Was it some kind of bad fate? She couldn't figure out how only crazy people gathered together. Elze, recalling the twists and turns that had happened that day, let out a small noise and buried her face in the bed.
“Ugh...”
Even though they managed to chase Blahar away, Shan was furious. Even after Blahar left, Elze stayed by Shan’s side. She was worried that Shan might secretly follow Blahar and snap his neck.
Of course, Elze was filled with the desire to snap Blahar's neck. However, she could not do anything right before the coronation ceremony. Especially not at a time like this when the delegations from various countries were gathered.
After following Shan around nervously all day, work was finally over and they were in the bedroom. Elze lay on the bed and waited for Shan.
She was so nervous that her body felt tired. She thought she would fall asleep soon. She was half-asleep waiting for Shan when she felt someone's presence.
“Shan...?”
“Elze.”
Elze was about to get up when she heard a voice. Shan, who had approached her, suddenly started to move quickly, and her vision went dark.
“!!”
Something like a string covered Elze's eyes. Elze was startled and hurriedly tried to untie the string. But she couldn't move. It was because Shan was holding her shoulder tightly. Elze fell back on the bed. He pressed Elze's body deeply into the bed.
A brief silence lingered between the two. Elze took a shallow breath and exhaled. Her vision was dark, and she couldn't move. She felt like a criminal who had done something bad and was caught by the guards. It was obvious why he was so upset.
Blahar, the damned bastard. Elze cursed Blahar ten times in her mind before calling out Shan's name softly.
“Shan...”
“...”
There was no answer from Shan. Elze spoke to him quietly.
“Let me go, Shan.”
But Shan was quiet. After a long silence, he slowly opened his mouth.
“If Blahar.”
A hot breath settled on her back. Her skin felt as if it was burning.
“If he had truly given you the empire, would you have kissed him?”
Shan slowly bit the back of her neck. Biting hard enough to sting, he then licked it slowly.
“It’s okay to be honest. It’s okay...”
He spoke coaxingly, gently rubbing the kiss mark with his finger.
“Answer me, Elze.”
Elze blinked at Shan's words. It's okay, so tell me honestly. But the tone he was actually speaking in was fierce. He pretended to be affectionate, but behind it, there was jealousy that couldn't be hidden. If she answered wrongly here, something absolutely not okay would happen.
Elze held off on answering for the moment. Instead, she spoke to him again.
“Shan, first of all, the eyes...”
Her mind was uneasy because her eyes were covered. As her field of vision was limited, her other senses were heightened. Elze could feel Shan’s breath in every single layer. He kneaded her thighs with his hands. She felt like every joint of her fingers was being firmly engraved.
Her throat was parched from the tension. Elze swallowed hard, but the dry feeling did not go away. Elxe spoke to him in a slightly hoarse voice.
“You know what I’m going to say.”
She tried to evade the question, but it was no use to Shan. He said, placing his lips on her shoulder blade.
“Say it with your own mouth. Yes?”
Shan was infinitely sweet. His voice was soft and his flowing hair tickled. But the strength holding down Elze’s wrist did not loosen. Shan whispered again.
“Come on, Elze.”
"Therefore..."
Elze hesitated to answer. In fact, it was only for a moment, but it was because he was so angry.
Who wouldn't be tempted by the idea of giving up war for a kiss? Blahar was a man who knew how to sway people's hearts. He made an offer that no one could easily refuse.
But Elze refused. This wasn't a matter of weighing the lives of countless people against a kiss. It was just a facade for deception. Blahar's focus was elsewhere.
What he was after was the relationship between Shan and Elze.
The moment she accepted Blahar's kiss for the sake of a greater cause, the trust between them would be irreparably broken.
From then on, it didn't matter whether Blahar really waged war or offered up the empire. That was a secondary issue. Shan and Elze would never be able to trust each other like they used to. Shan said to Elze, who was lost in thought and silent.
“So, you’re going to kiss Blahar?”
The quiet voice was so calm that it was heavy. Under the crushing weight, Elze unconsciously answered a beat later.
“...That’s not it.”
But from the moment she didn't answer right away, Shan seemed to be already upset.
“Of course, you wouldn’t say that.”
He released Elze's wrist. The pressure was gone. But Elze still felt as if she was being held tightly and couldn't move.
“Shan...”
She was curious. She wanted to see what kind of face Shan had, and what kind of expression he was making. However, even though her two hands were free, Elze could not take off the blindfold. She did not have the confidence to look Shan in the eye.
Elze slowly turned around to face Shan. Instead of taking off the blindfold, she lifted her hand slightly. Shan’s chest was touching her fingertips. She could feel Shan taking deep breaths and exhaling. Elze carefully caressed his chest.
“Phew...”
With a sound of breathing, a firm chest came closer. And then it met Elze’s chest. He kissed her while holding her tightly. The sound of their entangling clamor rang in her eardrums. The hot heat rushed to the naked sound. It was a kiss no different from usual. But the reason it felt even more intense was probably because her eyes were covered.
As their lips parted, Elze let out a hot breath. Shan placed his lips on Elze's eyes. She could feel his lips against hers through the thin cloth between them. Shan kissed both eyes and whispered.
“...It doesn’t matter. Even if you covet the empire and kiss him.”
Elze was surprised by Shan's answer. Her mouth fell open. Shan's finger touched her lips and entered her open mouth.
“You can do whatever you want.”
The tips of his fingers brushed along the teeth. He caressed along the molars and canines, then lightly rubbed the roof of her mouth. A thick, yet slightly rough feeling tingled.
Elze bit his finger. She bit hard, but Shan didn't back off at all. Instead, he pushed his finger in even deeper.
“But if there’s something you want or desire, tell me first.”
He ran his wet fingers down Elze's body, sliding inside without hesitation, and rubbing the softest and most sensitive spot.
“I will save you whatever it is.”
In the dark vision, a tingling sensation rose throughout her body. In an instant, the feeling of being set ablaze was eerie. Her heart was pounding with rapid breathing, and her mind was becoming increasingly dizzy. Elze shook her head. She wanted to hear what he said clearly.
