Under the protection of three individuals, Cael grew up gracefully as the elite warrior of Vashirek, and he always fulfilled his duties wherever and whenever.

Although his appearance was a bit different from typical Vashirek individuals, following the Vashirek culture where one’s rank is determined by their strength, Cael achieved the glorious position of fourth in the Vashirek Empire’s hierarchy.

This was an achievement to be proud of, considering Emperor Icarus, who was an insurmountable figure, and other than Vain and Dehan, Cael stood out the most.

These abilities were acquired naturally as Cael followed Icarus, Dehan, and Vain from a young age, who were like monsters among Vashirek warriors.

Whether it was Vain overpowering a boulder with just his fist, Dehan using sorcery to control animals, or Emperor Icarus possessing all the abilities they used…

There were rumors circulating among them, but, in any case, what Cael witnessed wasn’t entirely baseless gossip.

And such early education gradually shaped Cael.

No, to be precise, he gained a height one head taller than others, and his well-defined muscles took their place attractively.

That wasn’t all.

He learned various things, such as thinking efficiently and utilizing his exceptional physical abilities.

The only reason he could achieve all of this was his desire not to disappoint Icarus.

That method was the only way Cael thought he could survive in Vashirek.

So, Cael studied the history, culture, politics, and various aspects of Vashirek.

During this time, he also did not forget about Paradisium.

Paradisium was a place Cael would eventually have to return to, and while Icarus had never clearly stated it, it seemed he wanted to make Cael the next Emperor of Paradisium.

While Cael was growing steadily in Vashirek, there were many changes in Paradisium as well.

The remnants of nobles supporting the late Emperor Lucius tried to regain Paradisium in the absence of Icarus.

However, they overlooked one thing.

The extraordinary information network of Vashirek, leading to their powerful ability to act.

They didn’t know about the technology that allowed Vashirek to move great distances in an instant.

Also, they didn’t know that Icarus, before becoming Emperor, had traveled across the continent as a mercenary.

And this fact greatly contributed to Icarus suppressing the remnants of Lucius’ supporters in Paradisium and aiding in uprooting them.

Today, the reason Cael was in the Paradisium Palace was for such a reason.

“Your Majesty, may I ask you one thing?”

As Cael looked down at the view of Paradisium from the top floor of the palace, the wind that blew through the wide-open window ruffled Icarus’s black hair as it passed.

Icarus brushed aside the disheveled hair and turned his head towards Cael.

“Do you have no intention of marriage, Your Majesty?”

In response to Cael’s question, Icarus chuckled and replied.
“Cael, are you trying to lecture me too?”

“I just… If I stay in Paradisium, I’m concerned that Your Majesty will be left alone.”

“Alone. That won’t happen.”

As if hearing an amusing story, Icarus chuckled and turned his gaze towards Dehan and Vain.

Dehan and Vain also had no companions yet, and they hadn’t even promised marriage to anyone.

“Is that so? I want to establish a family as soon as possible.”

Cael said.

This was sincere. His mother, who cherished and cared for him, and his father, who had condemned him. Since both had left the world a long time ago, Cael had no family.

Of course, now Icarus, Dehan, and Vain were filling that void for him.

But if he stayed in Paradisium, Cael would truly be alone.

“That should be fine… I’ll start looking for a suitable match for you soon.”

Looking up at the sky where the sunset had begun, Icarus nodded.

“Thank you.”

Staring for a long time at the blurred boundary between the sky and the earth, Cael finally voiced the question he had been holding onto.

“So, am I going to rule Paradisium now?”

Icarus raised his head.

“……?”

“I intend to make you the leader of a united nation encompassing Paradisium and Vashirek.”

“…What? What are you talking about? Your Majesty is right here openly.”

Surprised, Cael asked.

“If you permit, there should be no problem. Cael, you are one of the last nobles in Paradisium. And in Vashirek, there’s no warrior stronger than you, excluding me, of course.”

Cael nodded.

Until now, he had tried to gain an advantage through occasional sparring with Icarus.

But it was all in vain.

Even though he was now in his middle years, Cael, who was at the peak of physical ability, couldn’t compete with Icarus.

“And the most important thing is that I don’t have children.”

Ah…

Now Cael could somewhat understand Icarus’s previous actions.

Why he didn’t give a second glance to the beauties who came from all corners of the continent, seeking his attention.

“Why… Your Majesty, why go to such lengths for me?”

“If you’re asking why I’m burdening you with such a painful task, I’ll answer.”