Although they deliberately slowed their steps, they arrived at the Empress’s palace sooner than expected.

Ilaide felt strangely regretful. Was it because it had been a long time since she’d taken a night walk, or because her companion was Libel?

‘It must be the moonlight that’s making things weird.’

Nothing stirs a person’s heart quite like the moon hanging alone in the middle of the night. A strange light that induces vain fantasies and breeds hope. It would have been the same, even if her companion hadn’t been Libel.

Ilaide smoothly let go of Libel’s hand. The magic was over. It was time to return to reality.

But before that, she had a burning question. An unresolved doubt, knotted like a small tangle, constantly bothered a corner of her mind.

“Libel.”

“Yes, Your Highness, the Empress.”

“Have we met before?”

“In the capital, on the first day of the festival, at the tavern…….”

“No, I mean much earlier than that.”

The unknown anxiety stemmed from a sense of déjà vu. Maybe she had encountered him a long time ago. It was time to sift through the faint memories of her childhood.

“There wasn’t.”

Libel’s low voice resounded with certainty, cutting off any sprouts of doubt as if with a knife. Unable to pursue further, Ilaide didn’t ask anymore.

“I always seem to be indebted to Commander Libel.”

“If you ever need a companion for a walk, please call on me. I will be at your service.”

Really, could that be possible? Ilaide smiled awkwardly, avoiding his gaze.

With the contract extended, they would meet more often. This was a green light for Ilaide’s plans, but what would it really entail?

He was definitely hiding something in approaching her. It didn’t seem malevolent, but what could it be? Ilaide imagined the worst.

‘Surely not remnants of the republicans…’

A mercenary secretly contacted to assassinate the royal family, or perhaps an individual supporting republicanism on personal conviction.

Nothing suspicious had appeared when she investigated the Ricus Mercenary Group.

Moreover, the republicans were barely clinging to existence, suppressed by Claudius. They wouldn’t have the power to hire mercenaries.

Noticing Ilaide’s unease, Libel quickly added,

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to burden Your Highness.”

It was his personal desire. Wanting to see her more often, for longer, his words had spilled out. His inner truth now circled around him, tormenting.

Realizing his slip, he was about to kneel in front of her.

“I spoke out of turn without knowing my place.”

“No, wait, Libel. Stop.”

In panic, arms and hands react first. Ilaide hurriedly grabbed his arms and shoulders to stop him. Thankfully, her hand didn’t reach his chest this time, averting a misunderstanding.

With no one around, it was fine, but it could have led to an unfortunate misinterpretation. They looked at each other awkwardly.

“So… it’s fine occasionally. Just let the Empress’s palace know in advance…….”

Was that what she intended to say? But seeing Libel’s dejected face, how could she say ‘don’t come near me’?

If she had bluntly refused, Ilaide would have been guilt-ridden all night.

After a moment’s hesitation, Libel knelt on one knee. Then, he took Ilaide’s left hand and brought it to his lips.

“It’s an honor, Your Highness, the Empress.”

Even though she said formalities weren’t necessary, she couldn’t refuse. Soon, his lips gently touched the back of her hand.

For a brief moment, a warm sensation spread from where they touched.

A tingling warmth climbing from her fingertips. Ilaide, forgetting her purpose and doubts about Libel, closed her eyes.
And she realized she had been secretly longing for this warmth.

Should he have opened up more? Libel endlessly watched the back of Ilaide as she headed into the Empress’s palace.

‘We must have known each other for only a short time. That way, she can use me as much as she needs.’

It always hurt painfully at the pit of his stomach when he couldn’t express his thoughts. Only a sigh came out from his stiff throat.

He raised his hand to cover his eyes. But even in the darkness, Ilaide’s faint silhouette remained.

Libel was aware of Ilaide’s objective. She intended to strike Claudius and overthrow the Astrid Empire.

‘My purpose in life aligns with the Empress’s intention.’

That’s why he had resolved to willingly become a chess piece for Ilaide.

Having feelings for someone who was meant to be used as a tool was a luxury. If one fears losing a pawn in chess, they can never move forward.

If Ilaide developed sympathy or compassion, it might prevent her from letting go when necessary.

She was a warm person. Though now she might radiate coldness, Libel still kept the warmth of her hand close to his heart.

‘Libel.’

How much had he longed for Ilaide to call his name. That alone was enough. A faint smile formed under his covered eyes.

When Libel lowered his hand, only the bright moonlight remained. It was time to wake from the dream and face reality.

Why She Is Still Unmoved (Female-dominant)

One-line summary: He uses various methods to seek her affection, but she remains unmoved.

Synopsis:

Si Qingyu is a doctor who has saved countless lives and enjoys tranquility.

Luo Shaoxuan is ruthless, deeply scheming, and the top young master in the capital. He admires Si Qingyu.

Luo Shaoxuan: I want to be the only one in your eyes and heart.

Features a cold and calm female lead vs A noble and scheming male lead.

There will be both sweetness and torture towards the male after their marriage.