《Kidnapped By The Crazy Duke》


 Prologue

    Prologue


    The spacious and luxurious room was deste.


    The room was decorated with luxurious decorations, highlighting the owners high perspective and artistic sense, but it was gloomy and depressing. The dark red wallpaper, the chrome picture frames hanging from the wall, and profound-looking objects created an even more gloomy and bizarre atmosphere. The dimly lit room was not illuminated by a fmentmp or an oilmp, but by a beautiful man with dazzling silvery-white hair.


    His expressionless face looked eerily cold and emotionless. But when his eyes met mine, he looked so calm and gentle that I wondered when he had ever looked that way before.


    "You didn''t eat yet." You don''t have an appetite?"


    It was a medium-low pitched voice mixed with sluggish breathing.


    His eyes, blue as the sea on a cloudy day, turned to me, narrow and curved. Iy helplessly on the bed, and he sat neatly in the mahogany chair ced next to me.


    The man held a silver spoon in his long fingers, while in his other hand he held a bowl of white soup without a pattern. He took a spoonful of the soup and blew on it a few times to cool it down, then thrust it in front of me and smiled beautifully.


    "Ah- Try it. I''ll feed you."


    I turned my head away, notplying with his gentlemand.


    My eyes turned to the carpet on the floor and, his eyes falling slowly, was good as an obsession.


    "You don''t want to eat? Do you want me to bring you something else?


    Please let me go


    The tip of my voice faltered as I hadn''t spoken for a while. The man''s face tilted to the side as he readily responded to my nonchnt request. Immediately, his well-defined features created a strange expression.


    "Why?


    "What is your reason for keeping me locked up like this? You know that hostage negotiations are useless."


    "Because you''re beautiful.


    The man kidnapped me and looked at me with such satisfaction, as if he was looking at a piece of art he had painstakingly collected.


    I didnt know what it was about me that made me beautiful, but it was not my looks, and there were no mirrors in this room, so I couldnt even see what I looked like.


    "Again, this doesn''t change anything."


    "It did change, a lot."


    He looked strangely pleased, as if he had been saved. He put down the soup te and silver spoon, and his fingertips touched my cheek weakly.


    Ive met my only princess."


    The insane man''s words were iprehensible, and I kept my eyes down and counted the number of id patterns on the carpet as I struggled for an appropriate answer.


    "I''m not a princess."


    I was the daughter of a Belford Navy General, but unlike my sister, I was treated coldly and abused. My father, the Admiral, discriminated against me and hated me because I was the cause of my mother''s death. I didnt know why my mother died, but he just said that it was my fault. Rather, the person to whom the qualifier "Princess" was attached was my sister Celine.


    "Colonel Rothsilde, no, Duke Rothsilde. I dont know why youre doing this.


    "It''s Noah.


    Rossil right.


    "Let''s call me again."


    The man corrected me with a smooth cut of my words. With a kind face, as if he was teaching a child to repeat himself.


    "Yes, yes, Noah. I''m frustrated, please let me go."


    "Hurry up and eat."


    He lightly ignored persuasions such as "No" and "Let me go." The Duke, who was fiddling with the soup bowl that was quickly getting cold in the winter weather, called his servant to bring him some hot soup. Shortly after the servant brought a fresh bowl of soup, he thrust the spoon at me again.


    "Do you want to eat something else? Tell me whatever you need. You can''t starve to death."


    "No I''ll eat it."


    With a resigned face, I began to eat the soup that he carefully blew and cooled like an obedient baby bird. I drank it, epting small slices of soft white bread and put in my mouth and the wine.


    "Good.


    The Duke, who was smiling at me, brushed a bob of hair behind my ear that came to my chin. I nced sideways at him, looking at the straightened sleeves of his neatly closed shirt and the neatness of his tie.


    His body scent had a talent for subtly fascinating people. Paradoxical sensuality and drowsy voice felt from the appearance of a clean and ascetic appearance. A man full of the strange charm of restrained decadent beauty.


    The name of this man, whom I personally describe as a beautiful lunatic and a noble madman, was Noah Rothsilde, an officer of the rank of Colonel in the Progen Army, in the Rothsilde Duchy of the Progen Empire.


    The treatment was extreme and strange for kidnapping the enemy''s daughter. Like precious artworks stored in the cab, he sometimes took them out and looked at them as if they were precious. With strangely impoverished and decadent eyes.


    The problem was that its object was a person, but there was one fact he didn''t know.


    In fact, I was satisfied with this life of confinement where I did nothing. In addition to being able to interact with him without any inconvenience, this unconcerned and beautiful man visited me every once in a while to make my eyes happy enough to not be troublesome. But if I live with him, satisfied and content, he may lose interest and send me back or even kill me. So I put on my best performance to try to get out, by refusing to eat and protesting.


    I was by nature a contemtive who enjoyed shutting myself up in a dimly lit room and disconnecting from the world.


    But that didn''t mean I didn''t have friends. I didnt have a hard time interacting with people, but I was someone who preferred to stay at home and be alone in my room.


    If I get an appointment once in a while, I tend to worry over and over whether I should go or cancel it, and then be overjoyed when the other person canceled the appointment.


    For me, living in a hell where I had to do something every day and where I was forced to believe that life was the truth, this was a whole new world.


    My dream of enjoying a life of idleness and doing nothing hase true in some small way.


    This was a ssic novel called For the Evening Primrose.


    The story was about a heroine who was kidnapped by a high-ranking official of an enemy country and fell in love with the male protagonist who came to her rescue.


    It was a fictional novel adapted from a true story, but the woman who actually escaped was captured again by a high official and died.


    I just became Diana ire in that captive abduction ssic novel. My tragic goal was to remain unrescued and unmourned, without escaping due to unforeseen circumstances.


    This was why I was kidnapped on purpose instead of my sister, the main character.

 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    It was a time when my daily life, which turned like a cogwheel, was vain and perhaps even pessimistic. I had fallen asleep reading the ssic novel "For the Evening Primrose," and was still lying there, my bewildered gaze fixed on the ceiling.


    The speckled walls and dirty surroundings were inconspicuous and strange. The ce where my bodyy was on a rusty iron bed in an old attic.


    Squeak. Squeak.


    From somewhere came the squeaking of rats and the urgent sound of scampering. It was a ck building with a crumbling ceiling and stered walls.


    The cold firece seemed to be untouched a long time ago, and the only thing I could rely on on a cold day was an old nket.


    Only the square windows with sunlight shining through them illuminated the birds reflecting the scenery outside, the church bell tower and the building.


    I wondered if this was a dream that perfectly depicted Diana''s life as described in the book, but the chill of the north wind stinging my skin was so raw that I couldn''t tell if this was reality or a dream.


    It didn''t take long for me to realize that I had be Diana ire'', the main characters younger sister, who had been subjected to all kinds of disrespect and humiliation.


    "Diana! Youzy thing,e out quickly!"


    It was clear that the name heard with the knocking on the door was referring to me.


    "I guess. Did Ie into this life?"


    Wasnt this situation only happened in novels? I couldn''t believe that this was really possible. However, I had never been run over by a truck, a typical barrier in this world, nor had I lost my battle with illness; I just went to bed and woke up.


    It was not fair, even in dreams.


    I was forced to live an honest life, however, this reality came as a shock to me, as I had lived long enough to be an heiress. Although I was quick to adapt to change and have a light-hearted personality, this was different.


    The biggest problem was that the environment of this body''s owner was quite poor and beggarly. Why couldnt I be in such wonderful conditions as an Empress, Queen, Grand Duchess, or Duchess?


    Why did I have to face the worst conditions in the best life? If I had that much wealth and power, it would have been easy to avoid the death g, and I could have discussed it by having an affair with my first man and enjoying each other''s lives together.


    Why did I read this ssic novel.?


    In the novel.


    Her father, Admiral Winston ire, hated Diana so much that he neglected her and treated her coldly.


    He banned her from all social activities and outings, citing the trivial reason of being sick to any outsider who was curious about her, and the only thing known to the outside world was the fact that there was a second daughter who was sick.


    It was probably to hide the fact that she was abused. The servants also seem to be very thorough in keeping their mouths shut. Moreover, they used the "bridal lesson" as an excuse to treat her like a ve.


    He told the maids that they had to teach Diana how to do her chores, but in fact, he meant to make her work.


    It was a coy excuse for a noblewoman to be doing housework. On top of that, as a soldier''s daughter, she had to share the harsh realities of the soldiers on the battlefield, and she was forced to spend her days in an old attic with only one military nket.


    No! Even in the army they give you clothes, food, and a sleeping bag!


    Diana was smaller than her peers because she never had enough to eat, and ill-fitting clothes showed her skinny legs. The servants always med her for their wrongdoings, starved her, and took out their anger on her. However, the fortunate thing was she was strong without pain.


    There was no one to protect Diana, but she seemed to be positive and mentally strong.


    But I was not such a positive person. To enter a raw life with such a low quality of life was. It was an unfortunate environment where I had to be helped, in addition to not even reaching the minimum standard in the happiness index criteria of life.


    First of all, it was very cold and dirty and the clothes were unbearable, like beggars. From spring to early fall, Diana lived with bed bugs and ticks.


    I was definitely not one to endure in a positive way, singing songs with mice like in fairy tales. My life wish of doing nothing'' included a peaceful life.


    "Isn''t that obvious abuse?"


    At seventeen, she was old enough to be an adult here, but still young enough to be protected. As I stood up, brushing off the dirty nket, I heard the rough voice outside the door again.


    Diana, do you know what time it is? I cant believe you still haven''te out!


    The maid came in through the old wooden door, her hands on her hips and her eyes wide open.


    "Are you insane, evente for breakfast?"


    I was so preupied with my nerves that I couldn''t keep my thoughts straight. I couldnt stand this kind of rudeness, and it was our first meeting. I raise my hand, meaning to wait with furrowed brows.


    "Wait.


    "What? What did you just say? Did you just say wait?"


    The maids face turned bitter and red. Does that attitude make sense to the owner''s daughter?


    I sat down with my arms crossed, my legs crossed, lifted my chin and asked her a question.


    "What''s your name?


    "What''s wrong with your head? You even forgot my name?


    "What''s your name?


    "Vera."


    She sounded a little nervous, perhaps frightened by my unusual arrogance.


    "I see. Vera, what do you do in this house?"


    "Me? I work here. What the hell are you talking about? What''s wrong with your attitude?


    "Youre a servant, Im noble, right? You should behave yourself.


    "Look at you. What do you talk about when you are treated like a ve, worse than a maid?"


    "Well, that''s enough, guide me to my room and wait for me. I can''t stay here any longer."


    The maid was perplexed and very confused by my noble attitude.


    "Come on.


    The maid, frightened by the hawkish look in my eyes, finally led me to my room. It was not arge room, but still neat and clean. It was then that I finally examined my condition in the mirror.


    Emaciated body, dry and brittle long hair, haggard and pale face with exhaustion.


    I ordered the maid to prepare me a bath.


    "Did Master order something else."


    The maid asked me carefully. I sneered at her, her demeanor having changed dramatically from earlier.


    "Of course, I just asked you to do what you had to do. What''s the problem?"


    Ah


    "Bring me the scissors.


    Then the maid brought me the scissors with a startled look on her face. I grabbed my tangled ck hair with one hand and cut it short. Woolly strands of hair fell from my fingers in a crumpled mess.


    "Trim it.


    The maid, confused by my sudden attitude, adjusted the crooked ends of my hair.


    My waist-length hair was now short, a little past my chin.


    I felt a little more human now after I washed my dirty body, brushed my clean hair and put on neat clothes.


    The girl''s face, with its pitch-ck hair and dim gray-green eyes, which had looked like a starving crow for days, a little brighter in the warmth of the room. I still like short hair. Even in my previous life, I kept my hair short, and I didnt grow it out very often.


    "Bring me some food."


    At my arrogant and coercive order, the maid bowed and retreated with courtesy.


    "From now on, I have to convince the father of this body, and no matter how much I dream, this is no good."


    But this was myplete misjudgment and conceit.


    Admiral Winston ire was from a marquis family, and was crowned Count for his contribution in the naval battles.


    He was a handsome middle-aged man with tinum hair and blue eyes, and had the dignity and cold image of a soldier. He had nopassion nor a speck of love for his second daughter, Diana.


    He was simply too close to denying the fact that she was his daughter with all his might. When the Admiral came back to the mansion, he seemed to have heard my story from his servant and came into my room.


    He opened the door roughly and immediately frowned as soon as he saw me in my neat appearance.


    "Diana, whats wrong with you? Have you gone crazy?


    "I thought that as the daughter of an honorable soldier, I should present a neat appearance, father.


    Soldiers on the battlefield don''t have time to wash or eat. I thought I told you to feel their hardships and realize them."


    "My gratitude for their hardships has grown in my bones over the years."


    Actually, it was more like a preview of the experience, but it was enough to make me feel bone-weary for a few years. I''ll be dead before Ist a minute in that ce.


    "So everything Ive done so far has been for nothing. After all, I want a clean ce to sleep and a decent meal."


    My mood wasnt so good, but I raise my hard, stiff mouth.


    I maintained my uppermost smile.


    "Now I want to spend time with my father. Im your daughter.


    I realized that I had said something outrageous. As soon as I finished, I saw the hatred and disgust in the Admiral''s blue eyes.


    Then I was locked in a stable. For two days, I was tied up tightly without water or bread. The only thing that could keep me warm was a pile of hay in the corner.


    The hunger and cold were so vivid. Is this reality? If it were a dream, it still stayed with me after I woke up.


    My maid, Vera, came in and burst outughing.


    "It''s a good thing. You''ve lost your mind.


    She took a piece of dry bread from her pocket and held it in front of me.


    Do you want it?


    I was dizzy with hunger, but even if I starved to death, I would not eat the bread she gave me.


    I red at her with a single thought that if I seededter, I would trample her. She looked very happy as if she was satisfied with mocking my situation.


    "Say, I''m sorry, Lady Vera."


    The words were arrogant, as if she was a youngdy of noble birth. I leaned against the cold stone wall and looked up at her, my dry lips quivering.


    "Crazy woman. You think youre a noblewoman? Aren''t you ashamed of yourself?"


    Embarrassed by my words, she bit her lip with a bright red face.


    "Youre the crazy one! Youre going to freeze to death like this!"


    "If I get out of here, you''ll be the first one I kill."


    I red at her with murderous eyes, driven by an irresistible urge to kill. It wasn''t the world I lived in anyway, and it could be a dream, so I might as well at least try to kill her.


    When Vera saw me grinning, she backed away, startled out of her skin, and hurriedly turned around and exited the horse section.


    She didn''t even close the door. She had no manners.


    A harsh cold wind blew through the gap in the open door, making an eerie sound like the scream of a ghost.


    It''s cold. I think I''m going to freeze to death.


    Suddenly, the Admiral''s disdainful gaze that I saw earlier came to mind. He sincerely wanted the owner of this body to die, his own daughter.


    In the early part of the original story, after Diana''s sister and the main character, Celine, was kidnapped, Diana was framed for "selling her sister to the enemy" and was shot to death.


    <b><i>[Father, I didnt do it!]</i></b>


    Diana''s miserable wailing did not help. Without projecting the person she hated before she died, I don''t know how the writer intended to include such a short, strong epic of misery.


    It was a kind of expendable character to show the anger of the father who cared for Celine, and a supporting character who lived empty without presence. Like the nk of records not left in the long, long history of the world, the life of the woman "Diana" also ended with the death of one line.


    Since the novel was based on a true story, each of them will have their own misfortunes and circumstances if we look closely. Even when she was alive, the treatment with Celine was a world apart.


    The Admiral treated Celine, who resembled his dead wife, as a princess and took very good care of her. He made every effort to rescue his abducted daughter and carried out a rescue mission together with the male protagonist.


    If this body was kidnapped, he surely wouldnt want to save it.


    If I stay here, I''ll die even if I prevent Celine''s kidnapping. I''d rather be kidnapped by the Duke of Rothsilde instead.


    I made this decision because I was getting closer and closer to the judgment of reality. Dream or reality, I couldnt stand this kind of hospitality. Dying was even worse. In the meantime, I''ve decided to discard the inspirational project of opening the Admiral''s heart to change and enjoy an aristocratic and peaceful life.


    I was just going to run away somewhere else, but running away in the middle of winter without any encyclopedic knowledge of this world was tantamount to suicide.


    Since there was no way I would be fortunate enough to have books or newspapers to read, and since I was in a situation where I had neither the time nor the environment to umte knowledge, so I decided that at least acting within the knowledge I know would be the least risky.


    It was a few days before my sister Celine was abducted.


    She attended a party, but was abducted directly by the subordinates of the Duke of Rothsilde, a colonel of an enemy country, because she was the daughter of the Admiral. Even though Celine was kidnapped and confined, she stayed in a warm ce where food was served without fail.


    The conclusion was that I had be taken instead of Celine. In order to escape from this hell and livefortably, I had to avoid the death that would soone and saved my life.


    I tend to persue maximum benefits with minimal effort.


    What do I do after being kidnapped?


    If you know your enemy, you will win a hundred battles.


    I had a general understanding of Duke Rothsildes tendencies from my novel, so once I seed, I would be able to handle him.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    Today is the day my sister and main character, Celine, will be abducted.


    I had a n for everything.


    Now, if I make a scene, if I am hated, if I am trapped again, I will miss out on a thousand opportunities.


    I am in the midst of doing chores that I was not destined to do.


    Not being of a hardworking nature, I was cking off in the guest room when I sneaked out into the hallway and heard a nasally voice behind me.


    "Hey, wipe all the window frames in the mansion."


    Vera, who suddenly became confident, threw a rag at me and hit my face. I warned her once again with an expressionless face.


    "Did I say I''ll kill you or not?"


    "Before you do, you''ll be locked in the stable first and freeze to death."


    <i>That jerk! I''ll get my revenge, I promise.</i>


    I clenched my teeth and picked up the rag from the floor. It smelled bad, so I picked it up with my index finger and pretended to gently clean it as I made my way to Celine''s room.


    As soon as I pushed open the door to her room and entered, the first thing I saw was arge bear skin on the floor.


    The bear head the size of arge pot was looking at me. I didn''t feel good as our eyes met. The bear was about the size of a house, which the Admiral was said to have caught with his hunting gun.


    The room was filled with arge bed and ornate tapestries delicately woven with textiles and furniture crafted with fine raw wood, ivory and gold. It was the room of a noble princess. Seriously, I wonder if people will call her the Admiral''s Princess.


    "Diana, are you here?"


    Celine, who sat in an armchair in front of the firece and covered herself with a cozy wool nket, smiled.


    As the weak female protagonist who gets cold easily, she was wearing quilted pajamas and a cashmere shawl.


    "Yes, I''m here to clean the window frames.


    She had that same dazzling tinum hair and crisp yellow-green eyes as her mothers. Her lips were like cherry blossoms and her cheeks were rosy and lovely.


    Although marriage proposals flooded in because of her beautiful appearance, the admiral refused all of them and she was not going to get married until he was satisfied with the opponents.


    <i>How amazing a ce is he going to send her?</i>


    I thought Celine in the novel wasn''t such a bad persona, so I decided to cut to the chase carefully.


    About the main character has to teach the reader a lesson, so she has the right and proper spirit.


    "Sister.


    "Yes?


    "Will you take me to the social gathering today? I''ve never been to one before."


    With a pitiful and piteous look on my face, I looked at the fancy shoes she was wearing. Silence circted between the two of us for a while. "She must be a good girl because she grew up being treated as a princess by the hero, right?" As if to disprove my stereotype of her as a "good girl", she spoke.


    Her lips twisted up oddly and began tough in a high-pitched voice.


    Diana, do you really want to go to the party?"


    "Will you take me with you?"


    "I don''t think so, it''s an important ce where all the upper ss people gather. I''m sorry. Dad will be furious if he finds out. You can''t go outside, right? People will worry about you. You know that, right?"


    <i>What do you mean I know?</i>


    Her mouth said, "I''m sorry," but her expression was an unmistakable sneer. I have grasped what kind of disposition it is. It''s someone who only superficially disys goodness but doesn''t do good deeds that people can''t see.


    In other words, a person with hypocrisy.


    She didn''t mind at all that her sister was treated this way.


    "Oh, well, that''s all right then."


    Celine smiled innocently, pping her hands as if she suddenly remembered.


    "How about you go as my servant and keep this a secret from father. Then I guess we can go together. What do you think? If you don''t mind me calling you my servant, you may go with me. No one knows your face anyway, right?"


    <i>Is that the best you can do? You have a wicked temper to try to make me a servant instead of being your sister.</i>


    Still, it was the only way I could go with her, so I nodded, deliberately hiding my disgust.


    "Yes, sister. Thank you so much."


    I gave a fake smile and turned around, only pretending to scrub the window frame. On the way back, another maid gave me a cheeky grilling.


    "Hey! Did you wipe this? The dust is still here."


    Then you do it.


    I replied roughly and lost myself in thought.


    I kept wondering how I was going to get kidnapped instead of Celine.


    Time passed and dusk fell and the entire mansion became busy. The servants clung to the princess who was going to the party, dressed her with extreme care and carried all kinds of dresses, shoes and trinkets.


    As if it was an important position, they gave me decent clothes and allowed me to dress in basic attire. I wore a simple but well-cut neat dress and my hairbed neatly.


    Since I didn''t have any cosmetics, I sneaked into Veras room, stole some lip balm that looked homemade, and applied it appropriately to my lips only. Of course, I wasn''t going to put a lot of lead and mercury filled cosmetics on my face.


    I saw a ck and white woman reflected in the mirror. My pale face, pitch ck short hair, and even torn eyes were frosty cold and not at all lovely. Even the skinny body where the scars of cold treatment really showed. It looked gloomy and pitiful.


    It was like a colorless shell left behind after Celine had taken everything away, including affectionation, beauty, and color.


    As I was following Celine outside, I saw a ck car and five soldiers in Belford uniforms on the outside of the mansion, towards the Portico (the space where guests get out of their cars at the entrance of the building).


    Since Celine was the daughter of a naval general, it seemed that they hade to guard her as well as to go with her to the party. Celine, who had hastily arranged her tinum hair, moved her lips as if she was practicing smiling. She straightened her back and approached with elegant steps and greeted the tall ck-haired officer.


    "It is very reassuring to know that Colonel Grenendall will be guarding us. Thank you very much.


    I approached him, wondering if I should also greet him out of courtesy.


    Thank you.


    Suddenly, I realized something. What? Colonel Grenendall?


    My lips closed rapidly as I tried to express my gratitude.


    It was Jeffrey Grenendall, from the ducal family, the main protagonist of the original story, and the lieutenant colonel who led the mission to rescue Celine. I dont think theres anything to say that he would protect me.


    .


    I hurriedly finished my greeting and was about to turn away when he called me back. Then, with a brisk gait, he asked.


    What is your name?


    His tone was polite, despite his stiff impression. I lifted the hem of my dress slightly and tilted my head. He followed me and bowed his head.


    "Ah, shes my servant.."


    Celine quickly interrupted and tried to make me her maid of honor, but it was a terrible idea. I said clearly, smiling slyly.


    "My name is Diana ire.


    As soon as he heard my name, Colonel Grenendalls brows seemed to narrow a bit, but he quickly regained his original expression. He looked carefully at my hair, which was as ck as his own.


    "I''ve heard that there is another daughter in the ire family, so it was you."


    He looked at me with gentle eyes, as if he was looking at a child. Celine scowled and nced over to notice me. I hadn''t intended to reveal the fact of the abuse to him, who followed Celine in the original story, so I told him what people already knew.


    "Yes. I was confined to the house because of my illness. So I don''t think you knew. But I''m feeling better now."


    "I''m d to hear that. I''m Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall."


    "Yes, Lieutenant Colonel. It''s nice to meet you.


    "ck hair is rare in Belford. Its interesting.


    Although he has a blunt face, a smile crossed his mouth at first nce.


    My neck hurt from looking up because he was much taller. His blue eyes were like the ocean on a sunny day.


    He has a high nose, a sharp jawline, a three-dimensional feature, and a solid build that looked great in a uniform.


    In a word, its wonderful.


    "Do you have a partner?"


    He asked if I had a partner for the party. It was a low voice but sounded calm and gentle. Celine''s green eyes bulged round as she stood there like a stone statue. Of course my vaguely colored eyes blinked in a panic. Because that question was directed at me.


    "No, I don''t.


    If you don''t have one, I''ll be your partner.


    "Me? My sister is more beautiful than me. Why"


    Im curious about you.


    He insisted, and then held out his hand to me as a way of asking for my permission.


    I could feel Celine''s tense eyes beside me.


    She had a secret crush on him since her days in the noble private school.


    Why would the man who would be Celine''s partner show any interest in me?


    Partnering with him would reduce the chances of me being kidnapped, and that was not good. A hint ofpassion shed through his eyes as he waited for my answer.


    He looked at me and Celine alternately and sighed faintly. It was still too early for me to judge the opposite gender.


    The man was portrayed in the original as a hero who was just, honest, and unable to overlook the poor.


    Now, that the look on my face was simr to the look of starvation in a poor country, so unlike my sister, he probably felt pity for me when I looked like a donkey in in clothes.


    However, wanting to tease Celine, I readily agreed to the Colonels proposal. Even if we were going as partners, I could just throw Celine at him and walk on my own.


    "Yes, itll be my honor.


    Celine, wearing a gorgeous dress and a wide-brimmed hat, got into the car first, and I followed after.


    Since I possessed Diana, the road we were on for the first time was filled with horse-drawn carriagesing and going busily, sometimes only seen in museums.


    I could see automobiles passing by.


    Industrial nts spewed ck soot and smoke, and railroads rumbled by. What century is it exactly? It seemed to be the end of the 19th century or the beginning of the 20th century, and it was a vague world.


    In the sky, I could see a bine flying in the trajectory of an old war movie. That''s right. We were at war.


    "Is this your first time outside?"


    Celine asked me,ughing with triviality, as if she thought it was funny to see my face attached to the car window.


    "Me, it''s been a very long time.


    "You''re not really going to be his partner, are you? That person, he can''t just pass by when he sees a poor person."


    "I''m a poor person?"


    "You''re the one who told him that youre weak."


    Celine replied with a coy face, and I nodded slowly.


    Im still going to be his partner. I already said I would."


    Celine''s eyes narrowed fiercely with my calm tone. That''s refreshing. I''m actually not interested in him, so when I''m gone, the two of them can eat well and live happily ever after.


    Because Im going to be abducted today and leave here. Abduction ending. Celine, who had been sitting quietly, turned to me and slowly opened her mouth.


    "Why did you change your way of speaking


    Squeak!


    As we entered a dark roadside with a long line of trees, the car came to a sudden stop with the sound of tires rattling.


    "What''s going on?"


    Despite Celine''s words, the driver remained silent, looking only ahead.


    It was about this time that anxiety came to the fore in the strangely felt silence.


    A single gunshot was heard from outside.


    As if the sound of just one gunshot had been a trigger, there was an intense sound of gunfire covering the area as if an engagement had urred.


    Celine screamed and lowered her head . My sense of reality had not fully returned, and I looked out the car window without any fear. All I could think was that I had to get out of this poor environment, as had be my general goal in life.


    If they wereing to take me away, that deadly gunfire would be like a weing salute to me. As I was repressing my buoyant mind, the door of the passenger seat next to the driver''s seat suddenly swung open and a slender man in a dark blue coat climbed in. He looked at Celine, who was terrified, and me, who was quiet.


    "Hmm, there''s two of you.


    The man''s voice was soft and calm, despite the deadly engagement that had taken ce outside. The car suddenly took off and drove off somewhere like crazy.


    "Yes, sir. They''re both Admiral ire''s daughters."


    The reply of the driver, who appeared to be a spy, gave me confidence in my expectations. This was an abduction.


    "Who is the oldest?"


    The man in the passenger seat asked briefly.


    Celine, who was quick-witted, raised her head and answered.


    "Do you mean Celine?"


    She was referring to me as if nothing had happened. She looked like a wicked woman.


    "You''re a liar."


    The man made a chuckling sound, his eyes gracefully curved.


    His hair looked crisp and gray, dyed in the dark. The car had passed through a secluded area and was approaching a road with streetlights.


    The light from the passing streetlights melted into the man''s drawing paper-like hair. It was definitely white.


    I remembered that it was someone''s unique hair color.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    "First."


    The man spoke to Celine in a low voice.


    A nervous Celine couldn''t open her mouth, or maybe she covered her mouth and only tears trickled down.


    "You with blond hair. Get off."


    It was a somewhat coercive voice. The car that had been running came to a squealing halt. The man in the passenger seat got out of the car and kindly opened the door, and Celine bounced out of the car and rolled onto the street. I watched the scene with a bemused look on my face.


    <i>What am I supposed to do? How could my n work so easily?</i>


    Originally, the n was to pretend to be a sacrifice, Take me instead of my sister. I''m the second daughter, I''m weak, my father especially cares about me, and I can''t go out often! I also prepared a touching line I am worth more as a hostage, please take me!


    While I was contemting briefly, the man casually climbed into the seat next to me and spoke.


    "You don''t seem to be worried about your sister. It''s strange that you don''t even cry."


    " By all ounts, I''m in a more difficult situation than her, so why do I have to worry about her?"


    The car departed and he looked at me in silence for a while. After driving for a long time, the car came to a street with gaslitmps.


    As if the dark curtain was removed by the light of the streetmps, the man''s figure appeared clearly and his hair, dyed by the pitch ck night, shone with the color of moonlight.


    He was a man who was as beautiful as art and had a marvelous appearance, but was somehow empty. The man smiled at me with mesmerizing eyes. His good appearance and charming voice seemed to sway my reason.


    Now I remembered it clearly. The description of the man who imprisoned Celine in the original story, a beautiful face with unusual silver hair and cloudy blue eyes.


    It was definitely Noah Rothsilde, the Colonel and Duke of the enemy Progen Empire.


    Who are you?"


    When I pretended not to know, the corner of the man''s long, beautiful eyes gently folded. His eyes, which seemed to becking somewhat, seemed to see through me to the depths of my soul.


    "The one who came to save you.


    "Save me"


    I tilted my head at the man''s unfathomable reply.


    Hes here to help me? The man who led the abduction of Celine in the original story dumped her in the street without any worries, as if it was me he was targeting from the beginning. What the hell is this situation?


    You are going to be kidnapped today. Come with me.


    If this was not abduction, what was it? First of all, it was true that I was on track with my n, but the more I interacted with this man, the more question marks there were in my head. He said a word that only he could understand, so I asked him again,


    What do you mean that you are kidnapping me and saving me at the same time?"


    A somewhat confused look crossed his face and the man chuckled, touching his lips.


    His frosty hair swayed gently.


    <i>What is so funny?</i>


    I was supposed to be kidnapped by the Dukes subordinates, but the Duke himself came directly to me, and on top of that, he took me instead of Celine. I wasnt sure why it was going differently than the original story, and the Duke was also different.


    They were already following me. So I threw the blond hair one as bait."


    The Duke let out an exmation as he looked at the back of the car.


    One of the cars blocked the front of the car we were in, probably following us on a shortcut. We were stuck in the middle of the car that was following us from behind and the car in front of us.


    The driver looked back at the Duke as if to ask what he was going to do, but he still had a strange, buoyant look on his face.


    "That''s why Bentner''s cars aren''t very good."


    "Did you bring me a car from the neighborhood?


    "That''s the fastest thing that came out now."


    What the hell are these two men talking about in this situation? Two soldiers and Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall got out of the car in front of us and surrounded the Dukes car, pointing rifles at us.


    "Lieutenant. As soon as I get out of the car, I want you to pull into a side street.


    Duke Rothsilde whispered to the driver and took me out of the car. He grabbed me by the shoulders and put a pistol to my head.


    At the same time, the driver called the lieutenant, made a slipping sound and drove off to a side street, but Grenendall did not give the order to fire.


    "I can''t believe you put a gun to her head. What are you doing? Colonel Rothsilde.


    Grenendalls cold voice was heard.


    The feeling of the pistol against my head was horrifying. I don''t like this creepy back hug.


    "I dont really use it, sorry."


    Noah whispered quietly into my ear as if to reassure me, then he straightened his back and smiled at Jeffery Grenendall.


    Colonel, I think it would be better to get her to safety. So we''ll be going now.


    After a brief word of business, NoaH Rothsilde took me with him and started to run somewhere. From the opposite direction we were running, armed men suddenly jumped out and pointed guns at Jeffery Grenendall and his soldiers.


    They seemed to be the Duke''s men. (Duke Noah Rothsilde=ML)


    <i>Jeffrey Grenendall is not going to die, is he? Hes the male protagonist.</i>


    "Let''s ride this.


    He took me to a ce where a seemingly expensive luxury car was parked.


    I followed him into the ck car. I was a little surprised because it was a car with an internalbustion engine. As far as I know, it was so expensive that not everyone could afford it. The cars I saw from time to time were steam-powered.


    "Hold on tight.


    With a squeak and a slide, the car took off and started running at a great speed. Of course, it was not as fast as modern cars, but the speed I could feel was like riding in a mass-produced car, perhaps because of the impending moment.


    Unlike the original story, I don''t know why he chose me, but I was happy because I achieved my goal.


    Now that I was abducted instead of the precious Celine, I will be able to cross the border smoothly.


    "Hey, did I just get kidnapped?"


    "I didnt lie. I told you earlier.


    "What did you mean when you said you saved me?"


    "That''s right."


    I still didn''t understand why he said he saved me.


    "Get some sleep. We''ll be there when the sunes up."


    Trees and buildings passed faintly outside the window of the car as it drove at a tremendous speed through the darkness.


    First, it would be normal to pretend to be scared and bewildered when kidnapped. And I raised my voice.


    "What are you going to do with me?"


    "Don''t worry, I won''t hurt you. However, if you run wild and get into an ident, you will get seriously hurt."


    The Dukes eyes narrowed as he stared at me, who immediately became quiet.


    I closed my mouth and rested my elbows and chin on the window sill.


    Eventually, I dozed off. I don''t know how much time passed, but I felt a warm body heat on my shoulders and the top of my head, and I raised my eyelids up. A faint scent of musk approached my nose.


    Are you awake?


    I suddenly raised my head as the Dukes voice echoed close above my head.


    It seemed to be asleep, leaning on his shoulder.


    He had a cold impression, but his body heat was warm.


    The sun rose brightly over the mountain ridge.


    Our car was parked in front of a grand mansion.


    This was the lovely ce where I would be held captive.


    You slept so well that I couldn''t wake you up, even though you were abducted.


    I rubbed my cheeks, feeling embarrassed at the Duke''s words. I thought I shouldn''t be this rxed when I was being kidnapped, so I frowned and asked with a scary face.


    I felt that I shouldn''t be so spontaneous even though I had been kidnapped, so I furrowed my eyebrows and asked with a scared look on my face.


    Where am I? What exactly do you want?"


    "A beautiful hostage."


    "You have a different way of looking at things, you think Im beautiful?


    No matter how I look at it, the aesthetic standard of this world was Celine. Something must have happened to this man''s eyes.


    "How worried my father must be about me."


    I covered my face with both hands and tried to pretend to cry, but no tears came out. He got out of the car, showing no reaction to my acting, then opened the door and held out his hand to me.


    "Let''s go, pretty Lady.


    "If it wasn''t for the gun, I wouldn''t be this obedient"


    I shook his hand, saying mindlessly as if it was a pretense. He took me to a room that had a gorgeous but slightly gloomy atmosphere.


    It was full of rare objects and bizarre paintings.


    Arge bookshelf on one wall was filled with books.


    "If there''s anything ufortable, tell me anytime."


    The faint blue-eyed Duke pushed me into the room and closed the door. There was a clicking sound, it seemed the door was locked.


    Paradoxically, I felt a sense of freedom and liberation from my confinement. I finally escaped from that beggarly ce.


    There are times when you do nothing and receive no interference. I had only a servant to take care of me in the original story, and she visited me three times a day, because no one else came.


    In the original story, during her confinement, Duke Rothsilde did not visit more than once. Celine, who was locked up, devised all kinds of ways to escape, but they all failed. But even after she finally defeated the servant and got out of the room, it was impossible for her to escape because there were soldiers outside and the windows were tightly closed with iron bars.


    However, I don''t n on escaping anytime soon, I''m just going to eat and sleep here for as long as I can.


    It''s just a matter of finding out from here that my presence will be of absolutely no use to the negotiations.


    The Admiral, my father, would be d to have me killed instead. Im sure he would say something usible like, "I will not forget the righteousness of my daughter who sacrificed herself for her country. And I can see him receiving some kind of award for sacrificing his daughter for his country.


    It''s so exhausting. I decided to stop thinking about it for now. Iy down on the soft bed and felt rxed.


    It has all the essentials for an indoor girl. There was a feather quilt, warm cotton pajamas, and warm woolen socks, and I was as good as done for the winter. The heavy marble firece burned well and warmed the air in the room.


    The food brought by the servants was hearty and satisfying.They said that if I pull the string attached to the bottom of the bell, they will bring me whatever I need.


    There were also so many books to read that I would never be bored.


    <i>I''m d I got kidnapped!</i>


    I stretched out my arms and waved them up and down excitedly.


    ***


    It seemed like it had been about three days since I was locked up.


    In the meantime, I ate, slept, hung sluggishly in bed, idling to my hearts content.


    Noah didnt seem at all like the original.


    Even the maid didnt even say anything uselessly and I was toozy to ask.


    I learned about the history, culture, economy, and chess here, mostly by reading books. I would love to spend the rest of my life here doing nothing, but there was no way I could do that, so I needed time to figure out this world for the future. The bookshelves were lined with hard books on topics such as philosophy, history, and technology.


    While they were certainly useful, it was also very necessary to keep a cool head. The R19 rated novels and romance novels that I usually read would not have existed here.


    Sometimes I need that kind of thing for a change of pace and vicarious satisfaction, though. The Duke told me he would give me whatever I need, so I called the maids. It didnt matter if the Duke wouldnte.


    A knock sounded from outside the door and a servant named Molly entered with a nk face. She had auburn hair and gray eyes and was in her thirties or so.


    Her posture was somewhat calm, but she looked strong, and her tightly closed mouth looked determined. She gave a firm impression so I was a little reluctant to make demands, but I tried my best to speak calmly. Books for the adults will be requested secretly in the future, after we have developed internal friendships.


    Can you bring me some other books? Romance novels, please.


    "Okay."


    Molly bowed slightly, said goodbye, and walked out. She got the books very quickly and brought in 5 of them. Among the books piled up like a prize, the Western-style book ced at the front boasted a strong presence.


    <The Great Duke>


    Molly stared at the book with a cold expression.


    "Why? The Duke"


    "It''s the book the maids had.


    I''m sure they bought it while thinking about the Duke. Oh, thats good. There were many aplices, so at least they wouldnt tell the Duke that I demanded this. Molly left the room with a cold look on her face and a cold wind in her eyes, and Iy down on the bed and started reading a book called "The Great Duke".


    "He promised to marry the Lady when they were very young. What a twist.


    I thought it was just a third-rate adult book, but the story was intriguing and the descriptions were wonderful. After reading for a while, I finally fell asleep at midnight. I had fallen into a deep sleep and was slightly awakened by the bed rustling and shaking. I could smell the familiar scent and feel the warmth of a presence at my bedside.


    A man in a dark gray suit vest over a shirt was sitting next to me with a book open.


    The silvery-white hair looked familiar.


    I finally managed to speak to him.


    "When did youe."


    "I just got here"


    What he was holding was the novel The Great Duke''.


    "The Duke.are you learning tricks?


    I muttered dreamily as my grasp of the situationgged, and then I came to my senses and opened my eyes. I reached out and tried to grab the book, but he dodged my hand with ease.


    "I see you like this kind of thing.


    "No, I don''t!"


    I was so embarrassed that I tried desperately to take the book from him. Surprisingly, the Duke fell back on the bed with no effort and lifted the book with a rxed face. Blue eyes stared up at me beneath the book. The silver bangs fell back to reveal a glossy forehead and beautifully shaped eyebrows.


    "You are very aggressive."


    The Duke let out a low voice that sounded like a peculiar sigh. It was then that I finally realized that I was on top of him.


    Gently, he put down the book, grabbed my wrist, and pulled me toward him.


    Duke?


    He chuckled at the sound of my panicked voice, our faces were so close that I could feel his hot breaths.


    "Yes, I''m a Duke, too."


    His voice was somewhat sluggish and drowsy, as if he had just woken up from sleep.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    Duke Rothsildes expression was extremely seductive, and even the scent of musk was light, creating a strangely odd atmosphere between us. I was beginning to choke up because his appearance was so dangerous that could be called the standard of decadent beauty.


    I leaned my upper body back, trying to hide my bewildered expression.


    What do you mean? Even if Im a hostage, not in this way!"


    "You''re the one who attacked me. What should I do? You''re so pretty, I can''t even rebel."


    He turned his head, feeling his heart sinking as he deliberately made a vulnerable expression. He was like a ravenous beast who found the little rabbit cute.


    What is it about my appearance that is so admirable? His appearance was far from our aesthetic standards.


    There were no mirrors anywhere, and I was beginning to forget whether I looked good or bad.


    "There''s something I want to check."


    He said in a somewhat expectant tone, and then sat up. His face was close to mine again, and as I held my breath, I could feel his soft hair brushing my cheek.


    <i>All of a sudden?''</i>


    I was startled to see the Dukes hands moving toward me as he sat upright, and I held his hands protectively.


    <i>What is he trying to confirm?</i>


    However, his hand veered from its expected trajectory and picked up a coat next to me and took something out. It was a regtion pistol in the hands of the gracefully smiling man.


    The re of light reflecting off the cold metal was redirected to the front. As soon as I realized that the muzzle of the pistol was headed in my direction, I felt a shiver run down my spine. I hurriedly got up and walked out of the bed.


    "Are you perhaps checking to see if Im going to die or not?"


    Is he crazy? Why is he pointing a gun at me? I stood back against the wall. I shrank my shoulders and pretended to be scared, but I asked him deliberately and nonchntly. He tilted his head, keeping the muzzle fixed on me.


    "You will die.


    Who doesn''t know that being shot by a gun will kill you?


    "That''s a normal reaction today. What would I say the day I brought you here?"


    Nodding slowly, the Duke stood up, lowering his muzzle, and approached me, closing the distance between us. His lips rxed, and he put more strength into the end of his voice, which was clouded with admiration.


    "You looked happy.


    The words were unexpectedly right on target.


    Who the hell is this man? The inside of my mouth began to dry up. I swallowed hard and blinked. It was a feeling that every little action of mine was a proposition to be deduced. I muffled my expression to the maximum, but the gaze I couldn''t process was tied to his shirt cor.


    Take it, Princess.


    He put the pistol in my hand as if he was presenting me with a precious jewel. I was confused. I couldnt predict this man''s intentions at all. I hesitated with the pistol in my hand. He was watching me quietly and generously informed me.


    Shoot me and you can run away.


    His quiet manner and voice were as lovely as ever. This only made me more perplexed. There was no way Id kill him, who should be responsible for my food, clothing and shelter for the time being. Oh, that was what he was trying to check?


    Do I really want to run away? He must be trying to test me by giving me a gun without bullets. The evil thing I was holding was a revolver pistol.


    I had seen them in the media, but this was the first time I''ve touched one directly. I looked around at the pistol and pulled the rounded cylinder with my finger.


    Click.


    It was the sound of the cylinder warping to the side and opening. As soon as I saw the six bullets loaded in the chamber, my mind went nk.


    He had filled all the bullets and handed it to me, which meant that this was not some kind of Russian roulette bet. This man was truly insane. Or two lives, as the case may be.


    The Dukes beautiful lips, which had been observing my panic, lifted up more and more. The mischievous crooked look in his eyes made it unclear whether this was real or a joke.


    "Now hold it with both hands like this and pull here with your index finger."


    He grabbed my hand holding the gun and kindly told me in a gentle voice. He pulled on my wrist holding the pistol and ced the muzzle of the gun on his own forehead.


    Unlike me, who stiffened at the sight of the gun pointed at him, he smiled strangely.


    "Just shoot me in the head."


    His voice,ced with insane words, was not only spare, but even usible. My hands shook weakly in panic.


    If I didn''t shoot him, he might find out about my ulterior motives. But I couldnt pull the trigger. I shook my head, a weak expression on my face.


    "I don''t want to. I don''t want to kill people."


    "Youre a pacifist."


    "It''s just an ordinary persons thought.


    "A normal person."


    He nodded slowly as he repeated my words in a low voice. I''m sure he wasn''t trying to test my antisocial tendencies or my courage.


    With my head down, I gently looked at him. At the same time, my thoughts and gaze went towards the door. It shouldn''t be locked because the Duke came in.


    I couldnt shoot that man, so I decided to pretend to be conspicuous for now. It would give him some evidence that I wanted to escape but just didnt have the courage to kill him.


    I approached the door with my gun pointing at him, hesitating just a moment to give myself room. Nevertheless, the Duke only smiled brightly while standing there.


    While looking at him, I opened the door and ran out. The long corridor was empty, contrary to the expectation that someone would be guarding it.


    For now, I would run aimlessly somewhere first, then pretend I didn''t win and get caught. I started running to the end of the hallway.


    It was strange, he didnte to catch me. No one. I ran down the stairs on the third floor, stopped and caught my breath.


    "What are you doing, now?"


    I mumbled as I stood there sluggishly, looking at the upper floor, and then ran down the stairs again to the first floor entrance. As I passed the main gate, I saw therge archway of the entrance, and no one came to catch me even after I reached it.


    Therge and heroic mansion seemed to be deserted, and was surrounded by a dark silence. Now, where should I go? I wasn''t nning to run away. I was in a realistic dilemma.


    This was Progen, a hostile country, and besides, I didnt have a single pass or identification card. I didnt have the appearance of a Belfordian, so it would be hard to im that I was from here.


    Besides, this ce was located on the outskirts, far from the city, and there was a high possibility of escaping and dying.For now, I decided to hide in the forest nearby.


    <i>Pleasee and get me. Youll catch me easily!</i>


    I headed towards the nearby dark forest.


    I hoped that anyone would find me and stop me, but there was no one following me. In the end, I walked slowly through the forest of dry winter trees, relying only on the moonlight.


    The forest was quiet, and the only sound was the crunching of the frozen leaves as they rustled under my feet. It was so cold and scary. I stood there in a daze, afraid that if I went any deeper, my otherwise thin lifeline would snappletely. My nerves were tingling.


    The sound of the owl hooting and the pping of its wings as it flew by, made my hair stand on end.


    Ah!


    I screamed out, startled by the sound of something bouncing on the fallen leaves. I held up the pistol I was carrying and saw a single brown badger standing there, stunned.


    The badger stared at me with a look of surprise in its eyes.


    "Go on your way.


    I waved my hand in the air, sweeping my thin face. The badger that was looking at me so shyly disappeared into the dark depths of the forest.


    Snowkes began to flutter down from the sky. The fierce north wind of winter was gradually taking away my body temperature.


    I was in my nightgown and my whole body shivered. I should have brought a coat.


    <i>How am I supposed to escape with just a gun in the first ce?</i>


    Maybe he was trying to torment me this way, to psychologically control and manipte me, or maybe he intended to torment me for fun. I crouched down on the stump.


    I heard footstepsing from somewhere with a reasonable stride, so I hurriedly picked up my gun. I saw the Duke standing at the end of the muzzle looking at me, which coincided with my fearful gaze. His hair, bathed in the quiet moonlight, glowed a dazzling silver.


    I put down my gun with a breath of relief. With a ck chesterfield coat draped over his shoulders, he smiled gently, his head tilted to one side, beautiful even from a distance.


    "I guess youre lost. Do you need help?


    He asked as if he was a knight who hade to my rescue. I remembered the novel I just read earlier about the male protagonist who saved the female protagonist in a crisis.


    Could he save me from a crisis? But he was the one who put me in a crisis. Maybe it was because he was a viin, but it was very contrived. He flicked his finger at me when I didn''t answer.


    "Come here."


    He had a long-barreled rifle in his hand. I was startled. Dont tell me he is pointing a gun at me just because I was trying to escape. I''m not sure I''m up for a gun fight against a skilled man. And isn''t that really sneaky, giving me a small gun and bringing something scarier for himself?


    A chilly breeze went in and out of my pajama skirt. With my white pajamas, bloodless face, and pitch-ck pigtails, I would have looked like a ghost. With a resigned look on my face, I approached the Duke and faced him. He grasped the tips of my hair softly before shaking it free.


    "Good girl. Well done."


    "Didn''t you want me to leave?


    You are not to leave me when the opportunity arises. Do you understand?"


    "You gave me the chance, and you''re the one who put me in a crisis.


    "You cant die."


    He blurted out the ending, reciting it gruesomely, and smiled proudly. Was it to show that it''s useless to run away? This man must be a beautiful lunatic.


    The original story was mostly about the imprisoned Celine making an escape n and waiting for Colonel Grenedall, whom she secretly had a crush on. Moreover, the Duke was not very interested in the main character. Rather, he gave her a scornful look.


    In thetter part of the story, he appeared a bit more attractive, but he also behaved in a crazy way that made the protagonist despair. But it wasn''t like this. He was indifferent to Celine, just teasing her once in a while and leaving her alone, but he would treat her a little better.


    I had been looking at the indifference, the neglect, and the peaceful living environment. I was troubled. He asked me as if he was checking again.


    "Are you still going to run away? There are wolves in the forest and it''s dangerous."


    I gritted my teeth. He knew that, but he let me run away and pushed me into the bitterly cold forest where the wolves were? I didnt want to run away even if he scared me. I couldnt bear to be angry because he put his coat on my shoulders and made a miserable and sentimental look.


    It was as if he was hanging on to me and begging me. I felt like I was possessed by a beautiful creature standing under the moonlight, and I was distracted.


    "Are you scaring me? Are there wolves, or are you giving me winter training?


    Quicklying to my senses, I made a nervous noise.


    You dont cry.


    He rubbed the corner of his mouth with one hand in admiration, and his eyes curved around again.


    "Certainly. It wouldn''t be fun if it was easy."


    Said the Duke somewhat absentmindedly, reaching out and taking my hand in his. My personality wanted to shake him off, but I decided to maintain the gentleness of a weak person as the rifle in his hand glowed threateningly.


    "Aren''t you cold? It''s better to go in.


    He told me to leave. In sub-zero weather, the breath rose white. I should be more angry and rebellious like a wildcat.


    The filthy cold weather wouldnt let me have any pride or stubbornness. I nodded my head, shivering, wanting to lie down on the warm bed in my room as soon as possible.


    The Duke came into the room with me after leaving the forest called Molly and instructed her to serve me warm tea. Even when I sat in front of the firece, the cold that seeped into every inch of my body didnt quite go away.


    Exhausted from my sudden escape, I sank down under the covers. He looked at me and chuckled.


    "I was afraid youd freeze to death running away in secret. Are you mad at me?"


    <i>Im in this mess because of you, you psycho!</i>


    I quietly soothed my seething chest.


    From now on, let''s talk to each other like intelligent people. Mutualmunication is important."


    "Communication? If that worked, there wouldnt be any war.


    "Lack ofmunication would have yed a part.


    "I see. But people don''t understand unless they experience it for themselves, do they?"


    "I want to know without having to experience it, so tell me in advance." (Duke)


    "I''ll give you everything you need. We''ll have lots of conversations. So here it is." (Duke)


    <i>Yes, its all good, but it would be perfect if it weren''t for you, mischievous one.</i>


    I was getting tired of talking, so I yawned, pretending to be sleepy.


    "I''m going to bed now."


    "I''ll see you tomorrow.


    "You''reing back tomorrow?"


    You dont like it?


    There was a flicker of sadness in the Duke''s eyes, but his face was still smiling.


    "No.


    Why is this happening when the original he didn''te around so often? I was worried for a moment about what I designed so wrong.


    That said, the Admiral (her father) shouldn''t have shown any intention of trying to save me, but that''s also a problem. I''m sure that the Duke already told him that he''s holding me as a hostage here.


    I remembered the Duke Rothsildes words, which I didn''t understand: "If it''s easy, it''s not interesting. Aside from the hostage, he seemed to be enjoying and interested in me.


    He seemed to find me entertaining and interesting, and that may be exactly what I was. Was that why he brought me here, who looks so pitiful on the outside instead of Celine?


    If he lost interest in me, he might shoot and kill me, or tell me to walk home, or mercilessly drive me out into that cold forest. Apparently, I was faced with a difficult situation where I had to appeal to the value of negotiation and raise interest in him at the same time.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    A week has passed.


    So far, Duke Noah Rothsilde had never visited me, and I was content to be alone.


    Instead, a secretary by the name of Vincent Ford visited my room from time to time. He was an elegant, gentlemanly, beautiful man with brown hair and wheat-colored eyes, and he assisted the Duke with hisnd management and business. Vincent always stood neatly, checked my health in a clerical manner, and asked if I needed anything.


    I wondered why all the people in this mansion were so cold. The only one that smiled at me was the insane Duke.


    Vincent, the grim-faced secretary, opened his tightly closed mouth.


    "Miss ire. The Admiral (the father) has replied that he had no intention of negotiating.


    I knew it. I brought up the answer I had in mind.


    "It''s a legitimate threat of a preemptive strike using my death as a detonator. That''s just like my father."


    My aloof appearance seemed to agitate Vincent for a moment.


    A normal girl would have gotten scared and started crying and screaming and making a big deal out of it. Besides, a normal person would be mentally exhausted after being locked up for so long, but I was fine. I was actually quite nervous inside, but I pretended to be casual and raised my chin. Vincent, who was staring at me, looked at me in admiration.


    "You really don''t cry, do you?"


    "Huh?"


    "Alright. Ill be on my way. The Duke will visit you soon."


    There seemed to be a hint of disappointment on his face. Did he expect I would wail like a normal person? Watching Vincent go out, I decided to push ahead with this strategy. Making me cry might be the goal of this crazy Duke.


    It waste at night, and I was about to go to bed for another night, when Duke Rothsilde came in with fox fur on one arm. His gorgeous appearance brightened up the dark room.


    "I''vee to have the conversation you like."


    "I''m going to bed." <i>(*This girl lol)</i>


    I sat down on the corner of the bed and looked as tired as I could. Even though he clearly heard me, he pretended like he didnt and pulled a chair over to sit in the opposite direction. Then, with a look of good news on his face, he started to say the same words as his secretary.


    "What should I do? Your father says he doesn''t need you."


    I can''t help it. If my death helps my country, I should follow its will, but my father will have a cause to kill you. "


    In the original story, Duke Noah Rothsilde took Celine without killing her right away, but that was just Celine, who was well worth using. I dont know what requests the Duke asked of my father, but I already expected my father to refuse to negotiate. Nheless, I had to keep emphasizing my value as a hostage.


    I didnt want to be in a situation where I had to escape in this frigid weather. This was a remote ce that no matter how much I looked around, I could only see the forest.


    Besides, I made the decision after experiencing the bitter cold myself. My goal was to stay here until at least spring, and when the time came that my life was in danger, I nned to steal the car keys and escaped in the most expensive car in this mansion and sell it. I would be able to get by with that money.


    He was looking at me in a daze, his elbows resting on the chair armrests, his chin tucked up in a smirk.


    It''s interesting.


    It seemed my method was working. What he showed me was an interest bordering on curiosity. In the original story, he locked Celine up and tortured her mentally, but it waspletely different from the way he did it to me.


    Unlike me, Celine was very reluctant to be locked up. The Duke used a kind of hope torture method, giving her the wrong guidance, making her wander all night in the forest, or making her memorize the thickw books in a day and cing bets she couldn''t win.


    It was very interesting to see how he devastated her mentally by repeatedly giving her hope again if she gave up. Duke Noah Rothsilde was a madman in a gentler guise. I didn''t want to be harassed in such a terrible way, but I was willing toe here because I already knew his way.


    He observed his opponents and enjoyed their facial changes and reactions, including their emotions. I had to adjust the highs and lows appropriately so that he wouldnt get bored. In a word, it''s emotional bargaining.


    If you harm me or bully me, I will


    I wanted to warn him calmly, but I couldnt think of anything to threaten him. Because of that face that seemed to expect what a great threat. Is your fathering to scold me? He smiled happily as he saw me with my mouth shut. A new audibleugh escaped from his slightly open lips.


    "I wont. It''s not very gentlemanly of me to bully someone who doesn''t resist.


    "You seem to have forgotten that you held a gun to my head.


    "That wasn''t bullying. Do you really want to know what bullying is? I''m quite knowledgeable in that field.


    The Duke fixed his tie and smiled. I realized that our conversation was drifting in the wrong direction. While desperately trying toe up with another topic, I remembered that he had something to check by pointing a gun at me that day. This would be a good time to ask him clearly.


    "You said you had something to check while pointing the gun at me. Did you check?"


    "Yes, I did.


    I could pretty much guess his intentions, but it was unclear how I was judged. I asked indifferently as if I didn''t care much.


    "What was it?"


    "Intelligence and the ability to learn."


    <i>I beg your pardon.?</i>


    I was stunned by the unexpected answer, but I quickly adjust my expression.


    I''m just ordinary.


    No, you are not.


    <i>You dont mean my intelligence is horrendouspared to yours.</i>


    Seeing my eyes narrowing more and more with negativity, he continued.


    "How many people in that situation would check to make sure their pistol was loaded? They would have pulled the trigger immediately."


    Was that peculiar? I shook my head, feigning nonchnce.


    "It was a coincidence. I''ve been tinkering with this and that. If another opportunity had presented itself, I''m sure I would have run away"


    "My princess is smart. Isn''t she?


    The Duke smiled brightly as if in agreement. I could only see that the fatigue of dealing with him, who only asked questions that could not be answered, was beyond imagination.


    Observing myck of energy and gradually slumping shoulders, he began to broach a variety of topics that seemed to serve his purpose.


    Of course, there was no context, just useless talk. As we exchanged only awkward words, the Duke swept his lips.


    Looking down, the Duke became quiet and seemed to be looking for a subject for the next conversation.


    <i>By the way, could you please go now? I don''t think you have anything more to say to me.</i>


    The man''s voice was as sweet as a luby, and it made me sleepy.


    I saw his eyshes moving, he seemed to havee up with something to ask me.


    "How were you when you were in Belford?


    <i>Why is he so interested in me?</i>


    "I was fine. My father took really good care of me and tried to do everything for me. Even though he refused to negotiate, Im sure hes very sorry and heartbroken"


    "I see.


    <i>Why does he keep interrupting me?</i>


    Besides, he asked me first, but he didnt seem to be interested in my sincere reply. After listening with some indifference, he stood up and ced a white fox fur coat over my shoulders. Unlike faux fur, it felt alive and soft against my skin.


    "It''s what I caught."


    "Yes.


    "Next time I''ll catch a bear or a tiger and give you a nice carpet."


    I remembered the bear skin carpet in Celines room. The bear''s eyes, empty like a dead fish, still feel cold.


    "No, Im going to die for my country anyway, why should you be nice to me?


    The Duke slowly looked at me as he heard my sarcasm under the guise of my patriotism. His mouth, which had always been curved, was now drawn straight. His expressionless face was frosty, cold, and lonely.


    "Do you want to die with value for others?"


    "Yes, well


    <i>No, actually, I don''t want to die. Can''t I stayfortable like this for a long time?</i>


    I deliberately said the words, trying to grasp his inner thoughts, and his eyes subtly grazed mine.


    "Like this fur, will it be considered valuable only after death? People are more useless than this when they die."


    I asked, trying to find out what was he nning to do with me in the future.


    "If Im useless to you, you''ll kill me anyway, right?"


    "No, I don''t n on killing you in the future. Just as you did not shoot me in the head."


    The Duke finally smiled beautifully, but I had the feeling that his face wasn''t smiling much. <i>If he keeps me alive, will I be useful in negotiations at ater date? </i>I was not familiar with strategy and tactics, so I could not grasp his intentions.


    "I''m sure my father is settling up the army by now. I''m sure he has prepared severalrge battleships, and as such, my death will serve as a fuse to prolong the war, which will eventually be like the Hundred Years War .."


    Yes. I also caught a deer today. Do you like venison?"


    This man didnt listen to me at all. He seemed to dismiss my words as a dogs sound or something.


    "If you let me live and send me home, nothing will happen.


    "Do you want to go home?"


    "Yes."


    <i>No. I really hope you don''t send me back.</i>


    But It was too early to be relieved just because he didnt kill me yet. There must be a reason why he was keeping me instead of killing me, even though negotiations have broken down. I must be suspicious of that man because he only spoke and acted in ways I couldnt understand. I was rolling my head in search of words to grasp the Duke''s intentions, when his long fingers pressed gently on my cheek.


    "Do you know? I''ve been looking for a real princess, not a woman pretending to be a princess."


    "I''m not a princess. I''m not even royalty."


    <i>Please don''t even call me that, it''s so embarrassing.</i>


    "Yes, I want to be the only one to call you that. I don''t want to send you back because I like you.


    It was fortunate that he liked me , but I was quite confused by all the things he said. He added while I was struggling to figure out what to say.


    "And my princess doesn''t seem to have any intention of running away."


    His mysterious blue eyes seemed to be even closer. His face was so close that I could feel his breath on my cheek. I couldn''t even breathe freely as his body scent tickled my nose. I couldn''t make eye contact and dropped my gaze. All I knew was that he was smiling as I looked at his smoothly raised lips. Eventually, I heard a faint voice.


    "This way. I know you don''t want to leave."


    The Duke smiled like an innocent boy, stroking the fox fur. He always rxed.


    On the contrary, my face turned pale.


    <i>This man is not normal. He seems to know all my thoughts.</i>

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    Admiral ire took no action even though his daughter was abducted by Noah Rothsilde, the Duke of the Progen Empire and Colonel of the military.


    When Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall, who witnessed the abduction, visited him and asked his opinion, the Admiral replied that he had no intention of negotiating with him even if his daughter was sacrificed. As soon as the lieutenant colonel heard those words, he thought of Diana and froze in ce.


    Because it was strange to see only the calm judgment typical of a soldier defending his country. The young, weak-looking girl''s lonely gray-green eyes came to mind and bothered him. As soon as he saw the poor girl with dark hair, he remembered the moment when someone''s will ovepped like an afterimage.


    <i>Find that poor child.''</i>


    As soon as he first saw Diana, suspicion led him to immediate action. A few dayster, Jeffrey Grenendall paid another visit to the Admiral''s residence.


    "They were told that you had no intention of negotiating, but it seems they still let her live. He hasn''t informed us separately of her will or the fact of her death."


    Jeffrey was concerned and worried that perhaps they would do something terrible to Diana. The Admiral finally looked a little perturbed at the words, "let her live."


    "You''re not going to save her, are you?"


    The Admiral, who had been stroking his chin at Jefferys words, narrowed his brows and opened his mouth.


    "Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall. Don''t you want to save her too?"


    The uniformed Admiral stood properly and looked out the window. Jeffreys eyebrows narrowed in concern as he stared at his back. Jeffrey thought of Diana''s pale cheeks, rough hands and emaciated body, and thought she doesn''t look like the daughter of an Admiral.


    Her short hair, cut into chunky strands, came to mind. It showed that no one cared for her. Unlike Celine, who was morous and luxurious, Diana was inly dressed and had not a single essory.


    The Admiral, who had been staring out the window, turned his head and sighed.


    I think they are trying to cloud the public''s mind that we are a country that will not save its people after capturing Diana.


    "I think a rescue mission should be undertaken.


    "Are you going to visit them in person?


    Since I couldn''t prevent the abduction before my eyes, so I''m taking responsibility."


    Jeffrey Grenendall, dressed in an officer''s uniform, brushed back his pitch ck hair and put on the cap he was holding in his hand.


    "Lieutenant, Ive already started the rescue mission. I''ve sent a total of eight men with Captain Miller as themander."


    Jeffreys blue eyes, which had been listening for some time, widened slightly and then suddenly narrowed. It was due to the question of the small number of troops.


    "If they fail, then I''ll go. It''s my responsibility and duty as a soldier.