But Shan, whether intentionally or not, kept distracting Elze from concentrating. He licked Elze’s neck for a long time, then kissed her chest. The feeling of licking that plump spot made her head tingle.
She wanted to grab Shan's shoulder. But she didn't know where he was, so her hands floated in the air. Shan smiled lowly and said.
“I wish you would only look at me.”
The words whispered at the end of the pleasure were like a tail. It swayed and made Elze dizzy. Shan pulled Elze’s hand and made her grab the back of his neck.
Elze twisted her body, holding him tightly. Everything felt like her usual stomach. When he licked and chewed the tip of her nipple, Elze reached a light climax and even let out a whimper.
Shan stroked Elze, who was trembling and called her name.
“Elze...”
The voice that could be heard in nothing being seen was truly powerful. It seemed to dig straight into the eardrums. And Shan completely trapped Elze.
“Ouch!”
Elze let out a short scream. He slowly pushed inside. Her waist rose high from the thick, hot sensation. She became stiff and trembled, then fell, then couldn't overcome the sensation and rose again, repeating the process.
The pleasure was like being in deep water. She fell in and couldn’t get out. He kept pulling Elze in. Elze struggled desperately. It felt like she would sink if she stopped struggling even a little. A small whisper followed Elze, who was trembling and panting.
“I will try my best...”
A pleasure that felt like her brain was shaking tormented her entire body. As she scratched his skin with her fingernails and cried, Shan explored Elze even more deeply.
The tears that flowed from the pleasure soaked the cloth covering her eyes. Saliva that she couldn't swallow flowed out from her parted mouth. Shan bit the tip of Elze's chin as she panted and licked the saliva that flowed out.
His soft tongue swept over her skin. Even the tickling came as an unbearable pleasure. When El*e turned her head to the side, he dug deep inside her and whispered in an extremely low voice.
“Don’t look the other way.”
“...!”
With a thud, his thing was pushed all the way in. The vision that should have been dark because it was covered flashed white for a moment. Elze clung to Shan with all her might and cried.
The string that had been binding her eyes loosened with the violent movement, and Elze's eyes met directly with those of his purple pupils.
Inside, passion was seething. Jealousy, possessiveness, and all the other dark and damp emotions poured out like a torrential downpour. Shan looked at Elze, who was soaking wet, and her eyes narrowed prettily.
“When you look at me like that... I can’t possibly be at ease.”
He asked the question with a mischievous smile.
“Is it okay if it’s a little rougher?”
But before he could hear the answer, Shan moved. The friction that came and went quickly seemed to burn where it met. Elze took a deep breath. Her back bent involuntarily. In the dizzying sensation of falling, pleasure spread out whitely.
“Ah, ahhhh...!"
The strength below her naturally grew stronger. Shan whispered, letting out a low breath.
“Huh, huh... Elze, don’t tighten it too much... I can’t control it..”
As he blurted out those words, Shan became increasingly rougher. As he continued to thrust without mercy, Elze’s body was pushed upwards until she reached the top of the bed. Suddenly, Shan’s hand pressed hard on her head. It seemed as if he was going to bang her head against the headboard.
“Ah, ah, ha, ah!”
Elze's body shook wildly with the sound of thumping. His penis thrust wildly inside. With the breathtaking pleasure, her lower abdomen began to tighten again. It was a sign of pleasure that she could never get used to.
Shan's hand grabbed Elze's tangled hair. He ejaculated with a boiling sound. Hot liquid sprayed deep inside her. And Elze reached her climax.
“Ha, ahh...!”
Her whole body tightened and a thrilling pleasure spread to every corner. Elze, who had been holding Shan for a long time without coming to her senses, collapsed weakly onto the bed.
Shan wiped her reddened eyes with his hand from crying so much. Then he brought a towel and wiped her sweaty body, placing bird kisses here and there. Unlike his ferocious lower body, his upper body was truly incomparably affectionate.
I wish my lower body was half as big as my upper body...
Elze fell into a deep sleep, lost in thought.
She lit a long pipe. The cigarette crackled as it lit. Hyeon bit the end of the pipe and took a deep drag. Then she exhaled slowly.
The gray smoke wafted through the air like billows, then dissipated. Hyeon put her pipe down and leaned back in her chair.
It was a chair specially custom-made in Targayel for her plump figure. Hyeon sat down on the chair and leisurely stroked her pipe.
She smoked for a long time. At first glance, it seemed like she was enjoying some alone time. However, Hyeon was not alone. Ilwooz was sitting next to her.
Ilwooz was lying on the chair, just like Hyeon. He looked comfortable in front of others. Hyeon smiled as he watched Ilwooz like that. The two close friends, who were bound by a strong friendship, always acted comfortably in front of each other.
It was a fruitful time even without talking about anything. Hyeon and Ilwooz were in a hazy silence for a while. After enjoying some leisurely time, Hyeon was the first to speak.
“Are you getting any sleep these days?”
In response to her question, Ilwooz lied.
“Don’t worry, I’m getting enough sleep...”
But Hyeon recognized it right away.
“That’s a lie.”
“...”
Ilwooz muttered, brushing back his gray hair that was slowly falling down.
“I really can’t lie to you...”
A bitter smile spread across his lips. Hyeon said, wiping the ash from her pipe.
“What good is lying between us?”
Ilwooz fiddled with the string that covered his eyes without saying a word. Hyeon took another deep drag on her pipe and exhaled. She spoke in a low voice.
“...It seems like war is inevitable.”
Hyeon thought of Blahar. The new Emperor of Heglatan was like a flame. He was hot and intense. He burned brightly and sucked in everything around him. And he burned everything black. Hyeon sighed and told him about her feelings for Blahar.
“Blahar is worthy of the name Emperor. Even if he cannot become a Saint, at least he will gain the reputation of a conqueror.”
Although it was annoying, Hyeon acknowledged that Blahar was the material of an Emperor. Heglatan would expand its national power under Blahar's rule from now on.
