"Ah!"
As expected, Prince Felix was specialized in running away.
I opened my eyes wide and glared at his cowardly back, but a large hand grabbed my chin and turned my head away.
“Where are you looking, Yvonne? Please look at me.”
A chill ran down my spine as I made eye contact with him.
Rudnine's dark, sunken eyes gleamed.
'Ah.'
When I forced myself to meet his gaze, I could feel how angry he was, and a cold sweat ran down my spine.
Now I know.
When Rudnine, who always approaches me politely and gently, grabs me like this, it's only when he's really, really angry.
This must be the hidden side of a man named Rudnine Els, known only to me, his lover.
'That's right. The order is wrong. But...'
“I’m sorry I didn’t discuss it with you in advance.”
“Yes, if you’re really sorry, then you don’t have to go.”
His softly hummed voice was filled with thorns. My chest felt heavy, as if a heavy stone had been placed on it.
I carefully placed my hand on the back of his hand that was holding my chin.
"The rescue operation for little Duke Barden, which I've launched. Does Duke Rudnain Iels object?"
“I object as a Duke, and as your lover.”
He answered neatly without the slightest hesitation.
I grabbed his hand from my chin and pulled it down, narrowing my eyes.
"Why are you so unconditionally against it? Because you think I'll get seriously hurt again like last time? I told you I had magical amnesia last time. Things are completely different now. Don't you trust me?"
“Yvonne.”
"Because I'm precious to you? But the life of the little Duke of Barden... may not be important to Rudd, but it weighs heavily on me."
“I never said that.”
Rudnine's thick eyebrows rose upward.
'Oh, he's even angrier.'
He roughly stroked my face.
I provoked him.
I thought I should apologize, but I was so nervous that it was hard to calm down.
In fact, as soon as I heard about the incident that broke out this morning, I sneaked out of the mansion with my servants, looked around the scene, and returned.
The scene was horrific.
The carcass of an animal that could not be cleaned up, and the red blood stains left on the floor...
It was clear that the warlocks had taken advantage of the fact that animal blood was similar in color to human blood.
I'm sick and tired of the cruelty of those who deliberately incite fear.
'No, actually, people will soon be killed. Starting with the lowest-ranking maids and servants who are trapped in the palace and unable to escape...'
Surely, they're not all dead already?
A chill ran down my spine as I recalled the sight of the new corpse lying in Nasiel Square.
If they start killing people openly in the future, their black magic will grow exponentially stronger.
And the demon corps commander, Toylat, is properly manifested?
'No.'
There's no way to stop it; everyone will die. What Cordelia told me before wasn't a bluff.
Now that I've finished my research on black magic, I'm even more confident.
I closed my eyes tightly and opened them again, then opened my mouth again.
"The people of the capital have fled, but many are still trapped in the palace. They will soon be killed by the warlocks, so we must rescue them quickly."
“I also know that warlocks obtain black magic by sacrificing human lives.”
When Rudnine's face grew cloudy and he seemed to waver, I insisted a little more firmly.
“So please let me go. I have to go, I’m the right person for the job!”
"Are you serious? That's so selfish of you. How dare I send Yvonne to that place alone?"
He got angry and criticized me openly.
Although I was upset, I raised my voice because I thought I couldn't back down now.
"Selfish! Objectively speaking, I'm the only one. It's not like I'm just insisting on going. Both His Highness and Father agreed that we could easily get there if we infiltrated using the secret map to the palace we received from the Demirant Guild."
“Yvonne.”
"I'm not going alone. I'll be bringing my companions with me. I'm the only one who can identify and fight the companions the warlocks have. I'm a strong mage, with excellent stamina and agility."
Without even taking a breath, I explained how I was the right person for the job.
But Rudnine's expression was still not good.
No, it actually became cooler.
Then he raised his lips in a crooked manner and spoke coldly.
"Very well, Princess Yvonne Argenthoz. Then I will take charge of rescuing the Little Duke."
“...What did you just say?”
“Because I am a more suitable person than you.”
I was surprised by his cold-hearted tone, which I was hearing for the first time, but my lips and eyes opened wide in shock at the content.
“Why are you...”
"No matter how agile you are, you're no match for me. In terms of combat prowess, I still seem to have the upper hand. Have you ever sneaked in to search somewhere? No, I doubt it. Therefore, your trustworthiness is low."
“Duke of Iels!”
I was amazed.
I called out to him with a choking feeling, but I couldn't continue speaking because I felt like I was suffocating.
