to go through all sorts of hardships.
And Elze was wrongly caught by Blahar and was suffering until this very moment.
“So, Elze, now I am the Emperor.”
“...Yes. I see.”
Despite Elze's indifferent answer, Blahar continued to speak stubbornly.
“But I want Elze to continue to treat me comfortably. We’re friends!”
Elslze could not sympathize with Blahar's thoughts at all. If friends are like this, then everyone in the world who steps on the ground is a friend.
“I guess it’s because I’m the Emperor, so it’ll be hard for me to speak informally to Elze in official settings... but when we’re alone, let’s just speak informally. Yes? Or I’ll just speak informally to you when I’m alone!”
As Elze was riding her horse, dealing with Blahar, who was chattering loudly while standing right next to her, she soon found herself entering the city.
As soon as they saw the procession with the flag of Heglatan raised high, the people of the empire were startled and panicked. They ran away as if they were running away before anyone could tell them to get out of the way. The fainthearted even shed tears.
The war was over, but the bloody feelings had not been resolved. The people of the empire had not yet forgotten the suffering they had endured during the Hundred Years' War.
But not everyone was afraid. Some even glared at him as if they were going to kill him.
The animosity that had gathered was great and heavy.
The Heglatan people must have known that the eyes looking at them were fierce. But they all seemed to not care. Blahar in particular was even more so. He was so calm that it almost seemed shameless.
He even smiled and waved at the imperial citizens whose eyes met his, which made the imperial citizens feel embarrassed. Elze, who was watching, thought that was also a skill.
Elze was leading the way in an unpleasant atmosphere. A child's cry was heard from the corner. The child cried out in a tearful voice.
“Monster! Monster Heglatan!! Why doesn’t Elijah defeat Heglatan?”
It was a story that would have been buried in the commotion, but unfortunately, Elijah and all of the Heglatan delegation heard it.
The atmosphere suddenly became tense. Everyone's eyes turned to the child. The child who was throwing a tantrum at his mother was so startled that his feet twisted and he fell backward. The mother who was with the child turned pale and covered the child's mouth with her hand.
Blahar raised an eyebrow. Then he called out to Elze.
“Elze.”
He tilted his head and asked.
“Did you hear that?”
“...I heard.”
Then Blahar asked Elze a question in a gentle voice.
“How does the Targayel Empire deal with commoners who are rude to state guests?”
The way he smiled was infinitely lighthearted. However, the words he spoke were very serious.
He was demanding that the child be punished. The child had been rude to important state guests. If Blahar wanted punishment, then so be it. But...
Elze looked at the child. His large eyes were filled with fear as he looked at Elze. The child, who could not even cry properly and was whimpering, looked at Elze desperately. As if Elze was a hero who would save him.
Elze noticed two wooden sticks tied to the child's waist, one long and one short. Elze immediately recognized that they were imitations of a rapier and a mangosh.
The child's mother knelt on the floor. She begged, forcing the child's head down with her hands.
“He is a child who doesn’t know anything. Please, please... show mercy...”
The stammering voice was full of fear. The imperial citizens who were watching the procession held their breath and watched.
It was a difficult situation. If the child was not punished here, Blahar would protest. If the child was punished, however, it would give the impression that Targayel was bowing down to Heglatan.
In the ambiguity, Elze felt Blahar's gaze smiling brightly. He was watching with interest what Elze would do with the board spread out.
What are you going to do, Elze?
Even without saying anything, Blahar's voice seemed to be heard. Elze sighed. And she steered closer to Blahar. Elze leaned close to him and whispered.
“Just look at it once.”
At Elze's words, Blahar smiled and whispered in return.
“You don’t like it?”
This annoying little punk...
Although she was angry inside, Elze endured it intending to sacrifice herself for the Targayel Empire. Blahar said with a chuckle.
“So where do you want to negotiate? Present your conditions.”
In short, it was a catch. Elze was a fish that ate the bait on a clearly visible fishing line. Even though she knew she was being fooled by him, she had no choice but to ask.
“What do you want?”
Blahar's eyes sparkled. He said simply.
"You."
“...I said that I'm a married woman.”
“I know. I was joking.”
Blahar, who had no joking expression at all, was right on target. He brought his face closer to Elze as if he was friendly with her. And he whispered affectionately.
“Then how about just one date? How about showing me the Targayel mansion?”
“If you don’t mind watching under the supervision of my husband.”
“Shan Cirxus? Oh, now he's a Duke. Anyway, I like it.”
“...”
There was nothing more to say since it was okay to be with Shan. Elze nodded to him. Blahar smiled brightly and said,
“Yes, the deal is done!”