“But he was the type of person who could never coexist with others.”
Hyeon continued speaking slowly, recalling his memories of meeting Blahar.
“He is not satisfied with being the Emperor of Heglatan. He must at least have the continent under his feet to satisfy his greed.”
Ilwooz looked at Hyeon. Hyeon spoke with a calm gaze.
“The spark of war has already been lit.”
The revolution of Targayel was another hurdle after crossing the mountain. Countless trials had poured down until now, but this was on a different level. Hyeon clicked her tongue and muttered.
“It’s a fight between a tiger with wings and a dragon holding a gate.”
But Ilwooz didn't say anything. Hyeon, who had been waiting for him to say something, finally couldn't hold it in any longer and called him.
“Ilwooz.”
And she asked outright.
“Is this the continental war that was prophesied?”
Ilwooz didn't answer Hyeon's question. He just quietly raised his head and looked at the ceiling. Then he rolled up his sleeves and waved his white hands in the air.
Following his hand, gray cigarette smoke wafted here and there and then disappeared cleanly. The smoke-filled area was cleared. Hyeon smiled and clapped her hands lightly.
Ilwooz smiled faintly along with that line. Then he let out a languid breath. Ilwooz then spoke softly, as if whispering.
“I don’t know anything yet...”
Hyeon blinked for a moment. She felt like she was falling into a dream to Ilwooz's dreamy voice. Ilwooz said, pulling up his sleeves.
“But we have a savior... and she can control Shan Cirxus...”
Everything was uncertain. He could not be sure whether the prophecy would come true or what Ines meant. However, there was one thing that Ilwooz had firm faith in.
It was Elze. He believed that no matter what happened, he would get through it as long as he had her.
“What we have to do is the same as before...”
Ilwooz concluded his speech in a very calm and composed tone.
“Just protecting Elze...”
Marle and Liv met in front of Shan's office door.
“...”
“...”
They exchanged glances in silence. Both of them had been extremely busy lately.
Marle managed Targayel, which had become the ducal residence and assisted with imperial affairs.
Liv was serving as the Vice-Captain of the Knights under Lord Cirxus, who was in charge of the Imperial Knights and was in charge of overall training and work.
Knowing that they were busy, Cirxus rarely gave them unnecessary summons or instructions. But now that a summons had been issued, it meant that something terrible had happened.
They already had a rough idea of what was going on, having already heard the brief report. Emperor Heglatan, Blahar, had visited the Targayel mansion and caused an accident.
According to what they heard from Epen, the head of Kalia who was there, Blahar's remarks were beyond imagination. Fortunately, the madam took it in a tactful manner.
But Shan wasn't the type to just let it go just because it was resolved. From what they've seen so far, Cirxus never forgets anything related to his wife.
Surprisingly, there were many cases where one’s own grudges were overcome. Cirxus is the type of person who doesn’t dwell on the past and is extremely realistic, so if there was no benefit to it, he didn’t bother to look back on past events. He is a person who is so cold to himself that it almost seems like someone else’s business.
However, when it came to matters related to the Madame, the person changed in an instant. Lord Cirxus remembered to the end anyone who had harmed the Madame. And even if it took a long time, he would definitely punish them.
“...So this time it’s Blahar’s turn?”
Liv nodded at Marle's whispered question. Then he lowered his voice and answered.
“He was originally targeted for elimination. But aren’t my lord really angry this time?”
“Why is that crazy guy making a fuss because he wants to die quickly... If he just stays still, I’ll kill him anyway.”
Liv and Marle, who had been mumbling, simultaneously exhaled loudly. Then they began arguing over who should knock on the office door.
In the end, the weak-hearted Marle decided to knock. He reluctantly went in because Liv was insisting on treating him to a big meal. Marle cleared his throat and knocked politely.
“Lord Cirxus, this is Marle.”
“This is Liv.”
A voice was heard from inside the door, allowing them to enter. Marle and Liv cautiously entered the office. And as soon as they saw Lord Cirxus, they took a very disciplined stance.
If he had been angry or expressionless, they would have thought so. But Lord Cirxus was smiling. With a sly smile and a glint in his eyes, it couldn't have been more eerie.
Liv thought back to the appearance of Lady Cirxus when he had been talking to Madam earlier. Back then, he had been as soft as fine velvet, but now...
Liv shuddered briefly. He felt like his lord was slowly becoming a split personality.
“...”
While Liv and Marle were anxiously waiting for Shan, Shan was in deep trouble.
Should I kill that kid?
It was a regret of his to leave that Blahar bastard alone. He should have just snapped his neck.
Choose between a kiss and war! Shan had never seen anyone so crazy. He thought Seraph would at least have some humility, but Blahar didn't have any of that.
It was incredible. To think that Seraph was better after living so long... The shock that Blahar had given to Shan was considerable. He really couldn’t understand how all those who were obsessed with Elze were not normal.
No, it would have been easier if he had just been crazy. He could have just defeated Shan's line without having to go all the way to Elze.
But the funny thing is, they were all equally capable. From an external perspective, they were elites. They were not easy opponents.
"Ha..."
As Shan exhaled and ran his hand through his hair, Marle and Liv, who were standing in front of him, both flinched.
“Marle, Liv.”
“Yes, Lord Cirxus!”
"Yes!"
Shan spoke slowly to the two people who were responding as soon as he finished speaking.
“I think I’ll teach that cheeky bastard a lesson.”
Liv glanced at Marle and then asked cautiously.
“How... should we proceed?”
Shan slowly leaned back, resting his arms on the arms of the reclined chair and opening his mouth.
“The ones that Blahar brought with him to the delegation.”
His words were relaxed, but his eyes were sharp.
“There has to be at least one weakness among them. Be it family, money, or something else.”
Shan whispered, smiling slowly.
“Anything is fine... just grab one.”
In May 998, Imperial Targayel was crowned Emperor.
It was the day that Astin Targayel, the first Emperor of the Targayel Empire, ascended to the throne. The coronation ceremony was held amidst a crowd of people, with delegations from all over the continent gathering to congratulate him.
