The carriage arrived at the capital only after the wall clock inside it had chimed twice more.

As the coachman’s shout announcing their arrival reached them, the three stepped down from the carriage, filled with anticipation.

Soon after, their expectations were met by a beautiful sight unfolding before them.

A row of antique buildings serving as sculptures. The harmony of nature and man-made structures had created art.

“A different vibe than a few years ago.”

“Indeed.”

Lerianne and Yuri Hsien had visited the empire with their family during their girlhood days.

It was before the war, over five years ago.

In a time that was short if it was short and long if it was long, many things in the empire had changed.

Though it couldn’t be solely attributed to the efforts of the current emperor, the landscape clearly reflected his endeavors.

“Then, have a good time.”

The coachman immediately mounted his horse, stating he’d wait at the station.

A good time?

All three were pondering the same thought around the same time.

The sound of hooves pounding the ground echoed. The noise, presumed to be from horse hooves, gradually grew louder, eventually becoming cacophonous. Just when the hoof sounds lessened, a loud whinny followed.

Chloe, who had instinctively closed her eyes due to the heavy sound waves piercing her ears, finally lifted her eyelids.

The warm sun had been obscured. A shadow had settled over her face before she knew it.

“Hello, Princess.”

It was entirely due to the man before her eyes.

A man so stunning that even his momentarily disheveled appearance seemed beautiful.

A man who made even the buildings on the street they’d all been staring at seem like mere extras.

“Good to see the Empire’s Sun.”

Yet for Chloe, he was now a familiar man.

Chloe was the first to greet him, followed by a hastily composed Yuri Hsien and Lerianne, who each grabbed the hem of their dresses.

“Good to see the Princess’s friends too.”

“How did Your Majesty come to be here…”

“I promised to show you all around the Empire.”

Kun nonchalantly descended from his own mount. Despite his bulky and rugged physique, his landing was surprisingly light.

He gently caressed the cheek of his horse before lightly patting it.

Understanding the meaning, the horse whinnied adorably and trotted off, likely toward a place where it could rest and eat.

Whether it was the pigeons that had acted as messengers or this horse, he seemed quite adept at taming creatures.

Dusting off the dust on his gloves, Kun extended his hand to Chloe. It was an elegant yet authoritative gesture requesting her hand.

For the customary kiss a knight gives a lady. An impeccable reason to set the pretext.

Formalities already concluded, what did it matter?

“Shall we go?”

The man, having achieved his aim, offered a gentle smile. A rare smile, yet one that often appeared in front of specific individuals.

Entranced by his careful and meticulous touch, all three followed him.

The Emperor seemed to know precisely what topics the young women would favor, guiding the conversation accordingly.

They visited the largest art museum currently in existence in the Empire. Preparations must have been made in advance, for the inside was completely empty.

The most reputable docent in the museum accompanied them, explaining the artworks.

Yuri Hsien and Lerianne had specialized in art and fashion design from a young age and had a deep appreciation for art.

The things of their own kingdom had become familiar and dull, so encountering the art of the Empire naturally piqued their interest.

They listened intently to the docent, displaying a passion that would have them jot down every explanation if only they had pen and paper.

Startled by the barrage of questions, Chloe discreetly slipped away from the group to have some time to appreciate the art on her own.

She was closely observing the work of an artist referred to as the soul of the Empire’s art when she felt someone’s presence.

“Is the Princess not interested in such things?”

“No, I do like them. I just didn’t want to disturb them.”

In truth, except for a few pieces, she already knew most of the artworks. It was fascinating to see them in person, but she didn’t need any explanations.

“Seems the Princess already knows what’s being discussed.”

“Yes, I do.”
“Ah, I had a fondness for books from the Empire.”

Inexplicably, the Emperor picked up on it even though Chloe had never mentioned it.

As always, Chloe displayed modesty.

To be precise, she had no other options but to read books while confined to the Duke’s estate.

The only thing that remains constant over time is what is written down.

It records only the facts, allowing those who can read the words to remember them without distortion.

The written word is indeed convenient, smart, and warm… Ironically, that’s how Chloe thought of it.

For the six long months, it wasn’t the warmth of humans that sustained her but the cold, fragile pieces of paper.

She subtly inquired as she moved on to the next artwork.