“There’s no point in talking about it later.”
“Graham.”
As soon as she heard Blahar's cool and definitive answer, Elze jumped down from her horse.
A dark blue cloak fluttered over the black robe. The rapier and mangosh worn on her waist made a small clanking sound. Her ivory hair, tied high in a ponytail, swayed in the wind, and her black leather boots settled lightly on the floor.
“...!!”
The mother, who was holding the child, looked at Elze with a face that seemed to be about to faint. Elze smiled cautiously at her, who was terrified that she might draw her sword. Then she bent down and lowered herself to the child’s eye level.
The child's face brightened, forgetting that he had been crying just a moment ago. The child pushed away his mother's hand that was covering his mouth and shouted with bright eyes.
“Elze...It’s really Elze!”
The child spoke quickly with the aforementioned face.
“I, I like Elze even if she’s a woman! I like the mercenary Elze, and the knight commander Elze! Because Elze is a hero!”
The mother almost lost her mind because of the child who called the distant nobleman's name without permission. Elze gave her a small wink to tell her that it was okay, as she was anxious and didn't know what to do. Then she smiled and said to the child.
"Thank you."
As soon as he heard Elze's thanks, the child's face turned bright red as if it was going to burst.
“Uh...uh...”
The child, who didn't know what to do because he was so happy, just hugged Elze tightly.
“Elze!!”
How cute was the sight of the child crying and burying his face in her arms? Elze hugged the child back. Only the child's mother hesitated and pulled the child away. She was worried that the child in dirty clothes would get dirty on her shiny uniform.
“I’m sorry, I don’t know what the kid is doing...”
And she didn't forget to beat the child harshly.
“Don’t fall down!”
"It's okay."
Elze smiled slightly and tried to stop her. Then she swept the wooden stick hanging from the child's waist with her hand. Elze spoke in a small voice toward the pebble-like eyes staring at her.
“The most wonderful rapier and mangosh in the world.”
“Really?”
The child hesitated and then spoke to Elze.
“I will become a great mercenary like Elze someday!”
“It will definitely happen.”
At that moment, a shadow fell next to Elze. A cheerful voice was heard.
“Little one.”
The child looked up and jumped up with a hiss. Blahar had dismounted from his horse and was approaching.
The child was barely able to hold back from shouting at Blahar that he was a monster. Tears were already welling up in his eyes. Blahar looked at the child with a tearful expression and said,
“I was taken prisoner by Elijah’s Elze.”
“Prisoner, prisoner...?”
The child looked at Blahar in bewilderment at his words. Blahar nodded and said.
“Yeah, don’t cry, it’s Elze’s victory.”
The child stopped crying little by little. Blahar stroked the child's head. He seemed surprisingly affectionate. Now that she thinks about it, Blahar seemed to have some good qualities. Not many, just a little.
The child asked Blahar, looking at him with eyes that still hadn't let their guard down.
“Prisoner? What kind of prisoner?”
"Ah."
Blahar chuckled at the doubtful voice and spoke cheerfully.
“A prisoner of love?”
"...”
The child forgot that he was crying in surprise and opened his mouth wide to look at Blahar. Elze put her hand on her forehead.
That bastard's snout is really...
Elze briefly reflected on her thoughts about what a good person she had thought of herself.
***
Shan was directly involved in designing the uniforms of the Knights of Elijah.
He entrusted the design and production to Sophiana's costume shop, which was in charge of Targayel's costumes, and carefully checked all the drafts that came out. Since Elze was going to wear it, he didn't want to make even the smallest thing carelessly.
The uniforms of the Knights of Elijah were made more splendid than those of any other knightly order, thanks to the fact that His Excellency the Duke of the Empire came forward and checked them one by one.
When he first saw Elze in her uniform, Shan felt more proud than ever. Dressed in black with a blue cloak, and with a rapier and mangosh at her waist, Elze had an elegant yet restrained dignity.
Of course, Shan would have said that even if Elze was wearing a patchwork of rags, she looked as pretty as if she had just gotten the latest dress from the costume shop.
“...But I feel like Blahar did a good thing.”
Shan had only seen it a few times, but the Blahar gnome had already picked it up and eaten it. Elze smiled apologetically next to Shan, who was grimacing and grumbling.
The two walked down the palace corridors to meet Astin and Heyla. Shan, wearing the red cloak of the Imperial Knights, and Elze, wearing the blue cloak of the Knights of Elijah, were visible from afar.
The sight of the Duke and Duchess of Cirxus walking side by side in their uniforms was a sight to behold. The maids passing by looked at them with admiration. However, the couple was engaged in a serious conversation without even caring about their gazes.