    After Jeffrey left, the Admiral''s mouth twisted up into a grim smile as he turned his back.


    ***


    I forgot my words for a while as he encouraged me to spit out my purpose, "I don''t want to leave, I want to stay here as long as I can." Duke Rothsilde was still looking straight at me with the same rxed face.


    <b><i>"And my princess doesn''t seem to have any intention of running away."</i></b>


    <i>I don''t want to leave.</i>


    His words were right on target. I wondered if he was trying to appease me.


    probe me while she''s nostalgic. I pretended to be fine and struggled to swallow my saliva. And I leaned against the bedhead and smiled leisurely.


    I did run away. At that time.


    The Duke came close to my face and observed me with interesting eyes.


    "Didn''t you notice when you ran away?


    "What?"


    The Duke covered his face with one hand andughed. His blue eyes, visible between his fingers, narrowed even more.


    "Youve never opened the door before, so you dont know.


    I opened my eyes wide and stared at him, feeling I was undergoing a subtle internal examination just by looking at him. The Duke, who briefly looked around the door, raised his chin and spoke.


    I never lock the door, except for the first day.


    What?"


    Oh yes, I don''t think I''ve heard the clinking sound since the first day. Indeed, I had not even attempted to open the door. Because I didnt intend to get out of here. I squeezed my lips shut and tried toe up with a usible excuse.


    "Diana."


    He called my name for the first time. It wasn''t so much a call as it was an appreciative, ruminative monologue. His voice, muddled with breaths, sounded dreamy and drowsy, like the drunkenness of a strong drink.


    "Yes, Duke.


    You may call me by my name as well."


    "What?


    "Noah, that''s my name."


    He took my hand and began to spell it out in my palm. I squeezed my eyes shut, feeling tickled each time his long fingers passed over my palm. Yes, I had to call him by name too.


    "You still don''t know that the Admiral abandoned you? You''re pretending not to know, aren''t you?"


    Does he really know everything? I managed to open my lips and spoke.


    "In any case, I''m not going to sit there and let things happen to me. Whether it''s diplomatic retaliation or anger."


    "That''s not going to happen. Because youre my princess."


    <i>Why does he keep calling me Princess?</i>


    There was no such thing in the original story. Of course, I was ignorant of the detailed history of this body, but it seemed that Diana was not royalty by any stretch of the imagination. If she was, she wouldn''t have received such treatment at the Admiral''s house. In fact, I think it''s more usible that she was picked up from the street.


    I also don''t understand why he didnt call Celine a woman who acted like a princess Princess, but called me princess. Fortunately, he doesn''t seem to have any intention of killing me yet. He seems to be quite interested in me.


    First of all, I should rebel and pretend to want to escape, act indifferent and neglect to increase his interest.


    It''s like a worm that twitches when you step on it. The next day, I refused to eat, lied down, or shouted at him asking him to send me back.


    I don''t think it would be fun if I gave up. Noah came into the room and fed me himself. It was a bit trivial, but I felt like I was having fun. However, I wondered if there was any reason for him to go this far for a hostage who had been abandoned with only one interest. I turned to him as he scooped up the meat broth.


    Excuse me, Duke.


    "It''s Noah."


    He rephrased my words politely.


    Noah. I don''t understand why youre doing this. You dont kill me but you dont send me back either.


    Noah''s eyes curved up nicely as he ced the silver spoon on the tray. He had that captivating smile on his face again.


    The neatly ironed shirt and neat tie looked ascetic, but rather immoral, like a temptation leading to a forbidden sanctuary. I finally gathered my thoughts to disperse in other directions.


    "What do you think?


    Noah tilted his head and asked me back. The silvery-white hair that covered his forehead leaned to one side.


    I thought deeply. To do this to an abandoned hostage


    "Do you like to raise me, by any chance?"


    <i>Does he want to raise me like a pet?</i>


    Noah made a chuckling sound at my outrageous question.


    "Its true that I like you. But I''ve never raised one."


    He gave a subtle answer.


    You''re not going to kill me, are you?"


    I tried to get him to confirm it again. Noah''s hand slowly approached me and brushed my cheek.


    "You seem to be very mindful of life, even as you pretend not to know it. If only to want to hear the same answer over and over again."


    "You also repeatedly threatened me with death if I ran away.


    He said curtly, holding my face protectively with both hands as I crept away.


    "If you don''t run, you won''t die, this is not a threat, it''s a concern."


    His voice was low and cold, but his expression was gentle and calm. Why is there such a contradictory person? I seemed to have been affected by some lofty madness.


    I stared at him with absurd eyes and nodded.


    After that, Noahpletely ignored my words such as "Please let me go home" and "The army would have surrounded us by now. Then he said, "Yeah, yeah, I''ll listen to you after youre done eating."


    He seemed to find my efforts interesting, and I felt d about that. But my life is not fun.


    It had been a week, and I was getting tired of fasting and sitting, and I got tired of frequent visits. I thought I should get some sunlight, so I demanded a walk. Incidentally, the prisoners also get time in the sun.


    I also needed to understand the external structure of the mansion in case I had to carry out an escape n in the future.


    It was necessary to understand the structure of the mansion.


    "Please let me take a walk. I can''t escape here anyway, since it''s in the forest and were in the middle of nowhere.


    Noah unexpectedly happily agreed.


    "I was going to let you do that. But you dont seem to want to go out much.


    Was I that obvious? I felt uneasy, as if he was looking right into my brain. Something about him seemed to enjoy taming me like a dog that slobbered every time the bell rang.


    The next afternoon, when I was allowed to walk, I walked with Molly through the snowy garden, wearing white fox fur and velvet gloves. I was confined to my gloomy room all the time, so the clear winter wind felt cool.


    The afternoon sunlight reflected off the snow on my white clothes and it was dazzling. I squinted and looked up, I saw something glittering in the depths of a forest full of winter trees.


    Suddenly, the scene where Noah''s revolver muzzle reflected in the lighting prated my brain like an ominous warning. As soon as I thought it was the same thing, I grabbed Molly''s arm.


    Get down!"


    Bang! Then I heard the sound of a gunshot pass over my head and a bullet grazed nearby and struck a tree.


    <i>Don''t tell me this is what Noah did to scare me.</i>


    I stayed down and Molly took out her pistol and looked around. She was a scary person, knowing how to use a gun.


    Looking at Molly''s actions, at least it wasn''t something Noah had nned. Eventually, a group of men in Progen military uniforms ran out of the forest with rifles and pointed them at Molly.


    "Diana, is that you? We''re here to help."


    One of the men said, reaching for me. It seemed that Belford''s army had infiltrated the house, wearing Progen uniforms. From a distance I could see the soldiers guarding the mansione running when they heard the gunfire.


    "You''vee to save me? Please don''t shoot this woman. I''ll follow you."


    I was confused by the unbelievable situation, but I hurried to stand in front of Molly. The man dragged me into the woods. Behind my back, I heard a loud flood of bullets and shouts. I had only seen such graphic engagements in games, movies, and dramas, and it made my legs shake. The day I was kidnapped, I was happy to be kidnapped so I wasnt scared, but not now.


    "This is what the Admiral ordered. Follow me quietly."


    I was skeptical. There was no way the Admiral would feel paternal love and worry about this body (*Dianas body) now. Probably to avoid being stigmatized as the ipetent Belford soldier that doesn''t save the kidnapped daughter. In addition, this man''s tone of voice was not that of a soldier.


    I shook my head.


    These men were not soldiers. My father sent mercenaries to kill pretending to rescue me.


    <i>"Admiral ires daughter, Diana, died in the process of being rescued. She was a sickly woman who couldn''t leave the house. Belford is deeply resentful of Progen. .."</i>


    Currently, Progen and Belford, both countries were in negotiations, and it was very likely that they would try to use my death as a fuse for war. That was the headline of the newspaper that the street child will sell shouting "Extra, Extra!" shed through my head.


    At this rate, I will be secretly killed deep in the mountains and buried under the frozen earth.


    "Over there!"


    The mercenaries began to engage the soldiers of the mansion, who immediately chased after us. I was horrified by the sound of bullets bouncing off rocks and trees. My feet plunged into the ground and I felt frozen, but I had to move in order to survive.


    While the mercenaries were distracted, I bent down and carefully escaped from there. The sound of snapping and treading on fallen leaves seemed very loud.


    Fortunately, I looked like a beast in the fur coat. I snuck out of a certain section and ran like crazy with my fur on.


    They didn''t seem to know that I had escaped, because they had no idea that I would. Many times I tripped and fell over stones and tree roots, and then I rolled down and fled into the deep woods.


    I ran through the dry winter trees, and by the time I could see the forest of coniferous trees, the sound of gunfire became distant and faint.


    Where should I go? If I go deeper, therell be wolves."


    The cold air in the forest was constantlying and going, freezing my lungs. I had a lot of dirt and fallen leaves on my head and clothes, and blood ran down my knees from scratches.


    I found a hole in arge tree and hid myself in it. I didnt even know where I was. It was quiet and sparsely popted, the only sounding from the asional migrating bird.


    "What the hell is this? A war zone


    I was sure they''de looking for me after dark.


    Of course, I wouldnt know if it''s the Admiral''s soldiers or Noah''s menBut this body was a side character, so it was unlikely to have the benefit of the coincidence of someoneing to its lovely rescue.


    "I guess I''ll have to go home myself."


    I waited until nightfall and pulled my curled body out. It was a clear night, the temperature dropped significantly. I might freeze to death at this rate.


    All my senses went into overdrive with a feeling of sadness. My instincts warned me of danger andmanded me to run, but my legs trembled and it was difficult to take a step.


    "..


    I turned and looked that way in an uneasy premonition. The few pairs of bright eyes that were easily seen among the bushes shone like the lights of a lighthouse. Wild wolves, the overwhelming size of which I had never actually seen before, were approaching me.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    Large wolves emerged from the darkness and approached me, baring sharp fangs.


    I had never learned or read any tips on how to deal with wolves. From the beginning, I never imagined that I would encounter a wolf in my life. I tried to calm myself down and pulled out all kinds of thoughts.


    There is no such thing as a bad dog in the world. I thought of a show I had originally loved to watch in my life.


    I backed away gently with the powerful gaze of a trainer facing a ferocious dog.


    Don''t you show your back once, and if it jumps at you, do you gore it as a form of rejection? The unrealistic situation made me lose my sense of reality and I could onlye up with strange thoughts. The wolves that actually approached me felt like home. I was so terrified and nervous by the menacing real thing that my whole body went stiff and I had goosebumps. This is a dream, right? The wolf couldn''t be that big, could it?


    "Sit!"


    There was no way it would listen. The wolves growled and gradually closed the distance between us. I hadn''t thought of such a death g. I must ask for help, no matter who was around.


    "Please help me!"


    My screaming voice echoed through the quiet forest. I backed away slowly on my feet and picked up a stick that fell nearby.


    "Kang!


    I hit the approaching wolf hard on the head, and the rest of them sneaked back, exposing this one with increasing ferocity. I swung the stick again, but the biggest wolf bit it hard and wouldn''t let go.


    "Let me go, you b*st*rd!"


    I pulled it this way and that way as if I were ying tug a war, but in the end I missed it. As I fell on the ground, the wolves slowly approached me, seemingly wanting to bite my head off. I was numb from the pressure and closed my eyes.


    Bang!


    I heard the deafening sound of gunfire, followed by a shrill scream. The wolf, looking as if it had been hit by a gun, slumped over.


    "There you are. I don''t want you to be ripped to death by the wolves. Only by taking the body in full will the Admiral pay the price properly, without any other thought.


    It was the rugged men in Progen military uniforms who came to my lovely rescue. And the purpose was to preserve the body undamaged.


    <i>I''m not unlucky either. Of all things, an envoy, or mercenaries , who came to kill me under themand of the Admiral. Why is this body so unlucky?</i>


    The terror-stricken wolves rushed away and I was grabbed by the mercenaries.


    "Why did you run away on your own?"


    A rugged man with a long scarred face twisted his mouth in annoyance.


    "I was scared."


    "You seem to be smart.


    The man chuckled and grabbed me by the cor, throwing me to the mercenaries.


    "We''d better kill them clean first. I''ve lured their men to the other side, so let''s give the injured ones first aid and leave."


    <i>Am I really going to die like this?</i>


    I was hit on the face as I was thrown to the ground, heaving, my face turned pale.<i></i>


    <i>I don''t want to die like this even in my dreams.</i>


    "Come here."


    I struggled and bit the hand of the man as he came closer and tried to grab me by the neck.


    "Youre going to die anyway, so be quiet."


    p!


    The man who was bitten by me smirked as he pped me on the face. I could not defeat the sturdy mercenary by force. The fishy taste of blood wafted in my mouth.


    "Theres no point in struggling, is there?


    I could hear the taunting voices of the men nearby. As ast gasp, I shouted with all my might, hoping that someone would listen.


    "Dont touch me! Im not going to stay still!


    A cold, rough hand, drenched in sweat, grabbed my neck. I couldn''t even scream as my neck was blocked by the gradually tightening hand. The man bared his teeth andughed.


    "What can you do?"


    I tried to w his hand with my nails but he grabbed my wrist. The grip was so strong that he bruised my wrist.


    Just before I lost my consciousness, the hand around my neck loosened and I started to breathe heavily. It was an obvious way of toying with the weak, like a fierce beast ying with its prey before eating it.


    <i>Oh, please. Why should I be treated like this? What did I do wrong?</i>


    I couldnt fool myself into thinking it was just a nightmare and run away anymore.


    I wanted to be abducted to survive and get some relief, but I couldnt change my unfortunate fate of the supporting character.


    I even felt a sense of despair as I felt that the setting of death would just be realized in a different way.


    The humiliation, misery, and even the weight of death that held me down like an iron bar added to the feeling, and I began to choke. I was a strong person in the crisis that loomed before me, but it was very much out of my control now. I could only look with resignation at the man who was strangling me.


    The owner of this body must have been treated like this for the rest of her life. Had she suffered like this for so long, but eventually decided to put an end to her misery? They looked at my helpless face andughed at me like demons leading me to hell.


    "Wow, you dont cry? I thought you would cry and beg."


    I didn''t cry, even in this situation. Somewhere along the line, I forgot the reason for crying and my tears seemed to have dried up.


    Did I fall into hell? Because this was not a life.


    I looked at the yellowing sky with bloodshot eyes, feeling like I was drowning. I should just die by being shot once instead of being tortured like this. The mercenary, who had grabbed my wrist as if to break it, smiled.


    "Your reaction is not very amusing, so let''s cut this short.


    I saw in my blurry vision a short knife hanging from the belt of the man who was strangling me. For a moment I had a choice. Do I kill this man, or do I take my own life


    If I chose the former, it would be worse.


    I gathered up all the strength I had left and beat his face with my fists, then I grabbed the knife from his belt and swung it around wildly.


    "Ah! You crazy b*tch!"


    In a short moment, a man with a long cut below his eye grabbed his face and screamed. I lost the strength in my hand and missed the knife. It hit the floor with a metallic ng. I tried to cut his neck, but he instinctively avoided me, because he was a mercenary with a lot of real-world experience.


    "You''re strong-willed, perhaps because you''re a daughter of an Admiral. Just kill her quickly.


    As soon as the man who appeared to be the captain clicked his tongue and spoke, the man with a bloody face looked at me with bloodshot eyes and murmured iprehensible swear words.


    "I''ll kill you right now, as you wish."


    There was no way I wished for something like that. I don''t want to experience this kind of death even in my dreams. Of course, this had to be real.


    Just as the knife the mercenary had picked up was about to pierce my chest, a gunshot rang out. With the lingering sound of the gunshot, blood dripped from the head of the man who dropped the knife with a dazed look on his face. I tried to push the man''s body out of the way as he fell towards me, but he was dead and was very heavy. Of course, I also lost all my strength.


    The mercenary captain stood up quickly and loaded his gun.


    "The Colonel''s men seem to have heard the gunfire and follow here.


    "What should we do?"


    Run for now. We don''t have the numbers to match because of the earlier engagement.


    They pointed their guns and backed away in the darkness where the gunfire came from with the intention of fleeing, but they were already surrounded with no way to escape. As the mercenaries dropped their guns and raised their hands in surrender, soldiers who were hiding in the woods emerged with rifles pointing at them.


    Noah approached me as I was lying on the ground with my messed up clothes.


    Perhaps it was dark around me, I couldn''t see any emotion in his dark blue eyes. He stood motionlessly, looking down at me with an expressionless face, and asked me kindly.


    Do you want me to save you?


    Didnt hee here to save me? I didnt know what his intentions were in this situation, and I didnt know what he was asking either. I let go of the need to understand and beckoned helplessly to the only savior, the beautiful and crazy man.


    "Yes  Im choking."


    Only then he stepped forward and kicked the dead mans body off of me. He grabbed my hand and raised me up.


    Noah, who had fixed my messy clothes, smiled gently to reassure me.


    "I n to kill them all, but if you can''t watch, close your eyes. It doesnt matter if you watch or not.


    There was a gloomy murderous energy on his face. He pointed his gun to the already dead mercenary''s back and fired a few more shots, Noah then passed me and headed towards the mercenaries.


    "Colonel Rothsilde, we had no choice.


    The mercenary captain with the scars on his face raised his hands and pleaded. Noah stared clearly at him, holding a pistol and loading it with a ttering sound.


    "You didnt have a choice, huh.


    "I''ll give you all the information you want. So, just"


    Bang!


    A horrifying gunshot ripped through his thigh.


    "Ugh!"


    The mercenary captain moaned and fell over, clutching his bullet engraved thigh.


    "I don''t need any information."


    Noah tilted his head with the pistol in one hand.


    "Please save me! I had my reasons!"


    As the muzzle of the pistol Noah was holding went to his forehead, the mercenary captain was terrified and began to beg with tears. With one corner of his mouth raised, Noah asked again.


    "What is the reason?"


    "Yes  sorry, please save me."


    "I was going to let one live. So who should I save?


    The captain watched the mercenaries under hismand carefully for a moment, then nodded as if he had made up his mind.


    "Save me. Those guys can do whatever they want."


    Noah smirked as if he had seen the bottom of humanity.


    Go ahead.


    A bit of hope welled up in the mercenary captain''s eyes as he saw Noahs tolerant smile.


    "Thank you, sir! I will never forget your kindness!"


    He got up and began to walk, limping. Noah waved his finger and received the rifle from a soldier who was next to him. Putting in on his shoulder, Noah aimed it at the mercenary captain.


    A single shot rang out deafeningly, and the forest, which had been quiet for a while, became noisy again. Noah, who had urately hit the fleeing mercenary captain in the head, turned around, throwing the gun on the floor.


    "I didn''t say Id save you."


    The faces of the rest of the mercenaries went pale at Noah''s words, and they didn''t even try to escape, but only looked in the direction of their dead captain. There was fresh blood sttered on the winter trees from the fallen body.


    "Kill them all, except one."


    As soon as Noah''s order was given, a series of gunshots ovepped with agonizing screams. The one, who was kept alive, dropped down and shivered. He looked up at Noah with very frightened eyes. Looking at Noah slowly approaching, he freaked out and began to retreat.


    "Go back and tell him."


    "Tell him?"


    "Tell him what you saw. Every single detail.


    Thest surviving man fled in a huff. He kept looking back, horrified that he wouldn''t end up like his captain. Taking off his coat, Noah came over and put it on my shoulders witha pretty smile.


    "I''m all you got.


    It was a sweet voice but it was out of the blue. Do I need to respond?


    I am the only one who can protect you, princess. So from now on, please don''t run away."


    "I didnt run away. I..


    There was nowhere to go back now because he was thest choice I''ve barely made. I don''t know how many times I''ve been in danger of hitting my head and dying because I suddenly came to a world I didn''t know, and an unfamiliar family.


    Rather, I was in a pathetic and shameful situation, protected by a noble colonel from the enemy country who kidnapped me. He was also a man with a beautiful appearance and a brutal personality. And he knew that my own country sent someone to kill me.


    My negotiating value was as good as gone. Unfortunately, it was very real. I had epted the miserable reality that I waspletely alone, with nowhere to turn and nowhere to go in this world.


    A word of protection, which may be the truth, sounded like a piece offort left. The harsh sadness buried in a ce I didn''t even know swirled.


    He was the only evil of mine that existed among the worst. I felt a burning sensation in my eyes and tears streamed down my face. Only then did I take off the mask of nonchnce that I was always wearing over.


    "Yes, I would be dead if it weren''t for you."


    Noah took out a handkerchief and wiped the tears from my cheeks, and made a soothing sound.


    "Did I make you cry?"


    "Why are you protecting me?"


    I didnt know how to feel about this beautiful mad duke. He squeezed my shoulders and locked gazes with me.


    You don''t have anything. Except me."


    I couldn''t tell if he meant it rationally or just out of pity.


    For a moment, a faint emotion shed across Noah''s face, which always looked empty and vacant, unable to pity or love others.


    He seemed to be reminiscing about something, or appreciating something that was being projected from him. The man was soplex and subtle that I couldn''t understand all of his thoughts myself, but I was somehow familiar with that expression that felt so empty.


    I sighed deeply. There was no use sitting around anymore. I was not crazy enough to return to the dead. I didnt know him well, and if I disobeyed him, I may die at his whim.


    "What should I do now?"


    I asked him instead, not knowing my future hold. Maybe it''s a trade proposal. If he could protect me in this hellish world and allow me to live a normal life, I thought I could do anything.


    The look in his eyes, visible under his silvery-white hair that was filled with moonlight as it was, curved gracefully at my question. The beautiful features of the half-moon eyes, straight nose, and sleek jawline were too close.


    He spoke to me in a low breathy voice.


    "I told you, didn''t I? If you run away from me, you''ll die. So stay by my side.


    "Is that all?"


    No way. Life is an exchange of equals. I''m sure there were things he wanted while calcting the gain and loss of his true intentions.


    There was no way he would take in a woman with nowhere to go for no reason.


    I''ve been thinking for a while that the man seemed to have grasped my desperation from the beginning. After holding a gun to my face and talking about death, he spoke what was in my mind.


    It meant that he already knew my situation with no ce to go back to, then all my exhausting attempts were all useless, and Ive been yed by him.


    I couldnt read his thoughts. It was my disadvantage.


    He asked with a strangely drowsy look in a dark atmosphere.


    "Then what are you going to do for me?" (Noah)


    "I''ll help ypu make a fortune. If you do as I say"


    "That''s something I can do on my own, I don''t need your help." (Noah)


    It was a bit of a fraudulent statement, even if I considered it myself. My card, which tried to be his business partner by proposing a business with modern knowledge that would not destroy civilization, was brutally crumpled.


    I had nothing to give to Noah, who was interested in me and had no shortage of money. I had no idea what he wanted, so I asked him directly.


    "Do you want my body?"


    Noah did not show any agitation at my intuitive question. Rather, he smiled nonchntly, like a boy with the pure intention of wanting a toy.


    Yes, I want all of you. Just for me."


    I didn''t think he really wanted that so I asked him casually, but he answered in a bewilderingly frank manner. I didnt know why he wanted me so badly.


    But it had already been a long time since the story was different from the original.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    Of course I tly refused. My life was humiliating, but it wasnt enough to trade my body. I still had my pride.


    "No. We''re not even married.


    "Will you give it to me when were married? Then I''ll be the only one who can have it."


    What to give him? I didn''t know exactly what he wanted, and my mind becameplicated as to what to say. I had the abominable feeling that I had toe up with the answer he wanted.


    Normally, people who love each other get married Yes.


    Love?"


    Noah nodded lowly, his mouth lifting in a smile. It was a strange mocking look.


    I suppose you''ll have to love me for that." (Noah)


    "I''ll try.


    Then do it now." (Noah)


    What is he saying?


    He wants me to love him now?


    This crazy man''s demand was beyond perplexing and made me nk out. Suddenly, the scene in the novel "The Great Duke" came to mind, where the man who saved the woman from danger, then he asked the woman to tell him that she loves him.


    <b><i>"You like this kind of thing, don''t you?"</i></b>


    In this situation, the boundary'' between whether the original work was an R19 novel or an abduction negotiation novel was ambiguous. There was no way to exin the situation where the crazy man in the original book immersed himself in the role of the male protagonist in another book.


    <i>Don''t tell me that you just want to try it out. It''s a skit, right?</i>


    Love is not something you can just tell someone to do, but it''s easy to spit out with just words without sincerity. I can tell him as much as he wants if my situation improves with just one word.


    Yes, I love you.


    Noah''s eyes zed over at the soulless words I spat out at random. If I were to be a lover with this man, it would be fine. I was a sophisticated adult, and I had tried to have light rtionships where we meet and break up for our mutual benefits.


    I was a light-hearted fickle person who could turn over at the touch of a breeze, and I was in a situation where I was losing both my ce to stay and my life. So I had no choice but to make the most of even a paper''s worth of interest and wait for the opportunity to make further choices.


    Even if you meet someone randomly and break up with her, you won''t kill the woman you were dating with a gun. As I was seriously considering my future ns, Noah covered his mouth and chuckled in amusement.


    "Princess."


    With a low voice calling me, the corners of his eyes curved pleasantly. The hazy breath was lightly scattered with a weakughter. Noah, who had his eyes down, let out a deep sigh, slowly raised his head and made eye contact with me.


    "Did you really mean that?


    What?


    Noah''s chilling voice even chilled the air around us. His bright eyesid their gaze on me again. I''m sure he has seen many captives with his unique taste. He must have heard all the lies they tell in order to survive, made them spit out the necessary words themselves, and seen and experienced everything down to the bottom of humanity.


    In the original story, it was written that Noah was smart and excellent at understanding the strategies and ns of his opponents. It''s not like he was a colonel at a young age, advancing through the ranks for no reason. I looked flustered and Noah grinned, staring at me with the satisfaction of a sessful n.


    "You''re not lying, are you? I''m sure you didn''t say that to try and cover it up. My princess wouldnt say anything irresponsible, right?"


    The words he said while stroking my swollen cheek sounded like a threat disguised as kindness.


    I was just pretending to be a role y, but he was asking me like a threat? I suddenly realized something and felt the chill in the back. He tried to make it a reality by nailing what I said. It may be wrong to think that he will not shoot and kill the woman he dated.


    Is it possible to have a normal rtionship with that man in the first ce? What would happen to me if I told the truth? I wriggled my fingers and tried to manage my expression.


    "I meant it. You saved me.


    I lied for my own convenience. Of course that man couldnt be trusted. It was just amand to do what he wanted. It was like a puppet show.


    I was a person who was annoyed by everything, apathetic and unsure of the feeling of love. I had tried to love in my real life, but I had never truly loved anyone.


    It was a lie but I had no choice but to do it because I was desperate.


    He rubbed his lips, still looking incredulous.


    "I can''t believe it. How can you tell with just words?"


    "I can''t show you that.


    "Why not?


    Noah''s gaze descended along his breath as he lowered his head toward me, our eyes met. He was silent, looking toward my lips.


    In the gap where each other''s words were cut off, only the wind passed by the branches in destion. Noah kept his gaze locked on me and raised one hand. The soldiers who had been organizing the area ran without a trace and disappeared somewhere.


    Everything was gentle and kindly forced.


    I couldnt believe I was making a deal with this man for myfortable life in a situation where I was going to copse even if the wind blows. I didn''t have the power to think, so I decided to follow this strange man as he wanted.


    I grabbed Noah''s cheek and put my cold hardened lips on his lips and quickly fell off. Noah stood up with an expressionless face without any agitation.


    "Are you okay?"


    What kind of order is this? I''ve never seen anyone finally ask if I''m okay after he was done with his business. <i>Oh, this man is a beautiful madman.</i>


    "No. Toote to ask, is it not?


    Noah picked me up lightly and gestured his chin at the soldiers hiding in the distance. Did they see all this?


    "Get the situation under control and get back to work."


    I grabbed the hem of my torn skirt, worried about my thighs that were constantly showing as I was held in his arms, and Noah put me down and tied the hem of my skirt together.


    "I''ll do whatever you want, too. We even kissed each other."


    He said "yes" to the question of whether he wanted my body, but he said it like a pure-hearted man. What does he want me to do? He was such an unpredictable person that I felt like I was going crazy.


    Even if we kissed each other, our bodies are still.


    "That wasn''t a kiss.


    "Ah?


    Yes, it''s just like an ident, like we identally crossed paths.


    If you don''t know, I''ll teach you."


    Noah''s face snuggled up to mine with interesting eyes. I could feel the heat around my eyes from the sudden closeness. We were nose to nose, and my gaze naturally turned to his lips.


    "No.


    "You said you love me. Dont you?"


    "Its not that I dont. It''s just too embarrassing here.


    Then let''s go to your room.


    Noah, who was holding my chin, asked with anguid look on his face. His voice was soft and rxed, like he was swimming in water, and I waspletely won over by this man. If all of this was a prank, I couldnt me him because I was in a much more regrettable situation than he was.


    All the times I''ve seen him so far, he seemed to know what I was thinking and deliberately deceived me. I feel like my hands and feet were tied to the "extremely cornered" cord and being manipted at will. At least he seemed to be enjoying himself.


    In the original story, he seemed to enjoy leading Celine around like this and teasing her. I ruminated on his tendencies again as I lost my motivation in a situation where I had no choice. He let out a snort ofughter as I started to wiggle, not wanting Noah to hold me as a princess in his arms.


    The soft fur on my body was making his chin and neck itch.


    "It tickles..


    "I can walk, you know."


    "Your injuries look painful. It''s hard to hold, please wrap your arms around my neck."


    When I put my arms around his neck, he immediately hugged me back and started walking towards the mansion.


    Can you walk there like this?


    "Yes.


    "Isn''t it dangerous? There are wolves.


    "Are you scared? I''m here."


    Noah rubbed his chin against the top of my head. Fortunately, the moonlight was bright and we didn''t seem to have any problems getting lost. I could smell the faint scent of his body heat warming around his neck. Unlike his beautiful face, I could feel the firmness of his arms and upper body.


    Unlike his cold exterior, his arms were warm. There were many unexpected things when I looked at it up close. The warmth that enveloped my body made me rxed and my eyes began to close.


    "Get some sleep.


    "Did I doze off?"


    "You seem to sleep a lot, wherever you are."


    I didn''t have the strength to reply, my whole body rxed and I leaned my head against his chest. How could I havee into a life with so many twists and turns?


    I grieved in my heart and slept myself into a faint. When I finally lifted my eyelids, the familiar ceiling came into view as if I had entered a time warp.


    I heard the sound of wood burning in the firece. A warmforter was draped over me, and my back felt the fluffy sheets.


    "Huh?"


    My clothes, which were muddy, torn in ces, and tattered, had been changed into a soft nightgown. White bandages were attached to the scratches and injured knees here and there.


    "Who did this?


    "I did it."


    A nice low voice interrupted my monologue.


    You?"


    "Yes.


    Noah, who was sitting on the edge of the bed, handed me a warm cup of tea and pulled the covers up to my chin. I don''t know if he wanted me to drink tea or sleep. Oh, wait a minute. He changed my clothes.


    You undressed me?


    I put my teacup on the small table and tried to get up quickly, but my back was throbbing, so Iy down again. There was no part of my body that didn''t hurt, as if I had been beaten all over. I justy there and looked up at him with wild eyes and he smiled.


    "What''s wrong? Arent we in a rtionship?


    "Rtionship?"


    It wasnt really my real body, but I still didnt want anyone to see it so easily.


    "It''s mine now, isn''t it?"


    He asked back insistently.


    "I''m yours too, Princess.


    I was still not sure what we were going to exchange, but I''ve made it clear that we had to be married  I was sure he was doing that on purpose. That man was quite hateful, wasn''t he?


    "But I don''t want you to take off my clothes without permission. I don''t like being coerced."


    I''m joking. I''m not so uneducated that I would touch you without permission. But I did put the bandage on you.


    If that was the case, I was happy, and I felt a deep lethargy and exhaled. Unlike me, who was droopy, the man with a clean and perfect figure was looking down at me. He had shallow dimples. His eyshes were long and cast a shadow on his cheeks.


    It was outrageous that I told this man I loved him. Why would he do this to me when he was the one who turned a cold face away from Celine''s deadly seduction tactics in the original story? Was this one of the fun games of this man with peculiar tendencies? I was a puppet ying around in his hands.


    "Diana."


    Noah called my name in a calm voice. Before I could even answer, he continued.


    "Did you forget that I was going to teach you?


    He told me he was going to teach me something. The faint scent of musk and exhaustion intertwined in a fuzzy mess in my head. All I could remember was that the beautiful Dukes lips bent loosely.


    ***


    "You failed?"


    Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendalls brows furrowed as he heard the news that the attempt to rescue Diana had failed and that everyone had been killed in action.


    "Yes, theyre all dead.


    Jeffrey sighed as he set his tea cup down.


    "Tell the Admiral I will visit him at the residence tomorrow."


    The next day, Jeffrey boarded a military vehicle and headed for the Admiral''s residence. At the entrance of the mansion, Celine, wearing a rose-colored dress, greeted him with a gorgeous smile.


    The diamond pins that adorned her tinum hair shone brightly in the afternoon sunlight. Celine could not hide her happiness and even her face turned red.


    "Hello Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall."


    "Yes, Miss ire. How have you been?


    "I havent been well because of what happened to my sister.


    Celine fiddled with her curly hair as she hurriedly altered her words. She led Jeffrey into the parlor and fetched the tea tray from the maid and served the tea herself. On the table with white tablecloths, refreshments and precious foreign fruits were also served.


    My father will be back in about half an hour.


    "I see. Thank you for the tea.


    Jeffrey, holding a teacup filled with fragrant tea, looked at Celine in silence. She was dressed full of expensive essories and shone every time she moved.


    "I guess you like jewelry."


    "Yes. My father bought me a lot of jewelry. This is the same color as the Lieutenants eyes, isn''t it? It''s my favorite gemstone."


    Celine fiddled with a pair of blue sapphire earrings. Jeffrey remembered the ears that he glimpsed through Diana''s jet ck short hair. There wasn''t even a trace of an opening. The shoes didn''t fit her small feet, and she scraped her heels as she walked. They kept falling off.


    "I''ll save your sister.


    "What? Are you going to Progen yourself?"


    Celine''s face, which had been neat and blooming, suddenly faded. The man she had a crush on was going to risk his life going to a hostile country because of her sister.


    "Yes. I was there, and I bear a great deal of responsibility.


    I''ve heard that Colonel Rothsilde is a very brutal and dangerous man. He''s a good shooter. "


    "I can''t help it. I don''t know what Miss Diana is going through there.


    "Oh, Diana. ."


    <i>Hes calling her name? No wayhave they met before? I don''t think so.</i>


    Celine, who had slurred herst words, set her teacup down as she gently bit her bottom lip.


    "There''s no need for the Lieutenant colonel to go there yourself, youre too valuable. I''m sure someone else will go."


    "What does a soldier have to do with his family of origin or status?


    "Still ."


    Tears began to pool in Celines clear, green eyes. With her reddened eyes, she looked at Jeffrey sadly. He appeared robust and calm, showing that he would never change what he had decided.


    She couldnt believe that the man she loved was going to his death for her sister who was treated like a kitchen sink Celine dropped her eyes and eventually tears trickled down her face. The appearance was devastating and beautiful like a dewy.


    "I''m worried. Please don''t go."


    In the end, Jeffrey, who saw Celine burst into tears, made a caring and friendly voice as if to soothe her.


    "Miss ire, I have no choice. It''s for your own good.


    "What?"


    Celine stared at Jeffrey with a surprised look on her face. She was tinged with a bit of anticipation.


    "That''s right."


    Jeffrey sighed meaningfully and ced one hand over his mouth. His mouth, hidden beneath the palm of his hand, was twisted with a mockery that did not leak out.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    Noah was sitting at his desk in his office early in the morning, deep in thoughts.


    There were quite a few formal reasons and triggers for Noah to bring Diana here, contrary to his existing ns.


    He thought of Diana''s soft, yet unflinching, gray-green eyes that seemed to have given everything up.


    Her face under her pitch ck hair was so pale it looked like a nk sheet of paper. It couldn''t be separated by cold or warm, as it seemed tock something, an impression of apathy without even a motive.


    Even though she was kidnapped, she made formal requests with a lukewarm attitude and lukewarm eyes, without crying or fear.


    She seemed to be unconcerned and didn''t care if she stayed or left.


    She was crying, and it was beautiful. Maybe it was because she was crying for him. He remembered the tears trickling down her doll-like face with an innocent expression.


    For the first time, she showed tears and needed him to protect her, who had not cried or pleaded even though she was held at gunpoint or left unattended for several days.


    It stimted joy, as if he had acquired a unique work of art that meant something different than its outward appearance. It also gave him a sense of aplishment.


    In any form, he wanted to see the real expression on the pale, dull face, to be emotionally upset because of him and not others.


    He liked her. Because he was self-centered and unkind. Noah felt strange, as if he had found a clue to what he had been looking for a long time. He knew what he wanted.


    Fortunately, the mad Duke''s desires took a gentlemanly turn. If it had been the other way around, the two of them would have had qualifiers like exhaustion, thriller, and horror. She had nothing, and all he needed from her was herself.


    He also liked that possibility that she could be the one and only. Of course, there were quite a few people striving to be special and unique to Noah. But no one gave him enough satisfaction, no one was perfect. Not even his parents, the Duke and Duchess of Rothsilde, could do it.


    <i>I got her first, and now shes mine. It''s a promise.</i>


    Noah''s mouth rxed as he thought of a promise he had once made to someone else.


    "Vincent.


    Yes, sir.


    Vincent, the secretary standing in front of Noah, looked nervous, wondering what kind of serious conversation he was going to have.


    Do you have a girlfriend?"


    Vincent''s eyes, which were very serious, became vacant.


    "I''m too busy with work to be in a rtionship."


    I see.


    "You''ve been in love before, haven''t you?"


    "I only met her a few times because you asked me to. What kind of love is that?"


    Vincent sorted through a set of papers, tapping them on the desk with a fuming expression. He gazed out the window for a moment, reminiscing about something.


    "You''ve made them all cry. Even the Princess of Medea."


    The words "You bullied ire at gunpoint to make her cry too," came to his mouth, but he swallowed them.


    "Her? I only met her to say no because she kept sending me troublesome courtship letters."


    "What do you mean? Medea''s sessor to the throne is only allowed to marry Medea, so you should meet her. If you marry another nation, you will lose your eligibility for session."


    "The princess is Diana."


    Vincent pretended to listen roughly, as his head hurt from trying to understand Noah''s peculiar thought.


    Yes.


    "What can I do to keep her from running away? In a good way.


    Are you talking about Miss ire?"


    "Yes.


    Vincent remembered that there were a lot of books on romance in the recent assortment list. There was no way the man would read them, Diana must have requested them. Stories about bonding and romantic feelings? It must be a means and method to keep her here.


    Do what women like.


    What should I do?


    "You dont know?


    "I''ve never given a woman a gift before."


    Noah nodded and smiled. Vincent, who hadn''t even had time to fall in love and had been alone for quite some time, spat out a few words that he remembered at random.


    They like jewelry, essories, and dresses. They like men with ability. She won''t run away. Dont worry."


    "I know that. Dont answer randomly."


    Noah narrowed his eyes and tapped his cheek. Vincent, who was caught, looked embarrassed.


    "I''m sure shed like something shed never received before. They discriminated against the eldest daughter."


    "So I tried to give her one of the things the Admiral''s eldest daughter has, but she didn''t want it. I said I will make a carpet out of bears skin."


    "A woman who likes animals might not like it."


    "If she likes animals, why wouldn''t she like that?"


    "Because she wouldnt want her favorite animal to die.


    <i>She wears fox fur well though.</i>


    Noah raised his chin and sighed. Vincent looked out the window at the mountain ridge. This ce was surrounded by mountains and forests and was quite far from the city.


    "She can''t escape anyway.


    "She doesnt even want to run away.


    "Anyway, just give her something she likes. Women like men whoe by every day and ask if they''re okay, and women like men who care about them. In fact, if it''s heartfelt, women even like flowers picked on the street.


    Vincent''s polite answer made Noah chuckle.


    "Then go out and buy something. I''ll write it down for you."


    It took at least two hours by car to get to the city, but four hours round trip. Vincent nodded with a gloomy face at the thought of another confirmed night shift today. Noah, his face tilted at an angle, asked.


    "Vincent, where can I get some flowers? It''s winter and there are no flowers on the streets."


    "Then you will have to wait until spring.


    Is it possible? You can buy them at the florist and say we picked it on the street?


    Vincent sighed at Noah''s words and put his hand on his forehead.


    ***


    I could feel the warm rays of the sun on my eyelids. I seemed to have fallen asleep as if I were passing out. Noah told me he was going to tell me something, but I couldn''t ask him what it was. It was too much of a shock and I was too tired to think. My whole body was still sore and heavy as cotton after drinking so much water.


    Is it morning?"


    I looked out the window and was surprised. The red sky was not a sunrise, but a sunset. I slept for a very long time. My head felt like it was going to crack and I gulped down some water. I pulled the string and called Molly, and she brought me a meal.


    After dinner, I got up slowly and took a hot bath. I immersed myself in a bathtub filled with warm water, I felt that the remaining fatigue was relieved. Molly, who had melted the bath salts for me, asked me a personal question for the first time.


    "Did you injure this on your wing bone?"


    What? What''s there?"


    "It''s a butterfly-shaped scar. It''s been there since I first saw it, did you know?"


    There was no way I would know every single thing about this body. The owner of this body was a side character who died early in the story. Did she happen to have a hidden birth secret and wasn''t a runaway ve? This was stigmatized.


    "I don''t know."


    Molly didn''t ask any more questions and silently helped me with my bath. After I washed and dressed, Vincent came in, looking very tired. Behind him, there was a line of maids with their hands full of something.


    "What is it?"


    Anything you like.


    What do you mean?


    Molly and the maids peeled off the wrapping paper, opened the box and took out the goods.


    There was a hint of joy on their faces. Hats with borate corsages, gowns, dresses made of various high-quality fabrics, coats with fur, and all kinds of jewelry and essories are piled up like Christmas presents.


    "The Duke gave them to you."


    Ah.


    I looked at them with an uninterested expression on my face. I just took out the thick pajamas, woolen knitted socks, and fluffy indoor shoes. Vincent''s brown eyes wavered a bit at my tasteless reaction. He cleared his throat considerably.


    "Dont you like it?


    "There''s no ce to wear any of that.


    The maids, who looked excited for no reason, became quiet and the room was engulfed in cold silence. I added in a calm tone.


    "And there is no mirror in this room."


    There was a saying that one of the ways to torment people is to decorate them morously and not show them a mirror. This must be an elegant harassment of an educated person.


    "I''ll bring it to you in a moment. This is where we keep trophies of war and artifacts."


    Am I among the trophies of war? It seemed that the many death gs and hardships have turned me into a pessimistic person. I felt a little queasy and pouted my lips.


    "Yes, yes, I''ll dress up like a trophy."


    "What are you so negative about? Youre living a life of luxury as a hostage.


    Vincent replied in a clerical voice, confirming that he had purchased the goods and ordering the servants to organize them.


    "I''ll report the inconveniences you''ve mentioned to the Duke."


    "Yes.


    After Vincent and the maids left, Iy down on my bed again. I don''t know why he kept trying to be nice to me when he was going to throw me away if he lost interest anyway. Would this body have a century of beauty?


    In terms of the character I saw in the original, he did well as a hope advisor. He was also someone who enjoyed inflicting despair. It was the mischievous indulgence of only those who had it.


    As the sunpletely set and a quiet darkness was setting in, I heard a light knocking.


    "Come in.


    Has Mollye? I stretched out to the bed in a veryzy manner and roughly answered.


    "Are you going to sleep again?"


    Noah, wearing a navy blue lounge suit under a long ck coat, walked in and tilted his head.


    The atmosphere was so fraught it was like watching a scene from a movie. He took off the gloves he was wearing, put his bare hand on my forehead and measured my temperature.


    "It''s not a cold.


    This man..Unlike the original, he came here often. I put on a grim face and raised my upper body.


    "What''s the matter?"


    "I heard you were sad because you had pretty clothes but nowhere to go.


    The secretary seemed to have a tendency to exaggerate.


    I wasnt sad"


    Vincent said your expression was sad."


    "I was born that way.


    Yes. Its pitiful.


    Noah looked at me with a sympathetic, sorry expression. I sighed and ruffled the bangs that covered my eyebrows.


    Yes, yes, I admit it.


    "I''m here to go out with you. I''m going to make you a ce to wear it."


    ". Wow, Im excited.


    I pped my hands a few times in a soulless reply. Going out was one of the things I hated most about being an indoor person.


    "But I have shaggy hair.


    "Molly will make you pretty again, I''ll wait outside, soe out when you''re done."


    I went out of my way to induce him to cancel the outing, but it didnt work. Noah went out and Molly came in to help me change my clothes and straighten my hair with a heated iron rod.


    As she took out the powder, I waved my hand in rejection and applied only lipstick, which was made of beeswax and flower petals.


    "Looks like I''m going on a date, huh?"


    "Yes, youre."


    Molly replied sinctly, her hands sincere inparison to the heartless, cold expression on her face. I don''t know what she did, but she put her best effort into it, and sweat beaded on her forehead. Molly made a low hissing sound as she brought me the emerald ne and a set of earrings.


    "Your ears are not pierced.


    Oh, that''s right.


    "I''ll pierce it for you now.


    "No, wait!"


    I screamed in fear at the sight of Molly''s strong arms, but fortunately she pierced my ears quickly and painlessly, and even disinfected them.


    "Ill get you the small earrings. I''m sure the big earrings will hurt."


    Molly, who had put on my earrings and ne, led me to the full-length mirror she had brought earlier. Her face looked subtly proud. I looked in the mirror and was a little surprised to see a strange woman I hadn''t seen often in a long time.


    Her dry skin, crow-like figure had gained some flesh. Her cheeks, which had been pale and hollow, were now plump and pink. Her dark hair, which had been dry now turned silky, and the shadows under her eyes, tired from hardbor, faded away.


    "It looks good like this.


    "Yes, youre beautiful."


    Molly responded to my monologue with a nk expression, but she did look a little excited. I was dressed in a dark purple velvet dress with a coat of fine fabric on the outside and a brooch fastening at the cor. The lining was coyote fur.


    On top of that, I wore elbow-length silk gloves and high heel shoes that made me look like an urban conglomerate woman. After all, the fashion wasplete with short hair. Noah, who was reading the newspaper downstairs while waiting for me, took a moment to admire my figure and nodded.


    It looks good on you. You look beautiful no matter what you wear.


    "Havent you seen me in white pajamas day and night?"


    "Theyre all different. Differentces, different buttons, different materials."


    I didnt understand such small differences. I just wore what I was given.


    I saw a ssic ck car parked at the entrance of the mansion. Vincent was sitting in the driver''s seat with an expressionless face. A somewhat apathetic look of impending world destruction.


    "Please get in. Princess."


    Noah opened the backseat door and smiled prettily.


    It''s our first date, just like ordinary couples.


    "A date? Lovers?"


    Did I end up dating this man without even knowing it? With one fake word, "I love you ?


    As if I had been hit in the head, I stared nkly at Noah''s face.

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    After Jeffrey left, Celine immediately went to the Admiral''s office. As soon as she came in, she cried. The Admiral, who was sitting at his desk checking documents, took off his sses, stood up and looked at her.


    "My princess, what''s wrong?"


    The Admiral had the face of a generous and caring father, quite different from the way he treated Diana. Even the tone of his voice, always hard and decisive, wasid gently.


    "Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall is going to rescue Diana himself. Please stop him, father."


    Celine''s eyes were slightly wet, like young buds in spring rain. She had talked about Jeffrey several times, so the Admiral knew that Celine was fond of him. The Admiral, who cared for Celine very much, hugged her in his arms, feeling pity for every single depressed expression.


    "I talked to him. If he gets hurt or dies because of that kid, wouldnt it be a problem?


    The Prime Minister has not said anything?"


    The Admiral''s brow furrowed slightly as he thought of Damien Grenendall, father of Jeffrey Grenendall, the head of the noble Grenendall family and the Prime Minister of Belford, has be weak.


    "He''s never been one to meddle in the affairs of his children. Besides, he''s a man who cares more about glory and honor."


    Officers of the great nobility were not put in the front line, battlefield,


    or dangerous operations. They may go directly to the battlefield to earn a knighthood in the armed forces, but this was mainly a method chosen by people who were not the eldest, and far from inheritance qualifications.


    It was unusual for a direct descendant of a duke''s family to have his second son, a lieutenant colonel, infiltrate directly into enemy territory. The Admiral was lost in thought for a moment.


    It could be that Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall had the goal of bing the heir to the Grenendall family.


    Dukes were given various titles, including Marquis and Count. The eldest and second sons of the Dukes receive the auxiliary titles of Marquis and Count held by the Duke. This was not inherited, but a temporary act.


    If the eldest son of the Grenendall family bes a duke, the second son, Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall, was not unlikely, if ambitious, to be amon nobleman or a hereditary hierarch without a title. However, if he died on the rescue mission, the Admiral would be held ountable.


    "Ill try to prevent it somehow. I''d hate for my daughter to be sad.


    The Admiral smiled calmly as he soothed Celine. Despite the Admiral''s efforts, there was growing criticism within Belford for not actively rescuing Diana, who was being held hostage by the enemy Progen. It was by far the hottest issue in the Belford Empire.


    [Who will be the hero to save the Admiral''s daughter?]


    [Belford doesnt even try to negotiate. . turns its back on the poor girl.]


    Articles with such provocative headlines began to appear one after another. Some magazines mentioned the possibility of a cruel event in which Diana was abducted by a mad Colonel from an enemy country.


    "The Colonel who abducted her is very ruthless despite his status as a Duke. I''m sure she''s having a terrible time right now."


    "They call him a crazy Duke. He kills people without even blinking.


    "Poor girl, they say her body is not in good shape and she didn''t even go out to socialize. To have to sacrifice for the country, the Navy Admiral chose honor instead of the sick girl? He really doesn''t deserve to be a father, does he?"


    People felt sorry for Diana, not as the Admiral''s daughter, but as a poor girl. In Belford, Noah''s image was that of an enemy colonel, nothing more than a war-crazed night-herder who enjoyed killing.


    Parents with daughters were outraged at the fact that Diana was kidnapped by such a horrible man, and girls of the same age cried and prayed for Diana, whose face they did not even know. It was Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall who created the public opinion for all of this.


    The purpose was to create a name for himself to go directly to Diana''s aid.


    The Lieutenant Colonel''s father, Prime Minister Damien Grenendall, was willing to be the hero who helped his son save the girl. He liked to be honored. When the topic was addressed in parliament, the Prime Minister spoke a few words that carried weight.


    "No one should prevent my son from making his choice. As a father, I agreed with it.


    As the Duke of Belford and the Prime Minister, his opinion was tantamount to a decision that no one could challenge. Many of the lieutenant colonels thought that Jeffrey wanted to lead the rescue mission to be the hero of Belford, but Jeffrey thought differently.


    He had something to protect.


    ***


    What do you mean by a date?


    "Isn''t it nice?"


    I was trapped in a suffocating car running towards the city, holding hands with Noah. Vincent was driving with a very ufortable expression on his face and Noah was still watching me as if observing me. He looked like a cat watching curiously at a bird perched on a branch outside the window.


    "I usually dress up when I go on dates. I thought we should go on a date.


    "Yes. I''m very excited. I''ve never been on a date before.


    It was my first time with this body. I replied indifferently, resting my elbows on the window sill and supporting my chin. Noah pushed his face close to my face and whispered in my ear.


    "Princess. Is that your excited expression?"


    Noah''s lips faintly touched the tip of my ear with his breath. The unexpected contact made me dizzy and I screamed inwardly.


    <i>This man is crazy, really!</i>


    "Im  crazy and excited."


    "Your eyes turn round when you''re thrilled, or surprised."


    He nodded, sweeping his lips as if he had just made some amazing discoveries. He was like someone who writes in an observation journal.


    "What would you like to do?"


    "I''ve never been on a date here, so"


    Vincent, what do you mainly do for dates? I''m not sure."


    <i>Theres no way he doesnt know about dating.This man is a fox.</i>


    I cleared my throat and looked out the window.


    "I''ve never been on a date, so I dont know."


    Vincent spoke in an awkward tone as he turned the wheel. Noah lifted his upper body and leaned closer to Vincent in the driver''s seat.


    "Wasnt there a woman named Justice?


    "She married another man a long time ago and has children. It''s been so long since I dated, so I cant remember.


    "Hurry up and remember."


    "Please don''t whisper in my ear."


    When we reached the city square, Noah got out first and extended his hand towards me, escorting me out of the car. Then he said to Vincent.


    Go home. We''re going on a date."


    "Thats what I was going to do."


    Some soldiers got out of the military vehicle which was following behind us and followed us on foot. Vincent, who looked tired, bowed his head and then busily walked away.


    Light snow fluttered in the dark sky.The snow on the streets had been cleared away. I could see arge canal that crossed the square and the city center, and on both sides were signs of shopping malls, craft stores, tailor shops, western clothing stores, and banks.


    On the bridge that connected between them, arge number of people were gathered looking up at the sky. People in expensive fur and wool coats, and people wrapped in manyyers of old coats.


    Despite the apparent disparity between rich and poor, they were all gathered together as if they had the same goal in mind. I tugged on Noah''s sleeve.


    "What day is it today?"


    "Today is the 30th anniversary of Emperor Progen''s ascension to the throne, and we''re having fireworks. We''ve been celebrating for thirty years."


    When the people who hade early and upied some seats to see the fireworks disy saw Noah, they took off their hats, stood up, greeted him, and vacated their seats.


    Why did this persone here?'' was the expression on the peoples faces. The noblewomen gave me a jealous look as they alternated looking at me and Noah. Noah gave me a worried look as he stared at me.


    "You''re too short to see. Would you like me to carry you on my shoulders?" (*lol this man?)


    "No, please don''t. You''re a great man in the army, a duke."


    What good would it do me to ride on the shoulders of a high status person? Here and there firecrackers were set off with deafening sounds, and small mes and ashes fell on the river.


    Huge fireworks spread out and shimmered like flowers in full bloom, coloring the pitch ck sky. Thousands of people shouted in admiration.


    The beautifully engraved lights in the sky disappeared, ashes scattered, and there was the distinctive smell of sulfur from the firecrackers. A boat filled with yellow daffodils, the symbol of the Progen Imperial family, floated above the canal, and a woman on the boat scattered daffodil flowers over the river water. Geishas scattered colored paper, and a magician with a wand sent doves flying.


    The city was crowded with people, as if the love of fireworks was an instinct that transcended the world. I was not a fan of crowded ces, but the fireworks were beautiful. I felt like I was on a trip abroad, and it was different.


    Fortunately, we were apanied by military personnel and were able to see the auspiciousnd at a leisurely pace without many people gathering. I looked up at the fireworks in the sky so much that the back of my neck ached, then I lightly turned my head to looked at Noah.


    Perhaps it was because he was taller, his head didnt raise much.


    Noah, who had been watching the fireworks expressionlessly, looked down at me. Like someone who had all his attention focused on me. He asked me with a gentle voice.


    Have you ever seen fireworks?


    "Yes, I have. How about Noah?"


    "I''ve seen a lot on the battlefield, so I''m not really interested."


    He often went to war even though he was a high-ranking nobleman. It shouldn''t be surprising that his personality changed a bit as he became numb from killing people. Speechless, I patted him lightly on the back.


    "It must have been hard on the battlefield. It must have been scary."


    Are you worried about me?"


    Noah''s eyes folded beautifully and smiled. Colorful fireworks light up the sky, creating a spectacr view.


    "It''s spectacr. It''s a spectacr sight.."


    I couldn''t help but marvel at the man who made a spectacr view with a spectacr backdrop. His silver hair was like a rainbow, tinted with colorful light. I averted my gaze quickly, for my soul seemed to be sucked away. The fireworks were over and the people who had gathered like a swarm of ants began to disperse.


    "Where are we going?"


    "Let''s go to my manor.


    "You have another house?"


    Noah tilted his head at my question as if I was asking the obvious.


    "Yes. There''s a castle, a mansion, and a vi. It''s in the capital."


    "Yes, you''re rich.


    Of course he was rich. I''m sure he has a high annual sry and inherited wealth, I just didn''t have anything to say so I asked.


    "I have enough to feed a princess.


    He kept sending mements that I don''t know if he was serious or joking. Did he seduce mamy girls? Even if he didnt try hard, there would be countless women lining up to get his attention.


    Anyway, I responded as much as I could since I said I loved him. Because my goal was to hold out while adjusting appropriately.


    "Wow~ I''m going to spend all that money when we get married."


    Although my voice sounded insincere, Noah''s eyes widened at the word married. Why did he show such a serious reaction when I say such things casually?


    Diana, do you really want to marry me?


    "Yes, I dont mind being with a rich husband. I can eat meat every day, and I''m a snob to the bone."


    I said jokingly, but Noah looked as rxed as a ravenous beast feeling satisfied. Simr to the way a tiger has the expression of a cat drooping in the sunlight.


    "I see. I''ll be the princess'' husband."


    "Hahahaha, I''m kidding.


    "But Im not. Tomorrow we will go to the Archbishop and make a marriage pledge first."


    I could faintly hear hisst words.


    Propose after the fireworks? My Princess is romantic.


    <i>Is he crazy?</i>


    I underestimated him again and overlooked a lot of things, including the fact that this crazy man would never let my words pass him by. He would drive me into a difficult fence then watch and enjoy.

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    A man who only knew how to walk in a straight line looked at me and smiled gracefully.


    Thus, as soon as the sun rises tomorrow, we will enter into a matrimonial bond'' that will be colored with lies in a sacred ce. I hurriedly waved my hand to get this situation under control.


    His words sounded like a prank, but I didnt know for sure if they were jokes or sincerity.


    No, I will one day, but not tomorrow. (Diana)


    Noah squinted at my determined tone. My back felt cold as I watched his expression gradually change to nkness.


    If you marry me, Id give you meat every day and different clothes and shoes every day. I''m a man of ability. (Noah)


    "It''s too early to tell." (Diana)


    A harsh suggestion, but this was really too soon. The line that matched this ridiculous situational drama was love.


    Moreover, I don''t know when he''s going to change his mind and pull a gun on me, saying it was a lie that I said I loved him.


    After seeing the mercenary captain who ran away thinking he was saved but got shot in the head, this man was unpredictable.


    In the second half of the original, a short episode of him pretending to have fallen for Celine, seducing her into despair, came to mind.


    In spite of the fact that this was a ssic novel, the content of the story had a great impact on the enthusiastic readers who were expecting Noah to be a "regretful male lead" and Celine who was always described as beautiful.


    In fact, I invested my heart in pushing Noah, who exuded subtle flirtatious charm, as a male lead in the second half of the original story, but, it plummeted to the level of ck Monday and Noah stock was delisted.


    [You''re the ugliest woman I''ve ever seen. My secretary, Vincent, is much prettier.]


    This part of the story was a bit strange, but after that Celine was devastated. He destroyed Celine''s self-confidence and trampled on her self-esteem.


    Celine gave up her thoughts of running away from Noah, whom she had never met many times, but she knew that she had been deceived, and through Noah she learned the importance of Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall and his true love.


    The original Celine was a bit of a strange woman, and she''s still strange. In a word, it''s unseemly. Anyway,it was concluded that Noah was a bad man with a beautiful face, a legendary nine-tailed fox of a man who has built up his skills.


    I felt like I was participating in this man''s mischievous game, and it made my head hurt. I was being dragged along, forced to fit in like this. I was afraid of what kind of venom he would use if he found out I lied or if lost interest.


    He has always been vague about why he brought me here, why he took such good care of me and treated me so well, none of it was concrete or certain.


    He didnt threaten me outright, and he didnt convince me to take him seriously, so I was just confused. I was in a situation where I couldn''t do either.


    I was watching daffodils float down the river, relieving my sorrow. While immersed in thought, Noah, who seemed to have been somewhere, tapped my shoulder and held out something. There were yellow daffodil flowers on his hands.


    "It''s my heart." (Noah)


    I looked up at him with a puzzled expression, and Noah took my hand, opened my palm, and ced the daffodils on top of it. Heughed like an innocent boy giving flowers to a girl.


    "Originally I nned to pick wild flowers on the road, but no matter how hard I looked I couldn''t find it, so I got this for you." (Noah)


    I don''t know what he meant by saying something that only he could understand, even though it sounded like he had some ambitious n of his own.


    Did you know that thenguage of the yellow daffodils is in response to love? (Noah)


    "I don''t. ." (Diana)


    I stopped talking, feeling embarrassed for some reason. Noah swept my hair behind my ears with a delicate touch and my shoulders shrank slightly at the warmth of his touch on my ear. He chuckled and stuck a flower on my hair.


    Contrary to my thoughts, he offered me flowers instead of holding a gun to my head when he asked to marryter. The ce in charge ofmon sense in my head began to suggest giving up understanding.


    The crazy maniptive behavior in contrast to the original story and the beginning of the book was increasingly clouding my sense of reality and judgment. My thoughts scattered on their own. There he was giving me flowers by extortion and taught me thenguage of the flowers.


    Cute.


    I was surprised and doubted my thoughts that came to my mind. I repeated countless resolutions not to go overboard. It was strange but a little sad because my heart went crazy. It would be a little sad if all of these actions were tests or fakes.


    "Thank you." (Diana)


    I touched the daffodil petals on my hand. Noah, who was quietly watching my expression, began pulling flowers out of his coat pocket and piling them up on my hands like a mountain. How much did he take! I had two hands full of daffodils, more than I could handle.


    "Why doesn''t the princess smile? (Noah)


    "Me? I justughed earlier. ( Diana)


    "Not that kind ofugh. I saw you cry. I''m curious how you look when you smile. (Noah)


    What''s the real smile? I rubbed my back hair with an awkward face.


    Noah watched my reactions and expressions, as if out of habit. He wanted to see the different expressions, but I didnt really know what I looked like either.


    I''m happy but I don''t have a wide variety of facial expressions. (Diana)


    "I''m d youre happy. Shall we go home now, we have to take marriage vows tomorrow, so I have to go to bed early." (Noah)


    This man. rejection didnt work.


    He went too far for trying to y me, checking to see if I lied when I said I loved him. I panicked and came up with a n to be resourceful.


    "We have to have time to get to know each other. There may be parts of us that don''t fit, you know?" (Diana)


    "We''ve had enough time. (Noah)


    "Its not enough for me. (Diana)


    I don''t see anything that doesn''t fit. Princess doesnt like me? (Noah)


    "No.. hostage to me is excessive. How well did you know me? I might have a fatal w." (Diana)


    I had no reason to dislike him for providing me with excellent food, clothing, shelter, personal safety, and eye candy. However, he was an insane man and his whims were quite a minefield. Noah, seeing my sullen face with worry, gently touched my cheek.


    "I''ll make you a citizen. (Noah)


    He seemed to think that I was depressed because I was a hostage of the enemy country.Does this make me a perfect candidate for return to the enemy country? It didnt matter because there was no way I was patriotic.


    Even if Noah would kick me out without mercy, Id rather stayed here in Progen than Belford, where the Admiral wanted to kill me. Citizenship mighte in handyter. I nodded graciously.


    "Yes. Thank you. But let''s get marriedter." (Diana)


    Noah didnt even pretend to listen to my stubbornness. He straightened his coat and stuck his arm out at me. When I stood still and looked at him nkly, he shook his arm lightly.


    "Youve been standing for a long time, your feet must be hurt. Hold my arm. (Noah)


    I shoved my hands full of daffodils into my pockets and crossed his arm for the first time. He has a fine side. His legs were long and his stride wasrge, yet he matched my slowness with consideration.


    "Where is your mansion?" (Diana)


    It''s about 5 minutes by car. (Noah)


    Noah answered, then opened the passenger door for me. He sat in the driver''s seat, and started the engine. Perhaps it was because it was an expensive car that people didn''t see very often, everyone stood far away and looked at us with curious eyes.