It was the first official event and a significant moment to announce the inauguration of a new dynasty. As it was such a major event, the coronation ceremony was usually prepared for about a year.
However, Targayel, an empire founded through revolution, could not afford to leave the throne vacant for that long. The coronation ceremony had to be held as soon as possible, so the preparation period was less than three months.
However, there was no time to hold a sloppy coronation ceremony. Targayel had been putting all his efforts into preparing for this day.
Looking down at the maximum achievement in a short period, many people were carried out with blood and sweat. Even Elze and Shan, who had good physical strength, were struggling. In particular, Marle, who had been working at the palace and the Duke's residence at the same time, became half a corpse during the last week.
Thanks to the efforts of many, the coronation ceremony was held with great pomp and grandeur. In the newly refurbished palace, the nobles of Targayel welcomed the new Emperor.
Even in the face of the huge crowd, Astin stood tall and proud. As majestic music played, Astin walked along the red velvet pavement, dragging a long black cloak.
On the long cloak, which was nearly two meters long, was a design of a flying crow in silver and gold. The cloak was studded with blue sapphires and diamonds, which caught the light and shone elegantly with every step.
Astin walked calmly. He reached the low platform where Ilwooz was waiting.
Dressed in the Pope's attire and with long, flowing, pure white hair, Ilwooz looked holy to anyone who saw him. At the sight of Ilwooz, several devout believers of Ines recited a short prayer.
Although it has only recently begun to show some signs of life, the Ines sect was shrouded in mystery from the beginning. Ilwooz has not been active in public affairs to the point where his very existence is questionable. Naturally, he has never attended the coronation of any Emperor.
Since Ilwooz got involved in the revolution, it has been known that the relationship between the Ines Cult and Targayel was unusual. Today, Ilwooz personally presented the crown at the coronation ceremony, putting the final nail in the coffin of such rumors.
Ilwooz whispered his congratulatory remarks in a faint, hazy voice.
“We have welcomed a glorious empire under the name of Ines... May the future of the new empire be filled with only blessings...”
Astin knelt before Ilwooz and bowed his head. Ilwooz lifted the crown and slowly placed it on his head.
“...”
The moment he felt the weight of the crown, Astin closed his eyes tightly for a moment. Then he slowly got up and turned around.
A loud cheer rang out. A dizzying sensation that felt like his eardrums were being ripped came over him. Austin braced his trembling legs and scanned the crowd with his eyes. He found the people standing in the front row.
Empress Heyla, Duke Kyraxus, and Duchess and beloved sister Elze. They were all smiling brightly and clapping enthusiastically. Astin smiled along with them.
Ilwooz, who had been watching from behind, quietly raised his hand. A white halo of light spread out from his hand. The light that had been swelled up in a thick mass suddenly soared into the sky. Then it scattered and fell as sparkling powder. The crowd cheered at Ilwooz’s blessing.
Astin climbed into the prepared carriage with Heyla to march around the capital.
The procession was led by the Imperial Knights and the Knights of Elijah. In the middle of the procession was the carriage carrying Astin and Heyla, while Elze and Shan rode right in front of the carriage.
On both sides, soldiers lined up to block the crowd and the procession, just in case something happened.
But the crowds that had gathered to see the new Emperor paid no attention. They cheered and threw flowers at the procession. Some passionate women even blew kisses to the soldiers standing guard. Then, laughter erupted from the surroundings.
They marched through the capital under the warm sunlight, amidst flowers and laughter pouring from all over.
Even as they enjoyed the thrill, Elze and Shan did not let their guard down. However, when they looked around fiercely and briefly met each other's eyes, they couldn't help but laugh.
The two smiled faintly and then turned their gaze forward again.
After the coronation ceremony, a banquet awaited them.
If the coronation ceremony was an event for the people of the empire, the subsequent banquet held at the palace was an event for the empire's nobles and foreign envoys.
An elegant melody floated through the banquet hall. Whispering conversations and occasional laughter could be heard. In a comfortable atmosphere of eating and drinking, the delegation met with Astin and Heyla one by one. They presented the congratulatory gifts they had prepared.
The Kingdom of Britain sent a delegation in person, and the gifts he prepared for the Targayel Empire were generous. One of the nobles watching quietly muttered.
“An anchor made of gold...”
The elaborately shaped anchor was a symbolic gift from the Kingdom of Britain, famous for its navy.
It was about the size of the palm of one's hand, but it was made of gold and decorated with various jewels, including diamonds, making it extremely expensive.
But the surprise at the gift from the Kingdom of Britain was short-lived, and the people were even more surprised by the gift from the Kingdom of Ryeo.
The gift that Ryeo prepared was porcelain. The porcelain, with a soft blue hue, had graceful curves, and a dragon holding a Yeouiju was drawn all over the porcelain, from the bottom to the mouth. The dragon was so lifelike that it looked as if it would wriggle and ascend to the sky at any moment. Even within the Ryeo Kingdom, porcelain of this quality was considered an expensive and valuable item.
On the continent, even a small teacup of Ryeo's porcelain was sold at a high price, so this kind of porcelain was truly a rare item whose price was incalculable. The nobles who loved Ryeo's goods were crazy about looking at the porcelain.
In the chaotic atmosphere, the last ones to deliver their gifts were the envoys from the Heglatan Empire.
As Emperor Blahar of Heglatan stepped forward, the banquet hall suddenly became quiet. The musicians seemed nervous, as even the softly playing music seemed to have become distorted. Blahar, dressed in a deep red banquet gown, smiled brightly and spoke.
“Heglatan has also prepared a small gift.”
At his gesture, the attendants came shuffling in carrying a large box tied with a ribbon of a bright pattern. It was a very large box, almost as tall and wide as a grown man.
As the crowd's attention was focused on its enormous size, Blahar pulled the ribbon. The box was removed, revealing an iron cage with ornate patterns.
Inside it was a young animal trapped, and a stunned silence fell upon the room.
“...”
