In the emperor’s reception room, located at the very center of Helium Palace, Haeir and Dekar were seated side by side, conversing. Dekar responded to Haeir’s question.

“To be honest, I’m not that pleased.”

Despite receiving a treasured gift for his ascension at Helium Palace, Dekar didn’t show much satisfaction. The reason was obvious.

He was more interested in Yeongae than any lavish gift.

“Then you could have taken that Yeongae from the start.”

Noticing Dekar’s feelings, Haeir spoke. Dekar laughed and shook his hand.

“I would have, but then my neck would probably be hanging from Duke Esper first.”

Even at a formal banquet, such a reaction.

Dekar also knew that Belrion wasn’t particularly obedient to the emperor. However, even though he was aware that his every action had significant influence, Belrion had drawn his sword right there, as if ready to fight at the slightest provocation.

‘Really risking it.’

Though he verbally disapproved, his actions suggested he’d swing his sword the moment I took Yeongae. Thinking of such Belrion, Dekar chuckled, prompting Haeir to speak.

“So, before you leave… about what I mentioned in the letter, what do you think?”

“…”

“If the Lunen Empire gives us support, we’d have a good chance.”

Attacking the Duke’s family.

He hadn’t directly mentioned it, but the specific details had already been discussed in letters. Dekar silently listened to Haeir’s words.

“If things go well, you’ll be able to get that Yeongae you wanted.”

“Now that’s tempting.”

For the first time, Dekar’s lips curled up in what looked like satisfaction.

“But, if that happens, I do have one concern.”

“What is it?”

“Is the imperial family truly committed to attacking the Duke’s family? I had doubts during the banquet.”

At Dekar’s words, Haeir tilted his head as if confused. Dekar continued.

“Turns out, the performers at the banquet were not entirely unrelated to the Duke’s family.”

“…Yes, they are performers sponsored by the Duke’s family.”

Haeir’s expression seemed less than pleased. However, Dekar had another point.

“Yes, I know that. But it was interesting. The imperial grandchild seemed quite comfortable with the performers. Like they were doing something together.”

At this, Haeir’s face stiffened.

“What are you suggesting?”

“For an alliance, trust between parties is vital. I have concerns about the imperial grandchild.”

“…”

“Are you certain the imperial grandchild is visiting the Duke’s family purely for surveillance?”

Caught by Dekar’s sharp inquiry, Haeir was momentarily speechless. Actually, he couldn’t speak. Haeir seemed to shudder, unable to completely deny Dekar’s words, and finally spoke with a heavy tone.

“No, that can’t be.”

“…”

“How dare that child disregard my orders, or even behave like that…”

“Ah, is that so? Would the imperial grandchild really secretly accept sponsorship from the Duke’s family? That would be quite laughable.”

Dekar’s words, tinged with laughter, altered Haeir’s complexion. Seeing Haeir’s face, Dekar hid his emerging smile and stood up first.

“I should get going. It’s about time to depart.”

“…”

“We’ll discuss this further later. It’s been a pleasant time.”

With that, their conversation ended. As Dekar exited the reception room, the servants and knights who had been waiting outside naturally followed him.

“Is everything ready for departure?”

“We can leave whenever you say, sir.”

“Is that so? Then let’s head back.”
“Yes, then I’ll keep that in mind.”

Upon hearing Dekar’s words, Rubi immediately bowed her head.

“Ah, yes, and the gift received for the coronation is…”

“Oh, that? Just bring it yourself.”

Although it was a precious treasure of the Helium Empire, Dekar showed no interest. Rubi, who knew the reason, discreetly opened her mouth.

“If you like her, why don’t you just bring her?”

“…”

“I will send someone to the Duke’s house right now.”

“Well, since you insist, I’ll consider it.”

“I know Your Majesty well, hence my suggestion.”

Once he took a liking to something, he had to possess it. That was the nature of his master. Yet Dekar simply moved on, unfazed by Rubi’s words.

“Eventually, if she remains in the Duke’s house, we will meet again. With her.”

“…”

“Um. Should I send a gift or two to the Duke’s house? It might make things more interesting.”

Dekar said while looking out the window. But he wasn’t merely gazing at the scenery; he smirked in the direction of the Duke’s house beyond what his eyes could see.

“You, you really!”

The word thrown by Dekar had a devastating effect. Ashud, who had been summoned to the Emperor’s chamber, knelt before Haeir. Beside the enraged Haeir, Grace was desperately holding him back.

“Calm down, Father!”

“Do I look calm to you? Do you even know what he’s done…!”

Haeir’s eyes, that would’ve struck Ashud had it not been for Grace, were filled with anger. Meanwhile, Ashud kept his head bowed, saying nothing.

“I ordered you to monitor the Duke’s house, not to take lessons from the Duke!”

“…”

“Daring, just daring, wearing the royal name…”