    They whispered amongst themselves and stared at me. I didn''t pay much attention to him, thinking he was just a new, light-hearted lover. The mansion, located a little outside of the city, was also quiterge.


    The butler and his servants, who were in charge of the mansion, lined up in a row and bowed their heads. The soldiers who followed us also got out of the car and reported that everything was fine after searching everywhere.


    "This is the person Im going to marry. (Noah)


    Noah''s words startled the butler, who put his sses on and looked at me. He was a gray-haired man in his sixties or so, with an upright posture and a well-developed sense of propriety.


    "Well, then, we''ll set her up in the same room." (Butler)


    "We''re not sleeping together!" (Diana)


    I shouted urgently, my face turned red. Noah''s eyes were half downcast and he stared down at me. His dimples were dimpled and his mouth was curved in a happy way.


    "Don''t be shy. Let''s get some sleep, princess." (Noah)


    The butler, perhaps feeling embarrassed of my infidelity, told the servant to prepare a room for us to stay together.


    I gave Noah a look that said, why are you doing this? I felt like I was stuck in his trap. The more I struggled, the more entangled I became in his trap.


    "I don''t think we have a very deep rtionship." (Diana)


    "You kissed me, you told me you loved me, you proposed to me, you even attacked me at first." (Noah)


    I stood on my tiptoes and covered Noah''s mouth. The servants opened their mouths slightly and looked at Noah alternately. He was not an innocent man to fall for something like that. He deliberately pretended to be innocent to embarrass me and enjoy my reaction.


    ". Is it fun to tease me?" (Diana)


    "Because your cheeks are pretty when they turn red." (Noah)


    Noah smiled with his eyes, and the puffiness under his eyes rose. I don''t know who was pretty to whom.


    I decided to understand that it was a profitable business, as long as he provided proper food, clothing and shelter, and enjoyed the reactions while teasing me selfishly. As I wondered if I should entertain him by studyingrger reactions, Noah cautiously held my hand.


    His hand, which was interlocked between my smaller fingers, tightened its grip on minepletely, and his long fingers lightly brushed the back of my hand. It felt like a secret signal, and it made my stomach tingle, not my hand. Even though he was just holding my hand, I felt like my whole body was being stroked. My lips twitched for no reason.


    "Let''s go, pretty Princess."


    " Yes."


    Like a person who was possessed, I followed him to the room. No, I was really possessed by this fox-like man. Noah gave me a gentle look as he opened the door to my room.


    I''ll see you tomorrow.


    He let me in, waved lightly, closed the door, and left. As I stared nkly at the tightly closed door, I suddenly came to my senses and shook my head.


    "It was a close call. That man is really dangerous!


    If I was a little careless, I could have walked myself into his bed. I refused to be tended to by the maidservant and sat down in the wooden rocking chair, leaning back sluggishly. The chair was a little worn and creaked with each rocking motion.


    I pulled a nket over my knees and lighted the coal-burning firece. On top of the stove were brass ornaments and wine bottles. Unlike the main mansion in the outskirts, this whole ce was warm, with ivory, single-patterned wallpaper and furniture, white curtains, and fluffy white rugs on the marble floor.


    After I had warmed myself up sufficiently, I stood up, filled a ss bowl with water, and dropped the yellow daffodil flowers in from my pocket.


    <b><i>"It''s my heart."</i></b>


    Noah''s drowsy voice was vivid. My mind floated and tickled like a bunch of daffodil flowers in the ss bowl. I don''t know what kind of heart he was talking about.


    "Ah. I need to wash up and go to sleep."


    Fortunately, water and sewage were developed in this world, so there was a drainage facility, and water came out when you turned the faucet.


    Because of the water purification technology, the tap water smelled of disinfectant chemicals, just as modern times. ording to the books I read during my imprisonment, this world, especially here in Progen, has developed dramatically in science and technology.


    If I had gone back to the previous era, I would have been frightened by odors and insanitation and suffered from cholera and typhoid. Nothing is more devastated than being reincarnated in a world full of dirty streets and unwashed people.


    Knock. Knock.


    I had just gotten out of the bath and was drying my hair in front of the firece in my thick gown when I heard a knock at the door. As I approached and opened the door, I saw Noah with a slick face, perhaps freshly showered. His silvery hair was slightly wet. The tip of his handsome nose was red. His eyes had always been red, but now they were even redder, as if he had been crying.


    I realized where the strangeness and sensuality I felt from him wasing from. It was the sexiness of some attractive men. A contradictory attraction that seemed dangerous but had a protective instinct.


    I''ve described them as beautiful, but I''m not talking about beautiful girls, I''m talking about beautiful men. It is also a carnivore with a gorgeous appearance that does not need protective colors. The broad shoulders and firm contours of his body, hidden under a neat shirt buttoned up to the neck, were as seductive as a forbidden secret.


    You said youll see me tomorrow" (Diana)


    I finally moved my tongue, which had hardened as I swallowed my saliva. My body was stiff and tense, and it felt unnatural to blink.


    Yes. It''s twelve o''clock. (Noah)


    He said hed meet me tomorrow, and then he showed up right at midnight? Noah gently touched my wet, pitch-ck hair. His fingers grazed past my earlobe, and I winced and arched my back. I got chills and even my soft hair stood on edge.


    "Youre going to catch a cold." (Noah)


    He looked down at me and spoke in a worried voice. The puffiness under his eyes raised, and the shadow of his eyshes hung long.


    "Didn''t you see me this morning? (Diana)


    "Yes. I saw you in the morning." (Noah)


    Noah, who had brought me a towel and rubbed and wiped my wet hair, brought his face close to mine.


    In his strange blue eyes, I could see the flickering mes from the firece.


    "Here."

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    Yes. I''ll see you in the morning, here.


    His voice was as low as the sound of his breath, and it was chilling.


    I think I know what it meant, but I didnt know the meaning of this man who was not ordinary. Noah''s words and actions were always questionable because his intentions were unknown.


    I couldnt figure out what he was thinking. So I couldnt draw any conclusions unnecessarily, nor could I say anything out loud. Noah leaned against the wall with his arms folded, waiting for my answer.


    I found myself standing in front of a man who was smiling elegantly at me. Unlike him, who was rxed, I became impatient and spoke.


    "Are you going to sleep here?" (Diana)


    "I didn''t say that, but is that what you want?" (Noah)


    Noah did not miss my thoughtless question and quickly caught it. He has the skill to get what he wants out of my mouth. He walked in and sat on the edge of the bed, patting the sheet as if to saye here.


    "I like it. Hurry up ande here." (Noah)


    Ack. (Diana)


    I was so perplexed that I even had the hups. If I didn''t answer in the affirmative, he might ask with a nk look on his face, "Do you love me? You said you loved me, but it was a lie, wasnt it?


    I shook my head as if to disperse my anxious thoughts. After experiencing several prediction failures, I felt relieved that he was not that crazy. In the end, it could be that my head went crazy.


    "A man and a woman who are not even married, in the same room!" (Diana)


    I was never this conservative to begin with, but I was willing to give anything to say no. Noah didnt say anything but only made a hmm sound.


    "We''re going to be husband and wife tomorrow, can''t we do it one day earlier? (Noah)


    "I''d rather take my time getting married. Why don''t you try dating a little longer? (Diana)


    "Yes, we''re dating. (Noah)


    What kind of rtionship did we have then? I looked at him with stunned eyes.


    "We can''t be in the same room if we are dating? I''m not going to do anything, dont you trust me?" (Noah)


    <i>Of course, I dont. (Diana)</i>


    <i>How am I going to endure the test of his love or death all night long?</i>


    "I''m conservative." (Diana)


    "So you were conservative? I guess I''ll dismiss the whole thing." (Noah)


    "No. That''s not the kind of reward I''m looking for." (Diana)


    Noah brought a rocking chair and put it next to the bed, then sat down and leaned his back against it.


    "Well, I guess I''ll watch you sleep, then." (Noah)


    "Okay." (Diana)


    I replied nonchntly andid down on the bed. Noah, with a slightly dissatisfied expression, pulled the nket up to my chin and sat back down on the chair. Icould at least show him that I slept.


    He started rocking and made squeaking noises.


    The creaking sound of the chair was too loud! It must be a sign of his dissatisfaction with the continued rejection.


    "Noah, the chair is too loud and its bothering me. I cant sleep like this. (Diana)


    "I''m not going to sleep today." (Noah)


    The words uttered with a restrained face contained a strange bizarreness. If I respond to those words, he might find fault again.


    "Did I do something wrong?" (Diana)


    "Didn''t the Princess break off the engagement immediately after you proposed to me first?" (Noah)


    "Why are you making me a bad woman?" (Diana)


    "Why are you making me sad?" (Noah)


    Noah had a sad expression on his face to show his sincerity. I slowly got up and looked at Noah, who was sitting on his chair.


    "You can''t sleep? (Diana)


    "No. I couldn''t sleep because my engagement was broken off. (Noah) (lol this guy)


    "I didn''t break off the engagement. I said we''d talk about itter." (Diana)


    "I know." (Noah)


    Noah leaned towards me and rested his face on myp. One side of his face was visible and his hair was tilted to the other side. Suddenly, I had the urge to touch his hair. Noah''s eyes turned to me as I carefully swept through his soft hair.


    "Diana.


    Yes?


    Surprised, I pulled my hand away and Noah grabbed my wrist. He kept my hand on his hair.


    "You dont need me?" (Noah)


    "No, I need you.." (Diana)


    "You said you love me (Noah)


    Noah sat up and spoke with a sad voice with lonely eyes.


    "You act like you''re fine without me." (Noah)


    "I''m not okay" (Diana)


    Despite his sensual appearance andnguid voice showing an attitude of desire, he never crossed a certain line and felt rather ascetic. Besides, the way he vented his loneliness was not threatening in the slightest. My conclusion was that I had no idea what this man was really thinking. There must surely be a reason for him to do this to me.


    I was also afraid that if he got what he wanted, he would change his attitude, saying he has achieved his goal. The content of his cold and sudden change to Celine was very heartbreaking to see in the original text, but I think it would be cruel if it actually happened.


    Of course, he didn''t act this way to Celine, because he just misunderstood her ambiguous words and attitude, but it was very charming.


    <b><i>Did you misunderstand? That''s interesting."</i></b>


    The scene in which the gentle gaze was reced with sarcasm and contempt was terrifying.


    "Noah..


    I was trying to ask something I wanted to know so badly, but hesitated.


    Yes?


    Noah waited for my words with gentle eyes.


    Do you like me? (Diana)


    At my question, the corners of his lips rose gracefully, his dimples showed clearly.


    "Yes, I like you. That''s why I dont want the Princess to die. (Noah)


    Although I was relieved by Noah''s answer, my heart sank so much that I wanted to run away. I don''t know why he liked me. That one fact stuck me with a terrible dread and filled me with a current of anxiety. In the end, I concluded that I shouldnt believe those words, but in the midst of it all, my heart started beating and pounding in my chest. It was an uneasy feeling.


    "So don''t go anywhere without me. (Noah)


    I couldn''t breathe because he sounded so sincere. Does that mean he likes me so much that hed kill me if I ran away? It was difficult to determine whether it was an abnormal possessive desire or protection from the Admiral who was after me. He had said this at first.


    <b><i>"I''m the one who came to save you."</i></b>


    I was confused by the crazy man in front of me, and I struggled to create a smiley face.


    "I''m not going anywhere." (Diana)


    The word "like" stung deeply in my lungs, making me itchy and ufortable.


    "Go to sleep. You must be tired." (Noah)


    Noah got up, pulled the covers over me, and left the room. For the first time, my room felt empty and lonely without him. I closed my eyes tightly because the loneliness I had forgotten seemed to hold my ankles.


    "I like being alone. I have fun being alone. That beautiful madman enjoys my embarrassment"


    I muttered as if to brainwash myself and awakened my natural inclination. If you don''t keep it in your heart in the first ce, you wont get hurt. I don''t want to experience the feeling of being left alone after leaving someone in my heart. So it''s better to be alone from the beginning. When my parents passed away from an ident, huge insurance money and inheritance was left to me, but everything has been empty since then.


    So I just moved along with everyone around me and lived my life without caring about anyone else. The selfishness of wanting Noah to like me was just so I could survive.


    ***


    It was ate morning and Izily roused myself. While I ate a quick meal of soup and bread, Noah came in and took a seat next to me. He seemed to have gone somewhere since morning.


    "I got your citizenship." (Noah)


    Noah pulled out something from his coat pocket. It was like a small notebook, and looked exactly like a passport. The g pattern of Progen was engraved on the indigo blue outer cover.


    I couldn''t use your realst name. (Noah)


    "Diana Parsene.


    I didn''t know my birthday, but it showed December 25th, Christmas. I don''t know if he knew and wrote it down, or if he just decided on his own. I marveled at Noah, who had made my citizenship so easily.


    After all, there was nothing that power and money could not buy. Noah was sitting next to me reading the newspaper and he read aloud a sentence in the newspaper.


    "General Shepherd said to ck Shepherd. You may go to the wolf''s territory.


    It sounded like a passage from a fairy tale. His voice was subtle and somber.


    Is it a fairy tale? (Diana)


    "Yes. It''s going to be serialized in the newspaper. I''ll read it to you before you go to bed." (Noah) (*again, this man? hes so nonchnt, Im dying lol)


    There''s nothing like reading a fairy tale with puppies in it. The more I knew this man, the more new aspects of him surprised me.


    Yes, I like dogs too. By the way, when are we going back to the castle? (Diana)


    At my question, Noah stuck his face out of the newspaper and smiled.


    "We''ll be here for a while. (Noah)


    "Why?" (Diana)


    "You''ve never even been to a debutante. We need to have one. (Noah)


    In the original story, it was written that the ball held on the day of Celine''s social debut was packed with attendees, and theing of age ceremony held at the mansion was veryvish. Of course, Diana, who was discriminated against, could not have one.


    "How do you know?" (Diana)


    "I know everything." (Noah)


    I asked seriously, but Noah didn''t give me a clear answer. He folded up the newspaper he was looking at and pushed it off to one side.


    "I''ll take you to the ball, and well have youring of age ceremony at Christmas. You won''t have your debut, since its main goal is to find a husband. (Noah)


    "I didn''t bring any dresses. (Diana)


    "You can buy a new one." (Noah)


    Those who can afford to do so are different. I am poor here. I remembered buying a lot of clothes, shoes, and bags in my original life and leaving them unattended without even opening the package. It was a boring life full of emptiness and meaningless.


    I felt it was easier to live a passive life now, with someone else taking care of me, than it was then.


    "We can go to the Imperial Ball tomorrow. You can go shopping while I do my business. You will have to spend all the money I have set aside for you. (Noah)


    He kept me busy by keeping me busy. It was selfish, but I didnt have anything to say about it because it was for my own good.


    He was a strange man.


    After breakfast, I stopped by a famous tailor shop with a butler, a maid, and a servant. Noah gave me an excessive amount of money and we had to buy a lot of dresses, shoes, hats and essories to match our eye color and hair. I was afraid that it would be a disasterter on. I shouted at him, saying it was enough, but the butler insisted that if I could not spend all this amount, I would not be safe. (Lol got threatened to spend money ?)


    When I was choosing pajamas to fulfill the amount, I was surprised when the maid rmended a very revealing slip. After paying the bill, the servants and the butler left in arge carriage full of luggage, and I got into an automobile with a driver.


    My back was aching after trying on different dresses as if I were ying dress-up.


    <i>I''ve never been to a ball, and I can''t even dance, so what am I supposed to do?</i>


    But Noah was a thorough man. He had already invited a nobledy to teach me how to dance. Countess Elizabeth Moray, who was waiting in advance at the mansion, was an elegant and beautiful woman.


    "The gentleman will lead you once you know the basic steps." (Countess)


    "Gentleman"


    I didnt know what expression to make when Noah suggested dancing. I learned to dance and the etiquette and unspoken rules of the ballroom, and before I knew it, the day was over.


    Have a meal and go. (Diana)


    "No, my husband is waiting for me at home. I''m also very tired. (Countess)


    The Countess covered her mouth and smiled graciously as she left in the car that she hade in. While eating dinner alone, I recalled Countess Moray''s shy smile.


    Someone was waiting for her at home. An emotion I had been turning away from came up, but I did my best to push it back in. After dinner, I went up to my room to wash up and read a book, enjoying my alone time. Then I suddenly felt like I wasn''t alone and looked at the door of my room absentmindedly, but there was no one there.


    Someone kept trying to squeeze into my lonely world where I was the only one. Someone had gradually reduced and filled the empty space. He carelessly but kindly touched me, without permission. I was reluctant for someone to be part of my world. Because I didnt want him to be all of it.


    I inhaled, holding my face in my hands, and let out a heavy breath.


    Knock. Knock.


    There was a knock on the door as if to break my anguish. I stood up quickly and opened the door. The maid at the door said she would take care of my bed, but it was just an excuse. And what she got in her hands was the very naughty slip she rmended earlier.


    Its a bonus from the store so I bought it. No one knew about it.


    The maid smiled with a meaningful expression. She must have thought I was too embarrassed to buy it this girlshe was thoughtful for nothing.


    "Ah!"


    I hurriedly took the slip from her. I was going to hide it where she couldn''t see it.


    "What''s wrong?"


    A familiar voice interrupted. Noah, who came out of nowhere, was standing behind the maid, looking at me. His gaze went to the slip that was in my hand. The maid bowed.


    "I''m leaving, Master."


    <i>No, you can''t! You created this awkward atmosphere all of a sudden, now you just leave!</i>


    The maid left, and I hid the slip behind my back and made a distraction.


    "What is it?" (Noah)


    "A rag." (Diana)


    "Does the princess also do cleaning?" (Noah)


    "I have mysophobia. (Noah)


    "How ugly is the rag?" (Noah)


    The slip in my hand went to his hand in a blink of an eye. Noah unfolded the cloth without hesitation.


    "It''s a great rag. (Noah)


    "Give it to me!" (Diana)


    He must surely have been considered I was a "revealing woman" because he found obscene books in my room and now lewd pajamas. My face turned as red as a tomato as embarrassment overwhelmed me. I jumped up and down trying to take it back, but I couldn''t reach it because Noah lifted it high like a flying g. Noah looked at me and chuckled, then spoke as if teasing me.


    "Did you prepare this to seduce me? It''s amazing."


    ***


    *This couple is so cute and funny. Their interactions are the best.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    How much do you think I would be tempted to wear something like that? I coughed and then made a serious excuse.


    "There was an unavoidable circumstance. (Diana)


    Yes, yes. Tell me. (Noah)


    "I got a bonus when I was buying clothes, so the maid bought it secretly thinking I was too shy to buy it. I told her I definitely didn''t need it."


    I emphasized the words didnt need'' with all my might.


    Yes. You''ll wear thister on our honeymoon, right? (Noah)


    Dont get ahead of yourself." (Diana)


    "I''ll get you a prettier one then. My taste. (Noah)


    It was azy voiceced with breathing. I wondered how he managed to make that sensual sound. I tried my best to keep my expression in check. He folded the slip neatly and ced it neatly in the chest of drawers and naturally sat on the edge of the bed.


    "Did you practice the dance well?" (Noah)


    "I learn quickly. I remember after a few times." (Diana)


    "I know, I know. Youre smart. Don''t dance with other men. That''s not why I want you to learn to dance. (Noah)


    Noah narrowed his eyebrows as if to warn me with a serious expression.


    It seemed to mean that I had to dance only with him, but I pretended not to know and stared at him without answering.


    Noahs hard, tight expression ckened as he waited for my answer.


    His mysterious deep blue eyes were like the sea on a quiet afternoon. When I was looking at the ocean, I couldn''t help but hear the words, "I want to jump in. I turned my head away, barely passing the danger of falling, and averted my gaze.


    "Yes, Ill dance with a woman." (Diana)


    "No, no. Same goes for women." (Noah)


    "Then who do I dance with?" (Diana)


    I asked back like I didnt know, and Noah sighed, putting a hand to his forehead.


    "I can''t believe youre asking something so obvious." (Noah)


    "Who is it? I really don''t know." (Diana)


    I deliberately pretended not to know, knowing that was Noah''s way too. It''s the method he used to get me to give him the answers


    he wanted to hear.


    "You''ll find that out when you go to the ball tomorrow." (Noah)


    But it didnt work for him, who was a high-level yer. He slipped away as smoothly and effortlessly as a supple cat.


    "I''ll read you a fairy tale from the newspaper. You like to read, don''t you?" (Noah)


    Yes. But how do you read? I dont see the newspaper. (Diana)


    "It''s right here." (Noah)


    Noah pointed to his head with his finger. He sat down beside me on the bed and began to tell me the fairy tale in a tone that made me feel like he was reading me a book. To my surprise, he seemed to remember every word.


    The fairy tale was about a ck shepherd protecting a little girl from a fierce wolf. After reciting about two episodes, Noah slowly stood up, looking at his watch, "What did you do today?" "What dress did you buy?" Ask this and that, then he said.


    "Go to bed early. Don''t stay up toote reading the racy book. (Noah


    "I didn''t bring it with me. (Diana)


    "Well then, I''ll get you a new one. Good night." (Noah)


    Noah slightly closed the door and waved through the gap. I looked at the closed door and suddenly felt a pang of regret. I should have told him that I had the book, because now he might buy enough of those racy to fill the entire bookshelf.


    "Hes so strange."


    I smiled, remembering him, and noticed a change inside. Even though he came and talked to me every day, it was not annoying. Rather, I was looking forward to it, and when he left, I felt sorry.


    "I mustn''t do that.


    He was the only one whom I interacted with in this strange world, and he was too kind to me, who fell into the world empty-handed, so I have to rely on him, no matter what his intentions were.


    I''m human too, so I have inherent loneliness. That''s why he''s not special to me. Iy down on my bed and closed my eyes, telling myself over and over.


    He''s not special. He''s unique.


    ***


    "Lady Parsene, wake up!"


    Who is Parsene?


    Oh, my newly given name was Diana Parsene. The maids woke me up early in the morning, probably for a ball at the Imperial Pce. The culprit who brought me the naughty slip, the maid named Rosie. I stood up, staring at her with a stiff gaze.


    "Please call me by my name from now on. And the ball is in the evening, isn''t it?" (Diana)


    "You have to get your hair done, try on your dress, and put on makeup too. (Rosie)


    It was not even a wedding shoot. The aristocraticdies here have a hard time forcing themselves to do that every day of the ball. Rosie had already filled the bathroom tub with water and put in dried rose petals.


    "I understand you like to bathe alone? Youre shy and don''t like to show my bare skin to others." (Rosie)


    I''ve never heard that before. Rosie smiled at my questioning gaze and left the bathroom. Molly had already seen my body, but I don''t know where the hell that came from.


    It seemed to be words that Noah, who was also jealous of women, had told her separately, which made sense at first. He didnt seem to be jealous of Molly.


    Rosie dried my hair after I finished my bath and began to help me with her quick hands. My makeup was short as well as only my lips were painted, so It didn''t take long to do my hair.


    Finally, it was time for the dress fitting from hell. I had to try on about seven dresses, and the servants, besides Rosie, huddled around me even more. I couldn''t hide the look of desperation on my face as I put on my winter undergarments and corset.


    Time flew by and I couldn''t eat much breakfast and lunch. If I ate at a fixed amount, I felt like I would just regurgitate because of the constricting corset.


    The dress that was unanimously decided upon by the maids after a long fitting trial was an art nouveau dress made of dark gray fabric with whitece and ruffles.


    The dress tightened around my waist and hips, and the hem of the skirt widened as it went down, I felt a little suffocated. Only after putting on the shoes and a hat with a simr design to the dress, the grooming finallypleted.


    "So beautiful. I''m sure Master will be very pleased.


    "Hmm."


    Noah would react the same way whether I dress up or not, so I don''t know. He would just give me his usual smile and say that I look beautiful, and a few other ritualisticpliments. Those were words he would say even if I were wearing pajamas, so there was no point. When I left the room after finishing the preparations, Noah, who was standing at the bottom of the stairs, looked up at me silently.


    You look beautiful.


    Noahplimented me briefly. He was wearing an overcoat over his ck ceremonial uniform with shoulder straps, insignia strings, rank insignia and medals, and now I thought that the uniform here was really nice.


    When worn by a well proportioned man, it made him look even more sophisticated and elegant. The suits are nice, but I prefer the uniforms, and they give me a good deal of eye candy.


    "You look beautiful too, Noah."


    "I''m beautiful?"


    "Yes.


    I took the opportunity to stare at Noah. His bangs were swept to the side, revealing a handsome forehead and eyebrows.


    "You flipped your bangs. You look different." (Diana)


    "Are you in love? (Noah)


    "Yes. (Diana)


    I answered casually, but my eyes nced at the jawline of the handsome man looking at me. Then, feigning nonchnce, I got into the car with Noah escorting us to the capital.


    We arrived at the city of Effenberg, the capital of Progen, after an hour''s drive. The buildings of the Imperial Pce, visible in therge square, were very extravagant and ornate, but simr to the Winter Pce I had seen in the world I lived in.


    Built in the Rococo style, the emerald exterior walls of the Imperial Pce were painted with gold in ces, as were the roofs and statues. It seems that the artist set the motif of the real Imperial Pce.


    In the square, luxury carriages and ssic cars werepeting with each other. The drivers were busily dropping off the women. Perhaps it was because of the open river in front of us, the fierce north wind was cold to the bone. I took Noah''s hand and tightened my coat as I got out of the car.


    The driver got out of the driver''s seat and bowed. It was a long way to the entrance of the Imperial Pce, so I walked with trembling lips, hanging on to Noah.


    "It''s really cold here. Arent you cold?" (Diana)


    Noah quickly picked me up when I asked.


    "I''m cold too." (Noah)


    "What''s wrong with you?" (Diana)


    "Its warm holding a furball. Let''s go quickly, princess."


    He held me in his arms and started running.


    The gazes of the nobles who were walking around with solitary faces, feigning coldness, immediately focused on us. The scene of a high-ranking official as well as an authoritative Duke running across the square with a woman in his arms was ridiculous, but Noah seemed fine.


    "Noah, youre a man of social standing! You have to protect your appearance!"


    "But my Princess is cold.


    He seemed to be very into the princess y. He reached the entrance of the Imperial Pce in no time, perhaps because of his long legs or because he was a fast runner. Noah tried to go straight to the dance hall with me still in his arms, but he let me down after I did much whining.


    "Noah, bend down.


    Noah bowed his head and I reached out to tidy up his disheveled hair.


    Your hair got messed up.


    "Thank you."


    Noah looked up and smiled. The corners of his eyes, which were usually lifted, bent downward when he smiled, making him look gentle.


    It was amazing that he wasnt out of breath after all that running. I crossed my arms around Noah''s firm arm and headed through the arched corridor to the dance hall. Therge and fancy dance hall was already packed with people. An orchestra with stringed instruments yed tunes, while the nobles mostly conversed and men and women danced in pairs.


    While walking with Noah, countless people''s eyes were prickly inserted. I felt pressured. I don''t like being around a lot of people. A man who didnt show up in ces like this very often showed up with a strange woman, so it''s only natural that he attracted the attention of the public. People''s curious eyes immediately turned to action.


    Colonel, who is thedy with you? She''s beautiful."


    A young man who looked like a soldier approached, saluted and asked. Noah red at him with a cold face.


    "Dont take any interest in her.


    He said hed let me make my debut in society. So I thought he was going to introduce me to people. But he seemed to be trying to iste me and bury me. Several women came up and asked about me, and Noah exined that I was a Princess and he wanted to marry me but I enjoy dating more. I thought I was going crazy. A noblewoman asked.


    "Princess? Where are you from? Looking at your appearance and hair color, it looks like you''re from Medea."


    "No. ."


    Medea? I wondered about the iprehensible term, and I couldnt answer, "I''m the daughter of Admiral Belford, an enemy of Progen, and I was abducted."


    So this is what the Duke likes.


    The middle aged noblewomenughed as if they were looking at young men and women in their prime.


    "Is it your first time to enter the social world? You must be happy that the first dance is with a great Duke."


    "Yes, it''s nice."


    <i>I don''t see what the point of the first dance is.</i>


    The interest in Diana Parsene''s first appearance in the ballroom was naturally bound to be high.


    Everyone seemed to think that we were engaged. Ignoring the outpouring of interest and curiosity, I sipped strawberry-vored champagne. At that moment, a woman with pitch-ck hair and blue eyes approached us and smiled beautifully at Noah.


    She looked a little different from the Progen and Belford people. Pretty eyes.


    She was a woman of small build.


    "Noah, long time no see.


    "Yes.


    Noah gave a bleak answer and turned his back.


    "Shes the one youre going to marry? Oh my, she has dark hair, which is hard to find in Progen."


    The woman spoke again, holding Noah back as he tried to leave his seat. Noah looked somewhat ufortable. He gave her a cold smile as he looked back at her.


    Yes, like you." (Noah)


    The youngdy, whose mouth closed straight at the invocation of "you," swung her ss round and approached me, greeting me with arrogance. Her lips were smiling, but her eyes were frozen cold.


    "Its a pleasure to meet you. I am Princess Erica Spencer Grace of Medea."


    I heard that in social circles, the person with the highest rank spoke first. I followed the etiquette here, grabbing the hem of my skirt and bent my knees.


    "Hello, Princess. I''m Diana Parsene."


    Oh, yes, Miss Parsene.


    Erica smiled with her eyes folded beautifully and approached me, whispering quietly.


    "Dont believe the Duke''s sweet words recklessly. He asked me to marry him once, too.

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    Did he also ask the Princess of Medea to marry him? Were the two of them in a rtionship? Surely, this beautiful man must have been in love. Besides, the words "let''s get married" are often thrown out as lightly as a feather between lovers.


    "There''s so much I want to say to you."


    The Princess nced towards the terrace. Follow me, she meant. She smiled and left the room. I decided to listen to her more, who seemed to have something to say.


    "Noah. I''m going to get some air on the terrace.


    "Its cold so hurry up ande back.


    Noah, who was dealing with the aristocratic men who had gathered around us with troubled eyes, looked at me and replied softly. I walked out onto the terrace and met Princess Erica who was waiting for me. I felt a chill and my lips started to tremble, probably because of the cold or because my heart was upset.


    "I''m afraid you might get hurt too." (Erica)


    Princess Erica let out a long sigh as she looked at me. It was a stark contrast to the bleak look she gave me earlier.


    "What was the problem?" (Diana)


    I asked, and the princess crossed her arms and turned her head towards the garden outside the terrace.


    He tried to trick me into giving up my throne for fun." (Erica)


    "What? (Diana)


    "Medea royalty with the right of session cannot marry anyone who is not of Medea blood. He asked me to give up my throne in order to marry him." (Erica)


    "Did you give it up?" (Diana)


    "No, my mother, the Queen, would not allow it. I tried to marry him and give up my royalty. (Erica)


    Yes


    "But he soon abandoned me without mercy. There is no sincerity in that man. He can''t love anyone and ys with people''s hearts by pretending to be kind and showing vague kindness. (Erica)


    It was understandable. I nodded my head a little and spoke, running my hands down the icy railing of the terrace.


    "Princess, I lost my parents when I was twelve." (Diana)


    "Oh, no. That must have been hard." (Erica)


    "The insurance money, property,nds and buildings all went to me." (Diana)


    Princess Erica stared at me, not saying a word. I just remembered the day I was left behind in the world.


    On thest day of the funeral, I waspletely alone. My rtives, who pretended to be nice to be my guardians in order to get the inheritance, were in an uproar when they heard that the guardian had been chosen as my paternal grandfather.


    So they came and made trouble. This was the day I felt true misanthropy. My rtives threw and broke the photo of my parents, grabbed me by the chest and shook me.


    Thewyer who came to take the ce of my grandfather, who was in the hospital after copsing from the impact, tried to stop them and his sses broke. His eyes were torn and bleeding. However, it was just the starting point of the future chaos and hell.


    My rtives and even the people around me tried to take advantage of me, threatening and tormenting me.


    After I reached adulthood at the age of twenty and my grandfather passed away, I became more and more tant. The men who approached me as if they were serious eventually became greedy for what I had and demanded marriage, and then quit their jobs. This was why I was disillusioned and exhausted from human rtionships.


    "All of them tried to torment me for the property I inherited. They sneaked into my home and even tried to kill me by faking my death as an ident." (Diana)


    "I feel sorry for you. But, what''s your reason for telling me this story?" (Erica)


    "It''s easy to fool people when you tell a sad story." (Diana)


    Originally this world was a lie. Because now I was Diana, who was a maid. The Princess had also told me a distorted lie. The Princess turned to me with a disgruntled look on her face.


    "Excuse me?" (Erica)


    Celine had done something simr to Noah in the original story, so I couldnt believe her words. However, I had my own discernment because I had lived in a formidable world. If Noah really wanted to marry her, she couldn''t still be a princess.


    Princess Ericas eyes, as she looked at Noah, were not filled with hatred or animosity. Rather, what was contained in her eyes was love and hate. It was me who received hate and resentment. Even twisted jealousy.


    I knew that look all too well. The look of jealousy, covetousness, envy and hatred for someone who has something that he or she doesnt.


    "I have survived alone among tens of thousands of desires for what I have under the guise of kindness. This is the truth." (Diana)


    Like a mask being removed, the Princess''s expression and eyes changed instantaneously. It was like the moment in the funeral home when the rtives faces momentarily transformed into that of demons.


    I''m skeptical, you don''t have to worry about me. (Diana)


    I bowed to the princess, and was about to leave with courtesy, but her chilling voice stopped me.


    "Diana, wait."


    "I''m cold, so I''ll go in now."


    "I was serious. Hes a man who ys with people''s hearts for fun, but for him, I was willing to give up everything. (Erica)


    I thought about it and ended up not doing it. I swallowed theughter that lingered in my mouth.


    And you, where are you from?" (Erica)


    Princess Ericas blue eyes stared at me as if she was interrogating me. The color of her eyes was simr to that of the Admiral''s, and even the emotions reflected in them were exactly the same, which was unpleasant.


    "Im a Progen citizen. (Diana)


    "Noah can make you a citizen easily. And your appearance is far from a Progen citizen. (Erica)


    The Princess, who was staring at my face, chuckled as if she realized something.


    "You''re Admiral Belford''s daughter, the hostage. The new toy should be fun. Is that your real family in the first ce? Your dark hair, your looks, it''s hard to say you''re a Belford. I can''t believe you''re a woman that even your family abandoned. Hahaha, it would be interesting when he made you rely on him and then abandon you mercilessly. (Erica)


    How did she know that? I remembered that people had asked me if I was from Medea. I tried to hide my expression.


    She smiled happily with a kind of triumphant look on her face. I silently looked at the beautiful and disgusting expression on the Princess''s face. It was a possibility I was fully aware of, and Noah''s look was even scarier because I couldn''t read it. Princess Erica, who had a difficult temperament, had been trying to trample me the whole time.


    "Hes not serious. You''re not an advantage to him, you''re not special. (Erica)


    Special. Neither was she, and neither was I.


    I suddenly felt a warmth in my hand that had been cold for a while. Someone wrapped my hand warmly.


    Noah, who held my hand in his warm bare hand, was looking down at me with his gloves in his mouth.


    "How long are you going to stay out in the wind? Your hands are frozen." (Noah)


    Noah, who put his gloves on my hand, nced at the Princess and turned away again. Princess Erica, who was looking at me, raised her eyebrows as if her feelings were warped in a different way.


    "Noah, will you throw her away someday? Like me." (Erica)


    "I''ve never had one, and I''ve never thrown one away." (Noah)


    It was very rude what Noah said to the Princess, perhaps because there was no one around. Does he have two lives? He looked at me and smiled happily, his dimples shown prominently.


    Princess. (Noah called Diana)


    Noah''s voice was charmingly different than when he spoke to Princess Erica.


    "Shes a princess? In my presence. " (Erica)


    Ericas face twisted bleakly as she realized that it wasn''t a word Noah called her. Noah lifted his hands, which were folded with mine, in a showy manner.


    "I''m cold, let''s go in, honey." (Noah)


    My mouth dropped open at the unexpected statement.


    "Honey?"


    I stammered.


    Whats wrong? Arent we about to get married? Dont you like it? (Noah)


    No.just call me Princess. I cant stand it. (Diana)


    I shuddered at the word honey. Noah waved his hand in an exaggerated manner and looked very happy.


    "Well, then, let''s leave this woman and go. (Noah)


    "Who do you call woman? (Erica)


    Princess Ericas voice became a little raspy at the vague name, which was at odds with mine. Noah was still looking at me with the same pleasant look in his eyes.


    "I don''t even remember your name. What was it?" (Noah)


    "You''ve got to be kidding me! You yboy! (Erica)


    Princess Erica, whose face turned red, eventually cursed in a sharp voice.


    "My goodness, she''s a liar and a foul-mouthed one at that." (Noah)


    Noah''s derisive words nearly made her agree aloud. The Princess sighed and looked away.


    "I will report all of your sphemies against me to the Queen when I return to Media." (Erica)


    "Do that. I hope you leave now." (Noah)


    Noah lowered his gaze to a downcast look. The Princess, who encountered the cold gaze, clenched her teeth and stepped back


    Youre a lunatic." (Erica)


    She cursed Noah and walked into the dance hall with a deliberate unconcerned look on her face. She seemingly has it all, from her princess status to her pretty appearance, but the world was not fair or proportionate to her difficult personality. Was it because she grew up to be a precious princess without any difficulties?


    "Noah, you were in a rtionship with the Princess?" (Diana)


    Princess Ericas words made me feel ufortable, as if they were stuck like thorns in my throat, and I eventually let them out. Noah tilted his head and answered.


    "Princess is Diana. (Noah)


    "Its the woman. (Diana)


    "No, we''ve never dated. I have high standards." (Noah)


    Noah replied nkly as he stared at me. His usual smile was gone when he interacted with me.


    "She told me that you asked her to marry you first. (Diana)


    "I refused a few times, saying I would marry her if she renounced her right to inheritance. She seems to be a woman who remembers the opposite." (Noah)


    Why am I asking this as if its an interrogation? Even if it was true, it has nothing to do with me. He tugged on my hand as he answered my questions without hesitation.


    "It''s cold, lets go in." (Noah)


    Noah''s hand pulled me back into the ballroom and we sipped hot tea at the dessert table. It seemed to rx my cold, frigid body.


    Perhaps because Noah had already dered that he was my fianc, no man requested or approached me to dance. It was more like an unannounced marriage announcement than a ballroom debut. Noah bent down toward me and held out one hand. It was the gentleman''s way of asking me to dance.


    "Princess, keep dancing only with me. No one else." (Noah)


    I was actually expecting that. From the moment I stepped into the dance hall, all I could think about was how he was going to ask me to dance. I even wondered what expression I should make, what words I should say.


    "Yes.


    It was a simple answerpared to the lengthy worries. Reminded once again of his own unsociable nature, Noah''s mouth curved in satisfaction as I ced my hand on top of his. Since it was my first time dancing, my back stiffened and I got a little nervous, but Noah led the way well, probably because he was born noble.


    "What if I step on your foot? Everyone will see." (Diana)


    Noah gave me a kind look, as if to reassure me.


    "I''ll step on it, too. Then they''ll think Im not good at dancing." (Noah)


    "I''ll try not to step on your foot.." (Diana)


    The melody of the music yed by the orchestra gently enveloped the ballroom, and the noise from the surrounding area faded away.


    As if there were only two people left in the world, all the senses went to the ce where Noah touched.


    Gently looking down, Noah''s dark blue eyes made me believe that the reality of the moment was real. Noah''s hands were wrapped around my waist, and even though they were on my clothes, I could feel a strange heat in them.


    Compared to the great possessiveness Noah disyed, he was thoroughly protective of goodness and didn''t touch ory his hands on anything without permission. Perhaps that was why the area around my waist where his hand touched was even more hot.


    ***


    "I''m here to meet you because you said you were going to save my sister.


    Wearing a modest white dress and hat, Celine sat on the sofa in the parlor and looked at Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall with moist eyes. She visited Jeffrey in the office where he worked. Jeffrey, dressed in his officer''s uniform, looked at her as he sat opposite her in a listening posture.


    "Yes, Miss ire. Please speak.


    "It''s not for me, you know. You''re going to inherit the dukedom, aren''t you? I don''t care about your title. (Celine) (*she meant she doesnt care if he bes a Duke or not)


    Jeffrey sat with a straight, military bearing, looking at her in silence.


    "I liked you, Lieutenant Colonel. Four years ago, when I visited your school, I happened to see you and fell in love at first sight. So please don''t go. (Celine)


    Celine''s eyes, which were passionately confessing, were ring and blurred, eventually dropping tears from her big eyes. She looked so beautiful and well-prepared that no man''s heart could not be moved by her confession.


    Any ordinary man would immediately give up on the mission. However, Lieutenant Colonel''s strong and sharp eyes remained unshakable.


    He called her in a low voice.


    "Celine.


    "Did you just call my name?" (Celine)


    Her green eyes, shining with tears, grew wide with emotion. Jeffrey took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped away her tears.


    "Don''t cry."


    "You''re not going, right? (Celine)


    Jeffrey smiled softly at Celine, who begged like a child.


    Isnt Diana your precious little sister? (Jeffrey)


    Jeffreys sharp eyes became somewhat gentler, while Celine''s eyes became increasingly cold as she noticed his decision.


    "I''ll bring your sister back on Christmas, December 25th." (Jeffrey)

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    Returning to the mansion, Celine smiled softly at the servant who greeted her and epted the coat.


    "Is my father back?"


    "Yes. He''s in his study. My Lady."


    "I see. Thank you."


    The servants liked Celine, who was kind and gentle to everyone, despite her morous upbringing. She had a good reputation in social circles, and she was so pretty and good-natured that even the imperial family was interested in her as a daughter inw.


    That was why the title Princess was naturally attached.


    Of course, there were those who were jealous of her, but they sometimes called her Princess ironically.


    The servants had no doubt that the "kind" youngdy wouldnt turn away from Diana, who was being discriminated against.


    Rather, they knew that Diana had a bad heart and was jealous of Celine, putting rats in her bed and pills in her food that upset her stomach.


    Still, the pure Celine begged her father to forgive her sister with pearl-like tears.


    This fact made her shine even brighter.


    To the people, she was perceived as a bright and innocent woman who deserved her name, which meant heaven.


    It was her belief that for the light to stand out, there must be darkness. It was the Admiral who took pity on Diana, but it was Celine who gave justification to her treatment and gave her an insidious and evil image.


    Celine''s face, which had always been innocent and smiling, was now covered with a dark shade. She deliberately pestered Jeffrey and shed tears because she wanted to understand his intentions.


    In spite of her efforts to persuade him, Jeffreys strong eyes never wavered, and judging from her father''s visit, it was clear that he (Jeffrey)would somehow go to save Diana.


    <i>Could it be true what he said about it being for my sake?</i>


    He didn''t answer any of her confessions, but there must be a reason why he told her the date of the mission, which was a military secret.


    <i>If its for me, good. If not, Ill have to make it that way.</i>


    Celine knocked on the study where the Admiral was and entered, giving him her usual sweet look.


    "Father, Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall is trying to be a Duke for me. So he is going to save my sister, whom I care about very much."


    "Does this mean that he likes you?


    Yes. Respecting the choices of loved ones is real love."


    However, the bespectacled Admiral rubbed his mouth and worried.


    "I know my father turned down all of the proposals, too. Im sure you want me to marry the man I chose. Even if I be Queen or Empress, I won''t be able to be happy with someone I don''t love."


    At Celine''s words, the Admiral cut in quietly, his fingers tucked on the desk in his study.


    "I see. What would you like, my princess?"


    "Father, I want my cherished'' Diana toe back alive. Then he will be Duke and I will be Duchess.


    The Admiral''s eyebrows raised at his daughter''s request, which was filled with intent. He realized Celines intention was to help Jeffrey get Diana to safety. The Admiral remembered the survivor who had gone to Progen to kill Diana and then returned alone.


    <b><i>We offered to give him information, but he said he didn''t want it and killed them all.</i></b>


    Of course, the Admiral killed the survivor to keep him quiet. He was going to kill them all at the border anyway, in case they came back and threatened him with Dianas body.


    With all the public attention and talk about Dianas life and death already, it would be inevitable that he would be condemned if she died in an enemy country. Celine would be harmed as well.


    After the public condemnation grew stronger, he naturally gave up the idea of sending someone to kill Diana. He was terribly troubled by the reason why the Duke of Progen wanted Diana so much.


    Whatever the reason, the trouble was the same. He thought of the negotiation demands of the Duke of Rothsilde. Celine covered her mouth and luridly kept her eyes down as she watched the deeply pensive Admiral.


    She thought if Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall came to Diana''s rescue, it would be an affirmative answer to her confession.


    If not, she could make it that way. The Father and daughter were lost in different thoughts.


    ***


    Rosie annoyed me by dropping a rave about having to match the dress for the uinging-of-age ceremony and the dress for Christmas Mass.


    She also said that there would be a lot of invitations for partying, and that she would make sure that I had the right dress for where I was invited.


    In fact, ever since I came back from the ball, I started to receive invitations from the upper ss aristocrats, probably because the rumor that I was the Duke''s fiance had spread.


    Most of them were intuitively "let''s hang out together" with the content of going to social parties, dinners, horse races, croquet, casinos, and spa cities.


    Industrialization has elerated, and for aristocrats who are mainly in business and politics, it is as much a duty to involve busily inrge groups for the sake of business.


    This poprity was a little burdensome because I was not an outgoing person.


    [Im going to the hot spring with the nobledies next Tuesday. The hot spring water in nche is famous for its excellent effect on the skin. Why don''t you go with us, Miss Parsene?]


    The invitation was signed, Elisabeth Moray. It was difficult to refuse an invitation from the Countess Moray, the noblewoman who had taught me to dance. Now that I was a citizen and belonged to Progen I thought Noah would dly let me go, but.


    "No."


    When I said that I would go to a hot spring, Noah kindly but firmly opposed it. There was a moment of silence between Noah, who was sitting on the opposite sofa drinking tea, and me, who had be quiet because I thought about the reason he didn''t like it.


    "Is it dangerous? Countess Moray''s husband is a senior police official. There will also be guards. Nothing to worry about."


    I overlooked him again. He was not a man of ordinary thoughts.


    "I don''t want you to be seen by other people.


    "Why?"


    "Can you guess?"


    Noah, who asked the question a bit bluntly,id his back on the sofa and folded his arms as if to say Think about it. This man seems to be very good at teaching me to think.


    In fact, I was just going to the bathhouse with thedies, and Ii couldnt believe he didn''t want thedies to see my body.


    "You can do all the other things you want. But you can''t do that. Do you understand?"


    "Then can I go to the casino and walk around your mansion?"


    Noah nodded his head at my mischievous words.


    "Yes, let''s do that. But youll lose again.


    " Why do you keep thinking Ill lose?"


    "Because the princess is not a gambler."


    I let go of my ss and stared silently at Noah. He was right. In my pursuit of stability, I did not enjoy the thrill or the burden of risk. Those blue eyes seemed to be peering into my deepest abyss, and I shrank a little without realizing it.


    "Yes, you know well."


    "I''ll take you to the hot springs when we''re married.


    Noah drank the rest of his tea and touched his lips softly. I was briefly distracted by the movement and quickly collected it.


    "Is there any reason why we should go after we are married?" (Diana)


    "You mean we should go together now? I thought you were conservative. (Noah)


    I was dumbfounded, as I didn''t really understand how the facilities and mechanisms of the hot springs here worked. Then I thought of modern hot spring hotels and remembered the private hot springs used by lovers and couples.


    It wouldn''t change just because it was here. It would probably be a ce where couples and lovers would mostly go. When my thoughts reached that point, my face heated up. I bit down on the inside of my mouth as the thought came to me unimaginably.


    Why is your face red? Did you have dirty thoughts? (Noah)


    Noah smiled as if he had peeked at my imagination. This man drove me to be a lecherous demon incessantly. But then, with a usible face, he got away with saying that he had pure intentions.


    The mischievous man.


    I cleared my throat, picked up the teapot, poured tea into the empty cup and turned my head to look out the window. Snow was falling outside.


    The snow was piled up under the frosted ss window. Next to the window, there was a tree with roses and ribbons made of silk, sweets made of sugar and red berries, like a Christmas tree.


    There were also lush trees and evergreen branches decorated with red berries all over the mansion, creating a Christmas feel.


    "I thought you wouldn''t do this." (Diana)


    Noah followed my gaze to the beautifully decorated tree.


    "I didn''t do it before." (Noah)


    "Really? Did you change your mind this year?" (Diana)


    I told the butler to put them up. I thought the princess might like it. Do you like it?" (Noah)


    Yes, it''s very beautiful. I''m d because I''ve never really enjoyed this kind of atmosphere." (Diana)


    "Are you going to give me an award then?" (Noah)


    Noah smiled, a faint sense of anticipation in his face. I didnt know what kind of award to give him when I didn''t even know what he wanted from me. I lowered my eyes and opened my mouth carefully.


    "What do you want? And by the way, I don''t have anything to give you." (Diana)


    Noah''s expression was subtly disturbed by what I said. He covered his eyes with his hands andughed. His mouth, which was crooked under his slender fingers, instantly drew a straight line.


    "You''re cute." (Noah)


    Unlike the warm praise, it was a dry voice. When he dropped his hand near his eyes, a nk face was fully revealed.


    Blurry, murky eyes were staring at me. The air currents in the area became quiet like a parab. Just the look in his eyes and the muffled sound of his voice chilled the air in the bright, warm room.


    "My dear princess. Don''t you have anything to give, or don''t you want to give it?" (Noah)


    What did he mean? I was so horrified that even the hairs on my neck stood on end. The shiver rose from my head to my toes.


    Those were words I could say assuming he had read all my thoughts. He seemed to realize that I was trying my best to be genuine, epting them as they came. He slunk down and buried himselfpletely in the couch and watched me without moving an inch.


    "I''m not sure I understand what you mean." (Diana)


    "Oh, it''s a lot when you think about it." (Noah)


    Noah''s mouth dropped into a straight line at my calm answer. It''s as if what I had just shown him was nothing. He got up from his seat and sat down beside me, his gaze fixed on my face.


    "We''re in a rtionship, aren''t we?" (Noah)


    The beautiful man asked smoothly. His voice was elegant, but strangely decadent, pretending to be noble, but his eyes were full of desire.


    He looked like a hungry predator who refrained from preying on the prey he had hunted. The distance between him and me was moderately distant, as if conscious of each other,pared to the voice that had darkened.


    "Give it to me after the Coming-of-Age Ceremony, as a Christmas gift." (Noah)


    "Is there anything you want?" (Diana)


    The end of my voice was slightly off, but he answered casually.


    The edge of his voice was a little off, but he answered without hesitation.


    "You just give me what I want to have on that day." (Noah)


    Noah''s lips slowly rose as he nodded slowly.


    You know what it is. (Noah)


    I was a little stunned in my head at the words he added as if he was talking to himself.


    ***


    "I received a letter from Admiral Belford."


    Vincent, the secretary who now went to work here instead of the suburbs, handed Noah the letter. Noah, who was sitting at his desk in the office, looked over the letter with disinterested eyes.


    [I''ve changed my mind. I''m not going to ept your demands for negotiations. Diana must be returned safely. You have until the New Year to do so.]


    "It sounds like he has been cursed a lot. What happened to the fairy tale writer? He''s been on hiatus for a long time.


    "I don''t think he''s been found."


    Noah slowly leaned back in his chair as Vincent responded, knowing exactly what the oundish words meant.


    "You seem convinced that the ck military dog will be here soon." (Noah)


    Thats what I think. You''re not going to reveal it? I think that would be the safest thing to do. (Vincent)


    Noah cringed for a moment at Vincents question. He took a quick look at Vincent, as if his ferocious 300 eyes were looking at the person who had asked him the ufortable question.


    "What do you mean? If I did, the princess would leave me." (Noah)


    " Is that how it is?" (Vincent)


    There was actually one thing that Vincent had learned the other day.


    He didn''t know the details, but Noah had brought her back for "that reason" and was now desperately trying to hide it.


    Hes worked with Noah for a long time, but he couldnt tell what Noah was thinking.


    With a sigh, Noah sat up straight and smiled. At first nce, he looked like a crazy person.


    "Diana is mine. (Noah)

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16


    Noah was a surprisingly methodical man.


    He woke up early in the morning, went to his regiment or his headquarters, came back around evening, and visited my room without fail. If we were normal lovers, he would havee in a different way, but he was different. We just talked and touched each other''s hair, which was what friends do.


    It made me nervous to the point that I felt hypocritical about a rtionship where lines were drawn. My heart raced and I reflexively shrank, even though it was a light touch of genuine affection. I felt like I had be a timid person.


    Today, near the usual time, there was a knock at the door. Noah walked into the room and sat down in his chair as usual, leaning forward with anguid expression on his face, facing me closely. He seemed to be a different person from yesterday, and he was looking around at me with a slow, restrained gaze.


    His eyes, like the sky on a cloudy day,ced with a different color as he discovered something that only he understood. I leaned back against the head of the bed, put down the book I was reading, and turned my head to face him.


    "Howe you haven''t read me any fairy talestely? I''m curious about the content of the rest." (Diana)


    "Because the writer is on hiatus. (Noah)


    "I''m curious about something." (Diana)


    "Go ahead." (Noah)


    "The wolf caught the girl, but seeing that it didn''t eat her right away, the wolf didnt mean to kill her, right? (Diana)


    If it had intended to eat her, it would have entered the girl''s house without the ck shepherd having time toe to her rescue, and would have taken her breath away first.


    Noah''s eyes narrowed at my question, and he leaned closer to me, who was sitting on the bed eating a cookie.


    "Right. Will it spare her life?(Noah)


    He grasped my chin with one hand as he let out his peculiarly low voice. He wiped the cookie crumbs from my lips with his thumb. Unlike what it looked like, the hard finger gently smoothed over my soft lips.


    I was embarrassed by the unexpected contact and crouched down small. He made a lowughing sound.


    "Itll be a shame if it eats the girl right away, since its been aiming for the girl for a long time. It wants to enjoy her deliciousness. I''d do the same." (Noah)


    The man who had been wagging his tail as gracefully as a silvery-white fox now looked like a hungry wolf again.


    Is the cookie good? (Noah)


    At the low question I finally heard the sound of the cookie shattering in my mouth, which I could not swallow. I hastily chewed the cookie and gulped it down at the persistent stare that seemed to be urging me on.


    "Yes" (Diana)


    Did he just tell me to swallow the cookie quickly to kiss him?


    His face was very close to mine, do I have to close my eyes now?


    How is my expression right now? Did my face turn red? I could not move my eyes for some reason. The trajectory of my thoughts was spinning out of control.


    "Go brush my teeth and go to bed. I''m leaving now. (Noah)


    Noah''s calm voice grabbed the thoughts that had been jumping up and down and put them back in ce. He smiled and got up and left the room. I looked at the chair he was sitting in and rubbed my face dry.


    "I think I''m going crazy."


    Even though they were really trivial words and actions, various interpretations and imaginations were apanied, making it painful. It was because of his unique seductive voice and drowsy expression.


    The mans atmosphere itself made me crazy. I felt like I was the only one who''s been corrupted and rotten. Iy down on the bed, rubbing my lips, remembering his touch. His smooth, long hands, but with somewhat rough, calloused fingers. Perhaps because he was a soldier.


    As I thought about what Noah would want at my Coming-of-Age Ceremony, my mind spinned with wild thoughts.


    Good thoughts, good thoughts.


    I was troubled by the fact that he was too seductive a man to do only good thoughts.


    It was enough to cloud any essential worries I had had.


    I just took a deep, calming breath and finally drifted off to sleep.


    ***


    It was the morning of Christmas Eve.


    I looked at the white window of the castle and blew my breath. Even in the sun and my warm breath, the frozen ss in the shape of snow crystals would not melt.


    It was a terrifying cold ce. Running away and finding a new life was beyond imagination. It was also a snowy ce, and when I opened the front door, the wall of snow that had umted overnight would shatter. Even if I stole a car and escaped, I might be trapped in the heavy snow and freeze to death.


    In fact, I was just making excuses for this and that that I couldnt escape. It was not impossible if I wanted to. I pondered as I gently touched the deer-shaped gand hung on the window.


    Tomorrow is my birthday? Why would he even hold aing-of-age ceremony for me? This kind of attention was burdensome and excessive. It was not even my body, and I was not even sure if it was my birthday, but wasnt it just a simr birthday party? Suddenly, Noah, who was smiling clearly at me, came and touched my forehead in concern.


    "Oh! Noah!


    I shouted, startled by the touch, as if I had seen a ghost. Noah, wearing a sweater over an ivory shirt, tilted his head slowly as he looked down at me.


    "Are you bored?" (Noah)


    "No, I''m fine. (Diana)


    Shall I y with you?" (Noah)


    "I''m still having fun." (Diana)


    He gave me a look that said I dont see anything fun. He smiled a little sadly at me as I purposely avoided his gaze and gave a short answer.


    Are you having fun without me?" (Noah)


    The more I dealt with him, the more confused I became, and now I felt like he thought I left him alone.


    "It''s Christmas Eve, is there anything you want to do?" (Noah)


    "No. Do you want to have a staring contest?" (Diana)


    Oh, I think I misspoke. I could see his blue eyes glittering. He was as ted as he could be, like a guru who had received a challenge.


    "Come out. I''ll show you my skills in the artillery battle." (Noah)


    "I won''t. I just said it. (Diana)


    Noah, who put his elbow on the window frame and held his chin, stared at me. He was so cute with his cheek pushed to one side. Oh, what am I thinking? He looked at me resolutely and asked again.


    "Shall we make a snowman then?" (Noah)


    "No." (Diana)


    "I''ve always felt that my princess is really fickle." (Noah)


    Noah, who looked disappointed, let out a small sigh. His eyes looked so sad when he looked down. <i>Why does it make my heart so weak?</i>


    "All right, lets build a snowman. (Diana)


    At my answer, which I had no choice but to give, Noah sat up straight and smiled beautifully. I seemed to see nine tails wagging behind him. I wrapped myself up tightly in my scarf, coat, and gloves and walked out into the cold ice hell.


    When I stepped on the slippery snow and stumbled, Noah quickly picked me up and took me to a sunny spot.


    You can make the head, Princess.


    While gathering the snow to make the snowmans head, I saw three, four soldiers from afar rolling huge snowballs.


    "The proportion isnt right. The head is too small." (Noah)


    Noah shook his head as he looked at the snowmans head, which I did my best to harden to the size of a watermelon. Noah murmured softly, pointing to a ce to ce a huge snowball that would be the snowmans body by simply pointing his fingers gracefully.


    "I worked hard." (Noah)


    <i>What are you talking about? You didn''t even put a snowke on your hand! ?</i>


    "No, you didn''t do anything." (Diana)


    "I did. I ordered them to make a torso." (Noah)


    "You have to do it yourself. (Diana)


    "A gentleman should always keep himself neatly dressed." (Noah)


    This man


    Then why did you ask me to make it with you? You could just saye watch my men make a snowman instead. (Diana)


    While I was seriously questioning him, one of the soldiers quickly replenished the small head I made and made it to fit the massive torso and ced it on it.


    "Is it good enough? (Soldier)


    "Hmm. Just an inch to the right. Done. (Noah)


    Noah, who posed like an architect at the soldier''s question, closed one eye and lifted a fountain pen to measure the angle. What''s the difference one inch makes? I nced at him. Noah gave me a serious look, holding a carrot and buttons in his hand.


    "I''ll leave the face to you. This is an important opportunity." (Noah)


    Yes. (Diana)


    I walked up to the snowman leaving the serious looking Noah behind me. The snowman was so tall that I couldn''t even reach it. Then Noah came over. He looked at me with sharp eyes as he crouched down in front of me, a posture that told me he would carry me on his back. He emphasized again.


    Its important. (Noah)


    <i>If its so important, you do it then!</i> I mumbled inside as Noah gave me a piggyback ride. Then I was able to stick the carrot into the snowmans face.


    After buttoning it up and also making a mouth out of a tree branch, I tapped Noah on the shoulder to signal him to put me down, but he took a few steps back, still with me on his back, and watched the snowman.


    The nose is crooked. The eye level is different too. (Noah)


    "Is that important?" (Diana)


    Noah turned around with a shocked expression on his face and set me down on the ground.


    "I was trying to make you. That''s why its important." (Noah)


    "I don''t see any resemnce at all.." (Diana)


    Noah, who had his hands over his eyes in dismay at my indifferent reply, sighed and spoke.


    Look at this. Isn''t the color of the buttons also the color of your eyes? I didn''t have any, so I took it from my coat. Its something I cherish. (Noah)


    I see


    Eventually Noah took off his gloves, fixed the carrot, repositioned the buttons in a very subtle way, wiped his hands on his handkerchief and looked satisfied.


    "Much better. Diana the snowman." ? (Noah)


    "I don''t know what''s different, but you made it well, didn''t you?" (Diana)


    "Yes, it''s beautiful. Diana the snowman." (Noah)


    Even if he made it small and cute, it would be hard to tell. But he made the snowman insanely big as a weapon and insisted it was me. I was speechless. I took off my soaked gloves and blew on my reddened hands. Noah put his own gloves on my hands and spoke.


    "It''s my first time making it since I made it with my father when I was young." (Noah)


    I made it for the first time. I didn''t try it because I thought my hands would get cold.(Noah)


    "There are many things I''m doing for the first time. Like the ball." (Diana)


    "Yes.


    Noah''s sharp nose bobbed up and down. Sweeping his dazzling silver-white hair reflected by the sunlight, he narrowed his forehead slightly as if he was agonizing, and then turned to face me.


    "Then you can do anything you want with me. First time. (Noah)


    "I''ve never boughtnd before, and I''ve never bought or sold a building before, will you do that too?" (Diana)


    "If you want." (Noah)


    I wondered how rich he was, and how he would answer without such hesitation. Taking my joke seriously, he started asking me which building I wanted to buy. I shook my head.


    "I was joking.


    "All right. I''ll do whatever you want. You can tell me all the things you haven''t done and all the things you want to do." (Noah)


    Why is he so quick to ept my non serious words?


    Well.wish I could just live a normal life." (Diana)


    "What''s that?" (Noah)


    "Just like everyone else." (Diana)


    "Is it like getting married and having children? Everyone is doing it." (Noah)


    Noah''s smooth face came closer. What embarrassed me more than the embarrassing question about marriage was the appearance of this man. Why is his skin so pretty? Why do his cheeks look so fluffy? While I was admiring his smooth porcin-like skin, he continued in a low voice.


    "You can do that with me, too. We decided to do it anyway, so there''s nothing we can do." (Noah)


    But you havent known me that long, why are you in such a hurry to marry mehahhha. (Diana)


    Is that important? (Noah)


    <i>At least it''s more important than the snowmans eyes, nose and mouth.</i> I just lost my train of thought. It was because I saw the corners of Noah''s eyes nicely curved, shadows hanging under his thick eyshes. The seductive smile made me forget to breathe sometimes.


    And so it was this evening that I was shocked by the sudden news of this strange man.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    Vincent and the butler were dizzy with preparations for Diana''sing-of-age ceremony and Christmas.


    "Secretary Ford."


    The butler, who had been looking at the list of invitations sent out, looked at Vincent with dark gray eyes clouded by age.


    ''Yes.


    Coming from an aristocratic background, Noah''s secretary, Vincent Ford, has always been respectful to everyone, regardless of their status. He was a gentleman and elegant, unlike Noah who behaved in an anti-social manner depending on his mood.


    I wonder if Master really intends to marry her.


    "If there was anything better than marriage, he would have done that too."


    "An heir?"


    Vincent let out a sigh at the butler''s question. If it was a general obsession, the method would have been used earlier, but the Dukes very thoughts were different from the normal people.


    This was the first time the Duke had shown interest in the opposite sex. He heard that despite the Dukes long stay at the front, he had never stopped by a brothel, nor had he shown any interest in any of the women who approached him during the night.