The beast making the roaring sound was a lion, the symbol of the Baluar royal family.
“Ugh...”
Even though they managed to chase Blahar away, Shan was furious. Even after Blahar left, Elze stayed by Shan’s side. She was worried that Shan might secretly follow Blahar and snap his neck.
Of course, Elze was filled with the desire to snap Blahar's neck. However, she could not do anything right before the coronation ceremony. Especially not at a time like this when the delegations from various countries were gathered.
After following Shan around nervously all day, work was finally over and they were in the bedroom. Elze lay on the bed and waited for Shan.
She was so nervous that her body felt tired. She thought she would fall asleep soon. She was half-asleep waiting for Shan when she felt someone's presence.
“Shan...?”
“Elze.”
Elze was about to get up when she heard a voice. Shan, who had approached her, suddenly started to move quickly, and her vision went dark.
“!!”
Something like a string covered Elze's eyes. Elze was startled and hurriedly tried to untie the string. But she couldn't move. It was because Shan was holding her shoulder tightly. Elze fell back on the bed. He pressed Elze's body deeply into the bed.
A brief silence lingered between the two. Elze took a shallow breath and exhaled. Her vision was dark, and she couldn't move. She felt like a criminal who had done something bad and was caught by the guards. It was obvious why he was so upset.
Blahar, the damned bastard. Elze cursed Blahar ten times in her mind before calling out Shan's name softly.
“Shan...”
“...”
There was no answer from Shan. Elze spoke to him quietly.
“Let me go, Shan.”
But Shan was quiet. After a long silence, he slowly opened his mouth.
“If Blahar.”
A hot breath settled on her back. Her skin felt as if it was burning.
“If he had truly given you the empire, would you have kissed him?”
Shan slowly bit the back of her neck. Biting hard enough to sting, he then licked it slowly.
“It’s okay to be honest. It’s okay...”
He spoke coaxingly, gently rubbing the kiss mark with his finger.
“Answer me, Elze.”
Elze blinked at Shan's words. It's okay, so tell me honestly. But the tone he was actually speaking in was fierce. He pretended to be affectionate, but behind it, there was jealousy that couldn't be hidden. If she answered wrongly here, something absolutely not okay would happen.
Elze held off on answering for the moment. Instead, she spoke to him again.
“Shan, first of all, the eyes...”
Her mind was uneasy because her eyes were covered. As her field of vision was limited, her other senses were heightened. Elze could feel Shan’s breath in every single layer. He kneaded her thighs with his hands. She felt like every joint of her fingers was being firmly engraved.
Her throat was parched from the tension. Elze swallowed hard, but the dry feeling did not go away. Elxe spoke to him in a slightly hoarse voice.
“You know what I’m going to say.”
She tried to evade the question, but it was no use to Shan. He said, placing his lips on her shoulder blade.
“Say it with your own mouth. Yes?”
Shan was infinitely sweet. His voice was soft and his flowing hair tickled. But the strength holding down Elze’s wrist did not loosen. Shan whispered again.
“Come on, Elze.”
"Therefore..."
Elze hesitated to answer. In fact, it was only for a moment, but it was because he was so angry.
Who wouldn't be tempted by the idea of giving up war for a kiss? Blahar was a man who knew how to sway people's hearts. He made an offer that no one could easily refuse.
But Elze refused. This wasn't a matter of weighing the lives of countless people against a kiss. It was just a facade for deception. Blahar's focus was elsewhere.
What he was after was the relationship between Shan and Elze.
The moment she accepted Blahar's kiss for the sake of a greater cause, the trust between them would be irreparably broken.
From then on, it didn't matter whether Blahar really waged war or offered up the empire. That was a secondary issue. Shan and Elze would never be able to trust each other like they used to. Shan said to Elze, who was lost in thought and silent.
“So, you’re going to kiss Blahar?”
The quiet voice was so calm that it was heavy. Under the crushing weight, Elze unconsciously answered a beat later.
“...That’s not it.”
But from the moment she didn't answer right away, Shan seemed to be already upset.
“Of course, you wouldn’t say that.”
He released Elze's wrist. The pressure was gone. But Elze still felt as if she was being held tightly and couldn't move.
“Shan...”
She was curious. She wanted to see what kind of face Shan had, and what kind of expression he was making. However, even though her two hands were free, Elze could not take off the blindfold. She did not have the confidence to look Shan in the eye.
Elze slowly turned around to face Shan. Instead of taking off the blindfold, she lifted her hand slightly. Shan’s chest was touching her fingertips. She could feel Shan taking deep breaths and exhaling. Elze carefully caressed his chest.
“Phew...”
With a sound of breathing, a firm chest came closer. And then it met Elze’s chest. He kissed her while holding her tightly. The sound of their entangling clamor rang in her eardrums. The hot heat rushed to the naked sound. It was a kiss no different from usual. But the reason it felt even more intense was probably because her eyes were covered.
As their lips parted, Elze let out a hot breath. Shan placed his lips on Elze's eyes. She could feel his lips against hers through the thin cloth between them. Shan kissed both eyes and whispered.
“...It doesn’t matter. Even if you covet the empire and kiss him.”
Elze was surprised by Shan's answer. Her mouth fell open. Shan's finger touched her lips and entered her open mouth.
“You can do whatever you want.”
The tips of his fingers brushed along the teeth. He caressed along the molars and canines, then lightly rubbed the roof of her mouth. A thick, yet slightly rough feeling tingled.
Elze bit his finger. She bit hard, but Shan didn't back off at all. Instead, he pushed his finger in even deeper.
“But if there’s something you want or desire, tell me first.”
He ran his wet fingers down Elze's body, sliding inside without hesitation, and rubbing the softest and most sensitive spot.
“I will save you whatever it is.”
In the dark vision, a tingling sensation rose throughout her body. In an instant, the feeling of being set ablaze was eerie. Her heart was pounding with rapid breathing, and her mind was becoming increasingly dizzy. Elze shook her head. She wanted to hear what he said clearly.