This person is openly saying that he will block me.
Oh my god!
To oppose Rudnine.
“...”
His gaze, silently looking at me as if waiting for my answer, was so sharp.
How did it come to this?
I glared at Rudnine with my eyes reddened, and barely managed to open my trembling lips.
"Your Excellency, you must lead the vanguard of the battle that will soon begin. I understand you are a Sword Master and the highest commander."
"My role will be taken over by the Deputy Commander and the Duke of Argenthoz. Yvonne, please fight for me there as well. I'll rescue the Duke and return soon."
“Rudd!”
Exhausted, I let go of his hand, took a step back, and bit my lower lip.
“Don’t do this, I actually...!”
"Yes, Yvonne. Tell me anything. I'm ready to listen."
Rudnine returned to his usual polite speech.
I just realized it now.
'Ah, this guy... he knew why I was like this.'
Yes. It's absurd to say that I'm the only one who can rescue Barden.
Of course, the qualifications are sufficient.
But... my real ‘purpose’ isn’t just rescuing Barden and the trapped people.
I absolutely had to contact Cordelia at the palace. And she, who was the key, would soon die.
That means the only person I can ask about how to become a warlock is gone.
'I don't have time.'
As soon as Empress Giselle took Adrian, another key, a state of emergency was declared, and it's been six days since the Verbent Palace was closed. Given the circumstances, Empress Giselle must have been opening the gates of liberation from that day on.
After studying the black magic materials, I can estimate the date, and it will open today at the earliest, or tomorrow at the latest.
Fromdy, whom I caught unfortunately, said he didn't have the ability to awaken a great warlock like me.
'That's why Cordelia asked me to come find her.'
So we have to hurry.
...Shit!
“What on earth are you hiding, Yvonne?”
I came back to my senses at Rudnine's question, which was being asked slowly.
Since when did this person start seeing through my mind?
He broke the silence first, with only the sound of our two breathing audible.
“If you run away without saying anything now, I will never catch Yvonne again.”
A cold warning struck my heart.
“Does this mean you’ll never see me again?”
“...”
“I’m not running away! This time, I’m telling you.”
"But you promised to go with me to any dangerous places. Have you forgotten?"
“Rudd...”
The broad shoulders of that strong man were trembling slightly.
Feeling weak, I approached him and gently took his hand.
Then he slowly stroked my calloused fingers and joints. I sighed, trying to gather my thoughts, and he pulled my hand and whispered in my ear.
“Yvonne. Are you really trying to become a warlock?”
“!!!”
My heart sank at the question being asked so openly. Startled, I looked around in confusion.
No one heard, right...?
Rudnine frowned as if he was displeased to see me like that.
"Yvonne. Even if you become a warlock, it's a choice for the greater good. Why do you act like a criminal?"
"But."
"You haven't even revealed that you can communicate with the familiars and use their abilities. Are you afraid?"
“...Honestly, I’m scared, Rudd.”
"Yes?"
Rudnine furrowed his brow in confusion. I couldn't bear to look at him and lowered my head.
"Now everyone's finally acknowledging me. Even the wizards and nobles who used to think I was just a troublemaker. It's funny, but I loved it. But then I think about them blaming me again as soon as I get involved with dark magic..."
My voice trembled.
I just wanted to show my best side to the man I love.
"I'm scared. But if my prediction is correct, Empress Giselle will be strong. And so will the Demon Legion Commander... If I could become a warlock and save everyone, of course I would."
By the time I finished speaking, both my mind and voice had calmed down.
Yes, the decision has already been made.
Then Rudnine lifted my hand, kissed the back of it, and whispered longingly.
“Yvonne is always so cool, it’s dazzling.”
“Yes? Me?”
While I was feeling embarrassed, he returned to being my affectionate lover, saying calmly as he tugged my hair behind my ear.
“...How could I dare to stop Yvonne’s decision?”
“!!!”
“I’ll send you. This time, just like Yvonne said, you’ll tell me the destination clearly.”
And Rudnine added sternly.
"But I promise you this. If you ever become a warlock, never hide from people out of fear. I will prepare a world where you can live proudly."
“Ready...”
"That's all I can do. If you promise, I'll send you."
I was speechless.
Despite his calm tone of voice, his eyes were still stained with pain.
I could tell how much he loved me because he respected my decision even though it was painful and difficult.
'Ugh.'
This time, I was in trouble.
On the contrary, it is I who does not want to leave.