    "He is not a man of impulsive behavior.


    I took care of him from an early age I''m d to hear that.


    The old butler, who was now old enough to take care of the mansion Noah visited asionally, let out a vainugh.


    It was remarkable that the Duke, who was unlikely to love or be with anyone, would bring a woman and cherish her and do things he would not do.


    It was noteworthy that people were curious about the woman named Diana Parsene''. The Master was involved in politics and power struggles from an early age, and he did not grow up like an ordinary noble master.


    Within the Progen Empire, one of the imperialist powers, the conflict between the divided powers was in full swing. After the death of the former Duke and Duchess, who weremander-in-chief, Noah inherited the title,nd, and property at an early age and was subjected to all kinds of harm and threats. One of the military leaders who respected the former Duke advised Noah to be a soldier to protect himself.


    Noah epted the suggestion and graduated from the military academy, but again opposing forces forced him to go to war despite being a duke. However, Noah was an unusual person and began to advance at a very fast pace, showing an overwhelming power on numerous battlefields with his rather excellent strategic tactics and shooting skills.


    He was victorious in the long trench warfare, a battle between the supplies and troops of the powers, using the terrain to destroy the enemy army, and after stopping the war n, he was even able to demand reparations from Belford''s side. He was recognized by the emperor and emerged as an influential figure in the empire, which led to his rise to power.


    Even an independent family that broke away from the line of session could have be a general-level executive given the title of duke to the royal family and his achievements on the battlefield, but the opposing forces desperately tried to stop him on the grounds that he was young and inexperienced.


    Moreover, Noah didn''t care much about the rank, saying that it was too much trouble.


    As argendowner, he had amassed enormous wealth by taking over the steel business, along with huge amounts ofnd, cash, shares and iron ore mines that came with small rents and rentals. The aristocrats of that time became soldiers mainly because of their inability to inherit property and titles.


    Naturally, being the perfect groom politically and conditionally, he was inundated with proposals from the aristocracy and other countries. If there was one drawback, it was that he was a madman. He burned the proposal letters without even reading them, and made all the women who courted him cry.


    One noblewoman who came into Noah''s room, took off her clothes and seduced him with her body, was even tried for attempted assassination and insult. It was for the ludicrous reason that she was dying of difort from the insult to her own eyes.


    The anecdote of the Medea Princess who was willing to give up her im to the throne to marry him was already famous. Just "Would you give it all up for me? It was a funny skit in which she tried to give it all up after hearing just one prank word, "Thats nice.


    The woman he brought with him to marry was the daughter of an enemy military leader who he kidnapped.


    Of course, only a few knew this fact, but it wouldn''t matter if many came to know. Since no one couldin about that fact recklessly, they found it peculiar, but it seemed that his taste was also peculiar.


    What was so special about that person with the casual expression on his face? There was one thing that the butler who had watched Noah for so long saw was the expression on Noahs face when he looked at Diana. Noah looked like that when the Duke and Duchess were alive long ago.


    This was something that Vincent and the butler, who had been watching him for a long time, felt inmon.


    "When will the wedding be? I can''t wait to see the baby when I''m old enough."


    The butler was a little excited, like a grandfather wanting to get a grandchild.


    "Surprisingly, he went along with Miss Parsenes opinion. She said she didn''t want to get married yet.


    The old butlers face saddened.


    "Hurry up, even if you are a secretary you''re nice and there are many good women. I''ll take care of your child like my grandchild."


    I dont have time.


    What do you mean you don''t have time to fall in love? That''s not even polite to your girlfriend.


    Dating is possible only when you have a lot of time. Vincent rubbed his face in a tired manner.


    <i>Damn it. I want to be in love too. But I don''t have the time to do it because of the the managing all the assets and business Im entrusted.</i>


    "Secretary, I see that the invitation list is all military personnel. It seems that Master doesnt even inform the Queen of the media."


    The butler, who carefully read the list of invitations, tilted his head. Queen Grace II of Medea and Noah have a close rtionship.


    "It''s an engagement anding of age ceremony in its own right. It''s full of military personnel."


    Their Master was going to have an engagement ceremony. Although there may have been a conflict with the Queens daughter, Erica, the news of his marriage was worth delivering for courtesy.


    "He has his reasons."


    Vincent rubbed his forehead lightly and swept over his dark brown hair.The butler, realizing that this was a secret he could not tell anyone, nodded as if he had no choice.


    "The Queen must be disappointed. She has always thought of Master as a brother.


    Vincent closed his eyes as he thought of the beautiful Queen with her long ck hair and light blue eyes.


    "You''re pretty, Queen no, no, Princess Erica must already know and told her mother, because shees to Progen often like going to the market. Anyway, the Queen is as good-hearted as her appearance, I think she will understand."


    ***


    Tomorrow was theing-of-age ceremony, so the mansion was bustling with activity. The atmosphere was theplete opposite of the dim and cold mansion I had lived in the suburbs, and the servants were cheerful and smiling.


    I prefer the old-fashioned and dark atmosphere of the main mansion, but this one was not bad either.


    How about this dress for youring-of-age ceremony, youngdy?


    "It''s nice.


    "How do you know when you don''t even look at it?"


    Rosie, who had been struggling with my dress untilte in the day, finally made up her mind and showed me the dress. It was a dazzlingly gorgeous dress withce running along the hem of the skirt and jewels encrusted on the top.


    It was designed to cover the neck. As I had an unknown scar on my shoulder so I didnt wear dresses that revealed my back and chest.


    "Im feel like I am getting married ."


    "You''re going to do it, aren''t you?"


    Rosie, excited with anticipation, blushed and pped her hands. I gazed nkly at Rosie''s figure with the dress.


    I was struggling in the waves and winds of chaos with Noah''s endless marital attacksing at me, hoping to get a confession out of me.


    Actually, I did it to livefortably! Otherwise, there was no reason to ask for marriage from a woman who has been kidnapped.


    It''s amazing that Im able to endure without telling the truth until the end.


    In spite of my efforts to persuade and brainwash myself, I was still fascinated by the man who made the request.


    The fox-like man was constantly pulling me out of my reasoning, "Don''t be fooled by him. He must have deceived me with his beautiful appearance and the seductive voice and put me in a state of paranoia.


    Knock.


    Rosie stood up and opened the door at the sound of knocking. Seeing Noah standing behind the door, she left the room with courtesy.


    Noah walked in, wearing a thick wool cardigan over his shirt, sat on the couch, and looked around.


    To my surprise, cardigans were part of the military uniform when I came to Progen. I sneaked a sideways nce at the mischievous man and how he looked so good.


    "Are your preparations going well? It''s tomorrow. (Noah)


    "I haven''t done anything. Noah and the others are working hard.(Diana)


    "Prepare your heart. (Noah)


    <i>Im not going to war, what are you talking about?</i> I coughed softly, grabbed an empty cup on the table and poured myself a cup of brewed tea. It was like Christmas Eves night, and the furry snow was blowing out the window.


    "Thank you for preparing this for me. No one has ever done anything like this for me before." (Diana)


    Yes. I''m the only one. (Noah)


    Crossing his legs and folding his hands in hisp, Noah let out what sounded like a low chuckle.


    "We''re in a pre-marital rtionship, so of course we''re going to have an engagement ceremony." (Noah)


    I asked casually, trying my best to manage my expression.


    "I see. When is it?"


    "Tomorrow."


    "What?"


    I put the teapot down loudly without knowing it.


    "Tomorrow is theing-of-age ceremony, isnt it?


    The word ing-of-age ceremony" was also the title of a sexy singer''s song, which sounded a little embarrassing, so I quickly corrected myself.


    "Its aing-of-age ceremony and engagement ceremony. You''re going to marry meter anyway, right?" (Noah)


    This man. There were no brakes. The gearshift gear was only straight ahead. My mouth opened slightly with a stunned expression.


    An insane man, who was madly rushing into a fast fight but showed a carefree attitude, casually smiled at me without a care in the world.

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    "It''s a special day and we''re going to do something special."


    Noah spoke in a slightly excited voice. I think I can see nine tails wagging gracefully behind him.


    Is he really going to marry me?


    At this point, I''m not sure if he''s serious or if he''s just obsessed with fact-checking, or if he''s just insane possessiveness.


    I have no idea if he''s not aware of the method or the purpose. After all this, he may suddenly lose interest and demand a divorce. He may shock me emotionally by breaking off the engagement the day before the wedding. He was an unpredictable man.


    The reason for thinking negatively about the subject with a little certainty and anticipation, what to do then, is because of fear.


    I was afraid of the end with Noah before I knew it. Because I think my heart will definitely hurt then. It''s even more shocking to see something unexpected, like being in an ident. If I want to make it a little less painful, should I kick him first?


    "Do you not want it?" (Noah)


    Noah smiled, his eyes like a crescent moon. I quickly lowered my eyes. It was selfish but I couldnt even get angry.


    No, it was sudden. (Diana)


    "I was trying to surprise you." (Noah)


    "Yes, you really did surprise me. Are we really going to get married?" (Diana)


    I felt as if my soul had been drained, and Noah tilted his head, looking rather surprised.


    You said you were going to do it first, didn''t you?" (Noah)


    When did I?" (Diana)


    He chuckled.


    "I did. Since I''m fickle, I''m also going to do the engagement ceremony beforehand. Im afraid you might not want to do it suddenly. (Noah)


    I don''t know. What should I do? Why is he spewing out my own worries that I''ve been doing? This man couldn''t say no, and the answer was fixed. And instead, he used me of being capricious and struck me with great certainty.


    The amazingly crazy man smiled beautifully, even though he pushed his way through on his own, using the surprise event as an excuse. He made it impossible for me to refuse. Perhaps I will pretend that I have lost and ept it.


    ***


    On December 25, arge crowd of people rushed into the grand banquet hall where theing-of-age ceremony was held. Most of them were men in military uniforms, and I saw few women, except for those in military uniforms. Even Countess Moray, who was a close friend of mine, did note.


    I wondered if it was because Noah was in the military so his connections were all military, but he seemed to have friendships with people like senators, bank presidents, Supreme Court justices, and businessmen.


    "Why are they all only military men?" (Diana)


    "If they talk to my princess, Im going to give them a military tribunal." (Noah)


    Noah said something outrageous to my question.


    I thought that Princess Medea, who had a dirty temper, mighte in, saying, "This engagement is invalid!" but it seemed that she had pride and didnte.


    Inside thevishly decorated banquet hall, long tables covered with white tablecloths wereden with drinks and a gorgeous dinner. An orchestra yed gentle tunes, and people came up to me and congratted me in elegant tones.


    No one asked who I was, where I was from, or about my family lineage. The ceremony was going to take quite a while, in the order of theing of age ceremony, followed by a time for a ball and then the engagement ceremony.


    I heard strangers talking here and there, and my mind went nk. Actually, this was my home too, but I wanted to go home. One officer, who was about forty, caught me and exined to me in a perfunctory manner about bing a true adult.


    At that moment, I suddenly realized that my hands were cutting a fancy three-tier cake. The people stood up in five rows and apuded. I felt like I was receiving some kind of military award.


    The gifts that people had brought were piled up. After people had enjoyed the ball for a while, the servant announced that the engagement ceremony was about to begin.


    Noah came up to me and wrapped a white fur around my shoulders. He wore a three-piece suit of dark gray fabric with thin stripes and diamond-studded cufflinks on the sleeves. On one of his arms was a coat that he had taken off.


    Noah, who put the white fur over my shoulders,ughed jokingly.


    Would I be engaged to this woman? I can''t believe this reality easily.


    "Princess, it''s too crowded and troublesome. Let''s run away with me for a while."


    What is he talking about when he invited so many people himself? I grabbed the hem of my skirt and Noah''s hand pulled me towards the outside of the banquet hall.


    As we walked out into the snow-covered garden and went around the mansion, I could see a fountain stand that looked like a sculpture made of ice carved from water frozen in ce. Noah stopped in front of the fountain stand and smiled, his eyes folded as he looked at me. The faint moonlight was shining finely on his silvery-white hair, stained by the dark night sky.


    Diana.


    I was dazed for a while by the dreamy atmosphere, when Noah called my name clearly in a low, somber voice.


    "Yes?


    "Can I say what I want?"


    "Okay.


    Noah hesitantly closed his lips and lowered his gaze.


    Words stopped and the silence that flowed made me unbearably nervous. Noahs mysterious blue eyes met mine again.


    Can I hug you?


    "Oh?"


    Was a hug what he wanted to receive?


    We were "in love", but we had never hugged or done any kind of loverly skinship. I coughed, cleared my throat, and nodded.


    With my permission, Noah''s hands carefully pulled on my arms. His firm arms were wrapped around my waist. I didn''t know where to put my hands, so I clenched my fists tightly and put them quietly in front of my chest.


    Noah, who held me tightly in his arms, sighed. His firm upper body movements of his chest rising and falling were felt directly on my chest, which was in close contact with his.


    It was just a hug, but I felt like I was going to melt into the scent and warmth of his body and pass out like this. I''ve been in love and had skin-to-skin contact in my previous life, but I''ve never felt anything like this. What in the world is this overwhelming feeling in my heart?


    "Thank you, princess, for all your hard work in bing an adult."


    Noah whispered in an affectionate voice and patted me lightly on the back. The remnants of my emotions that had sunk to the floor soared at once, filling me with sadness.


    I hid my expression in Noah''s chest. No one hugged me sincerely, and no one told me this. Even though I struggled to be an adult, no one worked hard. No one ever told me I did well.


    Instead, I was angry that I could no longer do as I wanted, and even my difficult grandfather, who was the only one who protected me, died soon after I became an adult.


    "Thank you, Noah. You did a great job.


    I replied, clenching and unclenching my fists. Maybe it was because we had a simr childhood. The past described in the book was only a small part of it, so I couldn''t guess all of it, but I could tell that sometimes Noah had the same expression I did.


    I wonder if he also has the obsessive side because he was trying to protect his position and what was his. Noah took off his coat andid it down on the marble fountain for me to sit. He gently wrapped my pitch-ck hair around his fingers and asked.


    "Now that youre an adult, it''s okay, right?(Noah)


    Could it be that just because I haven''t reached the age of adulthood, he hasnt touched me until now? I nodded pleasantly, even though from the start this could have been my real birthday.


    Yes, it''s fine. (Diana)


    "Are you sure? (Noah)


    "Of course. You don''t have to ask. (Diana)


    "You mean I can kiss you without asking? (Noah)


    Was that the word? My shoulders flinched. My heart was running to the limit again. I might really pass out at this rate.


    "Right now.it''s lethal" (Diana)


    When I finally managed to talk, Noah smiled, titling his head.


    "Shall I go easy on you? (Noah)


    I didn''t want the look I was making now to be discovered. I couldnt believe I was showing this side of me with so much experience in dating. I grabbed Noah''s cor and nodded.


    "I''m not going to let you go anymore because were both adults now." (Noah)


    I heard a yful, but sincere voice and Noah''s hands wrapped my cheeks. I turned my eyes with nowhere to go. My heart suddenly fell and seemed to roll somewhere in my stomach.


    Noah''s warm breath touched my cheek on the way to choking me to my ears as the intervals between my breaths became shorter and shorter in and out. I could see his wless smooth face closely.


    I felt dizzy, so I clenched my teeth and closed my eyes tightly. By the way, how do we kiss? It''s okay to do this, right? My mind went nk and my thoughts became distant.


    "Master!


    A man''s urgent voice suddenly cut through the heightened atmosphere and jumped out. Startled, I tried to pull myself away from Noah, but strong arms and hands gripped me to keep me from falling.


    "Why? (Noah)


    Noah said with a grim look on his face. I had my back turned so I couldn''t see who it was, but it sounded like a servant. The servant, gasping and catching his breath, spoke again.


    "I''m afraid you have toe for a while. Princess Medea came and fell down the stairs."


    "Am I a doctor?" (Noah)


    Noah''s nervous voice rang as if growling.


    I tried to help, but they told me I cant touch her. Shes bleeding, and no one can touch her but the Duke.


    "Let her die of excessive bleeding then. (Noah)


    His voice was serious as if it didnt matter. I tapped Noah lightly on the shoulder.


    "Come on, go and say no." (Diana)


    "Why are you sending me to another woman?" (Noah)


    "Please go make sure, otherwise it will continue to be the case. I will wait here. (Diana)


    He stood up, grabbed my shoulders and smiled affectionately.


    "I''ll do as you say, princess. I''ll be done in a minute, so you have to stay right here. It''s a misunderstanding." (Noah)


    "Okay." (Diana)


    I didn''t want to follow him and see it, and I couldn''t let him see my red face in the light now. I need to calm my mind and prepare to ept his industry award, or rather his lips.


    "Diana."


    Noah smiled sweetly, took off his uniform coat and gently ced it over my head.


    Well continue when Im done. (Noah)


    I watched Noah''s back as he quickly left moving away, feeling my face flush even more. As I rubbed the back of my stiff neck, I felt a thin metal string wrapped around my fingers.


    Wearing a dress that covered my neck, so I didnt wear a neck. How? I looked down at what I held in my hand. There was a pink rose diamond ne around my neck.


    "Did he secretly put it on me while hugging me?


    I think it was his present for me bing an adult. It was kind of cute that he gave it to me like this.


    "Pretty. Are roses one of the Coming-of-Age Day gifts?"


    A rose ne, perfume, and a kiss. And so a kiss Is he really serious about me? I don''t know why.


    My heart was beating wildly again, so I calmed down and got my thoughts in order. I was not sure if it was the proximity of where I was standing to the orchestra inside the building or the faint sound of the piano ying, as if carried by the wind. I listened for a while, somewhat ustomed to the sad and beautiful piano melody. I have heard it before.


    The moment I realized it was a certain music, my heart fluttered in a different way.


    I felt the blood drain from my face and vaguely remembered the title of the familiar performance.


    <i>This is not a song for engagement.</i>


    It was music that actually existed in the world I was in, a song by Chopin titled


    . It was a world created by the original author, so the actual one could exist with a different meaning. .


    My throat began to choke at the ominous feeling that was secretly urring. I remembered that even though this was a fictional country, it used mynguage and had an imperial pce that looked like a winter pce in a country that actually existed.


    The rest of the story, other than what was mentioned in the original work, could have been filled with what the writer actually experienced or impressively saw or knew when he was alive. The writer died in the 20th century.


    Again, that song was about separation. There was no way the orchestra would have chosen a song like that for an engagement ceremony.


    What kind of signal could that be?


    When my thoughts reached that point, I felt horrified and goosebumps appeared on my neck.


    "No."


    A feeling of anxiety came over me as if I were witnessing my most dreaded ident. I got up from my seat, grabbed Noah''s coat and started running towards the entrance of the banquet hall. The hem of my long skirt kept catching on my feet, and the high heels of my shoes werepletely buried in the snow, and I fell a few times, but I didn''t know that it hurt.


    The sound of the music got louder and louder. White snow was slowly falling from the dark night sky. The sound of the performance, which had been building to a screaming climax, ceased for a moment. There was a strange silence, amplifying anxiety.


    Bang!


    A sharp gunshot sounded from inside the mansion.


    Every sensation in my body screamed and shivered. Starting with a single gunshot, I soon heard a confusion of noisy sounds, the sound of something breaking, and a rain of gunfire.


    Numerous thoughts collided with each other, making it impossible to move my legs properly. My hands waved in the void as the snowy sky filled my vision in the blink of an eye. As if an altruistic force had been applied, my knees bent and copsed.


    "Why in the world?


    They can''t being for me. If they did, they came to kill me. I don''t even know the detailed reason why the Admiral (Her and Celines father) would want to kill me so much. As if in answer to an unanswered question, someone''s warm hand grabbed my hand.


    "Oh.


    I thought it was Noah and looked up with relief, but my vision blurred as I saw a tall, well-built man with pitch-ck hair and straight blue eyes standing there.


    "Miss ire, you''re here. I''m here to rescue you."


    It was Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall of Belford.


    I recalled that this was a world created by the writer. The Lieutenant Colonel was supposed toe to the rescue of the "abducted girl". Just as it was supposed to be.


    So did fate turn out to be a coincidence, leading me to meet Jeffrey? The gaps in the text were filled in, the content reestablished, and whoever it was that was abducted.


    And in the end, the protagonist would be Celine. Did fate, through the medium of the abduction, inevitably try to bring the two together, regardless of the pain and emotions of the supporting characters?

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    ***


    Sponsored by Elizabeth. Thank you ? (2/2)


    ****


    A dark-haired man wearing a formal suit under a brown wool coat tried to raise my hand. Blue eyes looked down at me beneath hair that was the opposite color of Noah''s.


    "Lieutenant Colonel?


    "You need to get up. We have to leave before the soldiers get here."


    As soon as Jeffrey finished his words, my hand felt cold. Where am I going? I have nowhere to go. I thought of the eyes of those who looked at me with hatred and condescension at the Admiral''s residence.


    Even if this world was unfamiliar, I was used to it, so I used to clearly reflect on the terrible disillusionment in my original life. The thought of returning to a life of disdain and loneliness seeped in and froze the blood in my body.


    The people I met when I came to Progen were kind to me. I don''t want to leave this ce, where I can stay as warm as the shelter I found during the harsh blizzard. Originally in the world, I held on with my wealth, but here I have nothing.


    I held on to Noah''s coat, which covered my shoulders, and sighed heavily. I watched the shimmering breath fade away, and I eventually mocked myself vainly.


    I flinched as I looked at the surroundings. There must be soldiers hiding here and there in the garden to provide cover for the Lieutenant Colonel, watching us.


    What if Noah finds me andes this way? My head grew even colder as I thought about it. A lonely wind blew and the dry leaves hanging from the branches of the trees began to rustle.


    Suddenly, a cold wind blew across my head. I made a decision. I finally raised my body off the floor, held his hand, and said,


    "I''ll follow you.


    Noah would still be safe if I leave willingly. But we have to leave as soon as possible. If I get caught having a special rtionship with him, I may die as a spy too.


    If I, the target, follow Jeffrey honestly, he willplete his rescue mission and will not want to engage in unnecessary battles. So I .


    <b><i>Here you are. You don''t want to go back. (Noah)</i></b>


    I looked back unconsciously because the formless emotions caught my ankle following the persuasion of reason. The empty feeling resembled an unfulfilled desire for Noah toe and hold me. I wanted to know. I wanted to understand why you treated me kindly and what this feeling was that I couldn''t confirm.


    Noah''s iprehensible words resonated and gradually revealed their outline. It seemed that he knew all about my situation, that the mercenaries woulde kill me, and that Jeffrey woulde to my aid. Perhaps that was why the security guards were ced in the mansion and brought in soldiers for theing-of-age ceremony and engagement ceremony.


    <i>You can''t die.</i>


    If I go back to Bellford, Ill die. Not right away, but someday. But the closest thing to death in the present situation would be Noah. Whatever the reason he''s been nice to me, I don''t want to see him die, even if I go to the beginning of the abyss on my own. It was a sentiment I was not familiar with, despite the fact that I had feelings. I turned to Jeffrey and tugged weakly on his hand, as if to say hurry up and leave.


    Lieutenant Colonel, do you know why my father didn''t look for me?


    I heard that he had previously carried out a rescue operation, but failed."


    My father thought I was going to die here, but seeing I survived for too long and sent mercenaries to kill me.


    If hes looking for me.. I reced the words in my heart with silence, searching for the confusion and hesitation that touched Jeffreys blue eyes. I looked into his blue eyes. He must have noticed that I was treated differently from when I lived there, as he saw my outfit and appearance. I asked again.


    "You said you were going to save me?


    Yes, I''m trying to save you.


    It was a standard answer, following the beliefs and principles of a righteous hero in a novel. Because on the surface I was kidnapped.


    "The mission is over, withdraw the soldiers first. If you don''t want to die together (Diana)


    Jeffrey looked dubious at my words.


    "What?


    "Theres no need to create unnecessary sacrifices. Right now, there are a hundred or so Progen soldiers and officers, military and police,ing. It means that the Duke knew in advance that you wereing." (Diana)


    Maybe the ultimate goal was to use me to trap Noah and kill him, and when Jeffrey saw my imperturbable expression, he nodded and raised his fisted hand, sending a hand signal somewhere.


    "I parked the car at the back gate. Let''s go quickly." (Jeffrey)


    The cold winter north wind blew past me, caressing my cheeks. I heard the sound of gunfire in the distance. Only the white garden behind me was silent.


    "Okay."


    I followed Jeffrey and boarded a military vehicle built on the back gate. He, who was about to start the car and turn around and enter the side road, pulled out a pistol and pointed to the back with another hand.


    "Keep your head down, Diana. Progen is following us."


    I did not lower my head. Oddly enough, what I did feel was relief. When I turned my head, I could see someone through the window ss. Suddenly, Noah came out of the iron gate at the back gate and stood in the snow. The view was blurred and it seemed to be in a thick fog.


    Still, I could clearly see the snow falling on his silvery hair. The rifle shouldered by Noah, the sharp muzzle tip visible near his face, pointed at the car I was in. His mouth, visible below the muzzle, was straight shut. There were a dozen or so Progen soldiers lined up behind him, holding their guns towards us, and despite that, I wasn''t scared at all.


    Rather, I considered he was a savior who came to catch me from heading to hell. I sat up straight and watched him quietly, facing his narrowed, murky blue eyes. Noah''s eyes grew wider and wider as he spotted me in the car. Numerous emotions crossed my mind. I betrayed him. He must be wondering did I go willingly or was I taken away. What would he do if he thinks I was taken away?


    I smiled bitterly at him, holding Noah''s coat over my shoulders. We stared at each other for a moment, and it seemed as if everything stopped.


    Would he shoot me thinking that I was running away from him? No, it was just an unfounded fear. He doesn''t want me to die or get hurt. I have always known that hes such a person for a long time, but I have denied it to myself. I was afraid that if I believed him, I would get hurt.


    I could see Noah''s expressionless face as he slowly dropped the gun. His empty colored eyes were fixed on me, unblinking. The rims of my eyes were stained red and I was devastated. Through the transparent window that blocked us, his lips moved slowly, as if he was trying to tell me something.


    "Diana.


    I heard the sound of wheels spinning in a moment, speeding up and getting farther and farther away. I could barely make out thenguage he was trying to convey. He didn''t aim his gun or tell his soldiers to fire. He didn''t grab me, and he didn''t follow me. I finally turned my head away, gripped by lingering feelings.


    The emotions I felt from Noah were alwaysplex and subtle. What he was showing me was very close to possessiveness and a surprising sense of responsibility. In hindsight, he tried to give me exactly what Celine had and enjoyed. It was as if he was trying topensate me for the discrimination I had suffered in my life because I wasnt loved, unlike my sister who was called a princess. I wondered if the conclusion was to rescue me, fall in love with me and marry me. Why me of all people?


    Instead of questioning him because I didn''t understand why he was treating me so well, I should have asked him if he really liked me. As he kept checking if I loved him for real, I wanted to know too.


    No, I should''ve just told him the truth that I like this ce and I don''t want to go back.


    This was the source of my regret.


    The remaining Belford and Progen troops began to engage, and in the distance, eerie screams and ear-splitting gunfire echoed as they wrapped around the mountainside. It was as clear as if it wereing from right next to me.


    Sitting in the auxiliary seat, I covered my ears and crouched down, nuzzling my head into my knees. I felt like I was drowning and let out an inarticte scream. I have never been in a war. War is just too awful. I hate it.


    I will never see that beautiful person again. Will we see each other again after the war? I''m not crying. I should have looked back again at least once, but I didn''t. The farewell was as in as the introduction to the "Farewell Song" that the orchestra was ying.


    The car drove on through the darkness of the snowy road. For the first time, the warmth of Noahs body and thest image of him were perfectly etched in my mind as we dispersed into the silent winter night. The only people who had been kind to me, and the most peaceful life I had had since I came to this world, were gradually slipping away.


    ***


    Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall and I were the only survivors of the Christmas rescue mission. The car that he and I were in did not have a trace of bullets in it.


    We crossed the border safely and arrived in Belford. The sun was beginning to rise, and the cold, heavy light of dawn was rising. I could smell the sea as the city with the naval headquarters was approaching.


    "Thank you for your help."


    I bowed to Jeffrey as I sat in the car. I had to pretend to be as good as I could be because I was in danger of being hunted down and jailed or even shot for cooperating with the enemy.


    Miss ireThe treatment you got there"


    Jeffreys blue eyes took in the details of my expensive dress, essories, and shoes on my body, and he stopped speaking for a moment when he saw a man''s coat over my shoulders. He guessed that meant the shabby and skinny woman he once met had eaten well, gained weight and wore expensive clothes and was treated well while staying with the enemy.


    "Let''s go to my mansion first."


    The Lieutenant Colonel turned the car around and headed for his mansion. When we went to his mansion, I changed clothes, and sat in the room, Jeffrey came in with a knock. His usually sharp features were deliberately gentle to put the child at ease.


    I understand what you were doing there. I''m sure you had to do whatever to survive first. But be careful, because you don''t want to be found out." (Jeffrey)


    I sighed lowly, with no power of excuse. Everything was as troublesome and lethargic as it was before.


    "The outfit you were wearing earlier is easy to misunderstand, so I''ll get you some simple clothes tomorrow. (Jeffrey)


    "I understand."


    Jeffrey didn''t ask anything. Noah, who was holding a gun, spotted me and didn''t give the order to fire, and Jeffrey probably knew most of it from my appearance and reaction.


    I did not hate him. He was a man who had risked his life to infiltrate an enemy country ande to my rescue. The fact that he had to save me was the inevitable choice, the only correct one, as befits the righteous male protagonist of the original story. Of course, it was wrong from my personal point of view.


    "I''m going to bed now."


    With a tired look on my face, Iy down on my bed and pulled the covers over me. Jeffrey quietly left the room and close the door.


    "I like to be alone."


    I mumbled the words that I had forgotten for a while. I''ve always been alone, and I''ve always tried to be alone. The word "alone," which had been my escape and my resting ce, seemed to be submerging me in deep, dark water. I covered it up with the rationalization that it was good to be done with this part of my life before my feelings went any deeper.


    <b><i>"Good night. I''ll see you tomorrow."</i></b>


    Somewhere I heard the voice I always heard, but it was so quiet in the unfamiliar room that it felt like another world.


    The only sound was the winter wind passing by, beating against the window. There was a faint faint scent somewhere in my body.


    Perfume.


    I received another gift for mying of age ceremony. I suddenly missed the time with that beautiful crazy man. My chest tingled as if I had been pricked with a needle, and I pulled up the covers and closed my eyes nonchntly.


    I have to go to bed soon, because I have to go back to hell tomorrow.


    ****


    *So the part where Jeffrey said he would give Diana normal clothes to wear instead of the expensive dress she had on, because she was supposedly kidnapped by the enemy (Noah in Progen), and so she was supposed to look like she was tortured or haggard, mistreating ect But here she was well dressed and looked good, so Jeffrey knew she was being treated good there, but others might think she cooperated with the enemy to be treated that good, so she could get killed or imprisoned for being a traitor to her own country, Belford.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20


    ****


    Sponsored by Tanseobang ?


    ***


    Noah did not hold Diana back. He didn''t try to kill her or save her.


    He just stood there and watched as his Princess he had rescued left him and disappeared into the darkness beyond the snowy road.


    He constantly recalled Diana''s leaving smile. It was a smile he had seen sometime before, an empty smile. The image of someone who had disappeared in the past was suddenly imprinted on his field of vision, which he had been oveying as he wandered around the trail she had left. It was the mother with the long silvery-white hair, facing his adult self.


    (*Noah remembered his mother who supposedly left him just like Diana)


    <i>It''s not that adults don''t cry. It''s that they can''t cry.''</i>


    The winter breeze blowing through the trees was apanied by a glimpse of memories that had already been incinerated. Even the smiling mother''s gentle touch had somehow turned into a pale breeze and passed by, grazing his cheek. Noah, who stood there in a daze, made no movement. It was only by looking at the sudden breath that came from between his lips that he could tell that he was a living person.


    He saw Diana disappearpletely from his sight, and he raised one hand to signal somewhere. At the same time as the signal, the sound of swiftly moving military boots could be heard here and there, and the sound of deadly gunfire rang out everywhere.


    The numerous Progen forces that had taken cover beforehand surrounded the remaining Belford forces and began to sweep them all away.


    There was a mansion which was once warmed, but was now filled with the sound of gunfire and screams of agony. It was as good as a massacre, as the number of soldiers here was far greater, including those who participated in the engagement ceremony.


    In the midst of the chaos, Noah, who still hadn''t been able to take his gaze off the direction Diana had left, didn''t move an inch during the battle, even when a bullet flying towards him grazed his arm as it passed by.


    The arm was quickly stained with blood, and from a distance a soldier with a rifle saw it and rushed over.


    "Colonel, are you okay?"


    "No, I''m not okay."


    Noah''s voice cracked low. His face waspletely devoid of emotion. The soldier who stopped the flowing blood flinched for a moment as he looked at the colonel, who seemed numb to the cold and pain that was cutting through him. Vincent, who hurriedly jumped out, was also very confused when he saw the blood trickling down on Noah''s fingers.


    Youre bleeding! Are you okay?


    "Stop asking."


    Noahs tone was low and calm, but Vincent, realizing he was very angry, turned his head away and looked around the quiet area. The only sounds were the rustling of Progen soldiers'' boots as they hurriedly stepped over the crunching leaves, and the deste wind rustling the branches of the trees.


    "Did you sweep them all?"


    "I didn''t kill the most important person.


    Vincent''s mouth opened slightly as he took stock of the situation. Diana was nowhere to be found.


    "You didn''t kill her, did you?"


    "The ck war dog. He finally took Diana."


    Noah, who had been consistent and expressionless even after being shot, frowned slightly. Vincent, who had been turning his wheat-colored eyes this way and that, finally finished assessing the situation.


    "Did she get caught?


    "I think she followed him herself."


    Noah replied in a calm tone, sweeping his face with one hand.


    Vincent felt a twinge of anger at Diana. She followed the man? There was no man who was so nice and kind to her than his boss! How much did his boss spend money on her!


    He was a man who worked like crazy without even having time to fall in love, but he was a man who assisted his boss and helped him with his love business. Vincent had a certain amount of respect for him*. (*Noah)


    Suddenly he wondered and looked at Noah with eyes he was not used to seeing. There was no way he would let her go like that. There was a reason why he had risked himself to go to an enemy country and bring her here.


    The moon is pretty. I couldn''t wish her a happy birthday. (Noah)


    The insane man looked up at the moon in the sky and smiled vacantly, shaking out his breath. What if he really goes crazy? Even if he didn''t, he was still a strange man.


    Concerned about his state of mind, Vincent cleared his throat and struggled to think offorting words for the breakup. However, he couldnt think of anyforting words, so he just asked Noah why.


    "Why did you let her go?" (Vincent)


    "You told me. You don''t want your favorite object to die." (Vincent)


    Noah raised his head and looked up at the upper floors of the mansion. Vincent followed his gaze.


    "And, the sniper must have been pointing at the car. Diana would be dead if she got out of the car." (Noah)


    From the third floor window that faced the back gate, there was a racket and the ss of the window broke with a sharp sound. Shards flew into the air and at the same time a man in a tuxedo who was disguised as an orchestra yer crashed down.


    The man''s body hit the floor with a dull thud. Noah''s dead eyes went to the man who had fallen into the flowerbed.


    "It was the Admiral, wasn''t it? Isn''t he the one who would be in trouble if she died?


    "But he would have shot her nheless. It wasn''t just the Admiral''s idea. It wasn''t even worth weighing because the weight of life is different.


    Vincent pondered Noah''s unkind words as if they were a habit. Currently, with the loss of the trench warfare, Belford was like a lost cause to Progen.


    If Noah, a duke and high-ranking executive, died, Progen''s negotiation demands would be even more excessive, so they must have received instructions from the top. In the event of an emergency, the order was to immediately kill Diana and flee with Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall.


    Noah''s gaze rested on the seriously injured man who had crashed. Red blood spread over the white snow.


    "Vincent, the only one that really tried to save Diana in Belford was that ck war dog (Jeffrey). It''s a horrible sense of justice."


    He (the Admiral) was going to kill them today. It was obvious why they dared to send Lieutenant Colonel, the son of the Prime Minister.


    It was to hide the fact that Belford was likely to lose the war and that negotiations were underway. To show Progen that they would not flinch.


    The Lieutenant Colonel (Jeffrey) would not know that fact. He could pretend not to know, and that all the soldiers in the rescue mission were expendable, prepared to help him alone.


    And that Diana was about to be sacrificed to his* heroics (the Admiral). Whether or not the rescue mission would seed was not the point. President Belford had to protect his pride and watch Progen''s countenance, so he only cared about the execution of the operation, with the intention of quieting public opinion with a death toll even if it failed.


    Noah pointed his gun at the man lying face down on a flower bed, moaning in pain. He couldn''t get her out because everyone was aiming at Diana. His cloudy blue eyes showed deep thoughts.


    He (Noah) thought his n to kill the Lieutenant Colonel (Jeffrey) was perfect. Then Diana would bepletely his and he could keep her hidden forever. It was unlike him to be so careless and overlook it. He had thoroughly calcted the numerous variables and possibilities, but there was one thing he missed. He was not to leave her alone, even for a moment.


    He did not know that Diana would make the choice to follow the Lieutenant Colonel herself. He (Noah) went to see her every day, bought her clothes and jewelry, and did everything on the level ofmon sense that he knew how to do It was unthinkable that Diana would choose to do this on her own just because she wanted no one to interfere and no one to take her away.


    Three people on the third floor and eight people at capacity all aimed at the car. They must have been waiting to stop the escape and rescue Diana. Admiral ire would have to kill Diana, who had lost her usefulness and had be his sinecure and weakness.


    <i>How could that gap create an uncalcted situation? What should I have done? No, what should I do now?</i>


    Noah''s face, immersed in thought, twisted violently like a fierce beast with a wrinkled nose and revealed his fangs. The yellow dry leaves of the winter dead trees trembled in the wind. Six gunshots rang out at regr intervals.


    ***


    I came back to the Admiral''s mansion.


    I wasnt treated like the kitchen utensils like I used to, but they gave me proper room and board, clothes, and even a servant. I guess the Admiral was aware of the Lieutenant Colonel and the public''s gaze.


    But the cold re and disdain touched me, stirred an inexplicable emotion in me that made my stomach churn. When I arrived at the Admiral''s residence with Jeffrey, I was so disgusted by the scene of Celine weeping and hugging me in front of him that I vomited my stomach juices on her clothes. I was nervous, I got motion sickness in the car, and I hadn''t eaten anything, and I felt nauseous.


    <b><i>"I knew you were treated well there. But now they wont be harsh.</i></b>


    It was what Jeffrey said to me before we arrived at the Admirals mansion. What is the standard of harshness?


    Making me do hard work with no food, locking me up in the stable. I almost froze to death in the stable that day. But someone covered me with a nket and I lived.


    But now this situation is more frustrating and I am dying. Ever since I came back, I''ve been spending my time in my room, doing nothing, being lethargic.


    I read books,y down and contemted, and asionally thought about Noah. And so I spent each meaningless day as the sun rose and set.


    The windows of my room were darkly tinted, signaling that today was the same night as ever. A red-gold haired servant with a cold expression opened the door without knocking, entered, and handed me my pajamas with one hand.


    Ive been wearing them. Bring me a new pair of pajamas." (Diana)


    She brought me the pajamas I had been wearing again, and when I requested a new one again, she growled in a small voice.


    "Hey, you, you''ve been treated like a fish cake, haven''t you?"


    "Bring me some water too." (Diana)


    The maid, who frowned at mymanding tone, brought a water bottle without a cup.


    Here you go."


    The maid, who had ced the water bottle on the table with a popping sound, turned around with a "sheesh sound.


    The ss water bottle was thrown on the floor and shattered. The water flowed onto the wooden floor without a single carpet, wetting the floor as it flowed along the shards of ss and the grain of the wood.


    The maid who had been behaving so rudely turned into a startled rabbit-eye and looked at me sitting in the armchair. I was the one who threw the ss bottle roughly and broke it. I stuck out my chin.


    "Drink it."


    The maid, seeing my expressionless face, only opened her mouth in dismay.


    "What are you talking about!"


    "You gave me the water like this. Do you understand?


    "I dont understand!


    "You brought me no cup, just a jug. I''m going to tell my father that youck basic skills and need more education and fire you."


    The maids expression became stunned at my calm voice. The maid, who had been thinking for a long time, suddenly brought a mop and a dustpan and began to wipe it passionately.


    She seemed to have realized that I now had room and a reason not to be treated as a servant. I sat down and looked down at the maid with a cold gaze. The maid stopped mopping for a while and bowed her head again.


    Im sorry.


    People can''t understand until they experience it firsthand."


    It''s this very dirty feeling.


    A good attitude and heart can inspire people and change the world. It can only be led by the premise of a special person who takes on the role of the hero. Because the world revolves around the hero. If I, the supporting and expendable character, adapt and behave well, I will only be discarded as a victim of circumstances and developments in the service of the protagonist.


    I vowed to outlive the supporting role yed by Diana. I would not die in a supporting role with no power, so I would add madness to evil. I want to trample on the earnest justice of the original story, which never resigned itself to someone else''s sacrifice, to teach a lesson. The maid, who had cleaned the floor, bowed. However, as she stepped out of the door, I heard a small murmur.


    "A crazy b*tch.


    I looked up at the ceiling for a moment, then called the maid back.


    The mostmon phrase I''ve heard in my entire life is crazy b*tch.


    The crazy circumstances around me drive me crazy. It is the world that has gone crazy.

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21


    ****


    Sponsored by Tanseobang ? (2/2)


    ***


    I looked out the window and watched the red gold haired maid leaving the mansion with her luggage. (*the maid got fired lol)


    It had been about a week since I''d arrived here. I''m adapting reasonably well here. Of course, the maids must have been fooling around, except for the odd ones that spoiled the taste of the soup I was now eating. The servants still ignored and despised me, as if they had a justifiable reason to do so.


    Each time I sent them to jail for thievery, or sneaked a leg over them and rolled them down the stairs, but that didn''t seem to be enough. So I decided to take this opportunity to use Celine.


    "Oh, I never thought I''d do something so crazy."


    I felt nauseous a couple of times, but I covered my nose and chugged it down. The face of the red-haired maid who came to my room to clean up the tableware and saw me eat the soup without leaving any leftovers turned pale enough to look blue.


    "You''ve eaten everything.


    "Then do you have leftovers?"


    I put on a nonchnt face and wiped my mouth with a napkin. The maid hurriedly gathered up the dishes, put them on a tray, and left with a slumped face, while I gargled my dry mouth with water and spit it into an empty bowl.


    As more and more time passed, my stomach ached and twisted, and my body broke out in a cold sweat. All the symptoms of nausea, chills, headache and fever, and it was clear that I had food poisoning.


    At the news of his return, I went out to greet the Admiral, enduring the pain that shook my whole body. Since I''ve been here, I''ve always seen the Admiral off and weed him back, whether he epted me or not. Of course, he turned away with cold eyes. Celine also came out to greet the Admiral.


    She saw my pale face and purple lips and began to touch me firmly on the shoulder.


    "What''s wrong with your face?"


    I''m sure she meant myplexion, but it was a strangely unpleasant thing to say. I shook my head, holding my stomach in a crouched position.


    "No, I guess something is wrong with my lunch


    "What did you eat?"


    "I think you ate the same thing as I did.


    Celine put her hand on my forehead with a worried look on her face. Her green eyes widened and she quickly withdrew her hand, as if she felt an abnormal fever.


    "Its boiling.


    The Admiral, who had just entered the house, looked suspiciously at Celine, who was supporting me. She looked at me with deep affection.


    "What''s the matter?


    "Diana is not feeling well.


    "Then go and get some rest."


    The Admiral, in a casual voice, took off his coat and handed it to his servant. I don''t think I can take a single step up the stairs in this sick state. He is such a heartless father that I wonder if Diana was actually his biological father.


    "Father, please call a doctor. Shes in a lot of pain. She has a high fever.


    Celine, with a tearful face, grabbed the Admiral''s sleeve and began to persuade him, pretending to be nice and caring. It made me feel even more nauseous.


    Jeffrey Grenendall was scheduled to visit tomorrow, so he didn''t want him to see that I was neglected in my sickness, so the Admiral ordered the head maid to call a doctor with a look of inevitability on his face. I headed to my room with the help of the maids while moaning. Why the third floor of all ces?


    Every step I took, my whole body screamed. I finally made it into my room and slumped down on my bed, unable to move.


    My palms were soaking wet and cold. Despite the covers, I had chills and my lips started to shiver. When I woke up, the ivory ceiling was undting.


    I was out of breath and suffering from dizziness and nausea like a drunk. If Noah had been there, he would have made a big deal out of it, uttering ominous words like, Princess, you can''t die without me."


    Miss, the doctor has arrived.


    The maid came in and said the doctor had arrived. I''ve been informed. The old, bespectacled doctor came in, examined me, prescribed me medicine, and gave me precautions.


    " There''s no way youre the only one suffering from food poisoning."


    The doctor tilted his head curiously and mumbled to himself. If the soup they cooked that day was boiled, everyone in the house would have been sick. Celine, who was sitting on the edge of the bed, wiped the sweat off my forehead and asked the doctor.


    Doctor, will she be better tomorrow?"


    "Take it easy and rest for a week."


    The doctor left and Celine put down the hand towel she was holding in her hand. She looked over at my condition with bemused green eyes.


    "You''re too sick to see the Lieutenant Colonel. I''ll tell him."


    I already asked my maid to tell him tomorrow."


    "What?"


    Celine, who was pulling and tying her sun-bleached, tinum hair, asked back with a surprised expression.


    "He said he wanted me to tell him even the smallest thing.


    "Oh, I see. Let''s rest now."


    As she lowered her longshes, a shade of worry formed on her nk face. One might wonder why I was the only one who had contracted food poisoning, as I was the only one under special control who had just been rescued from enemy territory.


    If someone investigated with the suspicion that Progen had poisoned me, the fact that the maids had been ying tricks on me and the treatment I had received here would all be exposed.


    The Lieutenant Colonel came to the mansion once a week to check on my condition. Normally, Celine was worried that he would find out about the treatment I was receiving and how she had turned her back on me and stood idly by.


    "Sister, isn''t it strange that I''m the only one who got food poisoning?" (Diana)


    Celine turned to leave my room quietly, my wordsden with heavy meaning. I lifted my dry lips and smiled innocently.


    What should I do now?


    I asked her, even though I already knew the answer. She hid her anger and gave me the answer with a calm expression.


    "Okay. Who brought you lunch?"


    The Admiral and Celine have no choice but to pay attention to me. Even when the servant brought me my clothes with holes in them, I wore them like that and met Jeffrey. At that time, Celine took great pains to make excuses and the matter was settled, but they would not want this kind of thing to continue.


    Before we left Progen and came to the Admiral''s residence, I made one request to Jeffrey.


    <b><i>"Pleasee and see me once a week.</i></b>


    <b><i>"Of course I will do so, but can you tell me why?"</i></b>


    Jeffrey asked in a gentle tone as he looked down at me. I kept my mouth shut for a moment, then looked up at him with bright eyes and spoke proudly. Even though he knew about my rtionship with my family, he brought me back here anyway. He was well aware of the treatment here, and he admitted that he risked his life toe and save me, but was it really for my sake?


    <b><i>"It''s a question of responsibility. Ambiguous favors can make the other person even more unhappy.</i></b>


    Many times, unsympathetic kindness and good deeds, while ostensibly apuded by all, are of little use to the people involved.


    It''s like building a bunch of eco-friendly ygrounds, saying it''s for hungry children who don''t have a single de of grass and don''t have the strength to y. This is just self-absorbed arrogance and an excuse to gain social praise.


    I chuckled at him and touched the ne on my neck.<i> I am not going to be a victim of your love games.</i>


    In such cases, the protagonists, possessed by most of the supporting cast, take on the role of viin themselves. The viin is the one who highlights the abilities and goodness of the protagonist, and gives the protagonist validity and legitimacy even when he acts wrongly.


    In this case, Noah is the viin, and the heroes will do the necessary evil for the viin to show casual justice, just as they dared to rescue me.


    I n to y the viin myself, to thwart and prevent the connection between Jeffrey and Celine. Using Celine''s duality, hypocrisy, and abuse received from this family as a weakness.


    This is also a good deed and justice, because it is a good intention that prevents him (Jeffrey) from being tied to such a duplicitous woman, whether by their emotions or fate. Thinking about the rest of my n, I closed my eyes, getting rid of the afterimage that suddenly came to my mind.


    To survive in hell, I have to be a demon. If hell disappeared, would I be the only one left who had be a demon?


    What am I supposed to do then?


    ***


    "Jeffrey, you''ve done a great job. You''ve put Noblesse Oblige to good use.


    A dark-haired man in a neat suit looked at Jeffrey and smiled. The man was Jace Grenendall, First of the Grenendall family, the heir apparent.


    He was an entrepreneur with an excellent hand as one of the financial forces that umted capital by investing in bills of exchange, stocks, and bonds.


    His intellectual appearance, which seemed far removed from war, gave him a simr yet opposite image to his brother, Jeffrey Grenendall.


    His reasonably intelligent appearance with thin silver-rimmed monocle, wlessly smooth face and effortlessly elongated slender fingers deserved to be called Young Master.


    Jeffrey, who was sitting motionless at his desk in his study filled with military books, raised his head and stared at his brother. The sharp eyes of a military man met the keen eyes of an extremely calcting businessman. (*Jeffrey is a military man, his brother Jace is a businessman)


    Their eyes were different, but the same.


    "What brings you here?" (Jeffrey)


    Jace suddenly paid a visit to Jeffreys residence. Jeffrey was brusque and not too pleased with the visit of his brother.


    "You''ve been nominated as the hero of Belford, so I''vee to congratte you." (Jace)


    "Once again, you dont have to worry because I''m not interested in being the familys sessor. I''m sure the noble knighthood will remain on the top of the list as time goes on anyway, and I don''t think it''s my position to begin with." (Jeffrey)


    Jace sat cross-legged in the wooden chair across from Jeffrey. Jaces fingers tapped the chair''s base as if calcting something. He nced smoothly over the map on the wall, his eyes colored in apletely different atmosphere than Jeffreys.


    "I know. It''s just like being andlord on and that is favored by the country. It''s not your tendency to y and eat while receiving a title, property, and then y around with peonage and rents, and I''m an entrepreneur to the bone, so I just need the money." (Jace)


    Jace''s mouth loosened in a smile . He stopped tapping his chair. He chuckled as he uncrossed his legs and leaned his upper body closer to Jeffrey, who sat across from him.


    "I''m talking about her*. She* seemed to be of mixed Medea descent. Her hair color is notmon in Belford. (Jace) (*Diana)


    ck hair was one of the unique characteristics of Medea. The more foreign blood mixed in, the darker it became, and it was rare for someone to be born with blonde or any other hair color from the start. Their mother, who died when they were very young, was a Medean with ck hair.


    She didn''t appear to the outside world for a long time, as if she was hidden. (Jace)


    Jeffrey, who had been quietly listening to Jace''s story, raised an eyebrow. Jace''s face changed to one of amusement, as if he was watching something interesting, as his brother, who usually looked so cold and firm, was upset. Jace put his monocle back on and let out a subduedugh.


    "So shes the woman mother told us about. Isn''t she?"


    "What?"


    "The stolen Princess.

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22


    ****


    "Are you going to leave Princess Erica alone? Looking at her behavior at that time, it is certain that she cooperated with Belford''s side even though she is a princess of the allied nations. Moreover, even though the Princess is involved in the incident, its quiet in the royal family of Medea. It seems that shes working with them separately.


    Vincent, who came to the regiment''s headquarters, mentioned the Christmas incident and asked about Princess Medea. His anxious eyes nced at Noah, who was leaning back in his chair in the regimentalmander''s office with his feet on the desk.


    (Noah) His tie, which had always been perfectly cinched, was crooked, and two cor buttons were loosened. He was a regimentalmander who should be a role model for others, but he was in a mess of his own ord and was scattered like unorganized objects. It didnt look okay at all.


    Vincent, his loyal secretary, pulled the cigar out from his pocket and offered it to Noah, who was stained with exhaustion.


    "I don''t smoke."


    "I thought you might need it. Everyone starts like this."


    Now, leave it alone."


    Noah replied, loosening the tie. Again, the same nk expression as before. It was monotonous, as if he was telling Vincent to leave him alone, but it also meant to leave the Princess of Medea alone.


    Noah was looking at the ceiling with a contemted face, shaking his smooth ck boots.


    He was shaking his slippery ck military boots and looking at the ceiling . To work for that man, you have to have to be sensible. He was the kind of boss who made short statements, assuming everyone else would understand.


    Yes, sir.


    Vincent quietly left the room and closed the door.


    Noah, who remained alone, was still leaningzily and staring into the void. He felt no interest in the all-epassing view of the sunset as the sun was setting. He didnt know why he found beauty from the circling motion of the sun almost rising and going.


    The neatly organized papers on his desk were turning more and more orange, and the constant sound of the clock''s second hand was quieting down. All added to the silence.


    It was the time he used to wait for the most. To him, the light of the sunset was a kind of signal, and that was all it meant to him.


    Now, time was just meaningless to him. He recalled Dianas appearance as he believed she was the only one.


    Her face was expressionless, yet pale with a slight touch that quickly turned bright red. It was strange to hear her voice, which usually sounded so in and soulless, be slightly higher when she was upset, and the subtle changes in her expression that could only be seen if he looked closely.


    So it was fun to just sit still and watch. Because at first it seemed to be alive but not alive, but as time went on it became more vibrant.


    Her eyes sometimes stood out faintly, but he wanted to know what the light was that had disappeared for a moment. She always had a consistent expression, but she was a mysterious person with numerous masks of circumstances.


    She acted and strived like a woman of her age, but she also appeared superfluous, like someone who had defied the view of the way of all things circting in the world.


    Noah wanted to know the real thing hidden beneath the mask that changes from time to time.


    <i>Did you cry when you looked at me, or did youugh? Why did you leave me? I thought you said you needed me.</i>


    Noah''s lips, which had been expressionless and emotionless throughout the workday, opened in a sigh. He turned his head and closed his eyes softly. As much as he felt he had to bring her back again, he could faintly hear her indifferent voice.


    <i>"This doesn''t change anything." (</i>Diana)


    Noah''s brow furrowed, and he rubbed his face exhaustedly.


    Diana, what should I do?"


    The empty question dissipated and disappeared into thin air, without an object.


    ****


    The sun was setting outside the window. My body was just getting better after a few hours.


    I was reading a book and raised my head when I heard a knock on the door of my room. I slowly leaned back on the sofa and sat down. Beyond the book, I saw a desperate looking servant and Celine enter the room side by side. Celine was going to pay a visit to the maid who gave me the boiled soup. I think she said that.


    ''I''m sorry, miss. I have three younger siblings I have to feed. If I get fired here without a rmendation, I''ll have nowhere to work."


    The flushed redheaded maid began to pray stiffly. I looked alternately at the maidservant and Celine. Celine stood with her arms folded, looked down at the floor, and sighed.


    "Do as you wish, sister. You''re too kind."


    I turned my eyes to the book and spat out the words soullessly. The earnest eyes of the servant who was looking at me turned to Celine. Celine had a tender heart. Relief spread across the face of the maid who knew her. I smiled calmly at the silent pressure on Celine. Celine''s green eyes, staring at me, seemed to boil with humiliation.


    I don''t think I can let you off the hook for ying such a dangerous prank on my sister. Make sure you leave tomorrow morning."


    Celine closed her eyes and let the words out with a sigh. The red-haired maid looked incredulous at the unexpected news, and immediately stared at Celine with anger. Her face was incredibly pale.


    The end of anger was directed to the final decision maker.


    "You werent like this before, Miss.


    The maid frowned and snapped at Celine as she took off her apron. If it had once been feudal times, she might have been severely beaten, or her head might have flown off, but times have changed. It was just between the employer and the employee, the privileged and the less privileged.


    You''re doing bad things to make a good impression on the Lieutenant Colonel, youngdy."


    The maids sarcastic words made Celine''s expression grow colder, and the corners of her mouth raised up violently.


    I''m sure you''ll find work soon. Why don''t you go to another country or a distant countryside? Just go.


    However, it was possible to use capitalist power and treat it as economic retaliation. Yielding to Celines decisive order, the maid left in tears. As she looked at the door where the maid had left, Celine, who had been silent for some time, asked in an indifferent voice,


    What in the world do you want?"


    What do you mean? I want my sister to be good to me. If someone bullies me, she wille out and protect me.


    I put the book down and smiled, my eyes downcast.


    Because youre my older sister. Isn''t that obvious?"


    Celine''s face twisted visibly at my remarks and she bit her lips. She asked intuitively, as if spitting out a thorn that had been choking her.


    "You, are you interested in the Lieutenant Colonel*?" (*Jeffrey)


    I didn''t answer, just slouched my posture and smiled. I prayed that she would fall into the depths of her own anxious imagination. I just gave her a look that finally stifled the mockery.


    "The Lieutenant Colonel asked me to meet him outside tomorrow."


    Celine twisted her lips fiercely and left the room, as if she didn''t want to hear anymore.


    The evil without power is the stronger one, there''s nothing to lose. The unfortunate ones are the ones who hit the brakes first. Iy back on the bed, giggling as I swung my legs up and down in the air.


    "Oh, this is fun."


    Actually, not one thing was funny.


    I hadn''t meant to tempt Jeffrey. It was something I couldn''t do if I tried, and I didn''t feel like it. So I definitely don''t want to try it in that direction.


    ***


    The next day, Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall paid a visit to the Admirals residence.


    I was in the restaurant with him, staring nkly at the table. After he brought me here, he showed the menu to the waiter and made a very nice order: "Everything from here to here.


    I looked at the table full of fine food and tried to understand the situation, but eventually I looked him in the eye for an answer.


    "Please eat it all."


    The corners of the Lieutenant Colonel''s eyes lifted finely. It was not deliberate torture or thirst, but the grandmother''s pitiful desire to feed her grandson a lot.


    I think Ill die if I eat all of it.


    "Didn''t you get sick a while ago? You''ve gotten a little thinner."


    Jeffrey put the te of steak in front of me and cut it out into equal portions, exactly as if it were measured with a ruler. Do I really look so pitiful? Is this a relief organization? I eagerly popped it into my mouth in a show of good faith.


    The Lieutenant Colonel, cheek to cheek and holding a ss of wine, looked on happily as my soul faltered.


    "Is it good?"


    "Yes, sir."


    However, as a survivor of an unfortunate history where I chewed only hard ck bread without water in the past, my stomach and intestines were too small, andbined with my tendency to have a small appetite, I couldnt eat much. How could my body be strong when I grew up without eating?


    There''s no need to push yourself. I didn''t know what you liked, so I ordered everything.


    His expression softened. I put down my fork, leaned back in my chair, and exhaled.


    A performer sitting at a piano on a stage set up inside the restaurant was ying the


    that I had heard that day. It seemed to be a famous song here as well. I quietly looked over there and asked Jeffrey.


    "You chose that song for the mission, didn''t you?"


    He tilted his head, his blue eyes narrowing at my question.


    "What do you mean?"


    "It''s called Parting Song. There was no way they would y that song at an engagement ceremony.


    No, I heard that they yed the song as requested by the Duke*. (*Noah)


    My breath caught in my throat. I slowly turned my head and looked at him with a stiff face.


    "What?


    And the title of that song is not a farewell song.


    Jeffrey leaned forward and ced his hands on the table to face the performer.


    It''s a foreign song called No more love. A mncholy tune that is not used for engagement ceremonies.


    I couldn''t easily choose what it meant. It had two very distinct meanings.


    It could mean that there was no love from now on, or it could mean that there was no other love besides the other person. I clenched and unfolded my hand, repeating it anxiously.


    It was Noah who sent the signal, wasn''t it? I think it was the climax part. To deploy soldiers in the cause of invitation to the engagement ceremony and make them send operational signals directly to the enemy troops hiding in the orchestra.


    It was possible that Noah changed his n to use me to negotiate with Belford. He may have been right in his n to get the rescue information in advance and bring this man (Jeffrey), son of the Prime Minister of Belford, to Progen to kill him. Because Noah was a madman who goes beyond the norm.


    Was his idea of marriage, the engagement ceremony, and theing-of-age ceremony all part of the operation?


    I said I loved him easily. The image of me talking and the image of Noah being kind ovepped in conflict and floated vaguely. From the beginning, he may have realized that what I said was a lie and he also showed false pretense.


    If Noahs purpose was to kill Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall in the first ce, there would have been many other ways.


    Miss Diana."


    Jeffreys quiet voice woke me from my agony.


    "Were you really going to marry him?


    How did I feel at that moment? Something that had been building up in the depths of my mind came to light. I pretended it wasn''t so, but after I left him, the loneliness and destion that washed over me like a wave was unbearable.


    "Perhaps you''re right."


    I replied.


    I was moved by Noah, even if it wasn''t love, and I had a good feeling that I wanted to maintain the rtionship. I had never been loved properly, but I recklessly spit out the word "I love you" and tried to use it as a kind of means and method.


    Yes, I didn''t even know what it was, so it seemed easy. To start with a lie and put it away as a lie until the end. So I regret that day.


    My vision clouded and shed like a wave. At the same time as I replied, something fell into myp as I sat quietly in my chair.


    I felt cold as it flowed down, wetting my face.


    I liked this strange, beautiful person who was kind to me for no reason at all. I, who was abandoned by my family, who had nothing, but he ran with all his heart and soul towards me to the point of blindness.


    I couldn''t believe it, so I couldn''t say more.


    Everything I had said to him was a lie.


    Was it the same for him?

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    ****


    The mansion on the outskirts of Progen.


    At the end of a dimly lit corridor, a maid and the Duke faced each other, counting the minutes of silence. The maid Molly, captured by Noah, looked at him with panicked eyes.


    Trapped under the arms of the Duke, Molly averted her gaze, but his cold fixed eyes looked down at her as if he had forgotten how to blink. His mouth was tightly shut, casting a dark shadow over his serious-looking face.


    It looked like he was saying something amazing. Molly, unable to endure the breathless staring fight with the Duke, eventually spoke up first.


    "Colonel, what''s going on?" (Molly)


    Delphine, don''t take this the wrong way. It''s not a confession." (Noah)


    "I know. But it''s burdensome. And I''ve been discharged from the army. (Molly)


    Molly tried to avoid Noah''s gaze, turning her gray eyes this way and that with a look of frustration.


    "Did she leave because she didn''t like me? (Noah)


    Who? (Molly)


    "The princess." (Noah)


    I don''t know. (Molly)


    The dialogue between the two, who spoke short of words, was as brief as twenty questions, but Molly quickly grasped the state Noah was in.


    Molly gently ducked out of Noah''s arms and crouched down. She held back a mumble and lightly flicked the skirt of her maid''s uniform.


    Noah kept his head down, his palms against the wall. He might hit his head on the hard wall soon. He was very heartbroken. Molly didnt know what crazy things he was going to do.


    There was a littlepassion on Molly''s inwardly indifferent face.


    Do you want to hear if that''s true?" (Molly)


    I''ve been pondering the matter for 366 hours. I''vee to no conclusion." (Noah)


    "So what can I do for you?" (Molly)


    Let''s work with me. (Noah)


    When Noah narrowed his eyes and suggested, Molly''s face hardened.


    "I''m just a maid." (Molly)


    "Didn''t you sneak into their mansion while pretending to be a maid? Aren''t you an expert? (Noah)


    "No, I''m not. I got paid a lot of money to do my job. I just want a normal job. What kind of maid is doing a spy job? (Molly)


    "Think of it as a normal maid''s job." (Noah)


    Noah asked simply, as if to say, go and prepare some simple errands and food. Molly, with a tired look on her face, shook her head from side to side, sounding resolute.