But Shan, whether intentionally or not, kept distracting Elze from concentrating. He licked Elze’s neck for a long time, then kissed her chest. The feeling of licking that plump spot made her head tingle.
She wanted to grab Shan's shoulder. But she didn't know where he was, so her hands floated in the air. Shan smiled lowly and said.
“I wish you would only look at me.”
The words whispered at the end of the pleasure were like a tail. It swayed and made Elze dizzy. Shan pulled Elze’s hand and made her grab the back of his neck.
Elze twisted her body, holding him tightly. Everything felt like her usual stomach. When he licked and chewed the tip of her nipple, Elze reached a light climax and even let out a whimper.
Shan stroked Elze, who was trembling and called her name.
“Elze...”
The voice that could be heard in nothing being seen was truly powerful. It seemed to dig straight into the eardrums. And Shan completely trapped Elze.
“Ouch!”
Elze let out a short scream. He slowly pushed inside. Her waist rose high from the thick, hot sensation. She became stiff and trembled, then fell, then couldn't overcome the sensation and rose again, repeating the process.
The pleasure was like being in deep water. She fell in and couldn’t get out. He kept pulling Elze in. Elze struggled desperately. It felt like she would sink if she stopped struggling even a little. A small whisper followed Elze, who was trembling and panting.
“I will try my best...”
A pleasure that felt like her brain was shaking tormented her entire body. As she scratched his skin with her fingernails and cried, Shan explored Elze even more deeply.
The tears that flowed from the pleasure soaked the cloth covering her eyes. Saliva that she couldn't swallow flowed out from her parted mouth. Shan bit the tip of Elze's chin as she panted and licked the saliva that flowed out.
His soft tongue swept over her skin. Even the tickling came as an unbearable pleasure. When El*e turned her head to the side, he dug deep inside her and whispered in an extremely low voice.
“Don’t look the other way.”
“...!”
With a thud, his thing was pushed all the way in. The vision that should have been dark because it was covered flashed white for a moment. Elze clung to Shan with all her might and cried.
The string that had been binding her eyes loosened with the violent movement, and Elze's eyes met directly with those of his purple pupils.
Inside, passion was seething. Jealousy, possessiveness, and all the other dark and damp emotions poured out like a torrential downpour. Shan looked at Elze, who was soaking wet, and her eyes narrowed prettily.
“When you look at me like that... I can’t possibly be at ease.”
He asked the question with a mischievous smile.
“Is it okay if it’s a little rougher?”
But before he could hear the answer, Shan moved. The friction that came and went quickly seemed to burn where it met. Elze took a deep breath. Her back bent involuntarily. In the dizzying sensation of falling, pleasure spread out whitely.
“Ah, ahhhh...!"
The strength below her naturally grew stronger. Shan whispered, letting out a low breath.
“Huh, huh... Elze, don’t tighten it too much... I can’t control it..”
As he blurted out those words, Shan became increasingly rougher. As he continued to thrust without mercy, Elze’s body was pushed upwards until she reached the top of the bed. Suddenly, Shan’s hand pressed hard on her head. It seemed as if he was going to bang her head against the headboard.
“Ah, ah, ha, ah!”
Elze's body shook wildly with the sound of thumping. His penis thrust wildly inside. With the breathtaking pleasure, her lower abdomen began to tighten again. It was a sign of pleasure that she could never get used to.
Shan's hand grabbed Elze's tangled hair. He ejaculated with a boiling sound. Hot liquid sprayed deep inside her. And Elze reached her climax.
“Ha, ahh...!”
Her whole body tightened and a thrilling pleasure spread to every corner. Elze, who had been holding Shan for a long time without coming to her senses, collapsed weakly onto the bed.
Shan wiped her reddened eyes with his hand from crying so much. Then he brought a towel and wiped her sweaty body, placing bird kisses here and there. Unlike his ferocious lower body, his upper body was truly incomparably affectionate.
I wish my lower body was half as big as my upper body...
Elze fell into a deep sleep, lost in thought.
***
She lit a long pipe. The cigarette crackled as it lit. Hyeon bit the end of the pipe and took a deep drag. Then she exhaled slowly.
The gray smoke wafted through the air like billows, then dissipated. Hyeon put her pipe down and leaned back in her chair.
It was a chair specially custom-made in Targayel for her plump figure. Hyeon sat down on the chair and leisurely stroked her pipe.
She smoked for a long time. At first glance, it seemed like she was enjoying some alone time. However, Hyeon was not alone. Ilwooz was sitting next to her.
Ilwooz was lying on the chair, just like Hyeon. He looked comfortable in front of others. Hyeon smiled as he watched Ilwooz like that. The two close friends, who were bound by a strong friendship, always acted comfortably in front of each other.
It was a fruitful time even without talking about anything. Hyeon and Ilwooz were in a hazy silence for a while. After enjoying some leisurely time, Hyeon was the first to speak.
“Are you getting any sleep these days?”
In response to her question, Ilwooz lied.
“Don’t worry, I’m getting enough sleep...”
But Hyeon recognized it right away.
“That’s a lie.”
“...”
Ilwooz muttered, brushing back his gray hair that was slowly falling down.
“I really can’t lie to you...”
A bitter smile spread across his lips. Hyeon said, wiping the ash from her pipe.
“What good is lying between us?”
Ilwooz fiddled with the string that covered his eyes without saying a word. Hyeon took another deep drag on her pipe and exhaled. She spoke in a low voice.
“...It seems like war is inevitable.”
Hyeon thought of Blahar. The new Emperor of Heglatan was like a flame. He was hot and intense. He burned brightly and sucked in everything around him. And he burned everything black. Hyeon sighed and told him about her feelings for Blahar.
“Blahar is worthy of the name Emperor. Even if he cannot become a Saint, at least he will gain the reputation of a conqueror.”
Although it was annoying, Hyeon acknowledged that Blahar was the material of an Emperor. Heglatan would expand its national power under Blahar's rule from now on.
“But he was the type of person who could never coexist with others.”