I love him so much.
But if I hesitate, swayed by these emotions now, I may lose the world we live in together forever.
I held back my tears and forced the corners of my mouth to turn up.
"If we do well, I might not have to become a warlock. If Rudnine, my father, and everyone else fight well and win, it's possible... Let's do our best!"
"I will, Yvonne. I will fight with all my might to make sure you don't have to make that difficult decision."
“I trust you, Rudd.”
His expression, which had been looking at me casually, eventually became distorted.
He bent his head down, gave me a quick kiss, and then pulled away, breathing heavily as if in pain.
“You can’t let a single hair be damaged.”
"All right."
I nodded, but Rudnine still looked tired.
I asked him, without realizing it, as he gently stroked my ear and cheek, and couldn't let go.
“Do I like me that much?”
“Yes. I can’t be angry for long, and I’ll let Yvonne go without a fight.”
He answers quickly, kisses me softly again, and then leaves.
'Ah. I'm upset.'
It was also interesting and nice to see the expression on Rudnine's face.
Seeing a new side of someone you love. This feeling shines brighter than a treasure.
But I didn't want to break up like this, so I put my arms around his neck.
I smiled at his wide, surprised eyes and kissed him. The sweet sensation overwhelming me made me close my eyes.
Maybe this person is my true first love?
The first person who taught me all the emotions: anxious, nervous, in pain, happy, joyful, sad, and brilliant.
I barely managed to pull my wet lips apart and gasp for breath when he whispered.
“I’m still angry. No matter what, you still don’t talk to me first.”
“Please forgive me for now... I’ll come back and grant you one wish. Yes? Let’s get over it.”
“...”
"Two."
“...Hmm.”
“Yes, three! I’ll give you three!”
"Great."
I cried out desperately, and the answer came back in 0.1 seconds.
“Don’t do that again. I’ll grant you three wishes.”
Hmm... So three wishes would solve it?
I tilted my head as I watched Rudnine wiping my lips, but he smiled with satisfaction, as if he was enjoying something so good.
But then, it was.
Kwajijik, kukukukung―.
A loud roar was heard from afar, accompanied by a vibration that shook the floor of the Argenthoz mansion where we were standing.
His and my expressions hardened at the same time.
As expected, Prince Felix was specialized in running away.
I opened my eyes wide and glared at his cowardly back, but a large hand grabbed my chin and turned my head away.
“Where are you looking, Yvonne? Please look at me.”
A chill ran down my spine as I made eye contact with him.
Rudnine's dark, sunken eyes gleamed.
'Ah.'
When I forced myself to meet his gaze, I could feel how angry he was, and a cold sweat ran down my spine.
Now I know.
When Rudnine, who always approaches me politely and gently, grabs me like this, it's only when he's really, really angry.
This must be the hidden side of a man named Rudnine Els, known only to me, his lover.
'That's right. The order is wrong. But...'
“I’m sorry I didn’t discuss it with you in advance.”
“Yes, if you’re really sorry, then you don’t have to go.”
His softly hummed voice was filled with thorns. My chest felt heavy, as if a heavy stone had been placed on it.
I carefully placed my hand on the back of his hand that was holding my chin.
"The rescue operation for little Duke Barden, which I've launched. Does Duke Rudnain Iels object?"
“I object as a Duke, and as your lover.”
He answered neatly without the slightest hesitation.
I grabbed his hand from my chin and pulled it down, narrowing my eyes.
"Why are you so unconditionally against it? Because you think I'll get seriously hurt again like last time? I told you I had magical amnesia last time. Things are completely different now. Don't you trust me?"
“Yvonne.”
"Because I'm precious to you? But the life of the little Duke of Barden... may not be important to Rudd, but it weighs heavily on me."
“I never said that.”
Rudnine's thick eyebrows rose upward.
'Oh, he's even angrier.'
He roughly stroked my face.
I provoked him.
I thought I should apologize, but I was so nervous that it was hard to calm down.
In fact, as soon as I heard about the incident that broke out this morning, I sneaked out of the mansion with my servants, looked around the scene, and returned.
The scene was horrific.
The carcass of an animal that could not be cleaned up, and the red blood stains left on the floor...
It was clear that the warlocks had taken advantage of the fact that animal blood was similar in color to human blood.
I'm sick and tired of the cruelty of those who deliberately incite fear.
'No, actually, people will soon be killed. Starting with the lowest-ranking maids and servants who are trapped in the palace and unable to escape...'