    It''s hard to infiltrate anymore. It was ast chance and a stroke of luck that I brought thedy* along at that time. The negotiations are in full swing and the border surveince is intensified. It will be tough to see a fairy tale writer take a break. (*Diana)


    The original n was to kidnap the Admirals eldest daughter Celine, but Molly brought Diana with her. She had abilities. Molly saw that Noah''s face was bing more and more sullen, but she kept her eyes down and touched the dust in her hands.


    "Now, the military or the imperial family won''t even pretend they don''t know. At that time, I was only disciplined for leaving my job, but if I go again, it''s the minimum shot to kill order under the militaryw. Rather, Id better make a formal request for extradition."


    "You know I can''t. If I do, Ill die right away."


    There was Noah, staring at the wall. To be precise, he was looking at a painting of a ghostly white horse that looked like it was about to pop out.


    The white horse''s eyes were empty and its mane seemed to scatter like smoke. It''s as creepy as the title nightmare. It was a creepy picture, the stuff of nightmares.


    "Yeah, let''s just find out if its life or death.


    "A means ofmunication."


    Noah bit his lip and let it out briefly. His tone was heavy and somber.


    Molly didn''t hear his reply, then turned at the Colonel''s back as he walked along the corridor. She sighed as she tapped the bizarre painting hanging on the corridor wall.


    After the sound of departing footsteps faded into the distance, she turned her head and stared at the hallway where Noah had disappeared. He was very impatient about this Princess, which was unlike him. She must be a very important person for him.


    He was usually a person withplicated thoughts and it was difficult for anyone to grasp what he was thinking, but now Molly could make a simple judgement at first nce.


    Because he wanted to contact the Princess*. Because he missed her. (*Diana)


    ***


    Jeffrey looked at me with a lost expression on his face. My expression was almost entirely absent, and my tears were pouring out without warning, so he had every right to be puzzled.


    Did you like him? (Jeffrey)


    I did not answer.


    He took the handkerchief out of his pocket and stepped closer to me. I didnt let him wipe my tears and turned my head away. Jeffrey brushed back his dark hair and asked pitifully.


    "Do you hate me?"


    "No, that''s not it."


    Jeffrey sat low and looked up at me sitting in a chair, and people at the surrounding tables were ncing. Thebination of Belford''s hero and the woman rescued by him was bound to be romantic in their eyes.


    They would expect a romance between the two without knowing the hidden details.


    I remembered the Duke who kidnapped me smiling as he ced a daffodil flower on my hand. The yellow color of the daffodils he had ced on my palm. The scene appeared and covered me warmly with good memories.


    The sight made a ripple in my heart, which was immersed in silence. When he bought me expensive jewelry, shoes and dresses, I was actually not even impressed. I had had enough of luxury goods from my previous life.


    In fact, the more I had, the more I felt empty and bereft. The romance I felt was beyond the memories that were not special. A few ordinary flowers given by the man who risked his life toe to the enemy''s country to rescue me. What I wanted. What I dont want. Thats the difference.


    A mind can look like an iron fortress that will never copse, but one light feather can tremble it down. Noah was such a being.


    "Miss Diana. I believe that the Duke took advantage of your heart. I hope you won''t get hurt by it. He even tried to trick the Princess of Medea into giving up her im to the throne. So they had to stop the marriage. You are "


    He lowered his eyes and slurred his words. He felt sorry for me, thinking I''ve been innocently tricked. I''m a woman in my twenties with the body of a seventeen-year-old. I can''t be fooled. Under the Lieutenant Colonel''s pitch ck hair, his beautiful clear eyes looked at me with pity. How could he have such an opposite light? Bright, straight and robust.


    "Use."


    I rubbed my tear-stained face, remembering his words. Maybe we used each other, that''s for sure. Because I used and betrayed his heart, too.


    It was like that at first. He may have changed from the first time, too. So I have to ask him myself.


    It''s silly to judge someone''s heart by your thinking alone, and it''s amon mistake.


    How can one make a circumstantial judgment about feelings one cannot see?


    I''m going home now."


    When I returned to the mansion, I went to my room and figured out a way to get in touch with Noah.


    It was war time, of all times.


    I sat down at my desk by the sunny window and started to read some books, looking for something useful.


    Knock. Knock.


    There was a careful knock on the door of my room, and my nanny entered. She looked to be in her fifties, her light apricot hair neatly bundled, as if she had been a redhead in her youth, and she wore neat, well-cut clothes.


    She was the woman who had worked the longest in this mansion and had raised Celine and Diana since they were babies. She was also someone who was not too different from the people in this mansion, as she too watched from the sidelines as I was abused.


    I gave her a disinterested look and just read the book.


    You''re reading a difficult book.


    She talked to me for the first time. Her tone was graceful and calm, and even her voice was new to me. I spoke informally to the people of this mansion, but I couldn''t speak informally when I saw the wrinkles around her eyes with traces of time.


    Yes.


    I answered indifferently. She came closer and looked at the books stacked neatly on the desk.


    "Do you want to learn hand signals?"


    I''ve seen some.


    Read military books in secret. The Lady has just been rescued from an enemy country.


    She gave me unexpected advice, even though she was always on the sidelines. The nanny smiled as she stared at me with curious eyes. Her eyes crinkled up nicely. She smiled and smelled like freshly washedundry.


    The nanny, who was holding a book in her hands, continued.


    What kind of books do you like? I like books, too. I also like to write."


    I likefairy tales."


    "I see. Do you know that one?"


    I silently looked at the nanny''s face.


    "Literature and art transcend borders and time."


    I buried myself in the silence and thought about the intent and meaning of her message. Like that, she turned around and left the room.


    Was this person''s name J?


    After the nanny left, I turned my head toward the door and thought about her. Then I suddenly remembered the fairy tale that was serialized in the newspaper.


    How can I put it in the newspaper of the enemy, Progen? And I''m not good at writing.


    What would Noah do?


    He was not pedantic, but he was a man with a very strong head and ideas that were different from the regr people. I lifted my head and looked out the window for a moment.


    The shadows of branches stretched out here and there under the dead trees, hanging long as if they were reaching out somewhere. It reminded me of the gruesome painting that hung in Noahs mansion. I had questioned him about the painting of the demon looking down sickeningly and bizarrely on the sleeping woman.


    "Do you like paintings with such a gloomy atmosphere?"


    It''s beautiful.


    "How in the world is that beautiful?


    "The meaning is beautiful. A priest painted a picture of a woman he secretly loved. He described his desire as a demon. He didn''t tell the woman his heart until he died."


    The woman would not have known the priest''s heart until his death. He didn''t tell her. I made up my mind, pulled the bell and called the servants. Soon a freckled maid with brown hair came into the room. This was the new maid I hiredst time because they had to rece all the maids, including Vera, because of me.


    Can you bring me some paper and a storyboard? Charcoal will be fine."


    I was an art student all my life and majored in Western painting. I''m nning to use my aptitude to submit a painting to the reader submission section of the Belford newspaper. There''s a good chance Noah would read the paper here, too.


    It would be strange if I, who had been treated like a kitchen maid, suddenly painted well with expensive oil paints. So I painted a picture that only Noah could understand with the materials that the maid brought me.


    How do I get a reply?"


    I mumbled to myself, hoping that Ganor would manage to answer. After putting the drawing in an envelope and sealing it with sealing wax, I sent it off, telling the brown-haired maid to bring it to the newspaper.


    The maid immediately went to the newspaper office, then came back and handed me a newspaper with an excited look on her face.


    "Look at this. The Lieutenant Colonel who saved the Lady is likely to be the heir to the dukedom."


    I received the newspaper silently and read the part pointed out by the maid.


    [Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall, hero of Belford. With the sess of the rescue mission, he is likely to be the heir to the Duke of Grenendall. The Prime Minister''s support will be high]


    "Look at this too. Theres a story about Lady Celine."


    The maid, not knowing that I was mistreated and that Celine had turned away from me, lifted up another gossip paper.


    [ Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall risked his life in the rescue mission to win the heart of the eldest daughter* of the Navy Admiral?]


    (*Celine)


    I chuckled and threw the gossip paper on the table. Was the life risking rescue really for me? The question turned into a certainty.


    Because it fitted the circumstances.


    Unlike Noah, the reason why they judged based on a mere circumstance was because they didnt even know or cared about the truth.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    ***


    It seemed that a lot of time had passed since I came back here, both in terms of experience and in reality. Since my appearance in the series of events, people have shown great interest in me. Daughters and noblewomen, nobility, and high-ranking civil servants have sent me letters. Sometimes there were letters from men in the mix. It is said that when you first enter the social world, people with influence in the social world send letters saying they want to visit first.


    If their reputation is good enough, they will introduce people in the middle and help them so that they can easily integrate into the social circle. The nanny exined this and that as she handed me an etiquette book with social etiquette written in it.


    When you receive a letter, please send a visiting card with the date you can visit. That''s the etiquette.


    Since this was the era when status was determined by capital rather than title, the social circles here tended to emphasize etiquette and manners. They respected each other and were very formal with too many taboos. Noah certainly seemed to be an educated aristocrat and had good basic manners. (Of course I didnt forget that he put a gun to my head.)


    I was an introvert and wasn''t really interested in social activities, but given the situation, I felt the need to make some contacts.


    After the nanny left the room, I was lost in deep thought.


    A little doubt in the beginning, a part I hadn''t thought deeply about since I went to Progen. The fact that for over a decade, no one had a door to the situation where the poor girl was discriminated against and abused, and the servants wereplicit in the abuse, and that this fact was not leaked to the outside world at all.


    Of course, most of them would have stood by and pretended not to know in order not to be sympathetic or disadvantaged by the group mentality, but there were a few righteous people out there.


    "It''s time for rumors to circte that the Admiral''s second daughter is a wicked woman or a crazy woman, but it''s strange.


    I decided to check it out while I was ying the viin. Seeing that the upper ss people were not afraid to send me visiting cards and invitations, despite the fact that I paid the servants who treated me badly what they deserved, it seemed that the outsiders werepletely unaware of what had happened in this corner of the house.


    Even if they didn''t openly inform them of the injustice they witnessed at the Admiral''s mansion, there was no reason for them not to gossip about the bullying and misdeeds they hadmitted in the cold light of day. Only then will it be easier for them to find another job.


    In the afternoon, Jeffrey paid a short visit to the residence while Celine went to a social gathering. Today he was not in his uniform or normal clothes, but in his national defense coloredbat uniform. We sat facing each other in the reception room on the fourth floor. Jeffrey watched the maid who had served us tea and left, then spoke with a disappointed look on his face.


    "I didn''t know anyone''s news. I''m sorry I couldn''t be of much help to hear that you lost something precious."


    I asked Jeffrey to find out the whereabouts of the servants who had left before, including the one who had been sent away for the pitiable circumstance of losing one of my most precious items, and received his answer.


    Thank you. I had no choice."


    As expected, it was highly likely that all the servants who had quit this ce had died or disappeared without a trace in order to keep them quiet. I felt it from the beginning, but something was wrong. The Amiral hated me so much, but didn''t kill me until now, and as soon as I left this mansion, he sent mercenaries to kill me. Could it be that he is desperately trying to hide the fact that my information is leaking to the outside world?


    I suddenly realized this. I covered my mouth and smiled secretly.


    <i>I am the Admiral''s weakness, aren''t I?</i> An unpleasant weakness, but also a possibility that was thest thing he might use in an emergency someday.


    Jeffrey, who was silently staring at me, let go of his teacup and sighed weakly.


    If it''s too much for you to stay here, I can arrange for you to stay somewhere else.


    No, Ill stay here."


    I may die silently the moment I leave here. The Admiral had a significant influence in this country, seeing as how many servants have disappeared even though it was a war time. I dont want to take any chances because I could get Jeffrey killed.


    You''ve already helped me. Thanks to you, I am well fed and in good health."


    But, Miss Diana.


    Jeffrey, who had been hesitating for a long time, tried to say something, but it was a sigh that eventually came out. He seemed to want to say something deep in his heart. I didnt ask. I didnt want to ask because I didn''t want to get involved in a moreplicated situation with him any further.


    For example, the servants who quit and disappeared, the mercenaries sent to kill me, the usations of discrimination and unreasonableness made against this body in the past. If I revealed to society the above facts, I would be dealing with powerful people and women of repute in society.


    It would be buried without hesitation, or on the contrary, Id be condemned as a liar or being psychotic because of the history that I had been confined and had never been in society. So I would never be able to defeat the Admiral with the above facts alone.


    Threatening silence and an implicit warning. It was the only weapon I could wield, and it was not an easy card to y. It became clear to me that there was something more to this than what I experienced and knew. Maybe I was only watching out of some vague sense of dread that I didn''t know the substance of, but I was certain that Jeffrey was not interested in Celine.


    It didn''t matter to me now. Because I had a clear purpose and a ce to go.As long as the father and daughter did not move first, I would anger Celine, maintain this tense and cold war, and leave the country.


    I want to help you. Somehow.


    Jeffrey said in a determined tone, but I slowly shook my head because it was obvious that even if I seeded in getting the duke''s family to interfere with the Prime Minister, it would only embarrass me socially and not give me what I wanted.


    Can he take me back to Progen? No, that''s not the kind of justice that man has in his eyes. It''s that kind of helpfulness, fighting on behalf of the weak against their irrationality. Moreover, I don''t believe in authenticity. Because the day he came to pick me up, I realized what hand signals he had sent to the soldiers.


    <i>Remain in your position.</i>


    Was it really justice to sacrifice so many lives for a cause? Maybe he was trying to use me to gain honor, to gain the trust and recognition of society to inherit the title, or maybe as the son of the Prime Minister, he was trying to keep the Admiral, the core of military power, in check.


    I''m fine."


    I replied in a somewhat stronger tone.


    I didnt want to take the trouble to judge them directly. This country was on the verge of losing a long war, and the next war would be a big deal. Celine and the Admiral were bound to ruin themselves in this dangerous country where the powers armed with new weapons wille in the near future to chew them up and taste them.


    "Just do as you do now.


    I made a pretentious smile. I needed to be safe until I returned to Progen.


    I see. let me know whenever you need help."


    Thank you very much."


    At my thanks, Jeffrey turned his head away without saying a word and looked out the window, which had a view of the ocean. I looked out, too. Two young soldiers were seen walking with rifles on their backs at a port facing the sea. One person, who looked severely injured with a bandage on his head, was limping and was being supported by his colleague.


    It was despair in their expressions. I looked out with courage and justice through the window of my room, but eventually I witnessed quite a few expressions returning with despair.


    ***


    Today, as usual, I ate and read books at the same ce, and the same sunset always filled the room with scarlet light. In the past, the sunset time was good, but now I feel lonely and numb for some reason.


    The pir clock that announced evening chimed with a clunking sound. It was time for the Admiral toe home, so I dressed appropriately and headed downstairs.


    "Father, you''re here."


    Celine smiled in a mundane way when she saw the Admiraling through the doorway, and a kind expression appeared on his cold face in response.


    "Youre home."


    He did not respond to my greeting. He just walked coldly past me with a dry face and a hunchback. He treated me as if I were invisible, but I called the Admiral back again.


    Father."


    Finally, the Admiral stopped and slowly turned to look at me. He still looked at me with contempt and hatred in his eyes.


    Im thinking of having a tea party this afternoon. I''ve been getting a lot of letters."


    The Admiral, who had been silent for some time, narrowed his blue eyes. His frowning face resembled Celines.


    "The Count''s family is hunting foxes at the hunting grounds, so meet them there. This is where Celine was invited."


    In the end, it was about Celine. Originally, they would prevent me from going at all costs, but why not this time? I nodded quietly.


    Father, the Lieutenant Colonel will be there, too.


    Celine, who had interrupted our conversation, raised the corner of her mouth in a fake smile. She nced at me softly with clear green eyes and brushed back her tinum hair. She meant she didn''t want to go with me, but the Admiral sounded adamant as he crossed his arms.


    "It''s difficult to throw a party in wartime with military status."


    He had a big dinner for Celine a week ago, and then he was discharged from the military and now hes enlisted again. He could just say he didnt want me to have a party.


    I walked past the Admiral and Celine with as much disbelief in my eyes as I could muster and headed for my room. I heard light footsteps behind me, and Celine was following me to my room. The door closed with a loud bang. Celine had her hand on the door of my room and red at me coldly.


    "Hey. (Celine)


    Celine''s voice, which had always been clear and supple, cracked gruesomely.


    Why? (Diana)


    "Didnt you hear the rumor? Lieutenant Colonel saved you to propose to me. He said he did it for me. (Celine)


    Make a mental victory look on the subject of anxiety. I thought Celine, who couldn''t stand my harassment, might have reported it to the gossip paper. I tilted my head slowly. I could see a hint of bewilderment on her face when she saw that I was unfazed.


    "Why are you telling me this?" (Diana)


    "You seem to be interested in the Lieutenant Colonel. I mean that you should wake up from your dream. Once I get married, your situation will go back to the way it was." (Celine)


    "Sister, youre thinking the opposite. It''s not something you should say to me." (Diana)


    Celine frowned as if her secret concern had been revealed. Instead of answering, she stared at me relentlessly, not blinking. In the midst of the anger and hatred that was slowly seeping into her gaze, there was also a kind of mysterious feeling lurking. I sat down on the couch with a coy look on my face and slowly lifted my chin.


    It''s not me who is interested in him. Its him who is interested in me. If you don''t like it that much, can you tell him to stop paying attention to me?" (Diana)

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25


    ****


    Sponsored by Dae. Thank you ?


    ****


    I eventually had no choice but to give a rude answer to the request for the tea party.


    "I''ll join the hunt, I''ll meet you there.


    For those who intended to visit, this answer was so abrupt that no one would dare to contact the Count and join in.


    It was almost like a rejection. Besides, I had to send a direct letter to a new acquaintance without any introductions that I wanted to go with my sister. I didn''t mind it too much, though it was bad manners in many ways as far as social etiquette went, and I''m sure neither Celine nor the Admiral expected me to stick around.


    You''re so shameless. Aren''t you ashamed of yourself?"


    As we rode together in the car to the hunting grounds, Celine grumbled at me in a dazed voice.


    What is it? You were so discriminated against that you couldn''t even have a debutante?"


    She asked, covering her mouth and barely holding back augh, her lips quivering, she breathed as if she had forgotten what to say and only looked out the car window. After a long silence, Celine finally opened her mouth.


    ''Why don''t you tell the Lieutenant Colonel? Isnt it your goal to separate me from him?"


    I didn''t answer. I just looked at her face indifferently. She was afraid. There was nothing more confusing and frightening than not knowing others intentions. I couldnt think of any way to respond beforehand. Ive learned a good lesson from Noah.


    As soon as we arrived at the hunt, I could see men on horseback in riding clothes, hounds, beautiful women dressed to the nines. The clothes I wore were on the in side. Celine, on the other hand, wore a stylish dress, a gorgeous hat with feathers, and warm furs wrapped around her.


    Youre here.


    "Yes, Lieutenant Colonel. Hello.


    Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall, dressed in riding clothes. After receiving my awkward greeting, he showed me a thin smile and introduced me while gesturing towards the Count who hosted the hunt.


    This is Miss Diana ire, daughter of Admiral ire. I apologize for my rudeness to the Count when I suddenly came with Miss Diana."


    "No, Lieutenant Colonel. I am d. Please give my regards to His Excellency. Hello, Miss Diana ire.


    Thank you for the invitation, Count.


    The Count didn''t seem too bothered by this. While the Count and the Lieutenant Colonel were talking, I sneered at Celine, who stood there with a dumbfounded look on her face. As soon as Celine stared at me expressionlessly, she casually approached the Count and the Lieutenant Colonel and greeted them. The Lieutenant Colonel nodded lightly at Celine''s greeting and spoke to me.


    Arent you cold? It''s in the forest, so it might be cold.


    "Yes.


    He looked pityingly at my hands with the same sympathetic gaze. It was not cold, so I hoped he stopped worrying.


    The people of the upper ss, including the Count who had organized the hunt, asked me in social terms if I was okay. I kept a pretentious smile and acted as polite as possible. I had the purpose of building connections, but secretly I hoped no one would talk to me.


    "Hey!


    Even the easy-going hounds the people had brought with them came up to me, wagging their tails and pretending to be friendly. Cute little guys were always wee. I greeted them happily, one by one. One of the dogs, a familiar one, stuck his belly out in front of me, twisted around, and gave me a charming look. It was so cute, pping its droopy ears. Its master would be so disappointed if he saw it flipping over its belly just because It was good for anyone.


    Oh, it''s beautiful! Youre so nice. What''s your name?


    It''s Jason."


    Jeffrey answered instead of the dog. He seemed to have brought a dog with him. Embarrassed by the exaggerated fuss and passionate petting I had done without even knowing it, I coughed softly.


    "Oh, is it Lieutenant Colonels dog?


    It''s my brother''s dog. He was on a business trip, and I brought it with me so he can rest for a bit. He seems to have named it simr to his name, Jace, because he cares about it very much."


    "Didn''t hee today?"


    "He doesnt like this kind of activity.


    I nodded as I gave the dog a belly scratch. Brothersthey had opposite tendencies. I wondered if they looked alike.


    Jeffrey whistled, and Jason, who was sticking out his tongue and lying belly up, jumped up and sat down.


    It''s time to leave. The hunting ground is quite spacious and we must follow them properly so we don''t get lost."


    The men, including Jeffrey, mounted their horses first and led the way as guides, while the women followed their lovers and husbands, who had each mounted their horses and left for the hunt. The sound of barking dogs and jostling horse hooves gradually faded into the distance, and I was left alone.


    <i>I''m the only one who doesnt have a horse?</i>


    I didn''t want to go with them, so I decided to sit alone on a chair under the tent that had been set up as a waiting room and drink tea. Celine, who had brought her own special beloved horse, a sleek white horse, looked at me and smiled gently.


    "Father has prepared the horse for me. Arent youing because you cant ride? Riding is one of your basic education, and to have a sister who can''t even ride a horse is a disgrace.


    Celine giggled and climbed on her horse, following the hunting party with the light clop of the hooves. The father, who made me sleep in the stable instead of giving me a horse. And youughed at me for not knowing how to ride a horse?


    I walked over to the only old horse that was tied up nearby. The horse''s mane was tangled with dull brown hair, as if it had never been properly cared for, and its hooves were on the verge of falling off. The horse, like a pathetically depressed, slurped up the dead grass with a ck, drooping mouth.


    Are you good?


    I swept it face while giving the horse a stick of sugar bar snack. The old horse finally lifted his head and raised and lowered his paws lightly.


    I''ll call you Celine'' from now on.


    I climbed onto the horse I had named Celine. A good, experienced horse was much better than a young one. With just a little pull on the reins, he knew where he was going, and he socialized quite well. As I walked down the road, I sped up a bit, walking towards the disappearing hunting line. However, the horse was a little strange.


    The horse, which had been lumbering around like it had a breakdown, suddenly cried out energetically, raised its front legs high in the air, and started running like crazy. My body jumped up and down, my vision dizzy and spinning from the shock of jumping up, but I calmly grabbed the reins. If I was a beginner, I might have fallen off the horse.


    "Whoa, whoa, whoa, old man, you can''t go this fast!"


    I tried to calm him down by pulling on the reins, but he just seemed to have only the instinct to go straight and never slowed down. It was also running in the opposite direction from the hunting party. This was the hunting ground of the rich Count, so it was vast and the forest was dense, so we might get lost if we continue like this.


    "Hey! Calm down, Celine!"


    It was my fault for giving it the wrong name, I should have gone with Choco or Yippee. And with a scream, the horse just kept charging madly over the hill, without any sense of purpose.


    ***


    The sun was setting and spreading over the hills. The men came back from hunting and proudly took out the foxes they''d hunted.


    "I''ll make you a pelt out of the foxes I caught."


    "Ill make a scarf."


    Some men and women were facing each other,ughing awkwardly. The hunt was like apetition between men, because the more they caught, the more pelts, hats, and scarves they could make for their women. Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall, tall and visible from a distance, looked around the area as if searching for something.


    Celine, who had expected him to present her with the fox he had hunted, approached him and smiled, but the words that came out of his mouth were not what she expected.


    Where is Miss Diana?


    What? Where would she be"


    Celine opened her eyes round, turned her head and looked around. Diana was gone. And the old horse too. It was only then that Celine finally grasped the situation and covered her mouth in surprise.


    Oh no, my sister is not used to riding and seems to have lost her way away.


    Jeffrey just looked at Celine who was in tears. The look of bewilderment on Celine''s face as she passed him was obvious. The normally brusque but elegantly mannered Lieutenant Colonel had a sharp look in his eyes. It was a basic etiquette for gentlemen of good manners to take out their handkerchiefs at the sight of ady''s tears, but he was staring at her with stinging blue eyes, not a handkerchief. The bleak look of a man trained by a long military career came through.


    What did you do while your sister disappeared?


    Celine was intimidated by each heavy and low note. She thought Diana couldn''t ride anyway, so she brought you a sick horse. Did she ride it anyway without knowing how to ride?


    I was with the group .. I did not know."


    Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall gathered the troops who had participated in the hunt, exined the situation, and got on his horse.


    "It''s extremely cold andte at night, Miss Diana is in danger. Search quickly."


    The soldiers scattered astride their horses, and some of the men followed along with them.


    ***


    Molly came to Noah''s room and ced the newspaper on the sofa table, a look of disappointment on her face. Noah, who was leaning leisurely on the sofa, stood up like a rebound and picked up the newspaper.


    "Didn''t this self-publish also have any special posts? It''s been a while since the order was issued."


    Noah''s gaze was fixed on the prize-winning painting in the openpetition on the front page of the newspaper, which depicted the Goddess of the Moon in ancient mythology, holding yellow tulips. It was drawn in charcoal, and only the flowers were painted yellow with pastels. A gap formed in his closed lips and he gently opened them. His dark blue eyes stared at the ce where the title of the painting was written.


    <Sabbath, I ask thee in my heart. >


    -Belford News, Best Painting.


    "Molly. Do you know what my name means? (Noah)


    I don''t."


    Molly shook her head in response to Noah''s question, not even pretending to think about it. He couldn''t take his eyes off the picture that Diana had drawn in the newspapers. She was Artemis, the moon goddess in the painting. Also known as Diana. Noah rxed his eyes as he looked out the window at the moon that had risen so high in the night sky.


    Diana contacted me."


    His voice was raised yet quiet and somber. The name Noah'' meant repose fort  peace. Diana was telling him her true feelings.

 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26


    ***


    Sponsored by Dae. Thank you ? (2/2)


    ****


    Intelligence Commander Max Rockefeller, a general-level officer in the Progen army, frowned when he saw Noahing into themand center.


    The dark brown-haired general''s ck uniform was crammed with many medals, as it corresponded with his long years of military service and fame.


    Despite his middle age, his clear eyes were sharp and rigid, like a man who had spent his life in the military. He was a man who respected the former Duke who was themander-in-chief and tried his best to protect his* son, Noah. (*his=the former Duke)


    "I know what you''re thinking about.


    With his solemn tone, Noah showed a calm smile with his eyes bent round.


    "What do you mean, Commander ?


    A deep crease appeared on Commander Rockefeller''s forehead as he looked at Noah, whose face pretended to know nothing.


    I heard everything. You''re nning to bring Admiral Belford''s daughter back.


    As I suspected, Molly is a spy who pretended to be a maid to keep an eye on me."


    Noah bowed his head as he sighed. The general sighed as he looked Noah up and down with his yellow eyes.


    It''s because I don''t know what you''ll do. I managed to prevent what youmittedst time, but there''s nothing more I can do."


    At his words, Noah squinted and smiled.


    "As expected, uncle is the best."


    "Why am I your uncle? Call me properly. You were never meant to be a soldier, so why."


    Themander frowned at the term "uncle" and pressed his eyelids together.


    More and more, Noah was just like His Excellency Rothsilde.


    He thought of Noah''s father, General Noel Rothsilde, who had blue eyes and gold hair in the same appearance as Noah today.


    He was the heir to a prestigious family, but the man who had caused a stir in Progen by marrying a silver-haired woman he had brought from the colony.


    The Duke and his wife lost their lives in an ident when Noah was not even ten years old. The Duke always seemed to foresee his death and would throw these words around as a joke.


    <b><i>Max, if I die, will you raise my son in my ce? Oh, I don''t mean that you should remarry my wife."</i></b>


    The calm voice of the former General Commander, who was not at all serious, was still vivid. He was a crazy man who always got things done when he said he would. The same went for this guy, Noah.


    "Colonel Rothsilde, I promised your father that I would protect your life. What possible reason could you have for being so attached to this woman?"


    Noah thought about the message Diana had given him, "Tell me how you really feel. He had to reply to that.


    Noah, who had been silent and thinking, opened his mouth.


    I promised to marry her. Of course I''ll try to date more. We need time to get to know each other. But I think this will be enough."


    Commander Rockefeller softly opened his mouth and made a wild expression. He kidnapped the daughter of an enemy for no reason, and now that he decided to get married, he has to bring her back?


    He shook his head as he lightly tapped the tform of his chair. He was going to have to convince Noah somehow.


    Marriage after how many times have you seen her? Absolutely not.


    We''re in the middle of negotiating a truce and if you bring the Admiral''s daughter back again, there''s a good chance the other side will nitpick and demand a renegotiation.


    At least it shouldn''t end with a disciplinary action. Despite the heavy warning, Noah only stared at Commander Rockefeller and made no response.


    Cant you wait after the war? There are only a few days left.


    At the added words of the Commander, Noahs face gradually subsided expressionless. Noah stood upright and saluted with his hand on his forehead.


    Beneath the palm of his hand, which was lifted at a precise angle, his murky colored eyes narrowed. The appearance reflected a clear intention of rejection. After Noah left, not quite sure where he would bounce, Commander Rockefeller turned his head and sighed.


    "I don''t have a choice.


    Noah was a talent that the Emperor cherished and was wary of. Monarchs cared aboutpetentmanders who stood out in war.


    He (Noah) was also the man who could be of the greatest help to the current Crown Prince when heter became Emperor. In the future, he (Noah) may well be the Commander-in-chief of the imperial army, or even upy the highest official position, the position of Prime Minister.


    In the distant future, if the form of government wouldpletely change, he may be the leader of a country.


    The Commander Rockefeller feared that Noah, who would lead Progen, would lose much because he was obsessed with small things.


    Noah, who had left the Commander''s office and was walking down the corridor, stopped walking and recited low.


    What if it disappears?


    ***


    In the end I lost my way in the deep forest because of this crazy horse.


    If the wolf appears, I will throw this perishable "Celine" as bait.


    I looked around and let out a sigh.


    The endless rows of grayish-brown birches with the white bark of winter, one could only guess at the depth of the forest.


    This old horse was stretched out in a state of exhaustion, and I couldnt even ride the horse out of the forest. I shivered as the sun set and darkness fell, as well as the cold and fear that washed over me.


    The forest was dreary quiet, and I could hear the asional sound of wind and owls grazing through the thick trees. I leaned against the horse''s nk, which was steaming with body heat, and shivered to soothe the cold.


    You''re killing me. Celine." (Celine the horse)


    The horse made a neigh sound and brushed my hair. A feeling of exhaustion came over me and I lowered my eyelids.


    If I fall asleep like this, I might see a dog-like ending of nders with this d*mn horse. Whenever I was overwhelmed by despair and loneliness, there was someone I missed very much. It was not my parents, who left me nothing but wealth, nor my family rtives, who were after it, nor my pretend friends. I was pulled into a deathly silence, and when I closed my eyes for a while and woke up, my vision was filled with a thick woollen uniform. From the clothes was the fresh scent of freshly washed wafting in front of me.


    My sluggishly dozing senses awoke in every corner, letting me know that I was not currently freezing to death and that my body was warm.


    I blinked and realized that my body was being held by someone. It was Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall with apletely unsuitable scent.


    Oh?"


    Are you awake?"


    I heard a familiar low voice. In front of me was a flickering bonfire that I had no idea when he had started it. I dropped my body with an awkward look on my face as Jeffrey pulled back his arm around my shoulders.


    Did youe looking for me?


    "Yes, I did. Everyone was scattered and searched continuously. Let''s go back now.


    The righteous hero of the ssic novel, whose hobby it was to help and smiled softly. A shadow hung long below his eyshes, illuminated by the light of the bonfire.


    I got up, approached the old horse lying helplessly, and patted him on the neck.


    "Get up.let''s go home."


    I don''t know if it ran out of energy or what, but the horse didnt get up. How could an animal that could sleep standing up so stretched out like this? It must have been overworked.


    Its old and tired. It looks like it cant even run from the start, but how did it get here?


    Jeffrey looked at the old horse and slowly swept its neck. The horse hung its head on the ground, as if it had no strength to hold its neck.


    I gave it a little sugar on a stick and it ran like crazy.


    I don''t know where he got that kind of power, but I guess he was a cavalry horse.


    Seeing the old scars all over the horse''s body, Jeffrey held the horses neck and tried to wake it up, but there was nothing he could do.


    You''re a veteran, aren''t you? It''s been a while since you''ve had a good run, hasn''t it?"


    I couldn''t call the horse Celine in front of Jeffrey, and as I approached, the horse purred and let out a snort. I chuckled and touched the horse''s wispy mane.


    "It understands what youre saying. Its smart."


    "Yes, it is. Youplimented it earlier and gave it so much strength."


    The Lieutenant Colonel, a smile on his lips, leaned upward and looked at me, spoke in a gentle voice.


    "Miss Diana. You have a beautiful heart."


    Gulp.


    I nearly hupped, having never once thought of it that way. I''ve heard nothing but scathing reviews: calcting, double personality, mean, selfish, self-centered.


    "It can''t stay here, so I''ll wait until its better."


    Jeffrey, who had been crouched beside the horse, raised himself. He was a warm-hearted man.


    Oh, I thought I was going to die from the cold.


    I felt a pang of remorse in my heart, so I changed the subject briefly and reached my hands out toward the fire. The warmth drove out the cold that lingered in my body, and I felt pleasant goosebumps.


    Miss Diana.


    Jeffrey quietly called my name. I loosened my shoulders and turned my head toward him.


    Yes.


    "Have you read the article?"


    (*The article was about Jeffrey rescuing Diana from Progen. It said he did it to be a Duke or gain a higher position and to marry Celine.)


    "Yes. Well, I understood it. There''s no good deed thates from a pure heart.You do good as much as you are allowed because you have a benefit or purpose."


    He was the second son of a Duke, so it must have been to upy the position of sessor. Or he could stand to gain a higher position. At my words, Jeffrey looked down for a moment. He put a few more branches into the bonfire and spoke seriously.


    Yes, but your sister and I don''t have that kind of rtionship.


    He sounded nervous and careful as if making excuses. What I meant was about the titles or status. I looked at him absurdly at his unexpected excuse, Jeffrey covered his mouth and cleared his throat.


    Of course, I have no desire to be a Duke, nor any desire to advance.


    You came to save me for no reason at all?


    No. You are correct in saying that there may be a greater reason."


    "What is the reason you came to save me?"


    I asked directly. The color of the orange bonfire blurred in his blue eyes.


    My mother is Medean and has the same dark hair as you. I''m sure you know that you are half-Medean yourself.


    I didn''t know much about this body, and I didn''t have a portrait or photo of Lady ire, who was described as mother'' in the original story. I just knew that she had blonde hair like Celine.


    When I went to the Progen Imperial Ball, Princess Erica of Medea mentioned that I looked like a Medean and I was out of ce in the Admirals family. So I always thought that Celines mother was not Dianas mother. And if there was a mother, she would be Medean.


    "You said that because your mother is a Medean? That''s not very convincing."


    When I first saw you, you reminded me of my mother, but there were other reasons as well. Some of it was my promise to my mother, and some of it was my will. Anyway, it wasn''t the reasons that the article or the gossip magazines stated."


    Jeffreys pitch ck hair shook weakly as he did his best to exin. He looked embarrassed as he rubbed his face.


    What promise? What kind of will?


    When asked back in a harsh voice, he looked like he was on the defensive, as if he had been forced to maintain his normally gentle but cold figure. The near-difficult look was quickly wiped away. His gentle face returned and he rubbed his knees with his hands.


    "Do you remember what I said to you the day you were kidnapped?"


    "Yes. You said you were curious about me."


    My answer brought a faint smile to Jeffreys lips.


    I was interested in you from the first moment I saw you. I cannot tell you what the promise is, but I saved you to protect that promise and many lives."

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27


    ****


    "Many lives?"


    "Yes, just know that."


    Is this some kind of humanitarian promise to save poor people like me? It''s a strange feeling, like I''ve actually met a great man who is contributing to world peace.


    The righteous figures that we are exposed to in print seem idealistic, but when we face them directly from the perspective of a modern person, the impression is clearly different.


    This is because we feel a sense of disconnection from the reality that we have actually lived through. Normally, we are suspicious of favors without a reason, and even if we are, we don''t understand them. I looked into the Jeffreys infinitely blue eyes. Beyond the fire, the cold color of his eyes stared straight at me.


    There was nothing in them, but a kind of regret and remorse. To risk his life to lead a rescue operation because a woman he met for a short time was caught in front of his eyes. It was a typical heroic action, but I don''t know about the promise or interest part.


    Themon good role setting of the prince saving the princess and marrying her may have caused him to move with the situation.


    I don''t know what form this man''s interest takes, like looking at the poor cat in the rain. Maybe it was a rational feeling stemming frompassion, or maybe it was just general pity.


    Whatever his feelings were, they didn''t matter much, so I didn''t ask any further questions. It was just more important to consider the sacrifice of a few and the contradictory belief of saving many lives.


    The stars that had colored the sky were fading away one by one, and the light of dawn was shining quietly in the sky.


    The old horse Celine could never wake up again. A sliver of sunlight shone through the dim dawn mist on the body of the horse that had ridden for others all its life. The once brave warhorse had probably been abandoned in the stable as he grew old, sick, and useless. It seemed he was allowed hisst bit of freedom, ran as fast as he could, and lived his life to the fullest.


    Good-bye. I''m honored that I was thest one to ride you."


    I nuzzled his neck and said my goodbyes, but there was no light in the horse''s empty eyes.


    "Let''s ride together.""


    Jeffrey put me on his horse and climbed up behind me. I was a little embarrassed because it was an intimate posture where our bodies touched so closely.


    Can I ride in the back?


    Let''s do this. I don''t want you to fall.


    A low voice leaned close to my ear, and I rubbed my neck lightly for no apparent reason.


    As the morning sun rose, I could see the roof of the Count''s country house in the distance. I can also see Celine, who must have been waiting at the mansion all night, rushing out of the front door when she heard the sound of horses'' hooves getting closer. She stared at the Lieutenant Colonel as he held me in his arms and helped me off the horse.


    "So you found her in the morning?"


    Celine asked in a somewhat hoarse voice.


    I found herst night. We were together and left in the morning."


    Stay together until morning."


    Celine''s eyes grew cold at Jeffreys calm voice. Celine, who was mumbling, grabbed me with a pretentious touch and looked me up and down.


    ''I''m d you''re okay. I was worried."


    I leaned closer to Celine''s ear and whispered quietly so that Jeffrey could not hear.


    "No, you''re lying."


    Celine''s mouth twitched in a curve. She did her best to keep her expression straight as she approached Jeffrey and thanked him. Celine didn''t say a word during the ride home in Jeffreys car. It was quiet in the car, and Jeffrey only spoke to me asionally.


    Miss Diana. Do you like the theater?


    "I''ve never seen one."


    Then why don''t we go see it tomorrow?


    He proudly asked for a date with me in front of Celine. I didnt need to make any excuses. I nced at Celines expressionless face and nodded.


    "Yes, that sounds fun."


    The hands thaty meekly in Celine''sp were clenched into a fist and the knuckles were white. Returning to the mansion and entering the doorway, Celine spun me around and snapped at me sharply.


    There is no reason why you should dare to get on my nerves. Can''t we just go on like this and not touch each other?"


    I''ve never touched you. Why did you feel irritated? You were the one who gave me the old, sick horse, weren''t you, sister?"


    Celine''s cold gaze was fixed on my neck.


    I''ve been wondering about this for some time. Where did you get that ne from?"


    She suddenly approached me and began to grip the rose diamond ne Noah had given me on my adulthood ceremony. I shook her hand off violently and frowned.


    Don''t touch it.


    It''s a rose diamond. Where did you get such an expensive item? It''s a gem that''s hard toe by in Belford."


    She brushed back her tinum hair and narrowed herrge eyes, the corner of her mouth twisting as if she had just realized something.


    "You, what was your rtionship with the Duke of Progen?"


    I couldn''t open my mouth at Celines sharp question. I touched my lips for a moment and thought of Noah. What kind of rtionship did we have? A feeling surfaced deep inside me that I had buried without checking.


    I.


    Lady Diana!"


    The lie I was about to tell was interrupted by the shout of a brown-haired servant girl who had submitted my drawing to the newspaper.


    "That''s rude. Can''t you see were talking?"


    The maid looked over at Celine''s reprimand. She handed me the newspaper, looking terribly frustrated.


    "Youngdy, you won a prize in a paintingpetition.


    What are you talking about?"


    The maid smiled naively when I tilted my head.


    Didnt you submit your drawing to the contest? You won the excellent award.


    Celine picked up the newspaper and stared at it. My drawing was printed inrge print below the grand prize under the title of Excellence Award.


    What does this mean?


    Where is her drawing?"


    It is a painting of the Moon Goddess. I sent it in anonymously, but since the Lady won the award, I have just informed the newspaper that it is Miss Diana. They have been looking to find out who the winner is. The prize money is tremendous for the excellence award."


    Its difficult to do something you haven''t been told to do. I smiled haha, trying to hide my embarrassment. I''m d I didn''t draw the daffodils, the symbol of Progen. Then, I might have been arrested as a spy and taken to a ce like the National Security Agency to be interrogated. Celine was looking at the painting with a curious expression.


    I didnt know you knew how to paint.


    "You had no interest in me, so you didn''t know."


    I quickly picked up the newspaper and headed for my room. Noah must have seen it, and he must have noticed my message. What he would do in reply was something I didn''t know. Will he post it in the same newspaper or send it by flying a bird?


    In any case, he will take the unconventional way. I believed in his relentlessness. I had no ability to return to Progen. With the police and military watching me, I can''t even try. I can''t even board a train or a ship for eight months in the name of protection and surveince.


    The next day, a maid entered my room and informed me that Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall hade for me.


    I wore a simple cream-colored dress with a dark gray cashmere cloak with a ribbon, and a hat of the same color. Of course, they wouldn''t buy me any clothes, and I inherited the ones Celine hadn''t worn.


    Jeffrey was waiting for me at the door, wearing a button up shirt with a tie and a thick chestnut-colored coat. He stared at me who without gloves, bare hands and not even a scarf, and gave me a peculiarly pitiful look.


    Arent you cold?


    I''m fine."


    The problem was that he kept asking me to go out without noticing that I had no clothes to wear. He took me out three, four times a week to feed me. I think Im going crazy.


    Jeffrey stuck out his elbow to escort me, but I lightly ignored him and walked proudly to the car.


    I stayed in the auxiliary seat and looked out at the passing trees and the wide expanse of snow. Then I said what was ufortable in my mind.


    "Lieutenant Colonel. I don''t know what kind of interest you have, but if you like me, I''ll reject it in advance. I''m sorry if I''m mistaken."


    Is that so?


    "Yes.


    He didn''t say anything. Before we knew it, we were driving into a busy street lined with stores. Jeffrey stopped the car at a corner of the street and looked at me with a gentle curve in his eyes.


    "Can you wait a moment?


    I nodded, not understanding why, and he got out of the car and went into one of the long rows of stores. A few momentster, Jeffrey exited the store, carrying a box.


    While I was staring at his actions, he got into the car, opened the box and took out a pair of expensive gloves made of ck velvet fabric.


    He took my hand and put the gloves on. He said in a low, gentle voice.


    "Is this kind of interest okay? Your hands look cold. I don''t mean anything.


    "What?"


    Jeffrey looked down at our linked hands for a while, released them and gripped the steering wheel again. He looked like he was in a good mood. Was it so good to rescue the poor? In an absurd mood, I only wiggled my gloved hands.


    Obviously, I was trying to disrupt his rtionship with Celine, but it wasn''t like this.


    Thank you. I like it. Ill use it well.


    Jeffrey looked at me and smiled, and at the same time the speed of the car got faster.


    "I''m d you like it"


    "Look ahead.


    The lotive passed in front of us like an arrow with a loud rattling sound. If we hit it, we would be dead. My heart was pounding. I stared at him in the driver''s seat with a cold face.


    Jeffrey sighed in dismay as we came to an abrupt stop, trying to pass over the railroad. One of his hands was holding my shoulder as I recoiled and almost bounced off the seat.


    "Gosh


    Jeffrey let out an exmation that didn''t match his appearance. He looked somewhat nervous and cleared his throat with a cough. He looks like a very dirty and bad-tempered man, but his naive behavior made me feel quite different.


    "Im sorry. Are you all right?"


    "As long as I don''t die, I guess."


    When he arrived at the destination, he got off the driver''s seat and opened the passenger door. Arriving in front of the theater, I walked around here and there, because the sight was new to me. A wooden sign with a picture of a dancing man and woman caught my eye.


    Ladies and gentlemen dressed in thetest fashions were waiting to enter.


    Perhaps it was because it was a y about love, most of the spectators were couples, and many of them seemed to be lovers. Some of the people in the theater recognized Jeffrey and looked at us, which was a bit of a burden.


    Even if I never had a romantic love or romance in my life, I liked to indulge in books and movies. At first it was refreshing, like experiencing ssical culture, but now I was a bit dazed because I couldn''t feel any interest at all.


    After falling asleep for a while, I quickly came to my senses when I realized that I had leaned my head on Jeffreys shoulder.


    "You slept well.


    "I''m sorry. Romance doesn''t seem to be my thing. Still, it was a good experience."


    He wasn''t disappointed.


    "I had fun."


    He looked rather happy.


    ***


    The current emperor of Progen, Meyer III of the Freud empire, sat on a morous couch, looking at the chessboard and sweeping his chin. The middle-aged emperor with white-blond hair and golden eyes had a gorgeous gaze and strong vigor that made him seem unapproachable and intimidating.


    Unlike his predecessor Emperor Meyer II, who was called Meyer the Great in Zen, he was called the Thunder Emperor.


    His ability to rule well enough to be considered a tyrant made Progen one of the strongest countries in the world, and he was in the best prime of his empire''s history.


    However, there was no way to evaluate it as a selection. He was the pinnacle of fear and awe, both within his own country and among his enemies, with a politics that was devoid of morality, involving purges and not hesitating tomit massacres.


    He was a man who, as soon as he ascended to the throne, invaded neighboring countries and madly increased the number of colonies, and after weeding out the opposition and dangerous people, he seized the mighty imperial power.


    Progen had a nominal Prime Minister and parliament, but the majority of the members were people of the emperor, and the emperor held the real power, making it more like a tyrannical monarchy.


    The Emperor''s fierce golden eyes stared at Commander Rockefeller as they faced each other and yed chess.


    Duke Rothsilde (Noah) is the person who will assist the Crown Prince at ater date, and that is my precious chess. Such behavior is troubling. If I tolerate it any longer, my authority will be diminished."


    Your Majesty, why don''t you send him tomand the defense operations of the colony of Belterdam for a while?


    "No. It would be better to take this opportunity to tame him. I like his madness and abilities, but."


    Perhaps because the Duke wasnt the Crown Prince.


    The emperorughed.


    From this moment on, the moment the Duke leaves the Progen border, regardless of the reason, all titles will be revoked, and thend and property will be confiscated and made to belong to the state.


    The Emperor''s thunderous order caused the Commander''s face to shake with agitation. The emperor smiled intively, his fingers twitching with the white knight, one of his chess horses.


    "And as treason, I will seek him out to the end and kill him. Horses that don''t listen to thenguage of the country are a headache even for a great horse."

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28


    ****


    Jeffrey treated me to a wonderful meal and kindly drove me home. I dragged my exhausted body back to my room, took a bath, and looked for the rose diamond ne that had been tucked away in a drawer of my dressing table for some time.


    Huh?"


    Strangely enough, I couldn''t find it no matter how hard I looked, so I rushed to take out the drawers one by one and poured all the things out on the floor.


    Still, I couldn''t find it. I called the brown-haired servant and questioned her sternly, but she turned red, started crying, and only said she had no idea. Convinced that it was Celine, I ran straight to her room and roughly opened the door.


    Celine, who was sitting at her dressing tablebing her long tinum hair, looked at me with a casual expression.


    What are you doing here sote and without knocking?


    Give it back.


    "What?"


    Celineughed scornfully and turned to the mirror again. I asked quietly, looking around her room with a nk expression.


    You took the ne. Who else is there besides you?


    You even think I am a thief?


    Celine tilted her head with a nonchnt look on her face. I walked over, picked up the oilmp on the table and threw it on the floor. There was a sharp breaking sound and the kerosene in themp overflowed, wetting the floor extensively.


    "Tell me. Where did you put it?"


    What are you doing? I''m going to tell father exactly what you just did."


    When I saw Celine screaming rather loudly, I felt a burning sensation in my stomach as if I had swallowed fire. I don''t like to waste my emotions, but that doesn''t mean I have the personality to just sit back and let them get to me. I tried to keep it moderate, taut.


    The rising tension waspletely cut off along with my patience. I lifted the matchbox on the console. When Celine saw me with the matchbox in one hand and the matches in the other, she finally grasped the situation and opened her mouth in surprise.


    Are you crazy?


    "If you dont want to burn to death, give it to me.


    When Celine saw my eyes, wet and red with madness, she rose from the chair with a startled expression and sneakily pulled back.


    Father, father! Is there anyone outside?!"


    I heard noisy footsteps outside in the hallway with a voice that sounded like a ripping scream. The butler and servants, who hade in after hearing themotion, panicked when they saw the brokenmp and kerosene on the floor and the matches looking menacingly in my hand.


    Go and tell master!


    The butler hurriedly shouted, and I pulled the matchbox to light the match. Celine''s shoulders shook as I thrust out the lit match as if I were about to throw it, and she backed away and put her hand on the dressing table.


    I said give it to me.


    At my gloomily downcast eyes, Celine took the ne out of her dresser drawer and tossed it to me. I snatched the ne with one hand, blew out the match, and red at Celine as if to kill her.


    "Listen. Don''t touch mine. Don''t forget that you have more to lose than me."


    Celine sat up, her nerves releasing, and smiled with conviction on her wrinkled face.


    That''s important to you, isn''t it? Seeing how you''ve lost your mind.


    Soon there were heavy footsteps and the Admiral entered at great speed, pushing aside the servants and the butler.


    Father!"


    The Admiral''s blue eyes brutally glowed as he stared at me when he saw Celine covering her face with tears trickling down her face.


    "What''s going on?"


    You can ask sister about that. She stole mine.


    p!


    With the sound of friction, my eyes shed and my cheek burned. The Admiral''srge hand hit me hard on my cheek. I wobbled for a moment, but managed to regain my bnce and stood, staring at the Admiral without blinking an eye. My mouth burst and I tasted blood in my mouth.


    Why are you hitting me? She stole from me.


    My words were met with an exasperated Admiral who lifted his hand again, his mouth twisting.


    "Listen to me carefully. (Diana)


    I stared at the Admiral and Celine alternately with strong eyes without the slightest hesitation. I gathered up the boiling blood in my mouth and spat it out on the floor, rubbing my mouth as I continued to speak.


    The day anything happens to me, a written report of what you have done to me will be published in every newspaper and gossip magazine in Belford.


    I warned, dering war against them. What Celine had found out about the ne and her attempt to steal it was a sign that she was trying to dere war first and that there was no longer any reason to maintain a pointless cold war.


    Luckily, I was going to receive prize money for the painting contest, so I could hire an errand runner, so there was nothing I couldn''t do.


    In the Admiral''s position, even if he won the battle, he would want to avoid any hassle.


    "What?"


    Celine''s slurred voice broke through the confusion. The Admiral slowly lowered his hand, his face still expressionless. He looked down at me with unpleasant eyes, as if he was projecting a bad memory.


    "Who the hell do you look like?"


    The Admiral, who had uttered one short word, walked away with a cold wind. He certainly wasn''t my real father, that''s for sure. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have gone this far. One by one, the butlers and maids cleaned up the area and wiped the wet kerosene off the floor. I stood up straight and looked down at Celine, who sat motionless and dazed.


    "I didn''t mean to go this far, but the only way to get out of this hellhole is to ept the Lieutenant Colonels heart."


    Celine crumpled her face violently at my calm and cold tone. Of course it wasnt true, but I was trying to make her feel a lot of pain and inferiority for not being able to have what she wanted. Just like me.


    I won''t let him go.


    With a twist of her mouth, Celine gave me a gruesome warning. Her green eyes, filled with hatred, were boiling with jealousy and anger.


    ***


    *Celines POV*


    ***


    Celine got into the car driven by her chauffeur and headed for the Lieutenant Colonel''s residence. She couldn''t stand Diana''s bullying, and she didn''t want to feel humiliated by the look on her face. Her sister, who didn''t talk much, had been so self-conscious about saying yes'', seemed to have gone crazy at some point.


    A few days before Diana was abducted. She (Diana) changed into a different person overnight and demanded better treatment. When Diana returned from Progen, she became more and more mean-spirited, firing the servants who ignored her like a rabid dog.


    She (Celine) felt a vague sense of dread when Diana overpowered and held her (Celine) down with a single, strangely intimidating look, and stared at her coldly with her scary eyes. Even if Diana didn''t have to say any words, she (Celine) felt as if she was being controlled by Dianas hand gestures and eye contact. Why would her father leave her evil sister (Diana) be?


    If he left her be, Diana might take it all away. Celine bit her lips in frustration. Shuddering as she thought of Dianas pale and expressionless face, Celine realized that she had arrived at the Lieutenant Colonels mansion and organized herself.


    Despite the fact that she had informed him in advance that she would be visiting, it was a servant, not the Lieutenant Colonel, who greeted her at the entrance.


    Celine felt uneasy and headed inside with a bitter heart.


    "How may I help you?"


    Jeffrey asked tastelessly as Celine was led into his study instead of the reception room. He didn''t get up, but sat at his desk in the study with a book. Celine was dumbfounded by the situation, not even a cup of tea was offered to her, but she tried to smile gently.


    "Lieutenant Colonel, do you remember what you said to me at that time?"


    "What words?"


    Jeffrey, wearing thin silver-rimmed sses that he only wore when reading, asked monotonously as he flipped through his book.


    You said you would find Diana for me. You were going to propose to me, weren''t you?"


    "Oh."


    At Celine''s question, Jeffreys eyes narrowed and a smile formed on his lips.


    Yes, its good to save your sister.


    Thenwhen are you going to answer my confession?"


    Jeffrey put down his book and swept his chin, then put his hands on the desk and crossed his fingers.


    "I''d say that''s possibly an answer."


    How was not answering the question an answer? Celine''s face became paler. Clutching her skirt tightly, she spoke with a trembling voice.


    Do you do you like Diana?"


    Jeffreys mouth curved gently. He looked irresistibly amused. He tilted his headzily and asked back.


    "Why do you want to know?"


    "I think Diana has a deep rtionship with the Duke of Progen. She also had a rare jewelry ne only from Medea, Progens ally, and posted a meaningful picture to the newspaper. I couldn''t bring the ne with me, but the servants and butlers of the mansion were witnesses.


    "Have you ever told that story to anyone?"


    "No, only to the Lieutenant Colonel.


    I was the one who gave Diana the ne."


    Celine''s green eyes went dry at the determined words of the man she loved. He said, "I gave it to Diana as a gift." The fact that he called Diana by her name so intimately shook her heart.


    Why?


    Should there be a reason? Miss ire.


    The Lieutenant Colonel who answered casually was like a different person. It was as if he no longer had any use for her, since she had used her to achieve his goal.


    Thanks to you, I was able to save Diana''s life. Please have a safe trip home."


    Celine''s face became stunned. She remembered that she had asked her father to help the Lieutenant Colonel to go to Progen herself. Quickly standing up, Celine grasped the hem of her skirt as if she were tearing it off and endured the sadness that was building up.


    It is I who truly loves the Lieutenant Colonel. I am certain that Diana is in love with the Duke."


    "I''m afraid I can''t ept your heart, Miss ire, when I went to rescue Diana, they didn''t seem to be in a rtionship."


    He finally turned Celine down, even more so, he defended Diana. A brutal, certain, and obvious rejection. In the end, she had to admit it.


    Celine hurriedly left the study, suppressing her despair and shame. Jeffrey picked up the book again as if nothing had happened. Quiet footsteps could be heard in the back of the study, and someone poked their head in to admire him.


    "Jeffrey, did you dump that prettydy without mercy?"


    Jace, who was behind the bookshelf in the study, watched Celine leave from the window.


    Yes.


    Amazing. Shes the eldest daughter of the Admiral, isnt she? I got to see an interesting sight.


    Jace asked as he fixed his monocle and warmed his hands by the firece.


    Are you seeking revenge on the Admiral''s daughter? Wouldn''t that be too cowardly a revenge to take?"


    Jeffrey shook his head.


    "Somehow.


    "Good luck with that. I''m not going to risk my life to keep mother''s will. I have to do new business, and entrepreneurs are driven only by profit, so there''s no separate country, war, enemy, or friend."


    Jace, who had been tapping his fingers like an abacus on the stove, showed a carefree smile.


    Hurrying out of the mansion, Celine got into the parked car and shouted coldly to the driver.


    I have someone to see. Go to the city.


    <i>Do you think I''ll sit still and watch you two connect? And Diana, I wont leave you alone. What the hell did I do wrong?</i>


    The mask of innocence has long since been removed from her face. Celine gritted her teeth as she looked out the car window at the city passing by, not hiding her intense resentment.


    ***


    Vincent, who had gone to the munitions factory to work on a new project, headed for Noah''s office with a stack of papers.


    "Here are the results of the internal measurements."


    Leave it and go.


    Noah leaned back in his chair with a sardonic look on his face, looking out the window. He saw Vincent stand and squirm for a moment, so he slowly turned his head and asked,


    Why?"


    I heard about His Majestys order.


    "Yes.


    I don''t want to lose my job, which pays a lot of money, and I don''t want to be taken away for questioning.


    "What are you worried about, son of a prestigious family?"


    Vincent was actually worried about Noah''s safety. He was his superior, but also a great brother.


    Noah''s cloudy blue eyes narrowed as he looked at Vincent.


    There are many ways to do this. Either the two empires finish their negotiations quickly, or Progen conquers Belfordpletely, or Progen''s government is converted to a republic."


    Vincent ruffled his neatly flowing auburn hair as he thought of the example of the Republic, which had executed its king in a revolution and changed its state system.


    Even if they seed in overthrowing the corrupt regime, their approval ratings are not high since this is the best heyday since its foundation. The power was concentrated, and all the divided forces were assumed to be imperialist."


    This was the era of imperialism and capitalist industrial revolution, when the powers were angling to upy colonies, and the influence of the nobility declined as feudalism copsed and was reced by a despotic monarchy based on a centralized system, with an appointed bureaucracy managing the government.


    Progen was an empire with a strong totalitarian ideology that emphasized the group over the individual, where the monarch was the state and only one person monopolized political power.


    That''s right. It''s practically impossible, isn''t it? Especially for Progen.


    "Right. Even if we''re close to defeat, it''s hard to conquer Belford, one of the strongest powers, unless there''s a new weapon, and it takes a long time to negotiate a truce in an advantageous situation. Is it different from the past?"


    Noah nodded and shifted his stance at Vincent''s observation, "It''s all impossible."


    If it was the Duke centuries ago, the aforementioned things would have been fully feasible, but not now. I at least make possible judgments realistically and don''t do reckless things that are unlikely."


    It was Noah who had made possible what ordinary people had previously thought impossible. But out of the numerous options, he only chose the one that had a realistic chance of sess.


    All of them described him as "crazy" because it was a decision that was so risky, in addition to being so far out of the realm of popr thinking. Noah''s fingers explored the open map on his desk.


    "At this point, the only thing we can do against the country is the country."


    Which means"


    Vincent''s eyes widened as he thought of someone else. It was the United Kingdom of Medea, a maritime powerhouse with a national strength on par with the Progen Empire. The queen of that kingdom and the emperor of the colonial empire, the mighty ruler known as the Iron Queen, Grace II.


    Naturally, you will have to ept the risk and pay the price for what you get."


    Vincent nodded with a sigh as he looked at Noah''s blue eyes.


    I understand."


    Despite the fact that the Emperors order hade down that no one could defy, this crazy Duke didn''t seem to mind at all. He was smiling, but it didn''t look like a smile at all.


    Has that man ever really smiled? It would have been the same when he saw her (Diana), his own masterpiece and artist.

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29


    ****


    Celine sat meekly in a blue wooden chair and wept profusely with ace handkerchief.


    A man facing her across the iron desk with a serious expression on his face wrote something down in his notebook. The man gently raised an eyebrow and asked.


    "Is it true?"


    I tried to hide it because she''s my precious sister, but  it''s going to put us all in danger. I thought it wasnt right if I keep hiding the truth.


    Celine''s voice gradually weakened and became tearful. The man gave her time to calm down for a while and then asked calmly again.


    "Do you have any evidence for the story that your sister was deeply involved with the Duke of Progen?"


    "She has a rose diamond ne from Medea, one of the Progens Allies."


    "Are you saying that your sister has it?


    "Yes. And it''s a very expensive gem, so it can only be purchased by high-ranking nobles who interact with Medea.


    The ne is a luxury item, so why did the Duke give it to her?"


    It wasn''t the Lieutenant Colonel who gave Diana the ne. A soldier in a country at war wouldn''t give a rose diamond which could only purchase from the enemy country as a gift. He must have lied to cover for Diana.


    Celine wiped away her tears, soothing her sadness. The reddened tip of her nose and the corners of her eyes were miserable. Slowly, Celine fanned herself, looked at the ceiling, and sighed,


    "Oh, my father had no idea. When I found out about this, my sister tried to set my room on fire. Even though I couldn''t bring the ne as evidence, the servants who were there will be able to testify.


    "Yes, Miss ire, thank you for your testimony."


    "Detective, please don''t reveal what I''ve dered. I am very afraid of the consequences. I came here and confessed the truth to protect my father."


    "We keep a thorough secret to protect the reporters. Please don''t worry. We will make every effort to protect Miss ire in the future."


    Thank you very much."


    Celine, her face stained with tears, quietly stood up and bowed her head politely. Her beautiful tinum hair shimmered and fluttered down.


    The detective saw Celine''s neat appearance and dainty face and had no doubt that she was a righteous and good woman who would prosecute the wrongdoers.


    Such was her usation of Diana.


    For Celine, Diana was a mean and evil person. This was just an act that has revealed evil behavior beyond the rtionship of family.


    So it was a necessary evil to punish the wicked. To her, Diana was a bad person.


    Celine let out a shallow sigh as she remembered and justified what she had always taken for granted.


    ***


    The Admiral''s residence was located in the port city where the navalmand center was, so it was situated close to the sea. Numerous people gathered like ants in the port seen outside the window of my room.


    This was to wee the warships that were returning after the sea battle. Ships wereing in.


    The atmosphere was lively and festive, harmonized with the whistles of the ships.


    However, the returning warships were the same as a ckened and distorted lump of old iron.


    That was it. The sight was like looking at defeated soldiers, and the atmosphere that had been lively became more and more solemn.


    As the horrible sight of the warships approached, the cries of women waiting for their husbands and lovers on the battlefield mingled with the horrible sight of the warships slowlying into port, pouring out oil and ck smoke, as if it had been heavily fired.


    They were defeated in this eastern sea battle.


    My nanny, who was standing beside me and looking out with me, spoke. I nodded slowly and sighed. The war would continue until the armistice negotiations werepleted. My nanny put a thick book on my desk and turned her gaze to me.


    "Lady, why don''t youe with me to the bookstore in the square today? You like books. You like to read, you also like to write, so Im going to buy aposition book."


