In the grand hall of Krycia Royal Palace, the largest party was being held for the splendid reception of Istira Gongja, the philosopher from the Empire.

It was an exceptional promise from Istira Duchy, which had previously exerted efforts only in suppressing the Empire’s demons, to now pledge to subdue demons from another country.

“It’s an honor to meet you, Gongja-nim.”

The king of Krycia extended his hand politely to Kirian.

“I truly appreciate it.”

Hys watched the two exchanging an uneasy handshake with anxious eyes.

While this formal occasion was crucial for Krycia’s national interests, Hys found this gathering uncomfortable.

Kirian, engaged in stern greetings with his father, seemed dubious at a glance. Deeply sunken eyes, sharply defined jawline, tightly closed lips.

Despite not putting on a courteous facade, a dangerous aura flowed so strongly that one could easily be misled if not for his polite demeanor.

“Thanks to Istira Gongja’s subjugation, damages caused by demons have been considerably reduced lately. We are truly grateful for Gongja-nim’s visit from our perspective.”

“Allowing outsiders into the kingdom must not have been an easy decision for His Majesty. Thank you for making a difficult decision.”

Cold sweat collected involuntarily under Hys’s collar.

Aware that Kirian’s commitment wasn’t to subdue Krycia’s demons out of profound altruism, he knew this better than anyone else.

Although two and a half years had passed since Reyna’s disappearance, Kirian had not given up.

Hys didn’t know whether it was an obstinate inertia or a genuine belief that he could find Reyna again, but Istira’s philosopher was relentless.

After failing to find her in the Denev Mountains, the search extended to villages near the mountains, then nearby territories, and eventually, even the neighboring country of Krycia.

“Welcome, Istira Gongja-nim.”

When his father gave a subtle signal, Hys had no choice but to offer a dry greeting.

As Kirian’s gaze slid away from his father to him, Hys had to make an effort not to appear perturbed.

Despite knowing that Istira’s philosopher couldn’t read minds, he couldn’t help but feel nervous.

What if the fact that Reyna might still be alive were revealed? That would mean an opportunity for him might never come again.

So, Hys composed a casual smile.

“I look forward to working with you, Gongja-nim. If you’re dealing with demons, it would be convenient to start inspecting the western regions.”

Mentioning the imperial borderlands where Madlen Fah was located.

Kirian offered a thin smile.

“I appreciate the advice, but I will make judgments on my own.”

Hys involuntarily clenched his fist. Even that small gesture didn’t escape Kirian’s notice, as he tilted his head slightly.

“But, you don’t look well.”

As Kirian scrutinized him with crimson eyes, Hys swallowed hard.
“Ah, I’m fine.”

Unable to withstand Kirian’s persistent gaze, Hys turned his head. Fortunately, at that moment, his father gently intervened between the two.

“Ah, it seems Duke Fendran has come with his daughter.”

The king subtly brightened his eyes, stepping back to allow the duke and his daughter to join the conversation. The duke, too, discreetly nudged his daughter towards Kirian. Lady Fendran, renowned for her dazzling beauty, was the flower of Krycia’s social circles.

With noble lineage, a wealthy household, stunning beauty, and a gentle personality, she was Krycia’s finest catch in every aspect. The king had suggested several times to Hys about considering her as the next crown princess.

Seeing his father swiftly introducing Kirian Gongja, it was evident that his father had completed his calculations.

In the absence of a princess in the Krycia royal family, the proposal was to solidify the friendly relationship by sending Krycia’s lady to marry into the Istira Duchy.

The king chuckled once again.

“Talking with old folks must be boring, so why not dance once? The lady seems to be without a partner right now.”

When Kirian discreetly glanced at the lady, her cheeks flushed slightly. Her shy demeanor was beautiful enough to make any man’s heart flutter.

However, Kirian soon turned his gaze away as if there was nothing more to see.

“I don’t usually dance.”

Cleanly declining, Kirian took a step back.

“I apologize for not being able to enjoy the party more, but I need to start work as soon as possible.”

And when he regained his senses, Kirian was gone as if he had never been there.

“Ah…”

The king sighed with regret.

“It seems the Gongja is quite busy.”

Father tried to console the visibly disappointed duke and lady, turning his head toward Hys.

“Son, you should escort the lady instead.”

But Hys had already taken a step back.

“I’m sorry, father. I also have urgent matters to attend to. Excuse me.”

With a feeble excuse, Hys started running.

Clearly, Kirian had set out to find Reyna, whose fate was unknown. There was no time to waste. He had to find Reyna before Kirian did.

There had never been a moment when Hys had the upper hand over Kirian, but this time was different.