Surely, they're not all dead already?
A chill ran down my spine as I recalled the sight of the new corpse lying in Nasiel Square.
If they start killing people openly in the future, their black magic will grow exponentially stronger.
And the demon corps commander, Toylat, is properly manifested?
'No.'
There's no way to stop it; everyone will die. What Cordelia told me before wasn't a bluff.
Now that I've finished my research on black magic, I'm even more confident.
I closed my eyes tightly and opened them again, then opened my mouth again.
"The people of the capital have fled, but many are still trapped in the palace. They will soon be killed by the warlocks, so we must rescue them quickly."
“I also know that warlocks obtain black magic by sacrificing human lives.”
When Rudnine's face grew cloudy and he seemed to waver, I insisted a little more firmly.
“So please let me go. I have to go, I’m the right person for the job!”
"Are you serious? That's so selfish of you. How dare I send Yvonne to that place alone?"
He got angry and criticized me openly.
Although I was upset, I raised my voice because I thought I couldn't back down now.
"Selfish! Objectively speaking, I'm the only one. It's not like I'm just insisting on going. Both His Highness and Father agreed that we could easily get there if we infiltrated using the secret map to the palace we received from the Demirant Guild."
“Yvonne.”
"I'm not going alone. I'll be bringing my companions with me. I'm the only one who can identify and fight the companions the warlocks have. I'm a strong mage, with excellent stamina and agility."
Without even taking a breath, I explained how I was the right person for the job.
But Rudnine's expression was still not good.
No, it actually became cooler.
Then he raised his lips in a crooked manner and spoke coldly.
"Very well, Princess Yvonne Argenthoz. Then I will take charge of rescuing the Little Duke."
“...What did you just say?”
“Because I am a more suitable person than you.”
I was surprised by his cold-hearted tone, which I was hearing for the first time, but my lips and eyes opened wide in shock at the content.
“Why are you...”
"No matter how agile you are, you're no match for me. In terms of combat prowess, I still seem to have the upper hand. Have you ever sneaked in to search somewhere? No, I doubt it. Therefore, your trustworthiness is low."
“Duke of Iels!”
I was amazed.
I called out to him with a choking feeling, but I couldn't continue speaking because I felt like I was suffocating.
This person is openly saying that he will block me.
Oh my god!
To oppose Rudnine.
“...”
His gaze, silently looking at me as if waiting for my answer, was so sharp.
How did it come to this?
I glared at Rudnine with my eyes reddened, and barely managed to open my trembling lips.
"Your Excellency, you must lead the vanguard of the battle that will soon begin. I understand you are a Sword Master and the highest commander."
"My role will be taken over by the Deputy Commander and the Duke of Argenthoz. Yvonne, please fight for me there as well. I'll rescue the Duke and return soon."
“Rudd!”
Exhausted, I let go of his hand, took a step back, and bit my lower lip.
“Don’t do this, I actually...!”
"Yes, Yvonne. Tell me anything. I'm ready to listen."
Rudnine returned to his usual polite speech.
I just realized it now.
'Ah, this guy... he knew why I was like this.'
Yes. It's absurd to say that I'm the only one who can rescue Barden.
Of course, the qualifications are sufficient.
But... my real ‘purpose’ isn’t just rescuing Barden and the trapped people.
I absolutely had to contact Cordelia at the palace. And she, who was the key, would soon die.
That means the only person I can ask about how to become a warlock is gone.
'I don't have time.'
As soon as Empress Giselle took Adrian, another key, a state of emergency was declared, and it's been six days since the Verbent Palace was closed. Given the circumstances, Empress Giselle must have been opening the gates of liberation from that day on.
After studying the black magic materials, I can estimate the date, and it will open today at the earliest, or tomorrow at the latest.
Fromdy, whom I caught unfortunately, said he didn't have the ability to awaken a great warlock like me.
'That's why Cordelia asked me to come find her.'
So we have to hurry.
...Shit!
“What on earth are you hiding, Yvonne?”
I came back to my senses at Rudnine's question, which was being asked slowly.
Since when did this person start seeing through my mind?
He broke the silence first, with only the sound of our two breathing audible.
“If you run away without saying anything now, I will never catch Yvonne again.”
A cold warning struck my heart.
“Does this mean you’ll never see me again?”
“...”
“I’m not running away! This time, I’m telling you.”
"But you promised to go with me to any dangerous places. Have you forgotten?"
“Rudd...”