    She suddenly suggested that I go out with her. I shook my head lightly, as I don''t like to go out and don''t want to go out much because of my nature, but she was strangely persistent.


    I know you have a lot of books you like. But I hear the bookstore is quiterge."


    I didn''t know she had so much interest in me to begin with. We weren''t even close to going out together from the beginning. Recently, she visited me asionally and talked to me. The unintentional suggestion struck me as odd and aroused my suspicion.


    I dont want to go."


    "If you go.It would be nice.


    The appearance of the nanny with her wrinkled hands gathered showed earnest wish. I nced at her and turned my head indifferently, but she carefully clenched my shoulder and persuaded me.


    Is there a ce you usually want to go, by any chance? Why don''t we go there today?"


    "Why do you keep wanting me to go out?"


    "Because I have to."


    The nanny''s voice, her forehead deeply wrinkled, had sunk into sadness. She was now..


    She even looked worried, as if she would be in trouble if I didn''t go out.


    Suddenly I felt an ufortable tingling in my skin.


    <i>What the</i>


    Before I could notice the unsettling premonition, the door mmed open without a knock. Men in dark blue uniforms walked in, alternately looking at the nanny and immediately fixing their gaze on me. The bearded man came closer and closer, standing in front of me and calling my name.


    Miss Diana ire.


    Yes?


    I have received a report regarding your rtionship with a high-ranking Progen official, but considering that you are the daughter of the Admiral, I will not handcuff you, so I would appreciate your cooperation."


    I quickly figured out what had happened, so I got up from my seat.


    The nanny put her hand on my shoulder.


    Its cold. Let me get you a warm coat."


    The nanny''s face was resolute as she ced the thick cashmere coat over my shoulders. A familiar scent wafted to my nose. Draped over my shoulders was the coat that Noah had covered me with that day.


    I btedly realized a fact. The nanny had tried to get me to run away on the pretext of going out. She had been at the mansion the longest, so she might be rted to Noah. It was extremely cold that day..


    It was also the day the weather turned, and she covered me with a nket when I was trapped in the stable. The original Diana would have starved to death or frozen to death.


    But I didn''t, and I lived. Although the nanny could not prevent Dianas death in the end, she was helping her secretly.


    I smiled at my nanny, and her eyes crinkled as she smiled bitterly at me.


    <i>You''re the one. The fairy tale writer who wrote the story of the dog and the wolf.</i>


    I followed the officer, who urged me to hurry.


    "Anonymous tip that abducted Diana ire had a liaison with a high-ranking Progen official. The evidence is a rose diamond ne, a mineral that can only be found in the Medea mines of the Progens ally"


    There were already many articles about Noah and my rtionship. It must be the work of Celine, who harbored a grudge.


    I''m sure Prime Minister Grenendall, a major political figure, wouldn''t stay still and turn his back on the Belford family. Because his son (Jeffrey) would be stigmatized for rescuing a spy and a lover of a high-ranking enemy officer.


    For this reason, the Admiral could not have easily touched me. However, I was not as scared as he thought I would be, and I was a bold woman.


    Miss Diana ire. I will be escorting you to the Security Bureau after an investigation there for stealing operational secrets of the Eastern Sea Battle and leaking them to the Progen.


    In a dimly lit interrogation room, I heard the stern voice of a man who appeared to be an investigator sitting across a steel desk.


    I was startled by the sudden sound. I asked back, rubbing my cheeks.


    Secrets?


    "After the disappearance of the ssified documents in the navalmand center, we suffered a heavy defeat in this Eastern Sea Battle. There was testimony that you were seen entering the Admiral''s quarters and themander''s office.


    As I was sitting with my hands hanging down in a daze, I suddenly realized. Did the desperate Celine steal operational secrets and pass them on to Progen to lose the sea battle and frame me?


    It was just a maddening act that had significance only for the purpose of making me a spy. Having read the original story, I knew that the main character, Celine, was not stupid.


    It was just the fact that she was so cruel that she would sacrifice the lives of the soldiers who went to the battlefield.


    As long as I was cornered as a spy, the usation of the despicable duplicity and Celines evil behavior would be dismissed as lies.


    The only reason she had gone this far was that Jeffrey had dumped her or gave up on her. Feeling dumbfounded, I smiled in vain.


    At this rate I would be hanged or shot. Fortunately, the investigation process was not as torturous or coercive as I had feared.


    After a tediously long investigation, I was locked in a cell in a small prison facility on the outside.


    I sat on a cold steel bed in the cell that was dull on all four sides, and muttered to myself with a sigh.


    Celine is as crazy as I am."


    ***


    Early in the morning, a reddish-brown woman with a newspaper in one hand, started running down the long corridor of the mansion like a ry. She opened the door and ran into Noah''s room without knocking. Molly, who was usually quiet and kept her cool, called out to him with a cry that didn''t sound like her.


    What''s the matter, traitor? (Noah)


    Noah, who was standing and buttoning his shirt, looked back at Molly with mischievous eyes.


    The fairy tale writer in the Belford newspapershe wrote  It''s.


    Molly, who was catching her breath, handed him the newspaper, repeating the word "fairy tale writer". Noah slowly sat down on the couch and unfolded the newspaper.


    There was only one line written in the serialized section.


    [ck dog, wolf, whoever you are, save the girl.]


    With his eyes fixed on the newspaper, his face did not show any agitation or change in expression. He just stared meaningfully at the sentence and was immersed in silence.


    It was a calm andposed attitude. Only the sound of Molly biting her nails nervously filled the room.


    Noah quietly lowered the newspaper and jutted his chin up. His slender fingers tightened his tie expertly, tying the knot smoothly.


    "That was quicker than I expected."


    Noah spoke briefly and rose from his seat, putting on the coat he''d taken off. His demeanor was loose and rxed, but he seemed to be broken because it could not be pulled tightly.


    Molly''s gray eyes, who stood looking at him, who acted leisurely even in an urgent situation, gradually became more and more perplexed. The beautiful Duke was smiling gracefully with his eyes curved.


    On the other hand, he was holding a military pistol in one hand. The muzzle of the gun was pointed at her.


    "ns have changed, Molly. I should get going now.


    He let out a raspy voiceced with a deep sigh. As if to signal a beginning, a sharp gunshot rang out in the quiet mansion. It was the moment when the madness of Duke Noah Rothsilde began.

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30


    ***


    When I wake up, it may be Progen''s mansion again. In the morning, Rosie or Mollyes in and wakes me up to see if I sleep in again. Noah sits next to me at breakfast and reads the newspaper.


    And in the evening, he woulde to read the fairy tale of the dog and the wolf in a sluggish,zy voice. I really liked his low, clear voice.


    It was just an ordinary day, nothing special at all. After it was broken to the point where I couldn''t look at it any more, I would look at the wistful wreckage and reminisce about how beautiful and special it was. That''s why I hate special things.


    "Good work, princess, on bing an adult."


    What do you mean, "adult"? I''m not mature yet. I''m like a fully grown child who still wants to be pampered. I''ve never been spoiled by anyone. Now I might want to say that to someone.


    The recurring fragmented memories were like a heartless dream. So I tried not to ce them, but deep in my new mind, there remained an unfulfilled need for repose andfort.


    In my failed attempt to escape reality, I sluggishly lifted my eyelids and leaned against the dark gray wall to face the reality of my confinement in the cell.


    Seeing my breath scattered in dim sunlight, unfamiliar thoughts emerged from the back of my mind. It was the thought of being alone and lonely.


    I''ve always loved to be alone with my thoughts, but now I''m bingpletely isted and lonely.


    I didnt cry. Not when I entered this mischievous life, not when I was locked in a stable and nearly frozen to death, not even right before the mercenaries were about to kill me. And I left Noah, I was immune to misfortune.


    Rather than repeated hardships, I was shaken and copsed by the trivial words that I would protect myself. Just as I did not budge in the freezing cold and snowstorm, I melted desperately in a piece of warm sunshine.


    "It''s cold and annoying.


    How can there be so many ups and downs in a life that I wanted nothing to do with?


    I had never been to prison before. The treatment was not bad. The food was well prepared, the bedding was clean, and maybe my wish would be fulfilled, but anyway, this seemed different.


    Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall came and said Dont worry too much. Then he just left.


    Perhaps it was because of his backing, but the officers and guards did not treat me carelessly but only looked at me with a bad expression.


    So when are they going to let me out? I had just closed my eyes in meditative contemtion. I heard the sound of shoes walking gracefully again, and Celine entered, wearing a pheasant-colored dress and her tinum hair tied up in a bun.


    She seemed to havee for a visit, to mock me. She stared at me with her soft green eyes andughed softly.


    "Not bad."


    "Then you should stay here."


    You''re still living off your mouth, aren''t you?"


    She covered her mouth and giggled like a child. I stared at her with my arms crossed with ufortable eyes.


    "Why are you here?"


    Do I need a reason to see my sister? Are you already seducing the guards? As you did with the enemy Duke. I didn''t know that you were such a light-hearted woman.


    Listening to her whisper, I felt strangely sentimental. Maybe it wasn''t just a light rtionship, because between Noah and I there was an insubstantiality, a coexistence of lightness and heaviness that could not be easily touched or let go of. I silently ignored her as not worth answering.


    I closed my eyes. She kept saying things that tended to make me nervous, but in the end she shut up at my intuitive remark.


    You got dumped, didnt you?" (Diana)


    That''s why she did this unthinkable thing. Celine''s face twisted as her eyes gradually turned red. Her long eyshes trembled shallowly as they lowered as if she would soon start crying.


    "Was it nice to y with people''s hearts? You''re so evil." (Celine)


    What? Do you think you''re a good girl? As you know, I''ll be released soon. And when I do, what will happen to the reputation you have so diligently built?" (Diana)


    See, you''re born bad. You try to take everything away from me. My mother died because of you." (Celine)


    As mentioned in the original story, the Admiral threw the me and resentment for the misfortune of his wife''s death onto this innocent body, and that woman must have lived with a sense of outstanding superiority, giving justification to all the irrationality and abuse with that one premise.


    It was a happiness that started from the misery of others. That was why I couldnt stand to be pushed around by my sister, who had always lived like a hero and been treated as a princess.


    You know as well as I do that this is not the reason. You don''t have the conscience to sell your dead mother for that."


    I looked at her with a smile. Celine, who seemed to have been exposed, barely swallowed her saliva. She seemed calmer instead, as she tried to suppress her emotions. However, she couldn''t hide the feelings of anger and hatred in her green eyes.


    I asked her with an expression of pity.


    Did you think about what will happen in the future before you did this? Father is responsible for the management of confidential documents. (Diana)


    "What are you talking about?" (Celine)


    Celine hesitated for a moment, then tilted her head slightly with a strange look on her face. The face looked quite brazen.


    "You stole father''s operational secrets, gave them to Progen, and framed me." (Diana)


    Celines eyes widened as I spoke. She remained silent for a while as if seeking words, and eventually spat out a short phrase.


    Take care.


    She turned around quietly. Some strands of her tinum hair flowed down her beautiful neck and swayed lightly as if in farewell.


    ***


    Jeffrey, I was told that you testified that you gave Miss Diana ire the rose diamond ne.


    Prime Minister Damien Grenendall asked reprimandingly as he sat in a long wooden chair in the chapel of the Grenendall mansion.


    Unlike his sturdy sons, he was small in size, but as the Prime Minister and Duke of the Belford Empire, he gave off a solemn atmosphere.


    The reprimanded Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall stood expressionlessly and stared at his father.


    That is correct, sir.


    How are you going to exin you got the ne which is only avable in Medea?


    My mother is from the great aristocracy of Medea, and I think that is sufficient to exin it.


    You are going to say that you gave away your mother''s belongings? If you do, I''m sure there will be talk of marriage.


    "I cant?"


    Jeffrey asked monotonously, dismissing the question as nothing.


    "Are you going to marry her?"


    "I may, depending on her wishes."


    No matter how free marriages have be, will you marry a woman suspected of being involved with the enemy?


    Father also married my mother who fled from Medea."


    The Prime Minister''s blue eyes, somewhat clouded by age, caught Jeffreys dark hair.


    I regret that choice. Your mother had many secrets from me."


    He held his wrinkled hands together as if praying and turned his head. He thought of the ck-haired woman whom he once married only with love.


    She was the second daughter of the Herisson family, the great aristocracy of Medea, and she never revealed why she ran away.


    She eventually epted the Prime Ministers proposal on the condition that he would not ask anything about her past, and was


    constantly depressed during their marriage, and passed away from an unexined illness within a few years. The Prime Minister, who had been tightly silent in reminiscence, opened his mouth.


    I''ve always respected your choices, but this time I''m not going to allow it. As long as the woman you helped is suspected of being a spy, it may be to your detriment. I promised your mother that I would protect you as a father."


    His voice was firm and stern. Jeffrey made no reply as he stared silently at the sculpted statue of the chapel in front of him.


    A white sculpted statue of a woman holding a baby looked down at the two men with apassionate face.


    Do you resent my mother?" (Jeffrey)


    His father sighed weakly with concern at his son''s question.


    "You asked even though you know it well."


    I did it for my deceased mother. You are correct that Im interested in Diana. (Jeffrey)


    Did the girl remind you of your mother? Youre stubborn like someone.


    The Prime Minister, who paused, sweeping his gray blond hair with a frown. He looked at the broad back of his son who left without reply and let out a long sigh.


    "Yeah, it''s because you look like me. Because youre my son. Although we don''t have any simrities on the outside. Ah, Agnes.What did you want to hide so desperately from me?


    (*Agnes was Jeffreyste mother)


    Muttering to himself, the Prime Minister sighed. He recalled the image of the young Jace and Jeffrey holding their mothers hands tightly and looking at him with a terminal look.


    At the same time, Jeffrey left the chapel and exited the mansion. His keen eyes were lifted sharply as he thought of histe mother''s dainty will.


    <b><i>I''ve always lived with guilt, but I could not tell your father because I was afraid he would despise me. Please help me find and protect the child without your father knowing, and make sure she is happy.</i></b>


    "How far are you going to go?"


    Stopping and reciting low, Jeffrey got into the car. His voice contained a series of anger at the Admiral*.


    (*The Admiral is Celines and Dianas father)


    ***


    Duke Noah Rothsildes mansion, located on the outskirts of the city, had always been a quiet ce, but today it was infinitely quiet, as if nothing existed.


    The sky outside the window was cloudy, as if it was about to snow. The fire in the firece had long since been extinguished, and a cold chill settled over the office.


    Seeing the paper in the cooled coal ashes, his secretary, Vincent, lit a match and threw it into the firece. The only sounds in the deserted room were the sound of the paper burning and the second hand of the clock counting the time.


    He took out his cigar and stood by the window of the deserted office, like a nameless stone monument. He watched through the window with a dazed face as the soldiers rushed in.


    His brown eyes approximated the number of soldiers entering the mansion from the garden. Vincent, who chuckled, murmured in a voice that was borderline between a sigh and admiration.


    Crazy Duke.. madness atst.


    As soon as the Duke (Noah) heard the news that one woman, Diana, was in danger of dying, he left everything behind without a second thought.


    Everything he had: honor, the status of a great nobleman with a long line of inheritance, and astronomical wealth. Even the guaranteed future of a young man who was trusted by the emperor and could have walked a smooth path if he had not.


    To throw away his life, one can only say crazy''.


    All he (Noah) has left now was a criminal who deserted during the war, vited the Imperial Security Law, andmitted treason.The Emperor could impose any crime at his discretion.


    It was a pragmatic choice. What could be done in such a short time when the empire was fighting a long war, struggling to find a single position on the front lines?


    It was the closest option, but any normal person would have thought it was the worst way to go and would have turned away, giving up on the purpose altogether.


    Noah shot the person (Molly) from the intelligence department who had been watching him, not in the head, but in the arm. It was for Molly to avoid being used of helping him.


    Normally, he wasn''t such a considerate man, but it was strange. The sound of numerous military boots gradually approached, and with a bang and a breaking roar, the door to the office opened quickly.


    Vincent smiled faintly when he saw the soldiers breaking down the door and entering.


    Youre toote. I absolutely tried to stop him.


    (The soldiers came to catch Noah)


    Sir Vincent, youve been the Dukes secretary for a long time.


    charge of secretarial work for a long time. I need to ask you some questions about the Duke, so please go in and testify. If you agree, you will be able to avoid punishment."


    Reveal the corruption. It''s the first thing you do when you''re trying to kill a corporation or an influential individual.


    Call Count Ford''s legalwyer first. I won''t say anything until you do."


    Vincent, sitting flexibly at his office desk, lit a match and burned the cigar in his mouth. He exhaled the smoke of a deeply inhaled cigar.


    He pulled and loosened his tie, which he had always worn neatly, as if it were tight.


    If not now, when would he have a chance to smoke a cigar here? That crazy Duke would never return here again.


    The soldiers began their search, turning the office and the mansion upside down noisily. A painting of a ghostly horse had been hanging in a corner of this room for some time. The ted frame of the strange and creepy painting fell and made a harsh sound, and was trampled down and broken by military boots.


    The papers he had once seen were scattered like thest festival.


    It was over. The reputation of the long standing Duke''s family, and the young Duke who was once called the Emperor''s great horse.


    It was spectacr. It really must be another form of art. Seen through the flickering white papers, Vincent, who had at one time been Duke Noah Rothsildes faithful secretary, murmured softly in disappointment and emptiness.


    Now that I''m unemployed, I suppose I''m free to date.


    ***


    *Noah left Progen to rescue Diana against the Emperors order, so the Emperor sent soldiers to Noahs mansion to catch him and searched for his secrets. Noah is now like a criminal on the run.

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31


    ***


    Eventually, upon hearing the news that Colonel Noah Rothsilde had left the border, Commander Max Rockefeller sat at his desk in his office and swept his face in pain.


    You lunatic.


    What is he going to do against the emperor of the Progen Empire who has absolute power?


    Oh, Your Excellency*, the *Duchess of Rothsilde, please light his path from heaven and protect him. (*Themander asked Noahs parents to protect Noah from heaven)


    He bowed his head, feeling the hardships he would face in the future. The salute that Noah gave him was not a general salute, but a final salute with a parting thought. The words Noah had faintly scrutinized as he left Maxs office finally became clear.


    <b><i>"It''s time to leave the chessboard."</i></b>


    The current world war was a giant chessboard of monarchs trying to expand their territorial control as much as possible, and it seemed to be their only political battle. It was all about chess yed on a chessboard.


    A smile suddenly appeared on the lips of the Commander, who was suffering a lot from worry and anxiety. If the former Duke was alive, what would he have said to him? Probably, he would have told him to leave it the way it was.


    Perhaps Noah and the former Duke would have no problem with it. They lived in an era where citizens were fighting against monopolistic power through revolution, and the idea of freedom and equality for rights was gaining power.


    The old days of aristocrats bing mere symbols of appearances and the monopoly of power by royalty and royalty will soon be over.


    <i>Im sure hell be fine somehow. Hes not a normal guy.</i>


    Max gazed out the window at the birds that were fluttering through the dry branches.


    He looked sad but felt relieved, as if he was watching a fully grown bird fly away on its own. This was the moment when the Duke of Rothsilde, who had served the Progen Imperial family for so long, would disappear into the history of the Empire.


    When Commander Rockefeller heard the news, Emperor Meyer IIIughed like a madman.


    Oh, I really liked it! What a crazy Duke!


    Facing him, the Commander was worried to see the emperor rejoicing in the face of a pleasant celebration.


    "Your Majesty, hes an excellent strategic tactician who shifted the position of the battle lines and used the terrain to thwart our war ns. Please understand his young vigor, he just wanted to marry the woman he loves


    "You cared for him very much, as if he was your son."


    "Yes, he was. If you give me the opportunity, even considering the connection to the Duke of Rothsildes family of merit, I will persuade him to bring him back again."


    The emperor, sitting arrogantly on the sofa in a white monarch uniform, twisted and loosened his legs, tilted his head as if he was going to fall backwards andughed.


    I tolerated himst time. If I tolerate him this time too, what happens next? At that time, he will dare to challenge me. He even tried to change the system, making my existence and authority false and insubstantial."


    The Commander, who was sweeping his face roughly, sighed deeply and could not answer. He already knew that the emperor was afraid of Noah without saying so. The steely gaze of the monarch known as the Thunder Emperor curved narrowly. He gave a heartless order with a sneer that contained cruelty.


    Since you beg so, I should tell you to capture him alive. He had the heavy honor of dying at my hands for all thepassion I''ve shown him. Maybe I''m getting old, but I''m getting pretty sentimental. Isn''t that generouspared to the crime of betraying the nation?


    "Your Majesty, in the context of war, it is tantamount to a great human loss."


    "The ones from the sessive generations of the Rothsilde were excellent people, but they always turned against their country. Now we''re going to lose them at the hands of the third generation. Death is the best threat, and it will set a good example for revolutionaries with vain dreams of freedom and equality. Everyone must work ording to one will. One of them is the state, and the state is the monarch."


    News quickly spread within the empire that the Duke of Progen and the colonel of the military betrayed his country and fled to the enemy country.


    There were various views that it was a challenge to the Emperor, that Noah had betrayed Progen, and that he was trying to start a political revolution.


    He was described by the world as a promising young man, but the idea of losing everything and bing a sinner had long since left his mind. In fact, Noah had only one thing on his mind. The goal that he had to get to Diana without dy.


    The arrayed code in the fairy tale writer''s one line of text hinted at Diana''s death and its expected date.


    ***


    Returning to the mansion, Celine staggered into her room and grasped her shaking hands tightly.


    She sat in the rocking chair made out of teak wood and warmed her hands in front of the firece. Her fingertips, which had grown cold even against the fire, were still all chilled.


    Her constitution made her cold, but she med it on the intense tension and fear. The flickering me from the firece tinted Celine''s green eyes.


    <i>Confidential documents? What was she talking about?</i>


    It was Diana''s words that came out harshly. It was new to Celine.


    Diana was just used of being a spy because of the alleged connection to the enemy Duke and locked up in prison. Even if she was the Admiral''s beloved daughter, she had no talent for retrieving ssified documents.


    Diana was always confined to her room and only went out asionally to see the Lieutenant Colonel, so it was unlikely that Diana had stolen it.


    One of the servants reported on all of Diana''s daily activities, so Celine herself knew very well that Diana had been framed. Celine''s heart beat wildly.


    "Is there a reason for you to go that far?"


    The operational leak of the war at sea was evident that her father had done it. Perhaps he had been nning it right after Diana''s return. If this fact came to light, her father would lose everything and would not be able to escape the death penalty.


    Right now, Diana was likely to be released with the Duke''s influence, but would she dare to take such a risk?


    Celine''s eyes, which had been continuously closed, suddenly fluttered open as she realized something. The realization was so certain that it made her makeup-free face as pale as white paper.


    A dead man cant speak. Death is an unspoken acknowledgment of the charges. Her father was going to kill Diana.


    Celine''s pale lips quivered noticeably.


    "Is that right? Even at the expense of countless people?"


    This went beyond the level of hating and loathing one person. Of course, Celine didn''t think that the treatment her sister received was normal.


    Ever since she was a little girl, her father always told her not to take pity on her mother for dying because of Diana, and she thought it was only natural.


    It wasn''t until her head got a little bigger that she realized it was different from others, and Celine made a choice.


    It was aiding and abetting. And because of the artificiality of her treatment, she framed Diana and forced her into a viinous image.


    She didn''t want to disrupt her firm trust in her father and her satisfying life. Because the father she had seen was a kind and gentle man. He was better to her than anyone else.


    There must be some inevitable reason why he had done so. So I suppose there is."


    There was no telling what reason he would have to kill Diana, who had be known to the world as the Admiral''s daughter. Celine remained seated in front of the firece, not moving a muscle until a quiet darkness settled in. It was New Year.


    She could hear the sound of fireworks being set off in the harbor, probably to signal the start of the fireworks disy.


    The colors of the fireworks covered the sky through therge window and disappeared in a sh of light.


    That day must be today.


    This sounds like the gunfire of war would rather bring silence. She was only defending the good with nock. It was just necessary to protect her precious thighs. she would never be cheated or get cut. Even if it was a tragedy for someone else.


    In the end, Celine again chose to stand on the sidelines, turning her back on the truth, in shuddering silence.


    ***


    I sat in an ufortable iron bed and stayed motionless.


    Life in solitary confinement was not that inconvenient. The stove was on, warm bedding and decent food was provided.


    "Miss Diana, its hard, but please bear with it. You''ll be able to go out next week. I''ll let you go out as soon as possible."


    Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall, who had probably just returned from duty and was dressed in his military uniform, spoke politely as he handed me a wrapped pie. I didn''t have much of an appetite, so I took the pie and left it on the bed, creating a smile on my mouth.


    Thank you, sir."


    I asked Jeffrey again.


    Why do you always help me? I''m under suspicion of being a spy, so you might be in trouble with the military. Is it because of the promise and interest you mentioned before?"


    The light shining through the prison window illuminated Jeffrey and cast a shadow on his face.


    I want you to be happy. It was my greed that brought you here, perhaps to fulfill my responsibility and duty."


    He still looked as guilty as ever. What in the world could he be so sorry about? Perhaps he had been looking at me like that since the beginning. Before I knew it, the visiting hours were almost over. Jeffrey looked at his watch and adjusted himself.


    The New Year Festival will be held tomorrow. There are supposed to be fireworks tonight and I''m sorry I can''t show you. The festival period runs until next week, so I hope we can go together then."


    I had nothing else to say, so I nodded without replying. Jeffrey stood up, smiling as he put on his coat.


    "I wille back tomorrow."


    He looked at me with eyes filled with sadness and frustration. He turned and departed. I felt very lonely as one person who had been warmly upying a corner of the small cell went away.


    The night was drawing to a close, and the stars were peeking out of the darkened window. I could hear the guards talking outside, as if they were taking turns.


    There won''t be many people on duty today. Many have taken their leave due to the New Year''s Festival and the holidays."


    "Only unmarried people like us suffer. Because they have to be considerate of workers with families."


    Hahaha, you want to get married as soon as possible, don''t you?


    It was a silly conversation.


    I sat up in bed, stared at the hard iron door, and took a piece of pie that was still warm. It seemed like Christmas was just yesterday, but before I knew it, a month had passed since I left Progen. I was going to be eighteen years old on January 1st, alone, and the family that was destroying me didn''t even celebrate the New Year. I was used to living alone, but at some point, I feltpletely empty.


    Princess."


    I suddenly heard a voice that I missed, and I jumped up and looked around the quiet area.


    I jumped up and looked around the quiet area. It was an embarrassing nickname, but I didn''t mind.


    It was a title that no one called me except Noah. Originally, even when my parents were alive, my grandfather, who was my guardian, was heartless and cold towards me. Today, I felt ufortable to exhale because my chest was in pain.


    Even the air in this space felt humid and rough, and it seemed to crush my lungs. I felt trapped and stuffy, unlike when I was free to be alone in a room without being disturbed.


    I looked up at the small window in the high wall. The faint moonlight wasing down like a narrow staircase.


    From outside, I could hear the sound of heavy shoes slowly approaching.


    Squeak.


    The iron door of my cell, which had not been opened for an eternity, opened with a rusty sound. The door opened and what I saw were two magnificent men in guard uniforms.


    They looked at me silently, their faces expressionless, but as soon as they made eye contact with me, I had an abominable thought. Something was wrong. My inherent keen intuition warned me that I was in danger. Long-forgotten fears seemed to ruminate.


    My nerves were focused on them. I kept calm and read the emotionless look in their eyes. I had been living in constant danger from the richness of modern life, and my gut feeling of obsession with life whispered to me.


    <i>They''re here to kill me.''</i>


    There was a silence between the three of us that felt like an eternity. A sense of tragic finality invaded my periphery.


    One guard nodded as if sending a silent signal and went outside, and the remaining guard''s hand was holding a thick rope. The guard with the rope nced at me and sighed.


    I can''t believe you''re the same age as my sister. I don''t want to do this but I can''t help it."


    There was a whistling sound as the fireworks that were setting off outside the window to signal the start of the fireworks disy broke the sky.


    Soon the roar of exploding firecrackers sounded deafeningly loud. It was so loud that even my screams were dismissed as silence.


    <i>I want to hear your true feelings, beautiful.</i>


    <i>And I want to tell you from the bottom of my heart that what I said was a lie.</i>

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32


    ***


    Sponsored by F3N. Thank you ?


    ***


    The remaining guard looked at me with an ufortable expression and clicked his tongue.


    I can''t help it. Im forced to do this.


    I shook off the frightened big man''s hand violently. A chill ran down my spine as I looked at the rope in his hands. He must be trying to kill me and disguise it as a suicide.


    Is this Celine''s idea? This was the question that came to my mind for a moment, but gradually only the thought that I had to live filled my mind.


    Let me go!


    My sister is sick. I couldn''t help it. Please be quiet. I''ll make it easy for you.


    I crumpled my forehead fiercely and bit down hard on the guard''s hand, which was trying to cover my mouth. At the same time as the guard shouted, I felt a twitch in front of my eyes and a twinge of pain in my cheeks as he bit down on my hand. Something hot trickled down my nose. The guard, who had punched me mercilessly in the face, furrowed his brow and caught me by the chest.


    Are you a dog?! Biting and going crazy!


    It hurt like hell, I thought I was going to pass out, but I did my best to regain myposure. I wasnt feeling well right now. Even if you are a self-appointed aid to evil, you don''t want to go through this. I was afraid of dying, no matter what country I was in. He grabbed me by the cor with a rough hand and pulled me back, then clicked his tongue.


    I resisted, twisting this way and that, trying not to let the rope touch my neck. The buttons on my clothes fell off and I fell to the cold floor.


    Why are you so strong when youre so small? Do you want to be hurt badly? Worse than this?"


    Let''s stall for time, somehow.


    I gritted my teeth and kicked hard between his legs with my knee. The guard''s face was crushed in unspeakable agony.


    Aah!"


    With a sudden scream, the guard shrank back andy down on the floor.


    What are you doing? Just get it over with before the fireworks.


    The other guard guarding the front door hurried in when he heard the scream of the man other than me. He looked at his partner, who was rolling on the floor, his face contracted to the limit, and made a harsh face.


    You got kicked? Who''s going to end your generation this year!"


    Panting, I huddled my back against the ck wall where there was nowhere to retreat. I made a n to push the entrance, kick out the guard, and run out, but I wasn''t confident that I could push that guard, who was twice as big as the guard who was already incapacitated by me, out with my vile body.


    All I could think was that I had to buy myself some time. Maybe someone woulde to my aid, like the Lieutenant Colonel? Because he was a righteous male protagonist who enjoyed helping poor people. Oh, I was not a hero, I was just a supporting character, so what were the chances of such perfect timing? I screamed at the guards.


    "Do you think you''ll be safe after doing this?"


    We''ll be safe if we kill you. We have already been paid, and if we fail, we are dead."


    Negotiation would be futile in this situation. My lips were hot, torn from the beating. I couldnt think of a way to get out of this situation. Thinking of my ending, Iughed in vain.


    I wondered if that rope was the only thing that could get me out of this hell. Where will I go when I die, if I am not from this world? Only to return from the unfamiliar hell to the familiar one.


    My breath came in spurts and vanished. Would I eventually go through the fate of Diana in the original story and disappear so meaninglessly?


    The guard who had been blocking the entrance suddenly approached me with a vicious look on his face, grabbed me by the chest and mmed me down hard on the ground. I felt a cold jolt go through my forehead, and then I felt a sh of heat.


    Loud noises echoed inside and outside my body. My head shook and I became increasingly unconscious. I didn''t have time to feel the pain of hitting the floor, and my vision started to turn red.


    Hahaha


    I managed to pull myself together and sighed in pain, raising my upper body. The intermittent sound of fireworks was a hollow echo that regarded the moment of the end of life as silence.


    The emotions that had been confined within my indifferent expression and supernatural demeanor eventually crumbledpletely as I felt apathetic despair.


    It''s sad, it hurts. I really can''t. I can''t stand it.


    Apart from being passive and active, why was I always alone when there was no way a person could go on living alone without anyone to rely on?


    It was a ce that felt more atrocious than hell. I struggled to suppress the sorrow that preceded my screams and remained face down on the cold floor with my forehead pressed together. And yet, I did not cry.


    I just mumbled the name I hadn''t spoken, as if it were a testament. I squeezed his coat, the only thing that shared his warmth, and kept the gentle name in the back of my mind, like a child secretly burying something precious.


    I wanted to say it once since it was apparently thest one.


    Noah.


    He was a viin to some, but to me he was a good man and a hero.


    He wasn''t a proper lover or a loving friend, but he was the only one I could remember, and I was in desperate need of one. There were words I wanted to tell the beautiful person who was kind to me for no reason and protected me, but now I was wrong. It seemed.


    The guard who heard my sad voice approached me with an interesting look on his face.


    What is it? To finally confess that you are with the Progen side"


    The guard, who had been standing with his hands on his hips, looking down at me, suddenly stopped speaking. I looked up at him. His lower jaw and mouth, covered by a disheveled beard, were firmly covered by someone''s hand. The guard with the panicked look in his eyes twitched.


    His dry eyes fluttered upward, and red blood spurted out from his neck. Behind the fountain of blood that sttered as the guard''s body tilted and trailed, I could see the face of a man with no expression on his face.


    As I sat there in a daze, I thought it was beautiful, like a scene that marks the moment of liberation and freedom.


    The sound of the loud firecrackers was no longer a sound that hid my death, but a congrattory shot that aided in my salvation and blinded me to the fate of those who had tried to kill me.


    The guards body, no longer a living person, fell to the floor making a dull sound like a piece of wood. I was in full view of a dark-haired man standing neatly in a dark blue Belford military uniform. He was holding a short military dagger in one hand.


    Some of the light from the mes leaked out through the small window of the cell, revealing the figure and then disappearing repeatedly.


    My field of vision became clouded and blocked out in front of me, and I could only see the seeming outline, but only the cloudy blue eyes covered with the color of all the mes seemed to be named. The man with the nostalgic scent of perfume that had remained faint since that day asked, staring at my swollen cheeks and forehead.


    "Who did this?


    It was a low voice that I had heard sometime before, deeply etched with anger. I closed my eyes softly and then opened them. I didn''t know if I was out of my mind or if I was reassembling the afterimages of my faint memories to see and hear what I hoped for.


    That ck hair, Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall? No, who are you.? (Guard)


    The guard, who got kicked in the groin by me and was lying on the ground half unconscious, managed to get up to the sudden and unexpected situation. When he saw the unusual color of his ck hair, he made a strange face and didn''t say anything further because he was blocked by the dark-haired man.


    It''s me.


    It was a creepy voice that was determinedly trying to harm anyone who would listen. The gruesome killing intent thickened as if it wasnt humans.


    The guard quickly approached the man, but was unable to match the strength of the magnificent man who mped his mouth shut and subdued him.


    A red line began to draw at his neck, and blue veins appeared on the guards forehead. The guard struggled to break free from the unbearable pain of death. Intermittent moans escaped from between his pinched fingers, the soles of his shoes rubbed violently against the floor, and the sound of his struggling pain filled the prison.


    The ugly hands that had tried to kill me resisted desperately, wing at the man''s arm as he tried to choke it back. Afterwards, the pale guard''s hands fell lifelessly and shook helplessly.


    The dark-haired man, who had casually thrown the guards breathless body away, still looked at me with sad blue eyes. The smell of blood grew thicker, and the familiar body scent, faint but wafting, grew closer.


    The fierce appearance covered with the blood of the ughter he hadmitted to get here, exhaling a cold breath.


    It was cruel and beautiful, but unlike the bloody figure, he gently touched my cheeks with his hands as if it was fragile.


    His beautiful face was covered with scratches, and the arms of his uniform were ripped open and soaked with blood.


    His eyes were red and wet, and he looked as pitiful as the day we parted.


    Diana."


    He called my name in a dull voice. A sigh of breath escaped from around my lips. The beautiful colors of the fireworks poured in through the small window. It was just like that day when he had offered me daffodil flowers to express his feelings under the fireworks that had dyed the sky with colors. A nostalgic memory that I desperately needed to break through came to de at me.


    I had always wondered how he would answer. No, I always waited. In fact, what I wanted the most was to see him again even for a moment. He crouched down and ced his hand on my cheek and stared at me.


    The deadliness in his empty blue eyes, which showed neither sadness nor joy, faded away. This time, he didnt ask if I wanted to be saved. He just did as his heart desired.


    "Diana, this is how I really feel."


    Noah, with his pitch-ck hair, conveyed his heart with an expressionless face full of empty emotion. He was beautifully crafted, but like a lifeless artificial flower, he was someone who always had a consistent smile on his face. I realized that was his true face.


    ***


    *It seemed that Noah had dyed his hair ck to disguise himself. He had white hair before. Noah with ck hair wore Belford military uniform, so the guard thought he was Jeffrey for a moment, but then the guard knew Noah was someone else, that was why the guard said, That ck hair, Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall? No, who are you.?

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33


    ***


    "Noah, I."


    I finally gave it all up and cried.


    Noah''s face was getting blurred. My eyes dove under my eyelids towards the far gray ceiling. It became pitch ck in front of my eyes like the dark curtain of a stage going down. My consciousness was scattered and flying in the distance.


    We met a long, long time ago that the princess cannot remember.


    I felt gentle hands embracing my body as I copsed helplessly.


    So it doesn''t matter if you lied. Please, please stay close to me, even if you have to use me, because I need you."


    I could hear Noah''s lonely voice as he conveyed his sincere heart, but it was fading away.


    Diana, you are the only one for me.


    ***


    I passed out for a while, as if the circuits in my head had beenpletely cut off, and then I woke up. My whole body felt hot, and I barely grasped my woozy spirit again.


    I felt a sense of relief and even excitement at the fact that I was seeing him again, and my cheeks and forehead didn''t hurt. I couldnt quite remember Noah''sst words that I heard in my blinking consciousness.


    I barely managed to open my torn lips and called out his name.


    Noah.


    "Diana.


    There was someone in front of me, answering my pleading voice. It was a very sweet reality. His frosty hair, which used to be dazzling in the moonlight, was now ck. The ck hair was beautiful too.


    I stayed in Noah''s arms and nuzzled my face into his chest, feeling his body heat and scent that I had missed so much. I don''t know if I died or if it was a dream. So for the first time in my life, I acted like a child to him.


    Its so hard here. Can you take me back?


    I''m going to do that. Even if you don''t want to, I have no choice but to do it.


    The words sounded hauntingly sad. Noah buried his face into my neck and a sad breath came out. He added it with a sigh.


    I like being with you."


    He ced a handkerchief on my forehead and he took my hand and pressed it directly.


    I thought you were dead, princess.


    "No way. I must have fainted."


    Noah, holding me carefully in his arms, walked away from the cell. Behind his broad shoulders stretched a long, dimly lit corridor.


    A few guards were scattered breathless here and there behind the path we had taken together, reminding me of hell. It looked like a passage to death in exchange for freedom.


    I don''t know, it doesn''t matter.


    Noah kept his mouth tightly shut and didn''t say anything. Every once in a while, his shoulders would raise up and down, and there would be a small break in his breathing, like a sigh.


    I squeezed the cor of Noah''s uniform urgently.


    "Noah, I don''t hate it. I want to be with you."


    At my bted answer, he paused and walked forward again. Noah''s chest, which was going up and down quickly, as if he tried to say something, but I heard a sound of swallowing it hard.


    It was a low sigh, repeated loudly as if he was out of breath. I noticed that his cor was soaking wet, so I checked his neck with my palm.


    Red blood soaked my entire palm. It wasn''t the guards'' blood, it was his blood. It was not a situation to enjoy the excitement of reunion.


    Please put me down.


    I didnt need to be a Princess in this situation. Enough with the pampering. Now I had to walk by myself. He had fought his way here against a multitude of them, and there was no way he was not injured, so I staggered a little and stood up straighter with more strength in my legs.


    The princess is injured."


    You''re the one who got hurt. I just fainted a little. You can count on me."


    I imagined for a while the romance of passing out in his arms and waking up in a bed with the sunlight leaking brilliantly, but he was a person, and this was reality.


    We were both in pain. I forced myself to put Noah''s arm around my shoulders and walked. I was actually embarrassed to say that I was helping him because he was still stronger than me. So, I just walked with my arm slightly raised, as if I were hugging his shoulder.


    The firecrackers, which had been like gunfire, gradually faded away as the fireworks disy reached its peak.


    I killed him quietly, but it seems he''s already found out. They''ll be following us soon."


    He talked about a serious situation very calmly. He raised the arm around my shoulders and grabbed my hand. I looked around and followed Noah into the back of a quiet building.


    A ck car with a lid was parked in one corner. Noah, in the driver''s seat, looked out front for a moment and grasped his right arm. His face was expressionless, but his dark blue eyes had narrowed badly.


    It looked like he had been shot in the arm or badly injured. I quickly got out of the passenger seat and quickly opened the driver''s door.


    I''ll drive.


    Can you drive?"


    He meekly got out of the driver''s seat at my gentle touch and asked. I sat down in the driver''s seat and answered confidently.


    I''ve never done this before."


    I''ve never driven a car here. I''ve seen them driven a few times, and they seem simr, and I had one regr license, so I guess it was okay.


    In the distance, I could hear the shouts of people chasing us from between the alleys. After quickly starting the engine and changing the gearshift, I pressed down on what seemed to be the gas pedal and the car began to drive at a fast speed, emitting a powerful sound.


    I heard the sharp sound of bullets hitting the body of the car ricocheting and dislodging along with the sound of gunfire. The bullets did not pierce the car, but they bounced off?


    And this car was a four-wheel with a lid. It was a car that should have beenmercialized some yearster.


    I turned the steering wheel recklessly and drove between the dimly lit alleys, avoiding the chase as I glided along. The car was fast, and I was a reasonably good driver, so I easily overtook the cars and people that were chasing us.


    The car we were in drove fast along the straight and quiet coastal road. I even felt free, as there was nothing to disturb the spacious front lying in the middle of the blue sea.


    Diana.


    Noah, who was quietly sitting in the auxiliary seat, catching his breath, suddenly called my name. That tired and weak voice sounds so bizarre. I''m pretty rotten to think such a thing when we''re both in a messed up situation. My head got hit and I think I was insane.


    You know how to drive, but you didn''t run away when you were in my mansion.


    "I didn''t intend to run away from the beginning. Sadly, I had nowhere to go.


    He stroked my swollen cheek carefully. His touch was gentle and affectionate.


    You don''t really hate me? I thought you went back because you didn''t want to be with me."


    I stopped the car for a moment and looked him straight in the eye.


    "Noah, I''m good at lying. It was just a way to survive."


    "It''s okay. Even if it''s a lie, it''s good. It''s enough to make me believe it''s real."


    "I always n to escape. I asked you to take me home, but I didn''t actually want to leave. I''m happy to be with you."


    It was a calm confession. He let out azyugh. His hair, dyed a beautiful night color, swayed a little in time with his lowugh.


    "Diana, we''re still dating before we get married, right?"


    A rtionship that I missed very much and desperately wanted even though we were not in love. I was dragged by lies and adaptation, so I wanted to get to know the feelings that I had not yet confirmed.I suggested calmly to Noah, who was sitting against the blue night sea.


    Lets start over from the beginning. This time with sincerity.


    Noah tilted his head at my suggestion, a look of iprehension on his face.


    The beginning?


    Yes. Lets start at the stage where you were the kidnapper and I was the hostage."


    I thought that perhaps the rtionship had started with a lie. Besides, I didnt want to leave our rtionship as a case of criminal glorification, of assimting and falling in love with a criminal. Noah leaned back in his car seat andughed.


    "So now we start as an escaped prisoner and an aplice who helped you escape?"


    Yes. That''s a little subtle, too, and I''ve run out of things to say. Aren''t we supposed to be romantic, like normal people?


    "I just want to be normal."


    Well, let''s put it this way. We were engaged to be married even before we were born. That''s why I went around looking for a kidnapped princess. It''s like a fairy tale, right?


    Is that really possible?"


    I asked back, not knowing much about this body''s past and with a suspicious look on my face as he spoke as if it were a fact. He lightly touched my swollen lips with a mischievous expression.


    "I suppose you could say that."


    Noah, who answered simply and clearly, got out of the car and opened the driver''s door and reached out his hand.


    I''ll drive now. You don''t know how to get there."


    "Doesnt your arm hurt?"


    "Im fine to drive."


    There was something about this man that made me feel guilty and sympathetic. There was a little blood on the cloth I had tied around Noah''s injured arm. I looked embarrassed, but without further stubbornness, I grabbed Noah''s hand and staggered out of the driver''s seat and into the passenger side.


    Noah, who knew the way to Progen, would have to drive. Changing seats and sitting in the driver''s seat, Noah shifted, put one hand on the passenger''s chair, and began to back up skillfully. It was a scene I would havepletely fallen in love with if only I had the right way of words.


    I stole a nce at his profile and neck in the nted reflection and finally turned away. The dark and gloomy form of forest was passing by outside the car window. We were driving endlessly along a straight forest road when Noah broke the ice.


    "Princess, we can''t go back to Progen."


    Why not?


    "I''ve had my title, my house, and mynd confiscated."


    "What?"


    I disobeyed the Emperors order and escaped. If Im caught, Ill be in a lot of trouble.


    He spoke inly, like he was telling a really boring story. It was as if he was describing a skipped school'' level situation.


    "Hey, what the heck!"


    My voice suddenly rose at his calm voice in a serious, deadly situation. He had deserted his position during the war, and the maximum penalty for breaking the Emperors orders would be shot to death.


    He was so calm to describe it as "I''m in trouble." So that was why he dyed his hair ck to get out. I let out a deep sigh. So now we have a true viin couple.


    I''m not rich anymore, is that okay? Princess have to eat meat every day, so you must marry a rich man.


    It was then that he finally made a slightly sad voice. I spoke to him in a gentle voice.


    It''s my fault. I have nothing, and I''m sorry that you had to throw everything away. But Im not disappointed at all.


    I had a lot in my original life, but now I had no regrets. There was no emptiness that was always ubiquitous, unfulfilled no matter how much I poured into it.


    What I desperately wanted at that time was just one kind person, someone who would stay by my side without purpose. So it didnt have to be special.


    I was an heiress since I was a little girl, and I desperately wanted to be normal to the point of greed. Perhaps specialness was a shackle and a prison, and mediocrity was more like liberation.


    It''s freedom. You and I both.


    Noah''s lips, which had been tightly shut, lifted at my words. He turned his head toward me and spoke as if he was determined.


    But I can still buy you meat.


    "NoI don''t have to eat meat."


    Heughed pleasantly, and his low chuckle was sweet. Noah, who was staring straight ahead, thrust one hand in my direction and asked quietly,


    "Well then, since we''re going to date again, why don''t we go ahead and hold hands?"


    Instead of answering, I ced my hand on top of his. His warm,rge hand wrapped gently around mine.


    We took each other''s hands as if we were allowed a mundane freedom. The car parted the unmade road and drove forward, seemingly aimlessly.


    I didn''t even ask where we were going. It didn''t matter. I was just like a small boat on the ocean heading somewhere, without a sail pole, being pushed by the waves of fate. My future was unknown, but I felt at ease. I seemed to have reached a level where I was free from all thoughts and thought that it would work somehow.


    It looks like were going on a trip."


    I''ve never traveled before. That sounds interesting."


    Noah responded to my sentimental words as if he had just changed his mind. I didn''t dare ask him back, as it seemed quite romantic to wrap it up as going on a trip even though we were running away.


    The moonlight passed Noah''s pitch ck hair. The hair was jet ck, making the peculiarlynguid atmosphere even more mysterious.


    Noah. ck hair looks good on you."


    Did you fall in love?


    "Yes."


    His impression seemed even colder, but no less seductive. The sexy atmosphere became even darker. Why does he look so seductive? His eyes were always red and wet, and his lips, his voice.


    While I was trying to figure out where the source of his deadly sensuality was, the car we were in was driving aimlessly through the dark forest roads.


    Noah would asionally turn his head to look at me, joy in his eyes. It was the eyes that looked like it found something it had lost for a long time.


    Were going to Medea. I don''t actually want to take you with me, but I don''t have a choice in this situation were in.


    Unlike me, who dreamed of a romantic unnned journey, that man had a n for us.

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34


    ****


    Sponsored by Nikki. Thank you ?


    ****


    I thought I dozed off, but I seemed to have half fainted again. My vision was blurry, as if wearing sses that did not match the prescription.


    Through the narrowed eyelids, I could see the unfamiliar scenery of the room and the cream-colored ceiling. I could feel a soft floating sensation on my back. It seemed I was in some kind of mansion. I tried to sit up, inwardly relieved that what had just happened had been a bad nightmare.


    But my body, which had sore muscles and immobile hands as if I was exhausted, made me face the fact that everything was real. I''ve been to jail and I''ve escaped. Through the window curtains, I could see a gray, dull sky as if it would bring snow soon. And from theck of the characteristic early morning spirit, I think it was around afternoon.


    Where am I ?"


    "My friend''s house."


    As Iy on the bed asking myself a question, but suddenly I heard an answer with a gentle voice. I turned my head back and looked towards the direction of the voice and saw Noah sitting on an ash chair next to the bed, just like before.


    This man He has friends too? He was wearing an ivory colored shirt and an olive colored military cardigan with bandages all over his face. The murky eyes of yesterday''s gruesome murderer were still affectionately looking down at me.


    "I thought you were dead. Because you wouldn''t wake up."


    I slept like a dead person for a long time. As my dulled senses returned, I realized that he was still holding my hand.


    He hadnt let it go from the car to now? That was what I thought.


    After a woman who appeared to be a servant brought in some bread and soup, Noah huffed a spoonful of soup and fed me instead of handing me a spoon and fork.


    I leaned my back against the head of the bed and for the first time in a long time I was fed by him again. I frowned every time the soup touched my burst lips as it stung badly.


    What region is this?"


    The North. North Caltz.


    I didnt know where it was, but the name gave off the vibe of a cold region. Even when I was buried under the warm covers and in my warm quilted nightgown, my body still shivered from the cold. Noah put his hand on my cheek.


    Are you cold?"


    Yes, it feels cold in this town.


    "Yes. And I think the princess caught a cold.


    The throbbing head, tiredness, and chills were all due to a cold. Although small, this body was inherently strong. Like the cold weather training every year, I survived with an old nket, so I must have overworked myself. Aside from being sick, I didnt feel so bad.


    "But, Noah, isn''t Medea allied with Progen? Youre wanted. What if they deport us?"


    "The Queen is much closer to me. I stayed at her house for months when I was a child.


    Wouldn''t that make things worse for that country and Progen? I had a headache thinking about international diplomacy. Anyway, Noah seems to have more connections than I thought.


    How long will it take you to get there?


    It''s a bit of a long way. We''ll leave when youre better.


    I gently pulled my hand out of his grip and rubbed my forehead where a bandage had been applied. The slight fever still lingered, but when would it go away?


    Knock. Knock.


    I heard a knock on the door, and a middle-aged man in a burgundy gown with a tall, solid appearance walked in, smiling benevolently at me. He stroked his neatly trimmed mustache and spoke.


    Colonel Rothsilde. It seems that the Central Army Battalion will be leaving here in three days, so you''ll have to stay in mypound until then.


    Yes, and I was discharged. I''m not a Colonel anymore.


    The age difference was significant, and it didnt look like they were friends at all. Perhaps it''s because he''s from the Eastern Province, but the confusion was brought on by Noah''s anti-survival magnitude against the old opponent. The man who had been staring at Noah smiled as he looked at me, his wrinkled eyes gently bent.


    Duke, as usual, you love your funny jokes. Have a safe trip home, Lady Diana. May God bless you.


    What do you mean, "home"? I had never been to Medea. The man, who said something unknown, quickly left the room even before he heard my thank you.


    The man who spoke iprehensibly to me left the room before I could say anything.


    I didn''t notice it when I was in the city center or port city, but the somber scenery of this ce seen from the window made me realize that we were at war. Processions of soldiers in full military gear were often seen, while civilians went about their lives with tense faces.


    Primary colored propaganda papers fell on the floor, and people marched with pickets with nderous slogans against the enemy. It seemed to be simr to the World War in my original life, but I was not sure if it was World War 1 or World War 2.


    It seemed to be a mixture of 19th~early 20th century forms. Does this mean that the technology is developing faster than the times?


    It was probably the influence of the author. We may soon see a super intion of 20 million won for a piece of bread. My sense of anxiety was growing.


    I quickly shook my head to get rid of the thoughts.


    But what are we going to do now?


    Noah ruffled his dark hair and sighed deeply at my question.


    Marriage will have to wait. I''ll have to be a rich husband."


    He looked as disappointed as a man dying his marriage, blocked by the walls of reality. My face flushed involuntarily at the word "marriage."


    Can we fall in love in a world of war where there are rebels and fugitives and total state warfare? I''d like to, but  it seemed not impossible to see love blossom, marry, and have children during war.


    "I''m satisfied if we have a ce to settle down and live."


    "Yes. Diana, I can give you everything you need. I can even give you the world."


    Noah''s eyes were downcast and he answered in a seductive voice. I nodded as if I was possessed.


    Did he even say such unrealistic things? It was easy to hear even though it seemed impossible. This was all because of his deceptive face and sweet voice. I deliberately avoided his gaze and stared at the carpet on the floor.


    <i>Yes, it''ll work out somehow.</i>


    ***


    It was only the beginning of madness that the crazy Duke abandoned everything and left.


    The buildings of the arsenal, munitions factory, and the Third Engineering Department, located in the former possession of Duke Rothsilde in Progen, suddenly exploded. Citizens who heard the explosion shaking the groundst night were terrified all night, thinking it was an enemy invasion and artillery attack, and troops and police were urgently dispatched.


    Commander Rockefeller, who went directly to the scene, sighed in fear of the mes that rose like an active volcano and engulfed the surrounding area fiercely.


    "Was that what you* were going to do in the end?" (*Noah)


    This was a provocation and a warning to the Emperor. Because Noah also knew that the Emperor had ordered a captivity for Diana along with him*. (*Noah)


    It was probably a silent warning that the Imperial Pce would be next. This was the ce where they were investigating military fraud.


    It was obvious why the Emperor had ordered the investigation.


    It was the new munitions business of the former Duke.


    All the relevant documents disappeared, his secretary, Vincent, was consistent in "pretending not to know" and suddenly disappeared. Molly, who worked as a servant and kept an eye on Noah also disappeared.


    The emperor was anxious to capture Noah in fear Noah may go to other allied and federal countries to provide them with munitions weapons and military information that he had developed to check Progen''s hegemony.


    In order to prevent this, the Emperor was willing to turn a blind eye to the entricities of the bloodthirsty Young Duke, but the emperor made the wrong decision by cing more importance on Noahs authority.


    Surely, Noah was a man who could do such a thing. However, he only wanted the woman, Diana, and no one could touch her.


    The Commander had seen Noah since he was a child, and knew him very well. Noahcked empathy for others and didnt know how to love people.


    (Noah) He was just capable of grasping the thoughts of others through excellent observation and insight, and had been socialized through knowledge,mon sense, and education to act upon them and live a safe and mixed life.


    (Noah) He was not at the level of assassinating the emperor of the empire or changing regimes. Because he always went beyond the range that ordinary people would think of.


    "Are you thinking of starting a project in Medea where Progen failed?"


    This was the conclusion the Commander came to after much thought. Well, instead of changing the king of the chess horse, he (Noah) would break the chessboard altogether.


    In other words, he (Noah) may borrow the force of extinction of mankind to take control of the world just because he didnt want anyone to disturb him and the woman. It was all for her.


    Killing a few people in the era of war was not the number of madmen. Rather, it was a world full of madness where the number of lives taken was converted into medals of honor that adorned the breastte of the uniform.


    Murderers who should be considered evil willingly be actors, ying leading roles on the stage of war, giving pleasure to the monarchs, receiving praise andpensation.


    Noah Rothsilde was a madman who stood out from the rest. He was like the Thunder Emperor, who spent the life of a nation in a mad war of conquest for the mere pleasure of bringing people to their knees.


    *******


    Meanwhile, Admiral Winston ire*, upon hearing the news that Diana had escaped from prison, sat at his desk in his study with his fingers crossed in worry. His dignified, clean face was twisted in annoyance. (*the father)


    It''s funny, you always fail.


    Celine and Diana''s nanny, J, kept their hands sped and their gaze on their toes.


    J had been the longest serving member of the mansion, and was one of the few people the Admiral trusted for her unique brilliance. She was once the Admiral''s secretary, and had done well in her secret errands.


    "I kept her thinking she would be worth using, but I didn''t know shed give me such a hard time."


    There is a story that it was Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall who broke her out of prison. They say it was a dark-haired man in military uniform, simr in height and build."


    J spoke with the same calm demeanor as ever. The blue eyes of the Admiral, who was looking at the sky, turned to her.


    "So there''s a chance that even the Prime Minister (Jeffreys father) knows about it?"


    It is possible that the Lieutenants brother knows. The Prime Minister doesn''t seem to know. If he did, he wouldn''t have kept quiet about it. And as you know, this fact is not easily revealed."


    "Right. No one can be safe if it was revealed that the culprit was the Lieutenant Colonel (Jeffrey).


    The Admiral recalled the negotiation message that Colonel Noah Rothsilde sent after kidnapping Diana.


    <b><i>Give up everything you think you know, and I promise to keep my mouth shut.</i></b>


    The Colonel (Noah) knew everything and he was willing to keep it quiet. But the fact that he left Celine behind and only kidnapped Diana was questionable. And the Admiral hired mercenaries to kill Diana.


    Do you think there is another reason for Colonel Rothsildes intention to take Diana?


    "I dont know, Sir.


    J bowed and answered the Admiral''s question, and worry deepened in the Admiral''s brows.


    "Why does he say as if he knows everything?"


    Because he''s a military man who excelled in that field to begin with. Now, he hasmitted treason and fled Progen. It seems that hes aiming for the imperial power."


    No.


    The admiral, who had been tapping the desk with his fingers, made a dull sound and repeatedly clenching his teeth.


    Even if we don''t know who helped Diana escape, its clear that Colonel Rothsilde, that mad Duke, who has Diana now. I''m sure he''s trying to get his hands on Medea, a powerful country with a vast colony."


    That shouldn''t be the case, but the man is insane. Where would there be anyone who would not reach this point?


    Admiral, who used people to seek power, but the mad Duke pursued the exact opposite. That was why the Duke didn''t ask for help in revealing the truth to Medea.


    It was for the woman. J thought in her mind and remained unfazed with her head down.


    She thought she would have to take a break from writing for the time being, remembering the far past where all this causality began and the original crime.

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35


    ***


    Sponsored by Nikki ? (2/4)


    ***


    The night was deepened at the North Caltz mansion where Noah and I were staying.


    Even though the windows were blocked with thick, doubleyered curtains, the coldness of the north wind permeated, and I just couldn''t bring myself to step out of the covers. Even though the stove was on, it was still too cold.


    "But arent you going to sleep? (Diana)


    I tilted my head at Noah, who hadn''t returned to his room by midnight. Noah was sitting on the edge of the bed, slowly stirring a mug of hot cocoa with a teaspoon.


    I need to sleep." (Diana)


    When the cocoa had cooled sufficiently, he handed me the cold medicine along with it. I didn''t take the syrup cold medicine that the maid brought me after dinner because I was so surprised to see the ingredients written on the bottle. It contained morphine, opium, marijuana, and other amazing ingredients.


    I didn''t want to look like a drug addict, so I demanded and got a new natural cold remedy made from herbs. Itd be better if I woke up sweating.


    I''m going to watch you sleep." (Noah)


    Noah put his hand on his forehead and put one hand on my forehead topare and measure my fever.


    You still have a fever. (Noah)


    You can take an antipyretic and Ill be fine." (Diana)


    "You cant be sick. (Noah)


    I dont want to." (Diana)


    I took the bitter cold medicine and sipped the warm cocoa to get the bitterness out of my mouth. I staggered to my feet, brushed my teeth andy down on the bed again, where he pulled the covers up to just below my nose. I asked Noah about the owner of the house.


    Was your friend a soldier? The owner of this mansion.


    Yes. He was a friend of my father''s. He''s the deputymander of Northern Command."


    "Was your father also a soldier?"


    "Yes, he belonged to the Supreme Command.


    I didnt know much about things like military positions and affiliations, so I just pretended to understand.


    It seems hes a good man, seeing as hes helping you out like this."


    Noah stared nkly at the sky, something on his mind. The light from the gasmps leaked through the curtains and shone thinly on his face. There were dark shadows all around, a kind of anguish.


    I don''t know the criteria for good and bad. If they were good people, they shouldn''t have died, but we are also bad people in the eyes of others.


    "Um You seem to be a good person in terms of your personality. You usually resemble your parents."


    Although he was a little strange, he had basic gentleman manners and noble manners, such as opening the door first and putting a handkerchief on the seat to sit on. Because it was directly rted to education.


    "Yes. He is a good man to me. My father was a good husband to my mother. When my mother was sick, he would sit like this and watch her until she fell asleep."


    Suddenly, Noah''s lips curved into a thin line and he added nonchntly.


    On the outside, he made efficient ns and strategies to kill people, and gave orders. But he saved the lives of others and died in an ident along with my mother. Crazy, right? He was a bad person. He had killed a lot of people. And whether they were good people or bad people, he was the only one who saved someones life."


    A subtle difort crossed Noah''s eyes at the "He died saving people" part. Was it resentment towards his parents who died saving someone and left him behind?


    I guess it depends on the situation."


    I was a selfish individualist, so I had no altruism towards strangers. Still, there was a certain line, so the morality or ethics of social standards were followed, but I did not bother to teach or enlighten yesterday''s murder by annotating it.


    I have a tendency to be okay with causing harm to others as long as I don''t cause harm first. Besides


    The guards who tried to kill me, the mercenaries, how could I have pity on them for dying? They must be good people to someone, important family members. But that was none of my business. Otherwise, I''d be dead first.


    In a time when millions were dying for a single frontline position, in a world wherepassion meant the enemy would die first, it was impossible to think of others first when their lives were threatened.


    Things like good deeds, virtue, andpassion are only possible when you can afford them yourself and peace is a prerequisite. War makes everything a monster with no regard for life. It''s awful.


    I didnt know when I fell asleep, and woke up when I felt the sunlight dazzling down my eyelids. Perhaps because I had a strong body, the cold went away vainly and quickly.


    While I prepared to leave, the maid brought me a blouse, skirt and coat with ribbons and gave me a wig with long ck hair.


    I think this is good. It is close to the appearance of the people of Medea, so you''ll be able to travel safely away from North Caltz."


    She filled arge, square suitcase with underwear, socks, and clothing, as well as a forged Medea identification card.


    It was prepared by my Master. May God bless you.


    Thank you."


    I put on my wig, thanked the maid, and went down to the door. Noah, wearing a gray-green Northern officer''s coat with dark fur on the cor, held out his hand to me and smiled.


    "Your long hair is beautiful, too."


    Noah and I walked out of the mansion and saw another car parked at the entrance, not the one from Belford.


    We thought about taking the train, but it didn''t work out. I''ll take you on a train trip next time."


    Noah sounded strangely amused, as if he was going to a travel destination. I even forgot my fugitive status for a while as I looked out the window at the white winter snow and the fairy tale houses passing by.


    I once again felt horrible as we passed gray scenes of shelled ashes, crumbling buildings, and vicious steel frames.


    We drove for a couple of hours, escaping Progen Empire territory of North Caltz and into neutral territory. Fortunately, we got there early, as the snow was plowed cleanly, probably because of the path of the armored vehicles.


    The princess slept really well, even though the soldiers were shooting madly when we passed through the Belford border. Mmmyou''re sleeping again."


    Noah, who was driving, looked at me and spoke in a strange tone. I dozed off again, still wrapped in my wool nket, and suddenly I came to my senses. I realized that if I got in the car, I would feel sleepy, as if I were suffering from narcolepsy.


    It seemed that I slept really well everywhere.


    From the car window, I could see the darkened sky and distinctly different building styles. Then again, it seemed colder here than in North Caltz.