Hyeon continued speaking slowly, recalling his memories of meeting Blahar.
“He is not satisfied with being the Emperor of Heglatan. He must at least have the continent under his feet to satisfy his greed.”
Ilwooz looked at Hyeon. Hyeon spoke with a calm gaze.
“The spark of war has already been lit.”
The revolution of Targayel was another hurdle after crossing the mountain. Countless trials had poured down until now, but this was on a different level. Hyeon clicked her tongue and muttered.
“It’s a fight between a tiger with wings and a dragon holding a gate.”
But Ilwooz didn't say anything. Hyeon, who had been waiting for him to say something, finally couldn't hold it in any longer and called him.
“Ilwooz.”
And she asked outright.
“Is this the continental war that was prophesied?”
Ilwooz didn't answer Hyeon's question. He just quietly raised his head and looked at the ceiling. Then he rolled up his sleeves and waved his white hands in the air.
Following his hand, gray cigarette smoke wafted here and there and then disappeared cleanly. The smoke-filled area was cleared. Hyeon smiled and clapped her hands lightly.
Ilwooz smiled faintly along with that line. Then he let out a languid breath. Ilwooz then spoke softly, as if whispering.
“I don’t know anything yet...”
Hyeon blinked for a moment. She felt like she was falling into a dream to Ilwooz's dreamy voice. Ilwooz said, pulling up his sleeves.
“But we have a savior... and she can control Shan Cirxus...”
Everything was uncertain. He could not be sure whether the prophecy would come true or what Ines meant. However, there was one thing that Ilwooz had firm faith in.
It was Elze. He believed that no matter what happened, he would get through it as long as he had her.
“What we have to do is the same as before...”
Ilwooz concluded his speech in a very calm and composed tone.
“Just protecting Elze...”
***
Marle and Liv met in front of Shan's office door.
“...”
“...”
They exchanged glances in silence. Both of them had been extremely busy lately.
Marle managed Targayel, which had become the ducal residence and assisted with imperial affairs.
Liv was serving as the Vice-Captain of the Knights under Lord Cirxus, who was in charge of the Imperial Knights and was in charge of overall training and work.
Knowing that they were busy, Cirxus rarely gave them unnecessary summons or instructions. But now that a summons had been issued, it meant that something terrible had happened.
They already had a rough idea of what was going on, having already heard the brief report. Emperor Heglatan, Blahar, had visited the Targayel mansion and caused an accident.
According to what they heard from Epen, the head of Kalia who was there, Blahar's remarks were beyond imagination. Fortunately, the madam took it in a tactful manner.
But Shan wasn't the type to just let it go just because it was resolved. From what they've seen so far, Cirxus never forgets anything related to his wife.
Surprisingly, there were many cases where one’s own grudges were overcome. Cirxus is the type of person who doesn’t dwell on the past and is extremely realistic, so if there was no benefit to it, he didn’t bother to look back on past events. He is a person who is so cold to himself that it almost seems like someone else’s business.
However, when it came to matters related to the Madame, the person changed in an instant. Lord Cirxus remembered to the end anyone who had harmed the Madame. And even if it took a long time, he would definitely punish them.
“...So this time it’s Blahar’s turn?”
Liv nodded at Marle's whispered question. Then he lowered his voice and answered.
“He was originally targeted for elimination. But aren’t my lord really angry this time?”
“Why is that crazy guy making a fuss because he wants to die quickly... If he just stays still, I’ll kill him anyway.”
Liv and Marle, who had been mumbling, simultaneously exhaled loudly. Then they began arguing over who should knock on the office door.
In the end, the weak-hearted Marle decided to knock. He reluctantly went in because Liv was insisting on treating him to a big meal. Marle cleared his throat and knocked politely.
“Lord Cirxus, this is Marle.”
“This is Liv.”
A voice was heard from inside the door, allowing them to enter. Marle and Liv cautiously entered the office. And as soon as they saw Lord Cirxus, they took a very disciplined stance.
If he had been angry or expressionless, they would have thought so. But Lord Cirxus was smiling. With a sly smile and a glint in his eyes, it couldn't have been more eerie.
Liv thought back to the appearance of Lady Cirxus when he had been talking to Madam earlier. Back then, he had been as soft as fine velvet, but now...
Liv shuddered briefly. He felt like his lord was slowly becoming a split personality.
“...”
While Liv and Marle were anxiously waiting for Shan, Shan was in deep trouble.
Should I kill that kid?
It was a regret of his to leave that Blahar bastard alone. He should have just snapped his neck.
Choose between a kiss and war! Shan had never seen anyone so crazy. He thought Seraph would at least have some humility, but Blahar didn't have any of that.
It was incredible. To think that Seraph was better after living so long... The shock that Blahar had given to Shan was considerable. He really couldn’t understand how all those who were obsessed with Elze were not normal.
No, it would have been easier if he had just been crazy. He could have just defeated Shan's line without having to go all the way to Elze.
But the funny thing is, they were all equally capable. From an external perspective, they were elites. They were not easy opponents.
"Ha..."
As Shan exhaled and ran his hand through his hair, Marle and Liv, who were standing in front of him, both flinched.
“Marle, Liv.”
“Yes, Lord Cirxus!”
"Yes!"
Shan spoke slowly to the two people who were responding as soon as he finished speaking.
“I think I’ll teach that cheeky bastard a lesson.”
Liv glanced at Marle and then asked cautiously.
“How... should we proceed?”
Shan slowly leaned back, resting his arms on the arms of the reclined chair and opening his mouth.
“The ones that Blahar brought with him to the delegation.”
His words were relaxed, but his eyes were sharp.
“There has to be at least one weakness among them. Be it family, money, or something else.”
Shan whispered, smiling slowly.
“Anything is fine... just grab one.”
***
In May 998, Imperial Targayel was crowned Emperor.
It was the day that Astin Targayel, the first Emperor of the Targayel Empire, ascended to the throne. The coronation ceremony was held amidst a crowd of people, with delegations from all over the continent gathering to congratulate him.