“So Blahar is coming to Targayel Manor?”
“That’s what happened.”
Shan let out a sigh as if the ground was falling apart.
"Ha..."
Elze smiled faintly at Shan's reaction. It was a smile that said, "Look at me." Elze's smile was truly effective. Seeing her smile, the heart that had been tightly shut just a moment ago melted away. However, Shan pretended not to notice and spoke.
“You shouldn’t laugh like that. Why did you accept that guy in the first place...”
“But Shan. We need to talk to Blahar anyway.”
“...”
Shan narrowed his eyes instead of answering. He hated to admit it, but it was definitely true. The reason Blahar had personally led the delegation to the Empire was, of course, because of Elze. But there was another reason behind it.
The Targayel Empire and the Heglatan Empire.
The two new empires that emerged on the continent recognized each other as opponents that must be defeated. The dark clouds of war were clear, and war seemed to be a predetermined fate.
However, both empires were suffering from the aftereffects of the Hundred Years' War and civil war. Both countries also had a desire to maintain peace without war if possible.
There was no way that the fox-like Blahar had not thought about this. He must have thought it through before making the offer to visit Targayel's mansion.
“I understand what you mean, but I don’t want to see him talking nonsense for whatever reason.”
If Blahar ever came to the Targayel mansion and started whining about wanting Elze again, Shan would kick his ass and throw him out.
As Shan was gritting his teeth, Elze silently crossed her arms. The pressure of her hand gently squeezing his forearm was affectionate. It couldn't have felt so good.
Shan thought for a moment. How could he be angry at her when he could become like this with just one touch? He would probably live for several years, held tightly by Elze.
Shan placed his hand on top of Elze's hand, which was holding her forearm. He played with her hand and said,
“You can never be alone.”
“Of course.”
Shan, who had received a definite answer from Elze, sighed again and said.
“But why the Targayel Mansion? There are plenty of other places to meet.”
“Ah, Blahar wanted it too... and I also found it personally interesting.”
"Interest?"
Shan's nerves immediately became sharp at the word interest. Shan tried not to react too sharply and asked slowly.
“What interest do you have in him?”
“The Queen is staying in the mansion.”
"...No way."
"That's right."
She said with sparkling eyes.
“Don’t you think it would be fun if these two met?”
At Elze's words, Shan couldn't hold back his laughter and burst out laughing. Blahar and the Queen were polar opposites.
A meeting between an extreme male chauvinist and a female chauvinist!
In addition, their social status was so close that it was difficult for them to treat each other carelessly. The scene of enjoying a fireworks display was already pictured in his mind.
The part he liked the most was that both Blahar and the Queen had been harassing Shan recently. The thought of their clash was thrilling. Shan spoke with sincerity.
“Suddenly, I feel very happy about Blahar’s visit.”
Shan and Elze looked at each other and smiled their evil villainous smiles.
As they chatted about the matter, they arrived at their destination. The two arrived at the Empress's Palace. The maid who had been waiting for them guided them inside. Elze and Shan walked through the quiet hallway and headed to the study. The maid politely announced the guest's arrival at the study's door.
“The Duke and Duchess of Cirxus have arrived.”
There was a loud noise from inside the room. Then came the voice of “Come in quickly.” When the maid opened the door, lively voices came from inside.
“Are you here?”
“Welcome!”
Astin and Heyla greeted Elze and Shan with faces full of emotion. They were both holding books in their hands. Elze and Shan smiled and greeted them politely.
“I greet Your Majesty the Emperor and Your Majesty the Empress.”
Then Astin and Heyla both looked equally embarrassed. They were disgusted as soon as the maid closed the door and stepped away. Heyla waved her hands wildly and said,
“Oh my! Seriously, I may be used to everything else, but I just can’t do this.”
And Astin continued:
“That’s right. I think we’re the most comfortable when we’re together like this.”
Astin and Heyla became the highest in the Empire. However, they wanted to be comfortable with Elze and Shan. It was because they felt that being honorifics from them would be more than awkward; it would make them cringe. So they promised to treat each other as they used to, without any eye contact.
Sitting across from each other at the table in the study, the four chattered. The new Emperor and Empress were ardent scholars. Astin and Heyla recommended books they had recently read and spoke enthusiastically about how much they had enjoyed them. The two of them talking about books were so well-matched that it was almost thrilling to watch.
While they were chatting away until the tea on the table had cooled, Astin and Heyla suddenly looked at each other. There was something meaningful in the look they exchanged.
“...?”