    But the cozy atmosphere and the pretty houses with red triangle roofs reminded me of Eastern Europe, where I had been before. Baroque-style stone statues were erected on the river that crossed the bridge that connected the city center.


    On the sidewalk, a man in suspenders and a hat was using a long stick to light streetmps along the street and turn on gasmps.


    "We''ll stay in Hagen City today and leave tomorrow."


    Noah stopped the car on the side and got out to escort me. I got out of the car and closed my cashmere coat tightly, startled by the terrible cold that hit my skin. I quickly forgot about the mood swings of traveling to a city with a romantic atmosphere and going on a date.


    Why is it so cold? Arent you cold?" (Diana)


    "Soldiers don''t get cold easily." (Noah)


    "You''re not a soldier anymore." (Diana)


    Yes. Then I''ll be the knight that will protect the Princess." (Noah)


    By the way, how long do I have to do the princess concept? I walked after him, suppressing the tickle of unfamiliar affection in my heart. We went into a nearby restaurant and had a meal apanied by warm wine.


    I was a little worried about his financial situation, ordering an expensive steak despite the need to save money.


    "Do you know anyone who lives here as well?" (Diana)


    No, I don''t." (Noah)


    "Then where are we going to sleep?" (Diana)


    Noah replied casually as he took my te, cut the steak in pieces, and ced it in front of me.


    Hotel." (Noah)


    I was silent for a while and looked at his face. I''m sure he didn''t say that with the intention of going to a hotel as lovers. I tried to erase the dangerous red imagination that was emerging. I remembered the idea that I was the one who had gone rotten and smiled nonchntly at him.


    All right. I''ll treat you tomorrow, since you''re always helping me.


    In the inside pocket of the coat my nanny had dressed me in before I was ced in solitary confinement, I found the prize money from the drawing contest. I don''t know how she found the prize money that I had hidden, but she must have put it there beforehand. I could exchange money here, which was a neutral country, and then go to Medea and use it again. It was about 3 million won, so we should be able to rent a house.


    Yes. Thank you very much."


    Noah chuckled, his pretty eyes bent.


    We left the restaurant and he led me to a grand hotel that was at least in the five star ss of mour and luxury. I looked at Noah with an absurd expression.


    "We need to save money now I can sleep well anywhere. I sleep well in the car, too."


    "I cant let the Princess sleep anywhere.


    "I sleep a lot."


    "Great. I heard there''s a hot spring here. The bedding and furniture are all top quality.


    His peculiar temperament was showing. He didnt hear what I was saying. I sighed and followed him. If we kept going like this, wed be beggars soon. We were bankrupt, but he was living the same rich man style.


    I walked into the luxurious hotel room, stood in the middle of the room and was silent for a while. Noah took off his coat and sat on the velvet sofa, unfolding the newspaper on the table.


    Have you rented just one room?" (Diana)


    Yes. (Noah)


    I repeatedly squeezed and stretched my hand, feeling so nervous. It was cold, but my palms were oozing sweat.


    Then we''ll sleep together..


    I can only rent one room due to circumstances. The princess must stay in afortable ce. Ill take care of myself.


    Noah smiled, lowering the newspaper he was reading a little, but there was a strong sense of pity, a kind of protective instinct.


    It was filled with an air of devotion that said, "I''m fine, as long as you''refortable. Ill take care of myself. Does that mean I''ll be the only one in luxury and he''ll sleep outside? Even though I''m self-centered, I don''t like to cause trouble for others, and I feel ashamed and guilty all over.


    If it hadn''t been for me, he would still be living in luxury and prosperity, but I felt my back stiffen with guilt, so I grabbed my skirt and said,


    Let''s sleep here together. Where are you going to sleep when it''s so cold.."


    Noah''s gaze sharpened for a moment, which may have been an illusion on my part. His lips lifted in satisfaction and his blue eyes narrowed like a crescent moon. It was as if he was a scheming man who had seeded in a n that he had been preparing for a long time.


    Are you asking me to sleep with you? The princess is as aggressive as ever, isn''t she?"


    The newspaper in Noah''s hands had long since gone far away.


    I''d forgotten for some time that he was a mischievous man. He was a fox-like man that took your words and made it into something he wanted.


    Rising from his seat, Noah approached me and tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear. I flinched at the feeling of his fingers grazing my jaw. The neat cor of his shirt, closed ascetically, was instead immorally stimting and unbearably sensual. Noah looked at me withnguid eyes, then let out a low, seductive voice.


    Then lets wash up first.


    Oh my God. How can this man be so racy when I didn''t do anything?

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36


    ***


    Sponsored by Nikki ?


    ***


    I couldnt breathe easily. The air was cold and we had a firece, but it felt hot from inside my stomach.


    Washing up first was a signal that was all too obvious to me, having originally lived two years and experienced numerous rtionships in my life.


    Noah leisurely pulled his tie loose and unbuttoned the cor of his shirt, one by one. But that was all. After unbuttoning just enough to reveal his neck and corbone, he lifted his chin and looked at me with a peculiarly odd expression.


    I had never seen or heard of such an atmosphere of stoic sensual contradiction except from that man.


    "Aren''t you going to take a bath?" (Noah)


    "Oh, I''m going to take a bath." (Diana)


    I was a puppet tied to that man''s strings. Just as he said, I moved my body awkwardly, grabbed my pajamas from my suitcase, and quickly ran into the bathroom. After the bath, I came out in my nightgown, Noah looked back at my squirming figure, put down his newspaper and stood up.


    "I''m going to take a bath too." (Noah)


    I nodded nervously andy down on the bed, pulling the covers over me.


    Don''t sleep first."(Noah)


    I sighed low at Noah''s words. I could feel my heart beating faster than usual, as if I had an arrhythmia. Why did he say I can''t go to sleep first? I didn''t do anything and now it was already lethal. I was going to have a heart attack in just a few words.


    He seemed to be taking a long shower. It had been 20 minutes. My mind was clearer and crisper than at any time, though not because of the words "don''t go to bed first. I jerked at the sound of the bathroom door opening and closed my eyes. The freshly washed heat and the scent of his body rushed to my nose.


    "Are you asleep, princess?"


    I tried to pretend to be asleep, but who was I fooling? So I gently lifted my eyelids. Asmonly seen in dramas and novels, I was afraid that I would see a primitive figure with only a towel wrapped around the lower body, revealing the muscr body without filtration (although it''s a difference in taste, I don''t like it).


    However, perhaps because he was an educated aristocratic man, he was cleanly dressed in a shirt made of a flexible material that did not wrinkle, and monochrome cotton pants. As he leaned toward me, he smelled of the same soap that I smelled, and his clean shirt smelled freshly washed.


    The buttons on his shirt were moderately loose, and the more subtle he was, the more it felt crazy. It was a strange fascination, the more he hid it, the more seductive.


    "I''m going to bed now."


    "Already?"


    Noah pulled up the covers higher and patted me. I replied softly, ncing up at him.


    "You should go to bed early, too."


    "I''ll watch you sleep."


    He sat down on the edge of the bed with a kind look on his face and looked down at me. Sure enough, it was a wholesome night as usual.


    I don''t know what to think of this man who has the eyes of a ferocious beast with the prey he wants in front of him, but the demeanor of a meek herbivore.


    Was he being cautious or too skillful? Why was it that I was the only one who had strange thoughts like a lecherous demon? I turned to another topic to change the delicate atmosphere.


    "Noah, when will we arrive at Medea?"


    "We have to go through the neutral station, so it will take a few days. We''ll probably do some sightseeing during that time. There are many nice ces to see on the way."


    Noah looked troubled for a moment, and then, puzzled, he asked again.


    "You''ll stay with me forever, right?"


    "Yes. I don''t have anywhere in particr to go. I don''t even know anyone.


    If you did, would you go?"


    "No."


    "You know, the king of Medea is only supposed to marry people of Medea''s bloodline. That''s why they mainly marry the most prestigious nobles of their constituent countries."


    I heard that before. It''s a clich. It''s perfect for passing on a gic disease, like the imperial families of the Roman Empire.


    Where is the Roman Empire?"


    I paused for a moment, thinking, then chuckled.


    "It''s the country in the novel."


    "I see. Medea is very proud and self-assured of their race. That''s why Medean cannot be treated carelessly in any country."


    I frowned a little.


    Why do you treat me so well? Is it because I have Medeans appearance?


    "That''s why I kidnapped you."


    "What? I"


    I told him about the time I almost died in prison. I had never revealed to him the fact that the Admiral used me as a kitchen iron, which was crude and enormous. The Admiral had no intention of negotiating with him after the abduction and sent mercenaries to kill me. But the way Noah spoke like he knew everything.


    Noah."


    I raised my upper body and tugged on Noah''s sleeve and he pulled me easily towards him. I let out something I always thought was funny but never asked.


    "How long have you had a spy in the Admiral''s mansion? And why did you kidnap me?"


    Noah had all the smile he could spare with a serious expression on his face.


    The fairy tale writer. I put her there. It was a long time ago."


    "A long time ago?"


    Yes.


    Why did you take me and not Celine?"


    Noah slowly tilted his head to my sharp question. His hand wrapped my cheek.


    To date and marry.


    Noah smiled with his eyes like a charmed fox. He apparently had no intention of answering seriously. I decided not to ask any more questions, since I was certain that if he was bleeding enough toe to my aid single-handedly, he didnt have a bad intention. Everything happens for a reason, and probably there were reasons he couldnt tell me.


    My princess. The day I came to rescue you again.


    "Yes, what about it?


    Noah''s fingers slowly made their way to my neck. I flinched a little at the sensation of his fingertips rubbing against my skin, but I purposely kept my expression in ce. He grabbed the rose diamond ne that was on my neck and peered at it.


    I was happy to see that you had been wearing the ne I gave you.


    I remembered the day we parted. It was Christmas day, when the snow was falling and the farewell song was ying. I had the feeling that maybe that song was the one that made us break up. If I had waited for Noah at the fountain, I would not have met the Lieutenant Colonel.


    "The song yed by the band on the day of the engagement ceremony. Was it No More Love? Do you know that song?"


    "I heard that song when I was a kid. A princess who stayed at my house for a while used to listen to it on a gramophone and even yed it for me on the piano. "


    A princess?"


    Yes, she''s the current Queen of Medea. The three of us listened together. "


    Noah said she was there for a few months. He didn''t say who


    the third person was.


    the rest of us were. He was a man who only told you what he wanted to, so I didn''t try to understand him, I just asked him about the song. I was not going to interrogate him about using the engagement ceremony to kill the Lieutenant Colonel. I already knew the reason. But that was the kind of person he was. He was the kind of person who chose no means to achieve his goals.


    I guess Progen has a different interpretation of the title.


    "In Progen, it means no more love. Each country interprets the title differently.


    "Yes, I asked because it''s a familiar song."


    "I''m sure you''ve heard it often. It''s famous."


    I covered my mouth and yawned, feeling tired. When Noah saw me, heughed in a low voice and leaned back.


    Get some sleep. We have a long ride ahead of us tomorrow.


    "Okay.


    He kept a reasonable distance and said something like, "Good night, conservative," as he sat up properly. I felt a strange sense of regret and resentment under his gaze. He said that for no reason.


    Eventually, I just blinked and fell asleep.


    ***


    I woke up to something soft on the tip of my nose that tickled a little. It was still early dawn, it seemed. I rubbed my nose and gently opened my eyes and was surprised to see something.


    A ck haired man with harmonious features was next to me and sleeping peacefully. I still couldnt get used to that ck hair. It was Noah''s hair that tickled my nose.


    I looked under the covers just in case, and was relieved to see that I was still properly dressed. Did he sleep next to me because I asked him to sleep with me? Carefully, I closed the distance and surreptitiously observed him.


    He frowned a little, but he was beautiful in his sleep. I felt sorry for his face, which had bandaids everywhere. Somehow, I felt like poking his cheek. Hsi skin was smoother and plumper than I expected.


    Noah furrowed his brow and gave a strange sigh. Oh no. I wanted to hear it again. My hand, once again going to his face, was stopped in its purpose and held firmly in his hand. His dark blue eyes, visible through the narrowed gap, stared at me with an agile gaze. I smiled awkwardly, feeling embarrassed.


    "Im sorry. Sleep more.


    " You''re awake already?


    Noah, who had a drowsy voice, covered my cheek with his hand. I swallowed hard and answered.


    "Its been a while."


    Did you have a bad dream?"


    No.


    He stretched out like a cat or a beast and let out a deep breathing. His hand dug into the stuffy nket. He grabbed my hidden hand and held it.


    It''s nice to sleep together.


    Noah, who was holding my hand, slightly squeezed it and let it go, smiled with his sleepy face.


    "Let''s stay together like this."


    Yes.


    I was about to say, "What?" But I said it differently. I dont know why even his sleepy appearance was sensual. I took a small deep breath and closed my eyes, suppressing my heart that was about to jump out of my chest.


    The moment I dozed off again, I felt something warm and fuzzy touch my eyes. While I was off guard, Noah lightly kissed my eyes.


    My face burned hot from the heat that spread from where his warm lips touched me. I pretended to be asleep, closed my eyes, and immersed myself in thousands of thoughts. Innocently, I couldn''t sleep well with just a kiss.


    In fact, it was true because I was not naive.


    ***


    It was morning and the winter sun was shining warmly in the room. Noah was already up early, dressed and ready to go, as he was an industrious man with a military background. As I lifted my heavy eyelids, I could see Noah''s wide back standing upright and drinking water.


    As he was drinking the water, he turned around and smiled softly. Dressed in a shirt and neat tie, a dark blue vest and suit pants, he looked as seductive as a hero in a movie.


    Are you awake? Have you eaten?


    Yes, I woke up early."


    I brushed my messy hair roughly with my hands, then washed up and changed into my activewear. I ate the breakfast that was brought to me like room service, packed my bags and went outside to get in the car.


    On the way, we stopped at a money exchange in the city center to exchange my winnings and also bought a ham sandwich to eat on the way. The weather was cold, but perhaps because it was a neutral country, there was little of the war weary mood. There was a sense of peace and rxation.


    A white, snow-covered mountain ridge passed like a moment from the car window. I could see the indigoke bordering the sky and the wide winter hills where herds of grazing sheep were gathered. It was a marvelous naturalndscape that could not bepared to the modern world.


    We arrived at the next city and entered a crowded square.


    After Noah parked in front of the hotel, he opened the trunk of the car and pulled out two ratherrge travel bags. He carried them so lightly.


    What are they?"


    Noah didn''t reply, but smiled at my question. He entered the hotel, which was also overly luxurious. I silently stared at him checking in. Noah and I walked into the room and as soon as I saw the contents of those mysterious bags, my mouth dropped open.


    Those tworge bags were full of money. It was a scene that I had only seen in dramas and movies with hundreds of millions of won.


    I asked in a very quiet voice.


    "You just rented a room and pretended to be poor, didn''t you?"


    He said he was going to sleep outside, and pretended to be sad, was it all a ruse? Noah''s eyes wavered thinly, as if he read my gaze. He rubbed one hand around his mouth and smiled beautifully.


    "It''s true that Ive be poor. I told you there was a reason."


    "What is it?"


    "It''s that I want to be with you forever."


    This manCan I trust him?

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37


    ***


    Sponsored by Nikki ? (4/4)


    ***


    "Let''s get out. We can eat and watch shows.


    Noah suggested, ncing at the money in his bag.


    As I sat on the hotel couch, I nodded in faint anticipation, but I was no longer worried about money. This was the moment when we were upgraded from backpack travel to luxury travel.


    I tend to be a homebody, but I also like traveling, and when I go out, I y well, although not for a long time. Once Im out, I have to finish all my errands before going in in order to feelfortable.


    Compared to me, who searched through my suitcase and dressed with maximum care to keep warm, Noah was wearing a ssic chesterfield coat in a shade that matched his suit.


    He always kept a neat and nice appearance, apparentlying from an upper ss aristocracy. Except for the military clothes, all of his clothes were top quality, made of expensive fabrics.


    It was not an iprehensible situation since he was a man who had hundreds of millions in cash even if he was poor in words. How rich was he before? It was amon belief in academia that rich people are rich even when they fail. After Noah put a lot of bills in his wallet, he kept the rest in the safe in the hotel room for safekeeping. He said, "It''s not very safe here."


    I wrapped a wool scarf around me and holding Noah''s hand, we left the hotel and walked around the town, looking here and there as if we were sightseeing. He stopped in front of a medieval style building with columns supporting the ceiling not far away. It also looked like a courthouse.


    "There''s someone I''m meeting at the Royal Exchange."


    Noah exined gently, bending the corners of his eyes.


    Inside the Royal Exchange, well dressed stockbrokers, auctioneers, financiers, and businessmen exchanged stories over cigars and brandy.


    As we went inside, a man with dark hair and blue eyes, wearing a monocle, approached us. Tall and nicely suited, he held a cigar and smiled nicely as he alternately looked at Noah and me.


    Long time no see, Duke. No, what should I call you now? Noah?"


    Jace Grenenl. It''s been a long time.


    I opened my eyes wide at Noah''s words, "Jace Grenendall. He was the first son of the Prime Minister of Belford and sessor to the duke. He was Jeffreys brother. What on earth is Noah and him doing here? Moreover, Noah had almost killed Jeffrey, Jaces brother. I slipped past him, pretending not to know.


    Are you going to keep smoking like that?"


    Noah stared nkly at the cigar in Jace''s hand. Jace, who had nced at me with a face somewhere between nervous and bewilderment, smiled at me, then looked at Noah again and extinguished his cigar.


    ''Let''s go inside and talk.


    We headed to a private room inside the trading post. Noah walked into the room and sat down next to me.


    This is Jace, an earnest banker."


    Jace frowned as he heard Noah''s general introduction of himself.


    Why do you say it so loosely? My name is Jace Grenendall. I''m a financial entrepreneur and the president of Kelheit Bank."


    "Its okay. She doesnt need to know the details. What did you do with my money?"


    Don''t be rough. The money is properly stored in the vault of my bank. Because of federalw, I will not leak any customer information even if the dirty thunder emperores directly to me."


    Was this the kind of bank that received ck money no matter what, and got a tremendous storage fee? Jace chuckled and leaned back on the couch, lifting his chin.


    "Do you know why I helped you so much, Noah?


    I know it''s not just the Duchess''s will.


    Its a part of it. Businessmen don''t do things without benefits.


    And since it fits in with my mother''s will, there''s no reason not to help. Anyway, how are things now?


    "Yes. Factories have started operating on the sites of Cynthian, Mertania, and Hitar of Medea empire.


    It seemed that the field performance tests had already been done. Seeing as how youve made it this far without dying."


    I didnt know what the two entrepreneurs were talking about. I listened to their conversation in silence and cut them off modestly.


    "Are you talking about cars?"


    Jace looked at me silently for a moment, then chuckled.


    "Yes. I have some shares in the automobilepany. If it wasn''t for that car, I don''t think you would have made it out.


    I thought long and hard, remembering how I had witnessed a technology that was ahead of its time. Maybe it was the influence of the writer of this story, but this world had ate 19th century feel to it in terms of culture and ideas, and an early 20th century,te modern feel to it in terms of technology and military weaponry.


    I was told that Noah had taken over the steel business and had mainly been involved in the railroad and military businesses. Flickering through my mind, I asked with nervousness at the conclusion that suddenly came to my mind.


    " are you developing military weapons? You know, armored vehicles, fighter jets, new guns?"


    Noah and Jace were both staring at me at the same time. I smiled awkwardly, thinking I had misspoken due to the unexpected and deep attention, and Jace looked at Noah and asked with a strange expression.


    Did you tell her that?"


    I didnt.


    How do you know? Youre smart!


    Yes. I read a lot of books."


    Oh, well, that response was as good as a default.


    It was clear that Noah wanted Medea to provide him with military weapons technology to use against Progen and Belford in the future. I dont know if it would be revenge against Progen or an effort to get rich. I don''t know how far they have developed, but whatever the world it was, human nature is the same and history will flow the same way.


    I suppose that means this world will continue to wage war until the day I grow old and die! If I make a mistake, the ce where I am settled will be considered a war criminal, or I may face nuclear weapons in myter years as a result of the karma of making enemies of the world. Seeing my face full of anguish, Jace swept his chin.


    Youve invested a little too much in your girlfriend. Hopefully, you will be able to live in luxury for your children.


    "Yes  I don''t know much about this field, so please feel free to talk to each other.


    I pretended not to know and touched a tea cup.


    I''m going to go now, the princess will be bored if I talk about boring things. You can talk the rest to my secretary."


    "Is your secretary still working? The high-ranking noble secretaries are the most pitiful. They work almost like ves in business."


    Noah stood up, straightening his clothes and pulling me up by the hand. Jace lifted his wine ss and advised.


    "I think you should go to the Cynthian Empire. You know the Cynthians my father helped."


    I have to go to Medea. As you can see, the princess is of Medean descent, so even if she is half-breed, she will be protected on a national level.


    What, I''m curious. Well, I wish you luck."


    Jace stood up, handed Noah a suitcase with one hand, and smiled. I don''t know what was in it, but I''m afraid Ive participated in the mastermind''s n.


    May God bless you, princess."


    Jace lifted his ss high as if to congratte me. Even that man called me princess. My face heated up and I bowed my head in greeting, turning back to follow Noah.


    I remembered Jeffrey, whose mother was Medean, and looked at the pitch-ck hair of his brother, Jace. Noah seemed to know about me better than I know myself, but he won''t tell me the details.


    If I asked him openly, he would change the subject. We left the Exchange building and had ate lunch at a nearby restaurant. The tables were set up in a separate space, perhaps for couples only.


    Outside the window, snow-covered mountains with clouds in the distance looked like a mirror of the blueke. A restaurant employee was taking orders and serving in a dantle apron, wearing a white blouse and skirt like an Alpine girl''s uniform. The employee, who had braided red hair, looked nkly at Noah''s face and set his te down loudly.


    Noah cut a crispy cutlet from a te with a bird on it and handed it to me, smiling as he looked at me.


    Well go on a ship. Do you get seasick?"


    No, I don''t think so, but I think it''s very beautiful here. The scenery is nice.


    It was like a free trip to Europe on the pretext of escaping. It was fun.


    I rested my cheek on my hand and looked out the window at the fine houses and small alleys just below.


    Children were cheerfully ying on the streets, which were regrly paved with stones of a certain size. I felt warm and contradictorily peaceful in the winter sunshine that harmonized with the joyful voices of the children. Just thinking about this warm color turning into the gray of the war made me shudder.


    Noah looked at me with a hint of peace in his face.


    Then we will rest here today and leave tomorrow. If you like it here, shall we live here next?


    Okay. Actually, I don''t care where we live.


    "I don''t mind either."


    He drank a warm drink and spoke to me intimately. Actually, it''s easy to live anywhere as long as you have money. But with this man, I felt that I didnt have to worry about money and have a pleasant trip wherever there was.


    "It''s nice to see it together


    Unfamiliar words escaped my lips, and I quickly fell silent. I shuffled my toes and tried to get back to the conversation, but Noah had a very happy expression on his face, as if he had heard everything.


    Really? Do you like being with me?"


    Yes."


    "I''m happy whenever you say that."


    I was a little embarrassed that he seemed to know that I was a blunt person.


    I''m a little indifferent, aren''t I?


    That''s fine. Just stay with me. Stay with me when I eat, when I walk down the street, when I sleep, when I bathe"


    "Bathe?"


    I couldn''t help but raise my voice, so I quickly mped my mouth shut and looked at the faces around me. Fortunately, it was just the two of us, so no one heard it. After taking a moment to rx, I whispered to him.


    We''re not in that kind of rtionship yet.


    We''ve slept together.


    Thats true but.."


    "What''s the rtionship that the princess thinks of?"


    There was a low chuckle deep in Noah''s throat. He asked, knowing better than anyone. I was no match for him. I got caught up in this man''s pace. That mellow look in his eyes makes my sluggish heart tense.


    And today, he''d only rented one room. I don''t know if he was trying to torture me or testing me. It was even harder for me because I was an adult who was already getting used to people. I put a piece of chocte cake for dessert in my mouth and eventually avoided answering.


    Wow, it''s so sweet.


    To my amazement, Noah leaned toward me and wiped the chocte off my mouth with his finger. He nodded as he lightly put his chocte-covered finger in his mouth and tasted it.


    Yes.


    The sudden action of this insane man was embarrassing. It drove me crazy.


    Why do you always get food on your face? Is it because you have a small mouth?"


    My eyes shook. Noah''s eyes were beautifully folded when he saw me freeze. With a stiff expression on my face, I lifted a napkin and rubbed it hard around my mouth, eventually covering my face with both hands.


    I wanted to cry. I couldnt even look at him because I could feel my face turning bright red. In a devastated voice, I asked.


    "Do you enjoy teasing me?"


    "Dont you torment me?


    "I''m not picking on you, but you''re embarrassing me!"


    Noah looked worried as he wondered how to organize the words.


    You don''t like it?" (Noah)


    His voice subsided slightly, and his eyes drooped sadly. He leaned forward again, bringing his face close to mine, and looked at me with an apologetic expression.


    Thats not it.." (Diana)


    I closed my eyes for a moment, unable to bear the sight of his dazed gaze. Why does he always tease me in a rxed manner?


    Why doesnt he touch me? Why does he draw the line?


    The frustrations that had always been raised but silently ignored by those who had jurisdiction over the deepest parts of our hearts and desires finally exploded.


    In the end, as soon as I gave up and opened my eyes again, I noticed that Noah''s face was much closer than I expected. The eyes underneath theshes looked hazy. We were so close that the tips of our noses rubbed against each other. His sharp chin tilted gracefully.


    Before I could assess the situation, there was a low sigh and something warm and soft reached my lips, boldly. The heat rose and my dry lips became moist and wet.


    I shivered at the feeling of his tongue smoothly licking and wetting my lower lip as if he was tasting it. I couldn''t breathe and froze.


    Noah''s lips slowly parted from the contact, and he gave me a peculiar smile as he slowly licked his lips.


    "You don''t like this either?" (Noah)


    He asked in a drowsy voice, as he kissed me vaguely between a light kiss and a deep kiss. I couldn''t answer him, of course, because I was too distracted. I was just looking at the dimples that were lightly reflected on his cheeks.


    I felt dizzy, even though the kiss had onlysted a few seconds. My restrained sensuality was scorching me inside, leaving me in agony.


    One word, it drove me crazy.

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38


    ***


    I lightly rubbed my lips, but I did not know what to do with the dense traces, so I remained as frozen as a statue.


    I tasted savory wine, tangerines, and oranges with a hint of cinnamon wafting from my moist lips. Noah sat unperturbed and drank his drink with oranges and tangerines.


    It was too vague to call it a kiss, but if he really did it, I might have a heart attack. Noah, who had been watching me fall into silence, put down his ss and gave a low sigh.


    "Well, I guess the Princess doesnt like it."


    "I don''t hate it."


    "I know. I asked because I wanted to hear it."


    He smiled jokingly and showed the utmost cuteness. His expression was as charming as ever. When I had nothing more to say, I fanned my hands and downed a lukewarm cup of Earl Grey. Its nice to be together, but its painful because hes too attractive. This man always puts me in trouble.


    This evening, we were still holding hands as soundly as ever on therge bed in the hotel. Noah, who was lying on his side with his own arm as a pillow and looking deep into my eyes, asked gently,


    Will you continue to sleep with me?


    " I''ll think about it and see."


    I bit the inside of my mouth softly, the look in his eyes that pretended to be so innocent was strangely decadent. I''m not even scared. What do you think I can do?


    But I don''t dare to challenge the ascetic and sexy man first.


    It''s just that I''m not of sound mind, and I have a hard time being bought. It''s all about the mind. I wiped my face and tried to sleep with my eyes closed. I didnt need to be conscious of anything but his breathing, which sounds strange sometimes. I didnt have to think about the careful touch of the hand held with pure intentions.


    I''m d you''re just like me."


    I heard Noah''s low voice as I dozed off in a daze.


    "What is the same?"


    "That we have nothing."


    Who was he fooling? Even if he threw it all away, he would still have money somewhere. He said it with a tone of satisfaction, but the content was empty. In the darkness, his low voice mixed with murky breaths continued quietly.


    I don''t want you to think of anyone else but me. I am d you are selfish."


    Was that an emotion caused by the death of the Duke and Duchess of Rothsilde?


    At the Royal Exchange, Jace said. Essa people saved by your father.


    It was very likely that his father was killed for saving the Essatians, even though it was an ident. The Essatians were a tribe that only a few remained from the genocidemitted by the Progen invasion.


    Noah''s experience of being left alone as a child may have made him feel a sense of sympathy. With thosest words came the sound of a long exhale and an empty silence. I closed my eyes again, waiting for the long silence to be broken.


    His hand, which was holding mine, slid down and cupped the hollow under my neck. Is he giving me an arm pillow? That''s cute.


    The night with the cute, crazy man was long, but in a different sense. The morning that came as the fruit of our patience was exhausting.


    I don''t think I''ve slept more than two hours since we shared one bed. Tiredly, I finished my preparations and sat down on the couch, wearing a ck velvet dress with a whitece cor and a coat.


    How can that man be so lively and gorgeous? He wore a ck officer''s uniform with red lines on the sleeves and neckline and a full coat. His pitch ck hair was swept back, revealing a handsome forehead.


    Were going to travel on a ship this time. If you go out on deck at night, you can see the Northern Lights. Sounds interesting, doesn''t it?"


    I''m looking forward to it. Where is that uniform from? It looks good on you."


    The uniform of the Medeas officers has been arranged by Progen. There may be a checkpoint before you get on the ship.


    Oh, then I should call you something different.


    "You see your forged identity card with the name Deanne Allen on it? I''m Captain Daniel Allen.


    Why do we have the samest name? Are you brother and sister?


    No, we''re husband and wife. We have the same hair color."


    . It was definitely a concept.


    Noah folded the corners of his eyes neatly and made a happy, slyughing sound. We had a quick breakfast and headed out of the hotel to catch the boat to Medea.


    At the pier, arge passenger ship was waiting to depart, slowly swaying with the undting waves. Seagulls flew over the sea, making small cries against the background of the sound of the waves and the boat''s whistle.


    I saw soldiers who wore Progen uniforms tearfully saying goodbye to their loved ones and families. It seemed that they were going to the front via here.


    Noah, who had loaded the vehicle onto the passenger ship, followed my gaze and stared at the soldiers. He gave me a bleak look as if he was seeing something different than what I saw. There was a sound announcing the departure of the ship we were going to board. Sailors pulled the ship''s entrance stairs over the pier.


    Before boarding, I felt a little nervous while showing my ID to the coast guard. Perhaps I was wearing a wig with long hair. A young coast guard, who was looking at Noahs ID and spoke.


    Youre the captain of Medea. Are you returning from Progen?"


    Fortunately, there was a difference between Noah''s appearance and the thick, dark lines of Progen''s distinctive face. He has sharp eyes with a long, narrow jawline and a straight nose, and his overall look was urban and light. With his hair also dyed ck, we looked


    enough like a Medean couple.


    Yes. I belong to the General Staff of the Median Army. My wife and I came here and are on our way back."


    Noah replied, hugging my shoulder with an affectionate touch. His serious military tone seemed unfamiliar to me.


    I see you''re still newlyweds. Theres a wanted woman, who is of mixed Medean blood. So its difficult. If we make a mistake, the Medea will express their regret. I hope you don''t feel ufortable."


    "I understand. Thank you for your hard work."


    Noah smiled at the talkative Coast Guard and spat out polite half-formal speech. Now the coast guard, who believed us, allowed us to board the ship.


    The moment we stepped safely onto the deck, our bodies, which had be so stiff that even breathing was restricted, seemed to melt away.


    The passenger ship was filled withdies wearing fancy, wide-brimmed hats and simple dresses, and gentlemen in suits. Noah, who was holding a square suitcase made of leather material in one hand, whispered quietly to me as if it was a secret instruction.


    There are soldiers and police on the ship as well, so be careful.


    Okay.


    We should be arriving early tomorrow morning, but until then, we act like a real couple.


    I''m not really sure how real couples do it"


    I remembered my parents'' expressionless faces and the cold atmosphere. My parents, who were married in a political marriage, didn''t seem to be close at all, even to my childish eyes.


    "It''s different between husband and wife, even the way they call each other, isn''t it?"


    Noah took off my hat, stroked my hair, and spoke softly. The wind blew and shook my long hair. Noah''s delicate touch adjusted my messy hair as he spoke.


    It''s cold, so lets go in, honey.


    His murky blue eyes glowed with amusement as he spoke in a slightly darker voice. The bottom of his gracefully curved eyes were plump and raised. There would be no heart left if I stuck with this man, calling me "honey" with such a pretty smile. He seemed to like what he was calling me, and started to abuse the word "honey" a lot.


    "Honey, I see the snow melting over there.


    It''s a beautiful day. Honey."


    He followed me relentlessly with a coercive gaze as if he wanted me to call him honey too, but I just couldn''t talk.


    In the middle of admiring the sea ice floating on the ocean, a dark-haired woman who looked to be in her twenties approached Noah, smiling beautifully.


    She wore a simple satin dress with a narrow skirt with supple falling lines, and a gorgeous hat with feathers and corsages. She looked like a fashion-conscious woman of the upper ss.


    "Oh, you seem to be a Medean officer. Your rank insignia says you are a captain.


    "Yes, that''s correct."


    "My name is Zelda Mason."


    Noah looked at her tastelessly, with the disinterested expression as if looking at a seagull sitting on a sail, even though she was an attractive beauty with wavy, fluffy hair and a pretty face.


    I propped my chin up and looked out across the sea with the simple thought, "I knew he was popr.


    Do you want something?


    Noah asked the woman named "Zelda" straightforwardly, and her white cheeks turned slightly red.


    I was worried because I dont have a partner to go with to the party on the boat in the evening.


    Thats too bad.


    Despite Noah''s monotonous tone, the woman covered her mouth and smiled nonchntly.


    I''m asking you to be my partner. My father is a personnel strategist in the Medea military. . If you don''t listen to the request, you may be assigned to a harsh area of the colony.


    Under her coercion, Noah''s smirk suddenly changed into a grimace as both ends of his lips were twisted.


    "If you want to be thrown into the sea, continue, Miss Zelda." (? I cant with Noah lol)


    The woman called "Zelda" opened her eyes wide at Noahs coldnguage and looked at my face instead of Noah''s. Her movement caused the fluffy feathers of the hat to flutter like wings.


    That''s amazing. There''s no change in your expression at all.


    What do you mean?


    Zelda covered her mouth and giggled.


    I''m Zelda Mason, Queen Medeas maid and knight. My title is Baron."


    Does Medea still have a knighthood?


    "Yes, it does. It''s the Royal Order of Knights that protects Her Majesty the Queen. It ordains and confers knighthoods in four ranks, focusing on those who have made achievements. I''m here on the Queen''s orders. I hope the two of you will arrive safely.


    Baron Masonughed gaily and took my hand as she continued to talk.


    The state is obligated to protect anyone with Medean blood in their veins, regardless of their origin. The Rothsilde family and the Queen have a deep connection. Normally, we would have to do a separate bloodline investigation, but you have a guarantor and your face looks Medean as well.


    I smiled as she held my hand.


    Yes, thank you. Baron.


    "You two are lovers, aren''t you?"


    "We''re about to be married."


    Interrupting, Noah took my hand, correcting Baron Zelda Mason''s words. Baron Mason gave me an envious look and tugged at the hat ribbon pinned to her chin.


    I''m jealous. Anyway, have a good time. I''ll stay out of the way and watch you from the periphery. I''ll see you at the harbor.


    When Baron Mason turned around, the gentlemen approached her as if they had been waiting for her. I asked Noah as I watched them.


    Are you that close to the Queen?"


    "Very close. I informed her beforehand that I was on my way to take the framed Medea woman with me."


    Noah, who had answered my question, added.


    "If you get to Medea, Vincent and Molly will be waiting."


    "They went to Medea?"


    I can''t help it. Since they are suspected of helping me, neither of them will be safe there."


    Molly and Vincent''s expressionless and gloomy faces came to mind, making me feel a little ashamed. Before I knew it, it was afternoon and the sun was sinking below the horizon. The sky gradually turned purple with bands of blue and scarlet. Noah, who was watching the sunset with me, had the sunset in his blue eyes.


    "The sunset from the ship is really beautiful, isn''t it?" (Diana)


    "Yes." (Noah)


    Noah replied simply as I marveled at the scenery. I thought it was beautiful as I admired the sunset over the ocean, but he was looking at me watching the sunset. More precisely, he was watching my expression and reaction.


    After seeing the smile on my face, I finally felt a sense of satisfaction on his tasteless face.


    "Pretty." (Noah)


    He wasnt looking at the sunset.


    Noah was insensitive to the natural scenery, the beautiful sky, and theke where ciers melted into the color of opal. If I said it was beautiful, he just agreed. I could see the aurora earlier, too. He added the somewhat unsuitable phrase, "Doesn''t that sound interesting? which was a somewhat unsuitable expression.


    I thought about how no matter what I wore or how I looked, he always had the same reaction when I talked about change. I ruminated again on the feeling I had when I was with him. Noah was not like most people.


    His reactions and emotions were not based on empathy for the minds of others, but were the result of keen observation, and seem to be learned.


    I don''t understand that man''s mind, and I don''t know for sure what the asion and reason for his blindness was, but I have only guessed from the beginning until now. His emphasis on the fact that I was just like him was just a hint.


    Of course, I don''t think there is any reason to love someone, but our rtionship seemed to becking something and felt abstract. I was simply convinced that the ideas of the witty, insane man could not possibly beprehensible to the public. So we decided to get to know each other.


    However, Noah was a man who faithfully fulfilled and embodied what he said.


    I didn''t know what he said at that time "I can give you the world" wasn''t a sweet, dense phrase in the usual sense.

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39


    ***


    The Prime Minister of Belford sat in front of his son, looking terribly angry. Sitting at his desk, he put his clenched fist under his chin and looked at his son with sharp blue eyes.


    Jeffrey stood neatly in his military coat, facing his father.


    Are you sure you didnt do it? I heard that the witness saw a man with dark hair and wearing an officer''s uniform.


    She was going to be released eventually. There was no reason for me to act in such a way when escaping would have made her look guilty and put me at a disadvantage.


    Jeffreys words were not wrong either. The ne in question was testified to be the Duchess''s belongings, and since the witness who testified that Diana had entered the Admiral''s quarters had disappeared, she had to be released without further evidence.


    Is it possible that she got help from Medea?


    Yes. There is a high possibility that the Progen colonel took her to Medea. I heard that he disobeyed an imperial order and even escaped the country.


    Duke Grenendall lifted his chin, leaning backfortably in his chair.


    I see. Jeffrey. Despite your efforts, she has escaped from prison. You''re the only one who''s in trouble. Why did you try to help a woman named Diana?"


    As I told you then, it was for my mother.


    She''s a lot like your mother, with a lot of secrets."


    The witnesses who testified must have been handled by him as well. Duke Grenendall sighed inwardly, convinced. He hadn''t intended to ask about the charges of helping her escape in the first ce. He had to know who this Diana ire woman was.


    Why would the Duke and Colonel of Progen take her to Medea, breaking even the imperial order, and why would his son, Jeffrey, be so willing to help her to the point of damage and disadvantage?


    It was clear that she was rted to the Duchess, his dead wife. He thought about what he didnt want to know due to his promise to his departed wife. Perhaps Dianas identity was also directly connected to his wife''s death.


    Jeffrey did not reply, but stood straight and looked down at his military boots. He reminded himself once again that he had made the wrong decision.


    He thought it didn''t matter, as long as he could protect her and keep her safe. But what Diana really wanted was Noah Rothsilde, that man


    ***


    I didn''t care if Noah''s emotions and empathy were less than the others.


    In a time when nations were fiercely at war and in strife, having a superior capacity for empathy and sympathy would only reduce your lifeline and make you suffer.


    Such a disposition would have allowed him to survive on the front lines as an excellent field officer. In fact, I think I was the problem because this man was more aggressive and expressive than I was.


    Why did he like me and what does it mean? After all this time, it didn''t matter to me.


    He was like an evening shower that fell without warning. Just because it wasn''t in the weather forecast and we were soaking wet from the rain didn''t mean I wasnt worrying about the reason.


    We finished our dinner in the dining room, which was only open to certain passengers, and went up on deck again.


    The dark blue sky with the aurora spreading like a silk curtain and the stars scattered about was spectacr. The fluorescent aurora was beautiful, but as night fell, the temperature dropped and the harsh sea breeze seemed to cut my skin.


    I crouched my shoulders every time the wind made a sharp noise and passed my ears. The spectators were drinking high strength vodka and whiskey to drown out the cold.


    I tugged on Noah''s sleeve, shivering in the cold like a country pup.


    It''s too cold.


    "Yeah, lets go in. You get cold easily."


    You''re not cold?


    No. I''ve slept outside a lot in the middle of winter.


    He meant training in the bitter cold? I walked into the special room, wrapped a wool nket and sat on the couch to keep the cold out, while Noah fired up the stove.


    He filled a mug with warm tea and handed it to me. We sat side by side on the couch in front of the stove.


    "Is it still cold?"


    "Yes."


    Noah came in the nket and pulled me close to him.


    "I think I''m cold too."


    "All of a sudden?"


    Noah leaned my head on his shoulder and nodded. My body was warm and I waspletely wrapped up in his broad arms. My hand, holding a warm mug, grew more tense.


    Yeah. Suddenly."


    He seemed to have a lot of charm. I think I saw nine wagging tails. I lowered my gaze and stared at my toes to avoid being caught with a reddened face.


    I feel strange because I smell like him as we used the same soap. The scent of thin sandalwood soap wafting from his neck, blended with my body scent, made me lightheaded.


    I used my sideways nce to look up at Noah, and he immediately looked down at me as well. A warm color drifted into his mysterious blue eyes under his pitch ck hair.


    As soon as the too-handsome man made eye contact with me, he smiled with his characteristic gleeful eyes.


    "Shall we go to bed now?"


    "Yes.


    Thest part of my reply was slightly off, but I stood up, deliberately unconcerned.


    I took a shower and dried my hair in front of the firece. When it was dry, Noah was alsoing out of the bathroom, rubbing his wet hair with a towel.


    Noah, do you have to keep your hair ck?


    No, my hair color was unique and I only dyed it when I ran away in case they found me. I''ll change it soon, do you like it this way?"


    "They''re both beautiful."


    My personal preference was for the original frosty hair. But dark hair was also fashionable and seductive. He pulled the thickforter up over my body as Iy in bed, then heid down next to me, ced his hand on top of theforter and began to tap it lightly.


    Good night.


    "Why do you always watch me sleep?"


    "It seems to have be a habit."


    I felt my body sink into the fluffy bed sheets, tired from the trip. When my energy ran out and I sighed, I heard a low voice ask.


    "Do you want an arm pillow again?


    The edge of the breath I let out choked in my throat at the sound of his drowsy voice.


    ***


    The sun has not yet risen. I was in a troubled state, unable to breathe out loud or turned over in my sleep.


    When I woke up gently in the deep dawn, my face was buried in the hollow beneath Noah''s corbone. It was true that he had called it an arm pillow, but now he was hugging me with my head between his shoulder and his chest.


    I tried to take my body out, but my body was tightly trapped in his arm, so it was impossible. If I didn''t, the sound of my heart, luminescent on its own, would knock against his body.


    But when I couldn''t help but raise my head and look at Noah''s sleeping face up close, that one was very good. The sharp chin, the straight lines of the nose, the full lips, the closed eyes and the long eyshes were all in harmony.


    The shadow of the face under the high nose looks sweet. The number of bandaids on his smooth face has been reduced slightly.


    I carefully studied his face and lightly brushed my fingers across Noah''s cheek. I wondered why his skin felt like a baby''s when he was in the military.


    His plump, beautiful lips were softly spread in a seductive way. It looked like the forbidden fruit I wanted so badly and it caused an unbearable thirst.


    I seemed to have gone crazy.


    I brought my lips there as if I was possessed, and, startled at my own impulsive behavior, I hastily tried to back away.


    But then Noah''s firm arms tightened and he hugged me tighter to make sure I couldn''t escape. He opened his mouth and let out a sigh.


    This guy  he wasn''t sleeping!


    "Do you secretly kiss me every time I sleep?"


    He asked, smiling and whispering. A lowugh mixed with sighs was deadly.


    No! It''s my first time!


    I spat out a bizarre semi-formal speech in bewilderment.


    You don''t have to do it in secret. Thats sneaky.


    " From now on, you have my permission.


    Then do it now."


    His lips curvedzily. Thenguid look in his eyes, just awakened from sleep, was very tempting. He wants me to do it first? I couldnt do it even though I was a mature person with a lot of experience.


    Noah, who had been waiting for me for a while,ughed when he saw that I was as stiff as a stone statue.


    He covered my face with his hand and made eye contact with me.


    Your face is hot. Do you have a fever?"


    He said tly and gave me azy sigh as he handed me his arm and helped me lie downfortably.


    "Get some more sleep. You must be exhausted."


    I inwardly marveled.


    <i>Wow, this guy is really great. Self control at its best.</i>


    It seemed that if I was going to Medea, I needed to avoid sleeping with him.


    It was like he was waiting for me to put down a decoy, waiting for me to get myself together first. After he aplished what he wanted, he smiled wickedly and spoke in a sensual voice.


    The princess is really aggressive, isn''t she? So cute.


    I will never kiss you first. I''m like this mischievous person. I had a strange urge topete.


    I dozed off for a while and then woke up with more fatigue. It was still early in the morning, six o''clock, and through the window of my cabin, the sea mist had lifted and I could see the undting currents and small inds.


    The sun was slowly rising as the golden color began to glow above the dark blue horizon. We seemed to have almost reached Medea. Wasn''t it said that this is thend of the eternal sun? The sunrise looked very big.


    Noah was already up and ready. He adjusted my messy hair as we arrived safely at our destination. He said to me,


    Did you enjoy your trip?"


    Yes.


    It was fun, but I also suffered from the fact that I felt like I was sleeping with the enemy.


    Noah gave me a cup of warm tea, sat down on the couch and opened the newspaper.


    Go get ready. Breakfast will be in the capital of Medea. I have also prepared a mansion for us to stay in.


    I nodded, drank my morning tea and headed for the bathroom. It was surprisingly easy for us to get here. He was a good officer with excellent strategic tactics, so he had well nned his retreat route and escape n.


    While waiting for the vehicle after getting off the passenger ship, Baron Zelda Mason, whom I had met yesterday, approached. Dressed in a pale yellow silk dress with a white fur scarf, she smiled brightly as she looked at us.


    "Go to Chevant Manor today to rest, ande to Tempshire Pce tomorrow. The Queen would like to see you all."


    "Yes. Tell her I''ll go alone."


    Noah''s answer made Baron Mason''s beautiful face look suspicious.


    I think the Queen would like to see Diana as well."


    Next time. Diana has a fever."


    I didnt have a fever, but I was a very thoughtful person. I looked at her with a tired look on my face and she smiled at me.


    Okay, Ill tell her. Our queen is generous."


    Baron Mason greeted me, then turned around and disappeared.


    We drove out of the port city and headed for the capital where the Chevant mansion was located.


    The United Kingdom of Medea, which consisted of the Kingdom of Medea, Magnolia, and Estria, was a huge colonial empire with numerous colonies, and the scale and resolving power of its attached colonies were among the highest in the world.


    However, since the Betlin family, which produced many royal families including the Spencer royal family, did not recognize the legitimacy of the empire, the Queen only served as the emperor of the Cynthian Empire and was not given the official name of emperor.


    Queen Grace II, who ruled over the entire United Kingdom, was the recipient of the love, loyalty, and respect of the Medean people.


    It seemed to be a different form of totalitarianism and fascism that ruled with violence and fear, enforcing blind loyalty and sacrifice to the country and forcing the group not the individual. Originally, they had spread mass ughter throughout history, and under certain circumstances, something like that might happen in this world.


    While we were discussing and thinking about this and that, before we knew it, we arrived at the Chevant Mansion where we were going to stay.


    It had been used by a famous Medea family, a nobleman, but it seemed to have been vacant for a long time. Fallen leaves that had naturally umted in the garden covered the path, making a rustling sound as we walked.


    As we entered the mansion, Molly greeted us, her face still expressionless. She had a bandage wrapped around one of her arms.


    Molly? What''s wrong with your arm?"


    She didn''t answer my question, but looked Noah up and down with a cold stare.


    I shot her.


    Noah answered instead, as if it was nothing.


    What?"


    Otherwise Molly would be caught and tortured. That would be more painful, wouldn''t it?


    Molly sighed in disgust and led the way to my room. Fortunately, Noah and I had separate rooms, but it was useless.


    At night, he came to my room, naturallyid down on my bed, and tapped the sheets as if to tell me toe to him.

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40


    ***


    Logan Field, the capital of Medea, was much warmer than the countries weve been through. They had warm winter weather with a few days that dropped below freezing, so it rained a lot.


    The sound of rain tapping on the morning window was quiet. The scenery of the garden formed in a circle in the water droplets sliding under the window.


    The floor of the garden, where sugar maple, ginkgo, and raspberry trees were evenly nted, was colored with fallen leaves, and the mother persimmon tree had brownish fruits hanging from it. There were obvious signs that the leaves had been hurriedly cleared away on the path.


    The gray sky, with its heavy wet rain clouds, was a very different color from the smoky sky of the lonely war.


    It seemed that Noah had gone to the Tempshire Pce early this morning to see the Queen.


    Yesterday I had barely seeded in getting Noah out of my room.


    He huffed and puffed and choked in a lonely voice, "Didn''t you promise to always sleep with me?" but I stillck the experience to sleep with a cute, sexy man.


    I stretchedzily. It had been a while since I had a good night''s sleep and my body felt light.


    I changed into my in, everyday clothes, a striped silk blouse and a long, monochromatic skirt after my bath. Wrapping the shawl around me and going downstairs, the maids smiled and asked about the food.


    It seemed that Molly was now more of a secretary than a maidservant, like Vincent. I heard that Vincent was also in Medea, but I hadnt met him yet.


    I asked Molly about how she was able to serve the evil employer who had shot her arm. She gave a materialistic answer, He gave me a lot of money.


    I''m sure the secretary did the same. So this is how the voluntary ves of capitalism are born.


    I went to the dining room and ate a simple meal of buttered white bread and drank a cup of coffee. The square radio on the dining table was ying a jazz-like song that was popr here.


    There was also a dial telephone on the first floor, at a time whenmunication and radio wave technology was being actively developed. It was like experiencing modern civilization firsthand, which was new to me.


    "This ce is developing so fast."


    The maid, who often smiled at my monologue-like words, looked at me and smiled innocently. The wrinkles on the tip of her nose were quite cute.


    "I bet theyll fly to the moon someday.


    I asked with a chuckle as the servant replied as if it were a line from a fairy tale.


    "Lenny, how old are you this year?"


    Sixteen, mydy."


    If they do well, Lenny will see them fly to the moon while youre still alive."


    Lenny opened her eyes wide and smiled. She brushed a strand of neatlybed hair in disbelief.


    Is it that fast?


    It could be faster.


    Who said that even if theres another world, history will all flow simrly as long as mankind dominates it.


    How can the Ladys hair so ck? It''s like the pure bloodline of Medea. Normally only high ss nobles and royalty with bloodlines have perfect ck, most are dark brown or dark chestnut."


    Lenny stared at my hair and marveled at it. To the human eye, it may look the same ck hair, but there were slight differences between individuals.


    I don''t know. My father is Belfordian. I''ve never seen my mother before."


    "I see. Your skin is too white. Its fascinating.


    The women in Medea were Snow White wannabes and prefer pitch ck hair and pale white skin. So they use cosmetics such as white lead and mercury to whiten their skin, and dye their hair ck with sulfur, lead and lime.


    Today, this would be astonishing. Mercury and lead poisoning may cause early death. Fortunately, Noah had only dyed his hair once and hadn''t done it since. It was gradually turning ash gray and I could see the color fading.


    But when is Noahing?


    ***


    Noah was at the Tempshire Pce with Vincent. When Noah saw that Vincent was sweating and nervous, which was unlike him, he tilted his head curiously.


    Why are you so nervous?"


    I can''t believe I''m about to meet the Queen in person."


    "Why are you so nervous? Shes not a tyrant.


    "Isn''t she so beautiful? I saw her from afar when she was in Progen for a while, and she was glowing"


    "Yes, shes pretty. Just like Diana."


    The Queen is more beautiful. (Vincent )


    When Vincent came to the door of the audience chamber, he wiped the sweat from his forehead with a handkerchief, coughed loudly, and adjusted his voice. His light brown hair was tousled and his eyes trembled shallowly.


    The door to the audience chamber crafted with pumpkins, slowly opened and Vincent gazed breathlessly ahead.


    Queen Grace II, wearing a crown, sat in a luxurious armchair with a dazzling smile on her face. She was wearing a fancy dress, white fabric with a sash of royal blue, the symbolic color of Medea''s royal family.


    May God bless Her Majesty Queen Grace II, the Eternal Sun of Medea.


    Vincent bowed nervously, but Noah only smiled.


    It''s been a while." (Noah)


    Vincent''s eyes widened and he bowed deeply. He looked alternately at Noah and the Queen with a look of disbelief.


    <i>It''s been a while? </i>What is this crazy Duke saying? What kind of arrogant attitude is that to the Queen! No, he''s just a crazy man because he doesn''t even have a title.


    How are you? (Queen)


    Good. How is the Queen?" (Noah)


    The two of them converse like long lost siblings. The man even uses a half-hearted honorific for the Queen.


    Vincent had heard that the two were close friends, but he was nervous and looked around, wondering if this was the right thing to do. He was afraid that he would be arrested together for being rude, but that kind-hearted and graceful Queen just epted it with a generous smile. God.


    I heard that the girl you brought is sick. Is she okay?


    She had a fever, so I let her rest. Ill bring her back next time."


    "I see. I heard you''re engaged to be married. Erica is crying and stuff. That girl has to have what she wants or she''ll lose her mind."


    <i> My Goddess is talking like a normal human being.</i> Vincent looked at the Queen''s beautiful face in a daze.


    Her light blue jewel-like eyes, her pure white face without a single wrinkle, and her well-defined features like a doll can be seen as being in her twenties.


    Her long white neck stood out with neatly tied up pitch ck hair. She blinked her longshes and looked at Vincent.


    "Vincent Ford?"


    Yes, Your Majesty.


    I understand that you have helped Duke Rothsilde and the child of Medea. I hope you stayfortable in Medea."


    "Yes, yes. Your grace is like a river, Your Majesty.


    Queen Grace smiled gently at Vincent''s faltering words. Noah stared at her smile with aplicated look on his face.


    Since you''ve already been stripped of your dukedom, Ill give you a title in Medea. You will be Count Noah Rothsilde."


    Noah nodded at the Queen''s words.


    Thank you.


    You''ve already be such a wonderful young man. It seems like only yesterday that you were a young boy, but now youre getting married.


    Drenched in sentiment, the Queen rested her elbows on the chair''s armrest and sighed shallowly. Vincent borated on each of her noble actions with a nce, with the face of an admirer of a masterpiece.


    <i>When is she not beautiful? This year, shell be mid thirties. But she just gets more beautiful as she ages.</i>


    Her husband, who was about to be the state secretary, died early, and since then the world has been saying that she never had a lover. The royal family always married early, so it was not surprising that they had a grown daughter.


    Now let''s get to the point. Let''s talk about the Progen Empire."


    Noah straightened up and smiledzily. Queen Grace, who had been resting on her cheek, raised both ends of her lips gently as she looked at Noah.


    We have formed a coalition and we have given our support, but we do not want such an undignified and barbaric nation to be the mainstay of the world. But the prolonged war has diminished Progen''s national strength.


    I will leave it to Progen to take control of it with their military power. Belford has already lost so much to the Progen that there is no need to worry about it any more.


    "Why is that?"


    "As long as they have a strong hegemony, they will get drunk on the strength they have and abuse their power senselessly, only to be considered a public enemy'' and isted in the middle of the world at ater date."


    "Oh.


    Queen Grace let out a short exmation, as if she understood. They will be eliminated with the whole world as their enemy. The surrounding powers were already showing signs of restraint.


    Vincent, who had been peering at the Queen''s beauty in the midst of it all, swallowed his saliva at Noah''s strong statement. It reminded him of the massacre of the Essat oncemitted by Progen.


    It was an hical criminal act in grant vition of international wartimew, and was both grounds and reason for international condemnation and judgment.


    Noah''s mother was an Essat who was subjected to genocide, and Noah''s father, Noel Rothsilde, saved her from the camp and even married her.


    This was worthy of the Emperor''s wrath, but he even got the Archbishop''s official permission, saying it was just "love" rather than rebelling against the state or challenging it politically.


    His statement, "Is there a reason for love?" left everyone speechless.


    The former Duke withdrew from the imperial line of session, renounced his right of session, and called himself a loyalist. At the time, the military forces that he had led the fierce war to victory had a strong influence in their country, so they could not openly touch him.


    In the end, the former Duke and Duchess died in an "ident".


    The coercive rule wielded by an empire was always a target that must be eliminated, buying the fear of those around it, rather than working back and manifesting in revenge, hatred and anger.


    Noah''sing to Medea and attempting to make Progen go into decline may seem to be one of those chain effects of a simr nature, but the reality was otherwise.


    It meant that the madman, not wanting to be disturbed in what he was doing with the woman Diana, wanted to make an example out of the empire and put Medea on top.


    Vincent, who was well aware of his intentions, was looking at Noah with a look of boredom.


    "Queen. I''ll tell you my future ns."


    Noah smiled at the Queen.


    ***


    Princess Erica hurriedly dressed up at the news of Noah''s arrival at the Tempshire Pce and headed for the audience chamber. She had visited the Queen and wasing out, when she saw a dark-haired Noah walking down the archway.


    She shooed away the servants, hiding the signs of her impatience as she approached.


    "Noah, you''ve made it."


    Im seeing Princess Erica.


    Vincent greeted her, but Noah only looked at the princess with a nk expression.


    Would you excuse us, please? I have something to say to Noah in private.


    When Princess Erica asked with her haughty, cat-like blue eyes, Vincent nced sideways at Noah and left. Noah looked at the Princess with an uninterested expression.


    "What is it you want to talk about?


    Are you going to keep talking informally to me?


    "What is it?"


    "Ha.


    The Princess, her mouth twisted, fanned her hands and stifled her anger. However, that senseless face was handsome, she couldnt give up on him who was even rude.


    I have no intention of bing queen.


    So what?


    I''m going to throw it all away. That''s what you said, didn''t you? You told me to throw it all away.


    Did I say that?


    "You''re trying to make sure if I''m really going to throw it all away, aren''t you?"


    "I wasn''t trying to make sure of anything.


    Noah, who had been looking nkly at Princess Erica, who was straining her ego with her short-tempered tone, smiled. Thinking it was a smile for her, the princess looked at Noah with a face that looked like she was about to cry.


    "I heard that when my mother had me, you promised that you would protect me and marry me."


    No, that wasn''t you."


    I definitely heard that. Thats what you said when you were young.


    That''s true.


    You''re trying to push me into a corner with your engagement. I think you are urging me to renounce the throne as soon as possible. You just want to check how I feel!"


    Noah, who had been looking at her in silence for a while, opened his mouth.


    You''re clever, too. You should do well."


    At Noah''s gentle words, Princess Erica raised her sped hands and looked back at Noah''s back as he moved away, holding her reddened cheeks.


    He really was a strange man. After putting her through so many trials and tribtions, yet leaving everything behind toe to Medea.


    The Princess, who had fallen into a strange illusion, bit her lip and mumbled to herself.


    <i>What are you doing, Admiral (Dianas father)? If you dont hurry with your task, (Noah)hell even marry that woman (Diana).</i>


    Noah, who had turned away from the Princess and was walking down the hallway, covered his mouth with his smooth hand andughed quietly.

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41


    ***


    (*Admiral Winston ire is Celine and Dianas father. The first half chapter focused on him and the Queen)


    Sitting alone on the couch in his quarters, Admiral Winston ire crumpled his forehead at the news that Diana and Noah had arrived safely in Medea.


    The letter in his hand was distorted in the same way. This letter was sent as a prompt by Princess Erica.


    He had expected their handling on Progen''s part, but they were very prepared and cleverly slipped through the cracks. Now that they had already gone to Queen Medea, there was nothing Progen could do about it.


    This was a country where ethnic ties run deep and people were willing to go to war for the sake of a single Medean. The story of how they sent battleships and fighter nes to a country that had detained and killed a Medean archaeologist and his family, and turned it into a colony, was well known.


    <b><i>"I will ept the price of taking the entire country hostage for the death of Medea''s descendants."</i></b>


    This was the deration of war by Queen Grace II, who was very angry at the time. The Queen, who was usually said to be merciful and generous, also had a frighteningly ruthless side, like the two sides of the moon.


    Moreover, Diana was close to a pure-blooded Medean in appearance alone, which was reason enough for her to receive the kingdom''s protection.


    <i>So that was your n after all? What was your suggestion to keep your mouth shut? Was it just a bluff? (One time, Noah said he would not tell the Queen about Diana if the Admiral let her go)</i>


    Nevertheless, given that there was no issue in Medea yet, it seemed that the Duke (Noah) had not taken any action. He couldn''t understand the insane Duke of it all.


    There was only one reason why Noah was willing to abandon everything and take Diana, even to the point of dying under the stigma of being a traitor.


    To reveal Dianas true identity to the Queen. If that happened, all his (the Admirals ns) ns would be thwarted. A deep worry crept over the Admiral''s forehead as he held his temples with his hands.


    He thought of the past.


    <b><i>I betrayed you? You tricked me into doing that! That''s not what it''s all about for me!"</i></b>


    His young voice was as raw as if it were yesterday.


    He didn''t have a choice. Maybe it was because he was serious at the time, but the response that came back was human contempt. Pieces of the revived afterimage flooded in like a tidal wave with various emotions and quickly escaped.


    He will have to live with it for the rest of his life, giving it back to the poor Celine. He buried the guilt that surfaced as he rationalized it as it was for his daughter.


    ***


    Tempshire Pce, the Queen''s office.


    Queen Grace II was sipping bergamot-scented tea and conversing with Baron Zelda Mason.


    She smiled kindly at the Baron standing before her, but there was something cold about that smile. As the elegant movement followed, the earrings on her ears sparkled and shook weakly.


    "Zelda, the child that Count Noah saved is the daughter of Admiral Belford. (The Queen gave Noah the Count title in thest chapter)


    Baron Mason pondered for a moment who the Count was, then nodded, remembering that Noah had received an honorary knighthood from the Medea.


    "You mean the woman the former Duke rescued? That''s right. But seeing as she uses another surname, it seems she was emunicated.


    "Did Admiral ire marry a Medean woman and have a child with her?


    The Admiral''s wife has been dead for quite some time. The girl, Diana, is probably the child of his second wife. We have no information on the second wife, and she is currently deceased. Looking at her appearance, its clear that Dianas maternal lineage was more of Medean bloodline.


    The Baron''s report made the Queen feel unpleasant. Unable to hide the mixture of disgust and disdain on her face, she bit her lower lip to soothe her emotions. She gracefully set down her teacup, maintaining her dignity.


    "We have a duty to protect our people, but why did Noah do it? It''s not in his nature to help people for no reason.


    Baron Mason, who stood quietly with his hands together, looked at the tips of his shoes for a moment, troubled, and then smiled brightly.


    I think it''s love. He might have fallen in love with her at first sight when he met her by chance.


    By chance? There must be a reason for everything. Nothing happens by chance. The Queen''s brow furrowed slightly, not liking the word.


    Immediately she suppressed the unpleasant memory and adjusted her expression. It was strange that this Noah Rothsilde would fall in love with an ordinary man. It had been strange since the beginning, when he had made such a big deal about getting married.


    He had always been strange since he was a child.


    The Queen''s green eyes went to the Baron.


