Listening quietly, Clozette threw in a suggestion.

“How about partially opening it, gaining what we can, and delaying the time? What do you think?”

Surprised by Clozette’s words, Belia looked at her.

“Anyway, the Empire is offering favorable conditions to us. So, wouldn’t it be better to accept some conditions, open only the trade routes temporarily, observe the situation, and make the final decision later, as Sister suggests? That way, we can endure for a few more years, right?”

Belia remembered the tragedy caused by the opening of the Shantan Accord in her previous life, so she believed that it should be prevented at all costs. She couldn’t allow any form of opening.

But the idea of temporarily signing a treaty, allowing partial opening, and renegotiating the terms later seemed to offer tremendous benefits to Ronica.

‘Since the Empire is already offering favorable conditions to Ronica, they will probably agree readily.’

Then, full opening would be imminent.

Moreover, if it was a temporary treaty with a set duration, Khalid could renegotiate with the Empire on favorable terms when he became Emperor.

Belia’s expression brightened.

Temporary opening of the Shantan Accord would bring great benefits to Ronica, and the Emperor’s ambitions would temporarily be in check.

Buying time for a few years would be advantageous for Belia and Khalid. Within that period, the Emperor would die, and there would likely be a power struggle between Khalid and Raul.

“Don’t think too hard about it, Sister. We’re just trying to gain mutual benefits. We should aim for our interests. And, Sister, you have to think about the country first.”

Belia’s expression brightened.

Temporary opening of the Shantan Accord would bring great
Herald also seemed satisfied with the opinion, and his expression brightened.

Clozette, while poking at the salad with her fork, said, “So, let’s not talk about depressing things during the meal. We have plenty of time for enjoyable conversations, right?”

That’s a valid point.

Belia and Herald, after exchanging blank looks in response to Clozette’s words, burst into laughter.

Indeed, it seemed that Clozette had no need to worry.

Just until yesterday, there was full concern about Clozette liking Derek. But as they talked today, she seemed more mature and clever than expected.

‘Moreover, before parting earlier, she promised not to cause any trouble until she became an adult.’

When Clozette needed information, she firmly instructed her to talk to ordinary guild members instead of Derek. Although Clozette expressed dissatisfaction upon hearing this, it seemed to be resolved.

“Sigh…”

Belia moved her exhausted body and collapsed onto the bed.

“Eek!”

Belia suddenly jolted up, alarmed by a strange sensation. She had unknowingly lain down, not realizing someone was in the bed.

“Hahaha.”

Her heart pounded, but hearing someone laughing from under the blanket, a mix of relief and sudden anger washed over her.

With a disgusted feeling, Belia grabbed a pillow and smacked it down.

“What on earth is this, seriously!”

Why hide under the blanket without pretending to know?

Khalid, even while being hit by the pillow, continued to laugh, finding it amusing.

The situation was too awkward.

In the end, instead of getting angry, a bitter laugh escaped her.

Khalid, catching her expression, reached out, pulled Belia into his arms, and lay on the bed.

“Surprised?”

“…Of course, I was.”

“Haha.”

“Don’t laugh. I thought my heart was going to stop.”

Belia grumbled in his arms.

Then Khalid, still holding Belia, spoke.

“Did you miss me?”

“…Well, obviously.”

“Haha.”

“Don’t laugh. I seriously thought my heart was going to fall out.”

Belia mumbled with her face buried in his chest.

Then Khalid playfully nibbled on Belia’s shoulder.

“Did you have a good time without me?”

“Don’t act petty. I already told you I would spend time with my family today.”

“But I still wanted you in front of my eyes.”

As Khalid spoke with a smile, Belia’s face turned bright red.

“Ugh! I haven’t forgiven you yet… Don’t tease me like this…”

Belia murmured with her face buried in his chest, but Khalid burst into laughter again.

“Belia.”

Touch.

His lips lightly touched her forehead before pulling away.

“I told you not to stretch out your words.”

Khalid’s smile widened coolly.

But the laughter that lingered in his voice gradually disappeared.

The atmosphere changed in an instant.

“If you keep urging what comes next…”

As soon as he finished speaking, he quickly pressed his lips onto hers.