The broad shoulders of that strong man were trembling slightly.
Feeling weak, I approached him and gently took his hand.
Then he slowly stroked my calloused fingers and joints. I sighed, trying to gather my thoughts, and he pulled my hand and whispered in my ear.
“Yvonne. Are you really trying to become a warlock?”
“!!!”
My heart sank at the question being asked so openly. Startled, I looked around in confusion.
No one heard, right...?
Rudnine frowned as if he was displeased to see me like that.
"Yvonne. Even if you become a warlock, it's a choice for the greater good. Why do you act like a criminal?"
"But."
"You haven't even revealed that you can communicate with the familiars and use their abilities. Are you afraid?"
“...Honestly, I’m scared, Rudd.”
"Yes?"
Rudnine furrowed his brow in confusion. I couldn't bear to look at him and lowered my head.
"Now everyone's finally acknowledging me. Even the wizards and nobles who used to think I was just a troublemaker. It's funny, but I loved it. But then I think about them blaming me again as soon as I get involved with dark magic..."
My voice trembled.
I just wanted to show my best side to the man I love.
"I'm scared. But if my prediction is correct, Empress Giselle will be strong. And so will the Demon Legion Commander... If I could become a warlock and save everyone, of course I would."
By the time I finished speaking, both my mind and voice had calmed down.
Yes, the decision has already been made.
Then Rudnine lifted my hand, kissed the back of it, and whispered longingly.
“Yvonne is always so cool, it’s dazzling.”
“Yes? Me?”
While I was feeling embarrassed, he returned to being my affectionate lover, saying calmly as he tugged my hair behind my ear.
“...How could I dare to stop Yvonne’s decision?”
“!!!”
“I’ll send you. This time, just like Yvonne said, you’ll tell me the destination clearly.”
And Rudnine added sternly.
"But I promise you this. If you ever become a warlock, never hide from people out of fear. I will prepare a world where you can live proudly."
“Ready...”
"That's all I can do. If you promise, I'll send you."
I was speechless.
Despite his calm tone of voice, his eyes were still stained with pain.
I could tell how much he loved me because he respected my decision even though it was painful and difficult.
'Ugh.'
This time, I was in trouble.
On the contrary, it is I who does not want to leave.
I love him so much.
But if I hesitate, swayed by these emotions now, I may lose the world we live in together forever.
I held back my tears and forced the corners of my mouth to turn up.
"If we do well, I might not have to become a warlock. If Rudnine, my father, and everyone else fight well and win, it's possible... Let's do our best!"
"I will, Yvonne. I will fight with all my might to make sure you don't have to make that difficult decision."
“I trust you, Rudd.”
His expression, which had been looking at me casually, eventually became distorted.
He bent his head down, gave me a quick kiss, and then pulled away, breathing heavily as if in pain.
“You can’t let a single hair be damaged.”
"All right."
I nodded, but Rudnine still looked tired.
I asked him, without realizing it, as he gently stroked my ear and cheek, and couldn't let go.
“Do I like me that much?”
“Yes. I can’t be angry for long, and I’ll let Yvonne go without a fight.”
He answers quickly, kisses me softly again, and then leaves.
'Ah. I'm upset.'
It was also interesting and nice to see the expression on Rudnine's face.
Seeing a new side of someone you love. This feeling shines brighter than a treasure.
But I didn't want to break up like this, so I put my arms around his neck.
I smiled at his wide, surprised eyes and kissed him. The sweet sensation overwhelming me made me close my eyes.
Maybe this person is my true first love?
The first person who taught me all the emotions: anxious, nervous, in pain, happy, joyful, sad, and brilliant.
I barely managed to pull my wet lips apart and gasp for breath when he whispered.
“I’m still angry. No matter what, you still don’t talk to me first.”
“Please forgive me for now... I’ll come back and grant you one wish. Yes? Let’s get over it.”
“...”
"Two."
“...Hmm.”
“Yes, three! I’ll give you three!”
"Great."
I cried out desperately, and the answer came back in 0.1 seconds.
“Don’t do that again. I’ll grant you three wishes.”
Hmm... So three wishes would solve it?
I tilted my head as I watched Rudnine wiping my lips, but he smiled with satisfaction, as if he was enjoying something so good.
But then, it was.
Kwajijik, kukukukung―.
A loud roar was heard from afar, accompanied by a vibration that shook the floor of the Argenthoz mansion where we were standing.
His and my expressions hardened at the same time.
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