It was the first official event and a significant moment to announce the inauguration of a new dynasty. As it was such a major event, the coronation ceremony was usually prepared for about a year.
However, Targayel, an empire founded through revolution, could not afford to leave the throne vacant for that long. The coronation ceremony had to be held as soon as possible, so the preparation period was less than three months.
However, there was no time to hold a sloppy coronation ceremony. Targayel had been putting all his efforts into preparing for this day.
Looking down at the maximum achievement in a short period, many people were carried out with blood and sweat. Even Elze and Shan, who had good physical strength, were struggling. In particular, Marle, who had been working at the palace and the Duke's residence at the same time, became half a corpse during the last week.
Thanks to the efforts of many, the coronation ceremony was held with great pomp and grandeur. In the newly refurbished palace, the nobles of Targayel welcomed the new Emperor.
Even in the face of the huge crowd, Astin stood tall and proud. As majestic music played, Astin walked along the red velvet pavement, dragging a long black cloak.
On the long cloak, which was nearly two meters long, was a design of a flying crow in silver and gold. The cloak was studded with blue sapphires and diamonds, which caught the light and shone elegantly with every step.
Astin walked calmly. He reached the low platform where Ilwooz was waiting.
Dressed in the Pope's attire and with long, flowing, pure white hair, Ilwooz looked holy to anyone who saw him. At the sight of Ilwooz, several devout believers of Ines recited a short prayer.
Although it has only recently begun to show some signs of life, the Ines sect was shrouded in mystery from the beginning. Ilwooz has not been active in public affairs to the point where his very existence is questionable. Naturally, he has never attended the coronation of any Emperor.
Since Ilwooz got involved in the revolution, it has been known that the relationship between the Ines Cult and Targayel was unusual. Today, Ilwooz personally presented the crown at the coronation ceremony, putting the final nail in the coffin of such rumors.
Ilwooz whispered his congratulatory remarks in a faint, hazy voice.
“We have welcomed a glorious empire under the name of Ines... May the future of the new empire be filled with only blessings...”
Astin knelt before Ilwooz and bowed his head. Ilwooz lifted the crown and slowly placed it on his head.
“...”
The moment he felt the weight of the crown, Astin closed his eyes tightly for a moment. Then he slowly got up and turned around.
A loud cheer rang out. A dizzying sensation that felt like his eardrums were being ripped came over him. Austin braced his trembling legs and scanned the crowd with his eyes. He found the people standing in the front row.
Empress Heyla, Duke Kyraxus, and Duchess and beloved sister Elze. They were all smiling brightly and clapping enthusiastically. Astin smiled along with them.
Ilwooz, who had been watching from behind, quietly raised his hand. A white halo of light spread out from his hand. The light that had been swelled up in a thick mass suddenly soared into the sky. Then it scattered and fell as sparkling powder. The crowd cheered at Ilwooz’s blessing.
Astin climbed into the prepared carriage with Heyla to march around the capital.
The procession was led by the Imperial Knights and the Knights of Elijah. In the middle of the procession was the carriage carrying Astin and Heyla, while Elze and Shan rode right in front of the carriage.
On both sides, soldiers lined up to block the crowd and the procession, just in case something happened.
But the crowds that had gathered to see the new Emperor paid no attention. They cheered and threw flowers at the procession. Some passionate women even blew kisses to the soldiers standing guard. Then, laughter erupted from the surroundings.
They marched through the capital under the warm sunlight, amidst flowers and laughter pouring from all over.
Even as they enjoyed the thrill, Elze and Shan did not let their guard down. However, when they looked around fiercely and briefly met each other's eyes, they couldn't help but laugh.
The two smiled faintly and then turned their gaze forward again.
***
After the coronation ceremony, a banquet awaited them.
If the coronation ceremony was an event for the people of the empire, the subsequent banquet held at the palace was an event for the empire's nobles and foreign envoys.
An elegant melody floated through the banquet hall. Whispering conversations and occasional laughter could be heard. In a comfortable atmosphere of eating and drinking, the delegation met with Astin and Heyla one by one. They presented the congratulatory gifts they had prepared.
The Kingdom of Britain sent a delegation in person, and the gifts he prepared for the Targayel Empire were generous. One of the nobles watching quietly muttered.
“An anchor made of gold...”
The elaborately shaped anchor was a symbolic gift from the Kingdom of Britain, famous for its navy.
It was about the size of the palm of one's hand, but it was made of gold and decorated with various jewels, including diamonds, making it extremely expensive.
But the surprise at the gift from the Kingdom of Britain was short-lived, and the people were even more surprised by the gift from the Kingdom of Ryeo.
The gift that Ryeo prepared was porcelain. The porcelain, with a soft blue hue, had graceful curves, and a dragon holding a Yeouiju was drawn all over the porcelain, from the bottom to the mouth. The dragon was so lifelike that it looked as if it would wriggle and ascend to the sky at any moment. Even within the Ryeo Kingdom, porcelain of this quality was considered an expensive and valuable item.
On the continent, even a small teacup of Ryeo's porcelain was sold at a high price, so this kind of porcelain was truly a rare item whose price was incalculable. The nobles who loved Ryeo's goods were crazy about looking at the porcelain.
In the chaotic atmosphere, the last ones to deliver their gifts were the envoys from the Heglatan Empire.
As Emperor Blahar of Heglatan stepped forward, the banquet hall suddenly became quiet. The musicians seemed nervous, as even the softly playing music seemed to have become distorted. Blahar, dressed in a deep red banquet gown, smiled brightly and spoke.
“Heglatan has also prepared a small gift.”
At his gesture, the attendants came shuffling in carrying a large box tied with a ribbon of a bright pattern. It was a very large box, almost as tall and wide as a grown man.
As the crowd's attention was focused on its enormous size, Blahar pulled the ribbon. The box was removed, revealing an iron cage with ornate patterns.
Inside it was a young animal trapped, and a stunned silence fell upon the room.
“...”
The beast making the roaring sound was a lion, the symbol of the Baluar royal family.
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