Elze looked puzzled, but Heyla said,
“Actually, there’s something I’d like to ask you both for advice on.”
“Advice?”
Astin coughed briefly at Elze's question. He fiddled with his fingers, then looked at Shan and Elze and said.
“Ahead of the coronation ceremony...”
Astin pushed up his neat glass glasses and muttered quietly.
“To be honest... I’m really nervous.”
Astin's fingertips trembled slightly. Then, Heyla, who was next to him, grabbed Astin's hand tightly. Astin took a deep breath and spoke.
“I want to do well, and I am even more greedy. That is why I feel inadequate even after chewing over and looking back on it over and over again.”
Astin's gaze was clear and straight, but it was trembling faintly.
“There are times when I lose confidence in whether it is the right thing for me to do in this position.”
After Astin's words, there was silence for a while.
Astin entered the palace, performed his duties as Emperor of Targayel, met with the people, and now he was to hold a coronation ceremony to announce the new Emperor to the entire Empire. The winds of change were blowing around him. It was truly a tumultuous life and a storm of destiny.
Astin had become much more dignified and solid than before. But in this situation, anyone other than Astin would have been anxious and nervous.
Even though he had accepted it after much deliberation, it was still the crown. There was no need to guess how heavy that title was.
Elze could tell what Astin needed most right now.
It was encouragement.
Elze tried to think of several words to encourage Astin. But before Elze could open her mouth, Shan spoke first.
"Your Majesty."
“...!”
Astin's eyes widened slightly at the title of Your Majesty. Although they had promised to speak comfortably in a quiet place, Shan began to speak with extreme respect.
“I am good at killing people, and I am also good at trickery and schemes.”
Shan's voice was soft yet heavy.
“But I do not know how to embrace. This is because I do not know how to pity or sympathize with my enemies.”
The concise words were stable and had a sense of weight, which helped to stabilize his anxious and wavering heart.
“The throne is not a place for those who are good at war, nor for those who are intelligent. Even if such a person were to become Emperor, he would only rule the empire for his own safety.”
Slightly sunken purple eyes stared blankly at Astin.
“I believe that the Emperor should be someone who knows how to love the empire and its people. And Your Majesty is someone who knows how to embrace the weak.”
“Duke Cirxus...”
Astin called Shan in a damp voice. Shan smiled at Astin and said.
“Serving Your Majesty as Emperor is the greatest thing I can do for the Empire.”
Astin's eyes grew wide. Even though he had become much more mature and strong, he was still a tenderhearted Astin. Heyla gave a small nagging at Astin, who looked like he was about to cry.
“You, why are you crying!”
Astin answered Heyla, sobbing.
“Just, just...”
Heila said, “Ugh,” and took out a handkerchief and held it out. Astin took off his glasses and wiped his tears with the handkerchief. In many ways, they were a perfect match. Astin, who had stopped crying, clenched his fists and made a promise.
“I will work hard! I will definitely do my best to live up to the trust you have placed in me!!”
Shan and Elze smiled proudly at the sight of Astin's refreshed appearance.
The conversation continued after that. It was mainly about the coronation ceremony and state affairs. After talking for a while, Elze and Shan decided to go home.
They boarded the carriage back to Targayel Manor, escorted by Astin and Heyla. As soon as they boarded the carriage, Elze spoke to Shan.
“Shan, about the conversation we had earlier.”
As soon as Elze opened her mouth, Shan smiled and said.
“What, thank you?”
“..l..”
It was Shan who left people speechless. But it was true that she was grateful to him. Elze spoke with sincerity.
“Yeah, thanks. I don’t think I could have cheered Astin up like that.”
“Don’t talk about this much.”
Shan smiled, handing it over gently. Elze suddenly felt playful at his reaction.
“But what you said.”
Elze asked, poking Shan's ribs.
“Then you didn’t become Emperor because you didn’t love the Targayel Empire?”
"Of course."
Elze opened her mouth slightly. It was a question she had asked jokingly, but she had not expected him to answer without hesitation. It was a firm answer that was almost disappointing. Elze’s face slightly clouded. However, Shan remained firm even after seeing that. He asked Elze back.
“Where is the love to share with the empire?”
"...huh?"
Shan grabbed Elze's hand, who was looking puzzled. And pulled her towards him. Shan, who was caressing each of Elze's finger joints, lightly licked her fingertips.
“Ugh, Shan!”
Elze, surprised, pushed her hand away. He whispered with shining eyes.
“It’s not enough to contain you completely.”
“...Ugh.”
It's embarrassing. It's so embarrassing she could die... Elze blushed. And Shan smiled mischievously.
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