    Zelda. You know very well why I helped Progen.


    "To defeat Belford and divide and rule."


    The Baron answered the Queen''s sudden question in a standardized manner and probed her intentions. The Queen smiled without incident, hiding her inner thoughts. Superficially, that was true. In reality, it was a personal vendetta.


    When will Dianae to meet me?


    "I''ll tell her toe and see you as soon as possible."


    Baron Mason retreated politely, and the Queen, with her cheeks propped up, gazed at the flowery scent of tea water in the cup. There was a strange thought in her calm gaze.


    There was a time when the Medea and Belford were in an alliance.


    Winston ire, a promising young Belford man, was a naval captain at the time and stopped in Medea for a while, where he happened to meet Queen Grace when she was a Princess. Coincidence can be the fate of the century or a powerfully intertwined bad rtionship.


    He was a young man who was born the third child of a marquis family and was ambitious, and the girl who was born into royalty and had power. Their meeting was the beginning of a very bad rtionship.


    (*Is Diana the daughter of the Queen and the Admiral? I still dont know about the dad but Diana is the Queens daughter for sure.)


    ***


    Lenny, dressed in her maid''s uniform, came to my room to tell me that Noah had returned from the Tempshire Pce.


    After a long time of lounging around in my warm bed all day, enjoying my indoor instincts, I slowly woke up. As I wrapped my nket around me and made my way downstairs, I saw Noah entering the front door.


    As he took off his cloak and handed it to the servant, Noah looked up at me as I stood at the top of the stairs. The moment we exchanged nces, there was a stillness in the air that I could not have known. I smiled awkwardly at him, but for some reason he didnt smile at me.


    Youre back, sir


    Yes.


    I could feel the coldness on his expressionless face. His sullen voice was as cold as a winter breeze.


    The man who was firmly sulking at me passed by me and strode up the stairs. I looked back to see what I had done so wrong, but all I was guilty of was telling him that I would not sleep with him from now on. I walked into his room. It was a little painful, like I had a blister.


    Noah, did something bad happen?


    Noah loosened his tie as he looked back at me. He had the same expression on his face as before as he spoke.


    "It''s bad enough"


    While staring somewhere, I carefully reflected on what he said, and Noah finally chuckled. At first nce, it sounded like a drowsyugh.


    Suddenly, Noah came up to me and leaned over to look down at me.


    A corner of his lips tilted, which was different from his normal appearance and looked dangerous. It was that look he used to show in the beginning of the game.


    He wrapped the tie he had removed around his hand and unbuttoned one or two buttons on his cor. His long slender fingers didn''t stop there, but gradually moved down to the third and fourth buttons.


    With a constant sound, I backed away, startled by the ever-widening gap in the cor of his shirt. The sight as it was to my eyes was very unnerving.


    I closed my eyes as if I had witnessed the moment when a forbidden secret that I was not supposed to know was revealed. A calm and gentle voice rang in my ears.


    "Are you going to stay? I''m changing my clothes..


    "No, no. I''ll go out."


    I covered my eyes and retreated, intending to leave before his upper body was exposed. But my foot got caught on the threshold in a really conventional way.


    With a short scream like a winter migratory bird, my body lost its bnce. Fortunately, there was a sturdy, military man in front of me with good reaction time and motor skills.


    He grabbed my hand quickly and prevented the back of my head from breaking, and he slowly made eye contact with me. Normally, he would hug me or hold me by the waist in a tango position and ask,"Are you okay?" It''s a ssic question.


    However, he just held my hand with one hand with a nk expression on his face. I was leaning in an inclined position and holding on like hanging on to his hand.


    He didn''t pull me up any further, even though the situation was too hard for me to bnce myself. Noah''s grayish blue eyes suddenly narrowed and he smiled bewitchingly.


    I put pressure on my toes and finally craned my neck and asked.


    "What are you doing?"


    It was a genuine question. I didnt know what this was intended to be. I tried to push up on the ground with one hand, but he pulled it up and my hand was only swinging in the air.


    The tie that was wrapped around his hand fell smoothly to the floor. Noah, who saw a sign of embarrassment on my face, tilted his head and smiled.


    Stop joking around.


    I gave him an appropriate response and pulled his hand with both of mine, then he raised me up slightly and dropped me again. My back bent in a curve again and I screamed.


    Arghhhh!


    "Did you do something wrong to me?"


    Noah grinned and looked down. It was an evil grin, like, "You shouldn''t have done that to me."


    Is he exhibiting a crazy propensity for not being able to empathize with other people''s pain, but rather being happy about it? How could he use the aesthetics of falling'' to create a romantic situation like this?


    What did I do?


    You broke your promise.


    No, no, no! What''s wrong with you!?


    I showed my willingness to let go of his hand, even though I was going to fall backwards, but his hand gripped me rather more firmly.


    My backbent more and more dangerously. If I get up, I wont leave him alone. With a look of resentment in my eyes, Noah gently inclined his head.


    Hmm. The criminal who broke her promise is ring at me.


    Please let me up so I can apologize. My back hurts."


    I deliberately gave him a pitiful look and he slowly helped me up, supporting my waist. He wrapped his arms around my waist and gave me a cold look. I looked this way and that, trying to avoid his gaze, but he insisted on following me and making eye contact.


    "I won''t do anything. I didn''t do anything until now, right? (Noah)


    The problem was that he hadnt done anything from the beginning. It''s the old idea of a scruffy adult. We were in a healthy rtionship without even kissing properly. He continued to urge me to do so.


    "Huh? I wish we could sleep together."


    His hand lightly swept my back, making my neck numb. He shouldn''t show such sweet words and attitudes but control them when they were important. I frankly refused with a hint of appropriate Confucianism.


    "I''m sorry, but no. We''re not even married yet.


    We''ve already slept together.


    "Others won''t think soundly.


    "We are promised to be married, right? What does it matter what others think?"


    I wasn''t sure I could win this argument, so I kept my mouth shut. Noah, who had been waiting for a while, eventually took out his secret weapon. He looked at me with a pitiful face with his eyes down sadly.


    Do you not want to sleep with me? I even give you an arm pillow and pat you on the back.


    It was a unique poor cat face that inevitably weakened the viewers.


    Of course, the fierce beast was pretending to be a cat. Under the assumption that I was the king, and if he was to ask me to stop the war with that expression and voice, I think I would listen to him.


    No ."


    The "no?" question and that look were also my greatest weaknesses.


    In the past I had coldly left him and he thought I left because I didn''t like him. So I thought the word "no" was thoroughly off limits to him. As much as I hate to say it, the ability to properly operate on someone''s weaknesses should be highly valued.


    "Are you scared of me?"


    He asked in a whisper, and his eyes stared at me clearly. I felt distracted, so I nodded and tried to regain myposure.


    No.


    I don''t have anything else on my mind, so don''t worry. It''s just that I like being together."


    His kind words made me cry from the bottom of my heart. I really wanted to cry. Can you please make your other thoughts a little vigorous?


    Okay.


    Eventually, I nodded. The lips of the man who got what he wanted drew a smile of satisfaction.


    Of course, I could tackle this aggressively first, but it wouldn''t be easy. I didnt have the courage to confront this elegant man, whose sanctuary will never be broken.


    "Well, that''s it then"


    For now, I was going to go back to my room and avoid him, even if I had to pretend to be in pain or to go to bed early. But I inadvertently forgot that he was five steps ahead of me.


    Noah''s hand ovepped over my hand holding the doorknob to sneak out. He closed the door.


    I gulped down my saliva as I was trapped in his arms. The murky blue eyes, which turned fierce, were subtly curved.


    His hot breath reached close to my cheek. His lips grazed my ear, and he whispered in a voice as low as the sound of his breath.


    I don''t think you can get out of my room until morning."


    The voice subdued me and bound me. I was ineffectual and he was demanding.

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42


    ***


    Celine had not yet recovered the wounds she had received from Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall.


    This year, at neen, she was old enough to get married. Numerous proposals and the courtship of nice men came pouring in, but she liked Jeffrey and the Admiral wasn''t ready to let her marry.


    People thought he was a caring father who didnt want his daughter to marry yet, or she didnt have any partner who was considered worthy.


    In many ways, Celine was relieved that Diana had left. She knew that the Duke of Progen had taken Diana with him.


    Perhaps Jeffrey was hurt because the woman he risked his life to save had followed the man who kidnapped her.


    Celine headed to see her father. There was something she wanted to ask him. Why did he want to kill Diana?


    Her steps were heavy as she walked. Every time she went up the stairs she heard a creaking sound nervously.


    She knocked and opened the door gently, but the Admiral''s room was empty.


    Knowing that it was a great disrespect to enter the ownerless room, she slowly walked inside. Maybe it was an impulse.


    Sitting on the couch, quietly looking around her father''s quaint, oak-scented room, Celine opened the bottom drawer.


    This was an action she could do because she was a trusted and loved daughter. Her crisp green eyes went to one crinkled letter.


    The wax seal that affixed the envelope had been neatly cut with a paper knife. The letter, which was ced heterogeneously between neat and stiff documents, seemed to contain something important.


    After looking around for a while, Celine began to open the letter.


    <b><i>[When are you going to do it? I have to give up the throne as soon as possible.]</i></b>


    <b><i>[I heard there is a suitable heir to the throne. If he marries the other woman, I can''t cooperate anymore, and if you don''t, I''ll do as I please.]</i></b>


    What is this?


    Celine left the letter in its original ce and left the room. When she came back to her own room, she tied her long, gray hair into a knot and looked back at the contents of the letter.


    Abandonment of the throne, a proper heir to the throne, someone''s marriage.


    <i>Princess of Medea* sent it, didn''t she? (*its Erica)</i>


    It must have been sent by the heir to the throne of Medea, who could not marry the person of her choice. She was willing to give up being Queen because she loved someone who was not a Medean*. (*Its Noah)


    Is it because she''s blinded by love? Celine scoffed as she thought of the Princess who must be getting jealous of the other woman.


    It seemed that the Princess was not very smart, seeing that she sent a letter with all the details without hesitation. It was an immature Princess who whined about what she wanted.


    But who was the other sessor?


    <i>Its not me, is it? Is that why my father turned down all the marriage proposals that came for me? But Im not Medean and I dont have Medean appearance.</i>


    Celine was a shrewd character. As she tilted her head in wonder, a presence came to her mind that she had forgotten.


    Diana.


    Celine, who was deeply immersed, covered her mouth with a gasp. She jumped up and looked around. It was an analogy of the reason why her father hates Diana and tried to kill her.


    The current Queen was not the first in line to the throne from the beginning. There was already a Crown Prince, who died suddenly of illness, so Grace II, who was a Princess, ascended the throne as Queen.


    Could Diana be a member of the royal family of Medea?


    She has pitch ck hair, which was unlikely toe from blonde parents, and an appearance distinctly different from a Belfordian.


    Sometimes Celine wondered if her father had picked up Diana from somewhere. She was told that her father had spent some time in Medea when he was younger. Was it possible that her father stole Diana from there?


    It was probably for diplomatic and political reasons, as Belford was currently enemies with Medea.


    Medea''s Princess doesn''t seem to know about Diana.


    If it was known that Diana was royalty, the Queen would have already given her the right of session. Her father must have crumpled the letter nervously because he was currently unable to answer.


    The reason he had Diana with him until now was probably to threaten the Queen of Medea or use her in a different way.


    If Diana went to Medea herself after she was kidnapped by the Duke, it would have ruined the n, so that may be why he tried to kill her.


    There was nothing confirmed as to what sort of some sort of deal the Princess of Medea and her father had, it was just an analogy.


    I have to help father.


    It wasn''t out of conscience or a sense of justice that Celine wanted to know why her father wanted to kill Diana. It was to effectively help her father.


    Because the Admiral was her beloved father.


    ***


    I was stuck with Noah. This deadly man confined me in his room.


    I looked at him with my mouth hanging open. I must have a silly face. Noah swept my chin with his finger and did not take his eyes off my face.


    As I watched him admiringly, he spoke up.


    "Pretty."


    Is he talking about my stupid face? I closed my mouth tightly.


    The area was quiet and I could hear the geese honking and flying outside the window. The sunlight filled the room with the colors of thete afternoon. The shadows of him and me reflected on the warm-colored wooden floor grew longer and longer.


    I gingerly lowered my posture and tried to pick up the nket that had fallen to the floor, trying to avoid the eyes that persistently haunted me.


    But Noah picked up the nket and tie before me. It was because his arms were longer than mine. He picked it up, shook it off, and folded beautifully.


    The shadows of his eyshes, lowered by his concentration, hung on his cheeks. He was quite cute as he ced the nket on top of the pale blue console.


    Who taught you that? You''re very good at folding clothes and nkets."


    "My mother. She said if Im good at this, my wife will love me.


    As expected, his manners, gentlemanly behavior, and neat habits show that he has been well educated at home.


    Shes a good woman.


    Noah smiled as I spoke, then quickly picked me up and sat me lightly on the edge of the bed.


    He sat quietly beside me and took my hand in his. Silence hovered between him and me for a moment. The mansion was so quiet that I had the illusion that we were the only two people here.


    Knock. Knock.


    There was a loud banging on the door to counteract the illusion. The door opened and a nk-faced Molly walked in.


    The Queen wants to meet the Lady.


    Really?"


    Noah looked a little frustrated.


    I guess the Queen is curious about the fiance of the Count, who is like the Queens brother. (Molly)


    "The Count?" (Diana)


    Molly tilted her head and smiled slightly at my question.


    In Medea, there is an earldom. It''s an honorary title. Noah had been knighted." (Molly)


    Noah had a stronger background than expected because he was close to the Queen here. However, his expression was not good. At first nce, he seemed nervous.


    "The Queen wishes to see you." He looked greatly disturbed by the fact that he was immersed in the words.


    Molly reported a few more things and then left the room.


    We were still sitting side by side, holding hands. I looked down at our hands. His nails were always short and neat.


    I looked sideways at the cor of Noah''s shirt, which was much more unraveled than usual, and my eyes met his.


    "Why do you keep peeking at me?" (Noah)


    He saw straight through my shameless stare. Noah covered his mouth and tried to stifle hisughter.


    "I keep looking at you because.."


    I reached out and thoroughly locked the desired shirt button that kept stealing my attention.


    "Im doing this. Wont you look at me?


    I added without thinking, and Noah nodded with a low chuckle.


    Of course. I''m a man myself."


    The answer was so frank that I was confused. I think I said something wrong. He lifted his hand and stroked my hair slowly, a strange air current drifting between us.


    "I want more because I''m a man."


    "What do you want?"


    Even though I knew well, I asked in a cautious tone because I couldn''t grasp his thoughts.


    "What do you think it is?"


    He asked back simply and clearly in a slightly indifferent tone. I know what a normal male adult wants from a woman, but I didnt know what this man wanted.


    I tried to keep my face expressionless and looked down at our sped hands.


    I don''t know."


    Noah leaned toward me, and one of his hands rested on my shoulder. He stared at me, and soon his lips curved seductively.


    I want to defile you, destroy you, make youpletely mine. I want to monopolize you.


    His eyes turned cloudy.. A shiver ran from my neck to my toes, and I shuddered.


    That''s right. It''s instinct."


    A dramatically lowered voice followed, conveying the exact meaning. Despite the somewhat roughnguage, it was ultimately seductive and numbed me to the tips of my fingers.


    Every word seemed to stir every inch of my body, making me thirsty.


    "Why are you scaring me?"


    Thats why Im not doing anything. Because youre precious.


    "Im precious?


    Yes.


    He kept his face close to mine, tilting his head as we locked gazes. My expression was nonchnt, but subtly off. My heart raced faster in a different way. The sweetness of his breath warmed my face. It was close enough to reach my nose.


    I want to do what I couldn''t do that day.


    He stopped speaking for a moment, as if waiting for my answer. He was asking my permission with noble manners. The quiet voice mixed with breathing was too close.


    I knew exactly what it was, and I felt my heart pounding, and I didn''t want to be any more stubborn.


    Okay.


    Noah let out a small intake of breath and kissed me lightly. It was urgent, but sweet and slow.


    My lips, which had been cold, became warm and sweetly stained. He gently parted his lips, holding my waist and cupping my cheek with one hand.


    Wrap your arms around my neck. You can hug me.


    As if mesmerized by his whispered request, I obediently wrapped my arms around his neck and we huddled together.


    The room was bright enough to see the dust in the quiet afternoon sunlight, but all I could see was Noah''s face.


    Blue eyes reflected under painted down eyshes, the continuous lines of his face, and a bandage on his cheek filled my vision.


    I could hear the sound of the reed forest swaying in the wind, not far from the quiet mansion. As I slowly closed my eyes and closed my field of vision, my other senses left as well.


    His straight jaw tilted gracefully. Their dense breathing mingled with each other''s gulping breaths. I could feel the strange heat from Noah''s hand wrapped around my waist.


    He was skillful and it was driving me crazy. His hands were as strong as they were moderate.


    It was our first kiss.


    It was as short as the light that lit and extinguished after a while , but the moment felt like eternity.


    Diana."


    Noah opened his mouth and rubbed my lips gently. Her loving eyes bent nicely, and the under-eyes rose plumply.


    The trajectory of my consciousness, drenched in sweetness, was circling. I finally regained myposure and answered.


    "What?"


    It''s okay if you don''t care about me. But I wish I was your only one." (Noah)


    I don''t know what it means to actually be the only one. Noah kept talking while I rubbed my face and tried to think of something to say.


    I''ll do anything you want, so don''t leave. (Noah)


    Why do you always think Im going to leave? (Diana)


    "You''ll leave me if you have a reason. Whatever the reason is." (Noah)


    Is it because I left him that time? If I didnt have a solid reason that time, I wouldnt have left him. I grabbed Noah''s hand and wrapped my little finger around his.


    "Noah, I won''t let that happen. I promise."


    I hope it''s nothing but you and me.


    Noah kissed me around my eyes as he said that. The words, which I didn''t understand, felt quite desperate. It was as if he was hanging on to someone who would soon leave. But the words that were added were quite distressing.


    "Okay, we kissed, so we''re done getting to know each other."

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43


    ***


    Noah and I were together the whole time. Compared to the sweet atmosphere of the first kiss, we had a pretty healthy time. We had various conversations and yed chess and poker.


    Of course, I lost all the games, but I didn''t care about winning or losing.


    I''m not one to care about winning or losing. Noah mockingly looks like he was good at it. He didnt seem to know the truth that losing is winning.


    Ill win one day. I bit my back teeth so as not to forget this humiliation. I was just a vengeful person.


    As I spent time losing consecutive games, the night fell. The maid Lenny smiled and brought me champagne with strawberries, bowed down, and left the room.


    Strawberries and champagne go well together."


    Noah spoke in a gentle tone, picking up one of the strawberries on a silver tray and popping it into his mouth. Were they imported? They were fragrant and sweet. No, now you chew on a dry leaf and it''ll still taste sweet.


    The crackling firece and themp faintly illuminated the dark room where no lights were on. A romantic atmosphere.


    Noah lifted his champagne ss and drank, then looked at me and smiled. The light reflected off the ss and his face took on a radiant glow.


    I was as intoxicated as if I had witnessed ecstasy. He was so beautiful, so sexy. How could he be so beautiful?


    The ck dye had worn off, and his ash gray hair looked great. We finished off a te of strawberries and a bottle of champagne in an instant and got ready for bed.


    I got out of the shower and sat in a chair in front of the firece drying my wet hair with a towel while Noah went to shower.


    As I stared at the warm warm colors of the firece, I suddenly remembered the kiss we had shared under the sunset colored window.


    I rubbed my cheeks, my face burning even though I was just thinking about it. It was only a few hours ago, but it was as clear as if it had just happened.


    Iy down on my bed and pulled up the covers, trying to calm down my heart. My back went numb as I kept thinking about the earlier scene, but I tried to erase it.


    I shouldnt think about anything. Because Noah said he wasnt going to do anything to me.


    He said clearly.


    <b><i>The princess is conservative, so I''m not going to touch her until we are married. So don''t worry.</i></b>


    I was so frustrated. But I didn''t have the courage to say that I wasnt, so I left it as it was.


    The moon had been hidden by the clouds, and there was not even a trace of moonlight on the window. Just as I was getting used to the darkness, I heard the sound of the bath door opening and closing. The shadow seemed to cover the in ivory walls, and the bed disappeared and shook shallowly.


    Hot breath pooled on my cheek as I wondered if he was peeking at me with my eyes closed.


    "You''re pretending to sleep again."


    I opened my eyes, feeling awkward with a voice mixed with lowughter.


    Maybe it was because I was used to the darkness, or maybe it was because I was so close to him, but I could clearly see the tip of his red wet nose and eyes. The smell of fresh soap wafted pleasantly to my nose. Noah put his arm under my neck and said,


    Tomorrow Im going to see the Queen. There is a royal ball and she wants you toe along."


    You don''t want me to see the Queen? You dont look happy.


    I asked softly, tilting my head. His hard arm-pillow was a little ufortable.


    "I''m afraid the Queen will take you away from me."


    At first nce, it sounded like a joke, but Noah looked serious. I struggled to make sense of it, as he was one to draw conclusions without much exnation.


    "Me? Hmmm ."


    Will he leave me there to be a maid or take me to the pce to get information about Belford? It was quite possible since he was a powerful man. I knew that the maid was his secretary, his ymate and his conversation partner.


    But there was no reason to make me a maidservant when my facial expressions rarely change and I have a chilly image.


    "I don''t think that''s going to happen. (Diana)


    "What if you value the queen more than me? I think it''ll be so upsetting." (Noah)


    "What are you talking about. (Diana)


    Is he saying that the Queen would make me her lover? It wasnt umon to like the same gender. ButI replied, touching my slightly swollen bottom lip.


    Um, I''m not prejudiced, but I prefer men."


    Say Noah instead of men.


    I like Noah better."


    Good job.


    Noah smiled, as if immediately pleased with my answer, and stroked my head. I felt strange as if I was being manipted. He, who had been pettingpliments one after another, continued.


    So I had an idea. (Noah)


    What idea? Everything he thought was strange. For now, I decided to listen to his thoughts.


    Noah rolled over onto his back and stared up at the ceiling. The tip of his towering nose was bobbing up and down as if he was talking.


    I don''t think he was thinking about it, I think he was already nning on it. His face lookednguidly at me again, as if he had finished thinking.


    Suddenly, his face turned expressionless, as if he thought of something else.


    "I have to let the Queen know that youre mine." (Noah)


    Haven''t we already made an announcement of our marriage? There''s nothing that can be as certain as that. (Diana)


    "We have to get married, but I''m not rich yet." (Noah)


    How long is that going to be a concern? I can''t even drink cold water in front of this man who has some grudges. I turned on my side to listen, and awkwardly rubbed the back of my neck.


    I heard the rustling and scraping of the covers, and then I saw Noah sit up and take the nket off, looking down at me. I nced sideways at him, wondering.


    I don''t like this kind of thing because it''s not very gentlemanly, but I can''t help it." (Noah)


    "Huh?


    I let out my characteristic snort that I make when I''m embarrassed. Noahs broad shoulders covered my vision like a shroud over my eyes. The scent of soap blended in with the heat was dizzying.


    His body, which felt strong and sturdy just from the touch, pressed heavily against my chest, and a sound of wind came from his mouth.


    "Please understand. There''s a reason for everything, okay? (Noah)


    <i>Can''t I know the reason? (Diana)</i>


    Completely upying the top of me, Noah ced his cheek against mine and rubbed it softly like a cat. It was a loving action that seemed innocent enough, but my body shrank in what I couldn''t tell if it was anticipation or tension.


    Noah''s hair tickled my face as he turned my neck. I felt his warm breath on my neck, his lips sucking my skin.


    <i>Wait a minute''</i>


    I couldn''t keep up with the sensations, my mind racing with what was going on. I covered my mouth, startled by the heat rising from the sensitive area.


    I stopped breathing, as if I had forgotten how to breathe. My lungs ached. The unfamiliar and familiar feeling gave me pleasant goosebumps.


    The tickling sensation that had been ying tricks on me turned into a faint pain that led to more and more pleasure. With his face buried in my neck, I covered my mouth with all my strength.


    I bit down on the inside of my mouth, embarrassed that a moan would leak out. Noah buried his face on my neck, and I could hear the sound of him swallowing his breath and saliva deeply. It was too lewd.


    Suddenly? I had no objection if we went further since we had such a strong kiss earlier and even drank some champagne to set the mood. (*lol, Diana wanted to go all the way but Noah was so good at holding in. It drives her crazy.)


    However, Noah was an ascetic who had good self-control and knew the virtue of temperance.


    I like to y with fire, but I don''t know how to put out the fire I''ve lit in my heart. No, I know how, but I don''t do it. Noah let go of my neck with a chuckle and smiledzily as he wiped his mouth.


    Well, I think thats enough. (Noah)


    He had the face of an artist who was satisfied with his finished work. I finally realized what he had done and put my hand on my neck where it felt stinging.


    He had branded my neck bright red, like a stigma.


    "What did you just do to me?"


    I knew, but I calmly demanded an exnation, but Noahid down again as if he had done all he had to do, and tucked his arm under the hollow of my waist.


    He pulled me gingerly and rolled me into his embrace. Holding me tightly in his arms, he whispered.


    "If I do this, everyone will know youre mine. I cant lose.


    "Do you have to do this?"


    People will only look at the mark. Not your face. They won''t be able to think of anything else.


    His fingers pressed lightly on the red mark on my neck. Is he seriously worried about whether the Queen will take me as her lover? I don''t know how many marks I''ll have to get while the marriage announcement has already been made.


    "Hm"


    I let out a sigh. How could he not know that he was the only man I looked at and felt like dying because of his appearance? Objectively speaking, I was the opposite of a lively, lovely woman. I guess he has a strange taste.


    In modern times, this might be eptable, but here we were in the 19th, 20th century.


    He looked happy as he regained his mental and physical peace.


    I don''t really like this kind of thing. But its because its you. It''s nice to have a mark that says it''s mine."


    Noah, your intentions are very cute, but  why not just match the rings?


    I also didnt care what others thought, but couldnt he think of a normal alternative? At my heavy word, Noah covered his mouth with one hand and opened his eyes roundly.


    He was surprisingly incapable of ordinary thinking. Just as I was about to argue about the problem, I heard a drowsy voice that quieted any other emotions in a sh.


    "Diana, should we do that again?"


    The question, "Do what again?" stayed only in my thoughts. My lips were swallowed by him with a breath that seemed to be on fire.


    *


    *


    *


    It was morning, but the cloudy gray clouds covered the sun and it was dark everywhere. It seemed to represent my disappointed heart. Perhaps it was raining, but the damp room smelled of a unique woody scent.


    I stood in front of the bathroom mirror and grieved at the red mark on my neck that looked like I had pressed a red petal there.


    I would be a little embarrassed if I went to a crowded ce. I will take revenge. I''m really going to get revenge. I cant be the only one who suffers. Ill make him a male character with thorough regret and give him a legendary lesson that excessive greed causes anger.


    I clenched my fists with a strong will. I headed toward him with the heavy steps of a triumphant general as I mmed open the bathroom door.


    Noah was leaning back on the couch, reading the newspaper with his legs crossed. I put my hands on my hips and inhaled deeply, intending to get angry.


    Noah''s eyes folded long and he smiled beautifully. His lips raised like a cat.


    Did you wash up? It''s toast for breakfast. I''ll put strawberry jam on it for you."


    with peanut butter.


    I tried hard to get angry, but like a sandcastle being swept away helplessly by the waves, my vengeance and my vow disappeared. I promised myself that Ill get him next time. If I got angry with that beautiful man, I would regret it.


    Actually, I cant get mad at that man.


    ***


    I wore a neck-covered dress to go to the royal ball in the evening. Noah was a thorough man, so I guess he expected this as well, so there was still a little bit shown if looking at it closely.


    There was no point in wearing a choker. Excellent position selection. Lenny tilted her head as she looked at my neck.


    How did you get this?"


    I was bitten by a mosquito.


    This winter? Ill catch it when I clean your room.


    Lenny clenched her fists and determined to catch the mosquito. Her innocence was so cute.


    With a knock, Noah came in, dressed in a suit and a ck Balmacaan coat, as if he knew I had finished my preparations.


    "Are you ready?


    "Yes, Mr. Mosquito."


    "Mr. Mosquito?"


    Noah pretended not to know and fiddled with the cuff link on his sleeve. Lenny also looked at Noah with strange eyes.


    Noah was right.


    The people in the dance hall looked for a moment at the red mark on my neck then averted their gazes.


    They don''t even remember my face. But Princess Erica, who hade to speak to Noah, stared at me with red-hot eyes, alternately ring at my face and neck.


    I wondered if one of the reasons Noah put a stamp on my neck was also for that woman. It''s a very big-picture.


    I smiled leisurely and raised my chin. If that was his intention, I liked it. I also hated people who wanted mine.


    Ericas face turned white as she looked at Noah with her angry eyes. She seemed to discover that Noah had the exact same red mark on his neck.


    In the caring to the Tempshire Pce this morning, I had my revenge on him.

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44


    Princess Ericas blue eyes turned and red at me. Then they suddenly changed to a pitying look and stared at Noah. Her hands were sping the skirt of her dress.


    "Noah, do you have to do this much to me?"


    "Do what?"


    You''re tantly hurting me. Can you just wait?


    I don''t understand what you''re saying."


    Noah twirled the wine ss in his hand with a look of total confusion on his face. I don''t understand that woman''s mind either. My intention was to not let my mind wander anymore, not to induce jealousy


    "Leaving such aical trail .."


    Princess Erica, who frowned, couldn''t talk anymore and touched her forehead. Her face turned pale like the white dress she was wearing.


    Noah didn''t seem to care about the Princess. He slowly rubbed his neck and lowered his eyes. The rims of his eyes were stained a painful red.


    Is that man embarrassed now? Noah looked vulnerable as he looked at me with that face.


    I liked it when you were violent, princess. ( Noah)


    When have I ever been violent?" (Diana)


    I was backing up, but you attacked me suddenly." (Noah)


    Don''t say that here!" (Erica)


    Princess Erica, who had been listening attentively to our contact,


    now sounded even more angry and fierce.


    "You are rude. Do not call another woman Princess or ignore my words! (Erica)


    "Another woman?"


    Noah tilted his head with a grim expression. When he bowed closer to Princess Erica, a blush spread across her face. <i>Why is she blushing? </i>I felt strangely ufortable. Her eyes narrowed again as she changed her expression.


    "Do you have so much fun ying with my love for you?" (Erica)


    "What do you mean love?" (Noah)


    Noah covered his mouth with his hands and let out a smallugh. Then his voice was gruesomely low.


    Im trying to get away with the word love.


    At his emotionless expression, Ericas face turned a clear color of bewilderment. After a sly smile, Noah left her and walked up to me and took my hand.


    Noah, this is very, very painful for me."


    A resentful voice came out behind Noah as she whined. I don''t know what to say. She seemed to have fallen into some kind of great illusion.


    A girl not even twenty years old suffered a love fever. It was not umon for her to give meaning to things that werent important and misunderstand them.


    I wonder if I was the same way at that age. In this body I am the same age as Erica, but in my spirit I am a worn out twenty-something. I tried to understand her, because it was adolescence that made her so emotional, so spoiled and angry.


    Princess Erica suddenly approached me with a generous look on her face, her hands on her hips and her mouth open with a grim expression.


    You think you''re so special, don''t you? You''re being used."


    Hmm.'' That one''s just a freakin'' spoiled brat who only says what she wants to say and sees what she wants to see. Come to think of it, I wasn''t like that when I was eighteen.


    Noah''s face gradually turned expressionless at what Princess Erica said to me.


    "I don''t have anything for him to use.


    I replied with a stiff face. There really wasn''t, and that was a problem for me too. Princess Erica raised one side of her mouth and spoke with deliberate reserve.


    "That man is a bit unique. Hes using you to test my heart."


    "The Princess can''t marry someone who isn''t Medean anyway, right?"


    Therefore, he urges me to abandon my im to the throne as soon as possible. He wants to see if my heart is sincere.


    "Who said that..?"


    I asked with a somewhat puzzled look on my face. That woman was a bitstrange. She seemed to have fallen into the illusion that the world revolved around her.


    Her craving for what she didn''t have turned into an intense love obsession, and when it became too much, she fell into a morbid delusion.


    Such things aremon in life to begin with. It''s like getting angry when someone doesn''t ept your sudden confession and asking, "If you''re going to do that, why did you smile?"


    The Princess and I looked at each other sharply. She was looking down at me like I was the perpetrator in a moment of terrible self-pity.


    Soon, the sound of brass instruments could be heard along with a shout from a servant announcing that Queen Grace II had entered the banquet hall.


    The people stopped what they were doing all together and bowed in respect and reverence.


    Princess Erica made a coy face and went to the Queen with her attendants who had been waiting for her from afar. Contrary to the expectation that she would tell the Queen that we had behaved rudely, she showed courtesy to her mother, the Queen, with a heavily disciplined face.


    The Queen looked over her daughter with a gentle, yet cold gaze.


    The Queen wore a tinum-colored colorful dress with countless diamonds scattered on the fabric with gold threads and a royal blue sash.


    Her white skin was dazzlingly beautiful in dramatic contrast to her wlessly dark hair, and I wondered, if Snow White had actually existed, would she have been like that?


    Her facial expressions and gestures were graceful, and she had the authority and dignity of royalty of noble lineage. She was as beautiful as a full-length portrait painted by a painter, so it would not be strange at all to ce her as a woman, a man, and a lover.


    Noah grabbed my hand and stepped in front of the Queen. Queen Grace''s green eyes twitched gently when she saw us.


    "May God bless you, Queen Grace II, the eternal sun of Medea. My name is Diana."


    I bowed to her as I had learned to do. I saw the Queen smiling at me. The smile felt strangely chilly. I also felt a sense of dj vu that I couldn''t exin. I didn''t know her, I had never seen her in a portrait or a photograph.


    Diana, that''s the name of the goddess of the moon. I heard you''ve been through a lot. You''ve done a great job."


    The moment the Queen and I faced each other, time seemed to stop. The ce she and I faced felt like apletely different space.


    My ears were ringing and the voices around the banquet hall became distant. I felt like the floor was shaking as if there was an earthquake.


    The Queen, who had been watching me standing there in a daze, slowly tilted her head.


    Beautiful girl, why are you crying?


    The beautiful queen asked with an elegant and calm voice.


    I wiped my eyes, surprised at the tears that were streaming down my face. I didn''t think, didn''t feel anything.


    I didn''t care as much as I did to watch people in the ballroom betting on when the ice sculpture of a swan would melt. She was from apletely different world than I was.


    I hesitated for a while, not knowing why my eyes were so hot and tearful.


    Because youre beautiful.


    I could only think of her beauty, so that must be the reason. The Queen took my hand in hers and stroked the back of my hand. My hands were cold, but I felt warm. I thought.


    Thank you. You had a hard time. I hope that from now on, as a descendant of Medea, you will enjoy happiness under the protection and help of your mothend.


    I was used to seeing those eyes, even though I had never seen her before. And that look in her eyes was the same as mine. The eyes that knew the weight of sudden burden was too much to bear.


    It''s the kind of eyes that don''t believe in people, or even expect them to. Those eyes realized the truth that if you don''t expect anything, you won''t be disappointed, are uninterested and apathetic about everything.


    She was like that. She was somewhat apathetic.


    We''re going to get married.


    Noah came in, breaking the silence created by our gazes, and hugged my shoulder. The Queen covered her mouth and smiled brightly at the notification disguised as permission.


    Her green eyes grazed for a moment over the red marks on Noah''s neck, but she made no pretense.


    Princess Erica was surprisingly quiet and silent. She looked as if she was afraid of her mother. The mother was probably very strict with her daughter.


    In fact, even in the best educated royal families, there are children who are out of character. That''s their problem.


    I see. She suits you well. I''ve always been curious about the Count''s fiance. I hope you''ll stop by often and tell me about your love story."


    After exchanging a few brief words with the Queen, we left the bustling ballroom and walked through the garden.


    Artificial streetlights lined the winter tree-decorated gardens, illuminating the night of the Tempshire Pce.


    Noah was walking among the camellias with their beautiful white camellia flowers hanging down, when he suddenly stopped in front of a bench. He sat down on the bench, took off his coat, spread it out beside him, and patted it with his hand.


    Sit down.


    Aren''t you cold?


    I''m cold. But you''re a princess, so I took it off."


    He seemed to be a bit of a tsundere. I''m sure his clothes will get wrinkled. I was worried, but I didn''t say no.


    We sat side by side and looked at the white camellias blooming all over the other side.


    The quiet winter wasn''t bad, probably because it was warmpared to the rest of the country where it was cold enough to freeze peanut butter. A warm hand came to wrap around my wrist. He opened my hand and stared into it.


    These hands, which had been through a lot since I was a child, were definitely not smooth or pretty. They were rough with calluses after swelling up like they had frostbite or a chronic disease.


    The broken nails were blunt, not able to keep them even after a little growth. I quickly closed my hand, ashamed of it.


    I have ugly hands."


    Noah didn''t say anything, but he seemed to think so, and for no reason at all heid out an excuse. Even more so since it wasnt his natural thing.


    The shape doesn''t matter."


    Noah said softly as he rubbed his cheek against the back of my hand.


    I see things differently than others. Do you know that?"


    Ghosts, do you see them? They say they''re like spirits."


    Hmm? It''s simr.


    Is it a situation where he suddenly confesses his superpower to me? He smiled at me with a puzzled expression.


    Essence and meaning. The process and reason why it came to exist as such.


    It''s difficult. I don''t really know anything about philosophy.


    Every moment you''ve lived has made you who you are today. It''s all beautiful. Because you are one and only.


    He stopped speaking for a moment and cupped my cheek.


    You don''t have to look beautiful in everyone''s eyes. You only need to be beautiful to me."


    "Even if I be a grandmother?"


    "I''ll tell you that you are the most beautiful grandmother on earth."


    Indeed, Noah is going to be a wonderful old man when he gets older. As I imagined how he would look in his old age, a scene came to mind that I had never thought of, and I was perplexed for a moment.


    Imagining us walking together into old age, repeatedly watching the years go by as we drew to a close each day. My momentary imagination was amazing. I pictured marriage, children, even a family.


    I looked at the night sky, inwardly mocking myself.


    The dark sky, where not even a bright star could be seen, seemed to be ckened by vague clouds that covered even the moon. It was quiet, even lonely, as if the dark curtain had hung down after the stage had ended.


    Suddenly I felt a cold metal touch my fourth finger. My eyes slowly looked down at it, and I was dazzled.


    I closed my eyes with the illusion that a star hadnded on my hand. Noah put a ring on my finger and smiled at me beautifully.


    It shone like a recement for a star in the sky that had disappeared. He still held my ugly, rough hand as if it were precious.


    I stared at his face. The clouds that had been covering the moon were being pushed away. A thin moonlight streamed in as if the dark curtain that started the stage was gradually being removed. The beautiful man with the moonlight in his eyes smiled.


    Diana, I will tell you that you are beautiful all my life. You will probably be beautiful forever. No matter how you live your life, no matter what you look like, it will always be you.

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45


    ***


    Princess Erica was beautiful, but she was ordinary.


    They say that ordinary is happiness, but it can only be enjoyed when one is born in an ordinary environment. With the special qualifiers of royalty and high aristocracy, mediocrity is only conducive to inferiority and unhappiness.


    Of course, she was beautiful enough to be considered special in appearance. But beautiful appearance was not everything. Because times had changed.


    These were not the days when all you had to do was marry well, as in the marriage business. Like the aristocracy, they had to lead national projects such as colonialism, oil, mining, and trade.


    Embarking on a journey of alliances and diplomacy between nations, royalty hoped to have a wise and intelligent woman as a wife to be their business partner for life.


    A beautiful woman was enough to be kept as a lover.


    The Princesses of the Spencer dynasty were high-minded, brilliant, and talented women. It was not that Princess Ericas intelligence was any less than normal, but she was surrounded by the smartest people in the world, so she was always atrophied andpared to them.


    She had no aspirations in learning and could only understand that governing was collecting honey from worker bees.


    Her knowledge was limited and she didn''t even care about how to operate her job efficiently. Like amon girl, she was more interested in romance novels, love songs, dresses, shoes, and adorning her looks than in imperialism and monarchy.


    Unlike her rational and wise mother, she was emotional and did not want to be a queen. She wanted to fall in love and get married like in a wonderful love novel.


    She fell in love at first sight when she saw Noah, who had once visited Medea on business. When she cautiously asked her mother, the Queen, about him, the Queen smiled fondly as she recalled the past.


    When the Duke (Noah) was seven years old, he told the Queen that if the child to be born was a girl, he would protect her like a knight, win her heart and marry her. He was wise and unique.


    From then on, it was the illusion of fate that drove Erica into her fantasy. She always imagined being with him. One day she made up her mind that she would make her imagination reality.


    From that moment on, she kept visiting Progen and trying to meet Noah. She wrote to him and asked to see him several times, but he refused, saying he had to go to battle.


    When they finally met in the past, she sat facing him at a table in a caf and mustered up the courage to confess.


    I''ve fallen in love with you. (Erica)


    Noah lifted his coffee cup, tilted his head at the Princess'' confession. He asked with a nk expression, his beautifully formed and superbly shaped features.


    With me? I think it''s my first time seeing you." (Noah)


    Yes. I think we''re meant to be. (Erica)


    Everyone has a destiny. If I give ten pounds to a man who pulls a donkey, that''s his fate too. (Noah)


    No, it''s not like that. I want to marry you. (Erica)


    Noah had just finished his shift and was dressed in an officer''s uniform with medals and aigrettes awarded to soldiers who had distinguished themselves in majorbat zones.


    Princess Erica had been up since dawn, scolding her servants to dress her beautifully in her most favorite dress and precious jewels. It took about six hours.


    Despite the beautiful Princess'' confession, Noah looked very uninterested. He didn''t seem to be moved at all by the enchanting appearance of her in a dress that showed off her white shoulders and breastbone.


    He twirled his silvery hair and spoke in a still uninterested manner.


    I know that the Princess cannot marry anyone outside of the Medea bloodline. (Noah)


    It will only be a trial. It''s just a test. That''s what everyone says. Trials and tribtions are necessary for a fateful love. (Erica)


    Noah lifted his ss and drank the coffee, frowning at the bitter taste.


    "They burned the precious Chebia coffee beans. Did they think about something else while stir-frying it?" (Noah)


    "Are you listening to me?" (Erica)


    "Oh, sorry. What did you say? The coffee was too bitter for me to hear it." (Noah)


    His manner of speaking turned increasingly rude. Having read many romance books, Princess Erica knew that there were two sides to romance. First, there are times when people express their feelings and find people who approach them boring. This man was probably one of those.


    "I mean that if there are trials on the path we walk together, I am willing to ept them. Together, we can win. (Erica)


    Noah''s gray-blue eyes narrowed and bent as he looked at her, alone in her solemn voice. He set the ss down with a tter and traced the sss mouth with his finger.


    I don''t see why I should. (Noah)


    What do you mean?" (Erica)


    I mean, why all of a sudden I have to go through trials and tribtions. Isnt it like an ident that happened out of nowhere? (Noah)


    The Princess was puzzled for a while by the attitude that was so different from the only prince she had ever imagined. When Noah saw that the Princess could not understand his words, he rubbed his lips for a while and added as if to correct her.


    Why should I sacrifice myself to your deviations? (Noah)


    Duke. I''m the one who will lose." (Erica)


    Noah asked back with a ring smile.


    You''re throwing it all away for me? That''s nice." (Noah)


    That graceful smile once again captivated the Princess. She misunderstood, thinking that he would be willing to sacrifice himself only after she had given up everything first.


    Princess Erica smiled, fixing her hat with the corsage flower.


    Yes, that''s right.


    She wanted to be by his side and see that beautiful smile more than she could ever tire of it.


    It was the day of Progen''s Imperial Ball when Diana and Noah met.


    A man identally approached Princess Erica, who was out in the garden because of frustration, and handed her a secret letter.


    It was sent by Admiral Winston ire of the enemy nation of Belford, and she made a choice that was pure at best and foolish at worst.


    A Princess of Medea, in alliance with Progen, she joined hands with Admiral of Belford, who was at war with Progen.


    She was so blinded by love that even her judgment was clouded.


    She did not want the woman Diana to take her ce even for a short time. She began to constantly urge the Admiral to pass the trials and tribtions to Diana.


    ***


    Zelda. What did you think when you saw the girl Diana?"


    Baron Zelda Mason, who was standing neatly in her white knight''s uniform, raised her chin as Queen Grace asked.


    Diana had pitch-ck hair, pale, white skin, and a pretty little face with a small nose and lips. Foreigners called her Medean doll.


    This was not only because she was cute and adorable, but also because she had a peculiar and strange atmosphere that was elegant but cold, giving the illusion that they were looking at a doll.


    Baron Mason secretly got the feeling that Diana had the same kind of atmosphere as the Queen.


    As I said before, for a half-breed, she has distinct Medean features.


    "There is a high possibility that her maternal side is close to pure descent."


    I think its probably one of the great aristocrats of Medea. There was a noblewoman* who went to Belford a long time ago, and I heard that she married the eldest son of the Duke of Belford. Hes the current Prime Minister, and she became a Duchess. (*the woman they are mentioned is Jeffreys mother)


    I need to know who Dianas mother is.


    <i>Why is the queen so curious about Diana? </i>The question shed across the Baron''s face for a moment, but she did not question the Queens intentions.


    The Baron bowed down and epted the order.


    Yes, My Queen.


    Queen Grace felt a surprisingly heightened agitation the first time she saw Diana.


    When a girl with pitch-ck hair and a pale face looked at her with an expression that did not fit her age, she felt a shiver run through her whole body.


    The tears shedding on her infinitely expressionless face felt alien, as if her body and spirit were ying separately. The color was different, but the cynical eyes, like her own, confused her mind incessantly.


    At first she was a little curious. Diana was Admiral ire''s daughter, so she wanted to meet her. However, after meeting the youngdy, her heart sank heavily, despite her initial light-hearted intentions.


    She (Diana) was the daughter the Admiral despised, she (the Queen) should be more thrilled at the fact, but it bothered her to no end.


    Dianas appearance was close to Medea''s pure bloodline, but her rough hands were not like a noble girl''s. The short, blunt nails came to her mind, and strangely enough, a mixture of pity and sadness made her heart tingle.


    ***


    The clouds that covered the dark sky were scattered and the hidden stars appeared one by one.


    Every now and then I heard the rustling of the fallen leaves of the winter trees in the wind. I was sitting on a bench holding hands with Noah and was in a conflict.


    He had always been a naughty boy and had asked me to marry him, and now he officially proposed to me.


    The words were in no way, shape or form, but they glowed as beautifully as the meaning of the ring on my hand. At least for this moment, I know that his words are sincere.


    I was horrified to imagine that if Iter went back to where I came from or, assuming it was unreal, back to reality, the world I came from.


    If all of this was just a dream, I am confident that the loss and emptiness would be unbearable. And I can''t rule out the possibility of him changing his mind in the future.


    I didn''tpletely give him my heart or expect him to give me everything. I always lived while calcting and left a corner to escape when I was hurt.


    I replied in a serious but concise manner.


    Thank you."


    My eyes studied his eyes more closely than the ring. Noah, who sat taller than me, stared down at me with dark blue eyes.


    Do you believe me, princess?


    "Yes. What about you?


    "I don''t."


    Noah smiled mischievously. He sounded a little too serious and I felt ufortable.


    "You hold grudges.


    "Yes. So I hope there are only two of us in the world. No one will bother you or try to take you away from me.


    Who is going to take me away from him? As hedgehogs spoil their young, so this man looked at me in a rare way.


    Are you worried?" (Diana)


    His soft hair began to itch my neck and chin as Noah leaned slightly against my shoulder and nodded his head.


    I wondered if this guy was trying to be charming because I wasn''t.


    Just as I thought he was cute, he pulled my hair weakly and gently brushed his lips against my earlobe. The touch of his soft lips and hot breath made goosebumps on my skin.


    Then his eyes suddenly narrowed as he carefully studied my reddened face.


    "So I''m going to monopolize you and get rid of the rest."


    I asked him why he had to do that.


    "Noah, do you love me?"


    He looked troubled. His beautiful lips closed and there was silence.


    After pondering for a while, Noah quietly shook his head with an expressionless face.


    No.


    The shallow swaying of his ck dyed hair told a clear denial.


    The fallen leaves from the dry winter trees around me grazed my shoes and rolled somewhere in the air. The warmth I had transparently in the air dropped cold again. It was winter.


    I didnt get angry, I didnt ask questions, I didn''t cry. I just faced him with the same expression on my face. Somewhere, something frozen in the depths of my heart falling apart.


    He didnt lie to me. Fortunately.

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46


    Before going to bed, Celiney down on her bed and smiled gently at her father who was reading a book to her.


    I love it when you read to me, Daddy.


    "You''re all grown up, but you''re still acting like a baby."


    As he closed the book, the Admiral looked down at his daughter with kind eyes and gave her a kiss on the forehead.


    Good night, My princess."


    The Admiral was about to leave the room when he suddenly stopped at Celine''s slender hand tugging on his sleeve.


    Father.


    Hmm?You can''t sleep?"


    I''m neen now, and I''m an adult.


    "Are you upset that youre an adult?


    At his soothing tone, Celine tilted her head and looked at him with moist eyes.


    "Father, I don''t want you to have to do all the hard work alone."


    What do you mean?


    Tell me the truth. Is Diana your real daughter?"


    At the sudden question, the Admiral''s gentle face hardened and seemed to crack. However, he replied without difficulty.


    That''s right.


    I am on your side, father. Youre the only person in the world who loves me and I can rely on. So please tell me honestly.


    "I know. I can do anything for you, and you are my only pride and precious person.


    "Are you sure that Diana is your real daughter?"


    Yes.


    Celine felt confused by the Admiral''s firm answer.


    "Gically, dark hair from blonde parents is not possible. And even if there is, it''s rare."


    Celine''s forehead furrowed in worry, her eyes downcast. She closed her mouth, and with bated breath she continued to speak again.


    "If shes your biological daughter, there''s no reason to hate her so much that you tried to kill her.


    She is my daughter, but I don''t think so. I''ve always told you. She''s the reason why your mother died.


    I believed it when I was a child, but that''s strange. Please tell me the truth, for whatever reason that may be. I want to be on my father''s side and help him from now on."


    The Admiral sat on the corner of the bed and pressed his eyelids with his fingers. Looking at him as if he had forgotten his words, Celine finally burst into tears.


    She just wanted to discuss the matter emphatically. She wiped away her pearl-like tears and looked at her father with wet green eyes.


    Could it be that Diana is Medea''s royalty?


    He didn''t answer. Instead he asked apletely different question.


    "Do you still love the Lieutenant Colonel?"


    Yes."


    The Admiral sighed deeply when he saw the look of sadness on Celine''s face.


    Once you have power, the Lieutenant Colonel, the second son of the Duke, will ept your heart. As long as hes not the eldest son, he must have ambitions."


    "Power?"


    Celine tilted her head, her shimmering tinum hair shook.


    Father will take care of everything, so don''t you worry. Someday, they will treat you like a real princess so you won''t be envious of her.


    It must be done before the mad duke of Progen (Noah) swallowed the Kingdom of Medea. The Admiral had made a firm vow before.


    (The Admiral) He will definitely take away the Queen''s precious things. He recalled the young girl in the distant past.


    She was a Princess at the time, and the young Admiral was willing to risk death and hical acts for the sake of his Queen. He tried to give her everything, even destroying himself. He believed it was his love, but what came back was nothing but betrayal.


    In fact, this was the man''s subjective and narrow-minded adherence to his position.


    To put it usibly, he loved her for fulfilling hisck.


    In a practical sense, he craved and loved her for her power and wealth.


    It had the same meaning, but expressed differently depending on eptance. The young Queen epted it in a usible sense, and when she learned the reality, she finally grew up and became the Queen of a country.


    ***


    The lights from the streetmps that lined the path of the garden broke through the darkness, partly illuminating the white camellia blossoms, partly the clean, gravel path, partly the bench where we sat.


    Noah denied with an expressionless face when I asked if he loved me. He looked carefully at my face, then quickly turned away to look at the front.


    I did not take my eyes off his profile.


    I don''t know the feeling, because the people who taught me left early and I never learned it anywhere else." (Noah)


    His voice sank as sad as a sigh. The feeling of something that has been frozen in my heart melting down.


    I felt a twinge of heat in my stomach. It wasn''t a feeling of anger or sadness or disappointment. It was because I realized once again that he, like me, had not been adequately protected and loved.


    It was a feeling of understanding that could only be achieved when I took a step back and looked at it from his point of view. The truth was, I didnt really understand the emotion of love either.


    It was aplex and ambiguous emotion that could not be precisely defined, unlike the more obvious emotions of sadness, anger, and joy. It was a cloud that could be seen by our actions and attitudes.


    It manifests itself in different ways because different people want different things and think differently, and it can be warped, and even wronglybeled with the word love.


    It can be spoken depending on one''s mood, it can be carelessly overused for profit and purpose, it can be taken lightly, it can be sacrificed to the point of death, and it can feel most sublime and heavy.


    Do you love me? (Noah)


    In response to his faint question, the light chasing the darkness seemed to sway faintly. Noah''s hair, reflecting the light of the streetlight, turned to face me clearly, swaying.


    When I couldn''t answer, he smiled kindly. The shadows on his face seemed to be clearer the more I looked at him.


    He asked again.


    What was the love the princess said that day? I know it was a lie.


    I lowered my eyes as if to flee and ced my gaze on thendscaping floor. It was just a lie I had said in pursuit of my easy life and a reprieve from life.


    You needed me in my life, eh? No. ."


    In other words, it was a usible word. I felt like this was going to be packaged as an excuse, so I quickly added and confessed the truth as it was.


    It wasn''t the kind of love most people say. It was just a lie to survivefortably. Im sorry. (Diana)


    Instead of getting angry at my confession, Noah smiled at me. A faint sense of satisfaction hung over his crooked lips.


    You mean you needed me, right?" (Noah)


    "If you know that, why are you asking me again?" (Diana)


    I wondered if you needed me enough to lie about loving me.


    I stared at Noah, who always had to ask what he wanted to hear.


    Anyway, it''s hard for me to define love, too. (Diana)


    Yeah. It was a long time ago, when I was in the army, and I was about to be promoted. (Noah)


    Noah started to tell me a story as he leaned back on the bench leisurely. I listened to him as I put my elbows on my knees to support my chin.


    "I heard that one of the men had fallen in love. So I observed what he would do with the woman. He gave her gifts and flowers and even met her and went on a date with her. After he went to the Delta front, they kept exchanging letters, saying they loved each other.


    "Yes.


    One day, as he was reading the letter in the barracks, the mans face went nk and he began to cry. He looked like he was going to faint. It was a mixture of sadness, anger, and loss."


    Noah''s expression became strangely ufortable as he pieced the words together.


    The letter said that the woman had married another man.


    Thatsmon.


    "Yes, it ismon. Some men were deployed to another country with their lovers, but met other women, and said love to each other. I''vee to think of love as no more meaningful than themppost you see over there."


    It was not umon for young love to re up and cool down quickly. It can sway from ce to ce like a reed carrying the wind. So it was love that could bring the greatest memories of unhappiness and leave scars thatst a lifetime.


    Perhaps that was the root of the anxiety Noah was feeling. It was the same for me.


    He took both my hands in his.


    My mind is not like that, no. I don''t know what it is, but my parents were different, too. I just wanted to know what it was.


    The people you saw must not have been in true love. You and I don''t know much about it, so I hope we''ll get to know it. Im sure well realize it one day. If I figure it out first, I''ll let you know."


    Is he looking for the treasure at the end of the rainbow? It seemed like the same childish and ridiculous great adventure. It was important for us who have lived withck.


    I had to grow up fast, and lived without even such childish thoughts. I''m sure he was like that, too, because hecked emotions. Only after bing a grown-up do we regress and wander in search of pure feelings like children.


    We were hastily made, unfinished adults. Noah squeezed my cheek with a serious look on his face.


    "But I like you so much that I''m out of my mind more than I love you." (Noah)


    What was that all about? It was true that he was insane because he threw everything away. But he still had money to spend.


    He was in a state of intense confession with my cheeks gripped and my lips pouting like a duck''s. When I made a sad face, he looked at me in a ridiculous way, but he smiled as if it were fun then withdrew his hands.


    I stated my thoughts.


    Isnt dating is to confirm love?


    Is that so? But I don''t know, I''ll have to find it until I get married and grow old."


    Then there was a hint of amusement in his voice. For once, I decided not to see it as a problem that neither of us knew what love was. A man who saw everything with a one-size-fits-all view considered me special.


    Noah, at least, was much more serious than most of the men I had met. The object of their love was ambiguous. Was it me?


    The love they were talking about was sudden. It was strange that they suddenly loved me, and I didn''t believe them.


    I guess it''s not so bad now anyway. Thank you for being honest with me.


    Noah said with a smile in his eyes. He fixed his tie and got up from his seat, holding out his hand towards me.


    Let''s go back."


    I lifted Noah''s crumpled coat under my buttocks and looked at it, and made an awkward face.


    Before entering the dance hall and greeting the Queen, my eyes were drawn to the plump pudding on the dessert table.


    Can I just have one of those and go?" (Diana)


    When I pulled his sleeves weakly, Noah nodded and was led to where I was heading.


    "Isn''t it pretty?" (Diana)


    I couldn''t help but blush as I showed him the ruby-colored, moist, fresh strawberry pudding. It was because I had always liked pudding.


    Yes. It''s red and pretty. (Noah)


    He skimmed over the pudding in my hand with disinterested eyes, but responded with a certain amount of enthusiasm.


    "Do you like it more than meat?" (Noah)


    "It''s different from meat. This is dessert." (Diana)


    Diana.


    Huh?


    Noah, who was carefully watching my happy expression as I tasted the strawberry pudding with a small spoon, smiled loosely.


    Why do you have the same expression when you''re eating something delicious and when you kiss me? (Noah)


    I swallowed the piece of pudding that I had hastily scooped up. If it had been something different, it would have gotten stuck in my throat. I grabbed my neck for a while and coughed.


    What was so delicious?"


    He asked again, whispering with a drowsy look in his eyes. What should I do with this mischievous man?


    "Because it''s sweet. no, Im talking about the pudding." (Diana)


    I tried to change the subject, but he was already enjoying my reaction. He covered his mouth with one hand and giggled, his eyes narrowed and bent.


    So cute."


    He looked at me with a happy face.


    "Do you like pudding or me?" (Noah)


    You buy me the pudding. (Diana)


    Then Ill be a perfect man. From now on, only eat what I buy for you." (Noah)


    A hint of disappointment seeped into Noah''s eyes as he went for the innocent pudding.


    <i>Hes cute.</i>


    Seeing the man jealous of the pudding, I thought it was very cute. Unlike my promise to eat only one, I ate 3 cups of pudding, then approached the Queen and told her we were leaving.


    What the smiling Queen told me was unexpected.


    Diana, why don''t you stay at Tempshire Pce for a while?


    Noah''s face stiffened slightly at her words. I could feel the strength in his hand that held mine. Does the Queen like me? Is this how a love triangle begins?


    I looked at Noah and the queen with a sideways nce, adjusting my expression.


    That was how my misunderstanding towards the Queen began.

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47


    My lips couldn''t fall off as if I had been mute by the Queen''s suggestion.


    The answer was simple, yes or no. It was one of two, but both were reluctant answers.


    Noah and the Queen were looking at me at the same time, so I just looked around. While I was doing that, Noah smirked at the Queen and asked,


    "Why?"


    It was an arrogant and arrogantly rude way of speaking, but the Queen didn''t seem to mind Noah''s way of speaking at all.


    "Just wondering. Don''t you like it, Noah?"


    She called his name along with her simple answer. Oh, yes. The two of them were close.


    They talked to each other like that when no one was around. Noah used a semi-respectful tone with Princess Erica as well, so it was not out of the realm of possibility.


    There were no people nearby, and the longer the conversation went on, the more normalnguage they used.


    I don''t know why Princess Erica clung to Noah so tightly, even though at first nce they seem to be dog and cat. While I was lost in other thoughts, Noah, who had been silent for a while, opened his mouth.


    Then, well share a room. We can''t be separated.


    Queen Grace narrowed her eyes at Noah''s words and tilted her head slightly with augh.


    "And if I say no?"


    Well, then its difficult.


    Are they fighting over me right now? I was stuck between the eyes that shed tightly. I felt pressured.


    As soon as I was agonizing over how to express "Don''t fight!" the Queen covered her mouth and smiled happily.


    I was joking. I want to hear your story. What do you think, Miss Diana?


    Its an honor, Your Majesty.


    Noah looked disappointed at my answer, which I couldn''t refuse. He rubbed his face and emphasized it again.


    We''re deeply in love, so well use one room.


    When did you be such a thirsty man, Noah? You will."


    The Queen gave Noah a look as if she was looking at her brother who had grown up without her knowing.


    If I were to describe it in detail, it would be the pathetic expression of an older sister watching her younger brother, who brought his girlfriend over and stubbornly insisted on sleeping with her.


    I shrugged my shoulders in embarrassment, thinking that the Queen must be trying to steal me away from him, and wondered how to deal with her when she tried to seduce me.


    Make sure youe to the pce tomorrow. I hope you bring a beautiful dress."


    Thank you for your concern.


    I bowed my head, deliberately hiding my panic at the Queen''s words. She wants me to look pretty so that she can easily seduce me?


    This is really troubling. The Queen was beautiful enough to take my soul, but I preferred men, or rather Noah. I just bit my lips awkwardly. Noah, perhaps feeling somewhat threatened, grabbed my hand.


    Shes mine. Dont even think about taking her away from me."


    It was a decisive tone. The Queen, who was sitting in her chair with her cheek resting on her hand, raised her eyebrows slightly.


    "Mm, take her away?"


    She murmured with a grin. Noah''s words and the Queen''s reaction confirmed my hypothesis perfectly.


    I did not want this kind of triangrposition. I was a person with a clear identity and it was too messy to have a love triangle. By nature, I don''t go outside the house much in my life, so meeting one was already too much for me to handle.


    It was clear that I would suffer from being caught between two beautiful people going straight at each other. It won''t look like a triangle anymore because Ill be pushed t.


    Haha. Why is Her Majesty taking me away from you? I''m leaving now. I''ll see you tomorrow, Your Majesty."


    As I led Noah out, I turned around and smiled at the Queen. The Queen winked beautifully as she looked at me.


    <i>Oh, what is it?</i>


    I was sure. I was stuck in a swamp ofsciviousness. I felt an earthquake in my eyes. I pretended not to see it and walked on, creaking like a puppet.


    Noah left the pce and sat in the driver''s seat, his forehead resting on the steering wheel, lost in thought.


    I was going to stop her from doing that. It''s not easy.


    I was just as worried as he was.


    Yes, I like men.


    Noah''s stern eyes stared at me resentfully, and he quickly lowered his eyes without effort. He murmured in a low voice, as if talking to himself.


    "It''s really hard"


    No, I like a guy named Noah."


    I hastily corrected my words, but Noah''s eyebrows could only contract as he raised his head significantly.


    You can''t meet another man. If you do, I''m going to give you two choices."


    What are they?"


    First, I''m going to shoot the man.


    The way he spoke with a great momentum made me cringe as if he was holding a gun to my ear. It would be too powerful a retaliation for the first option. I was afraid that the second choice meant he was going to shoot me.


    I gulped and listened to him about the murder threat.


    "The second. One more confirmation shot, then I''ll finish the confirmation of death."


    That''s scary.


    So you''d better break up with him nicely and not even think about going out with another man at all, right? Im going to make his death like an ident and get rid of it.


    "Why do you dare to kill him and make it look like an ident?"


    "If the princess is sad, I willfort her. Then she will need me and like me again.


    He was a creative and crazy man, after all. In fact, the chances of virtually anything mentioned happening were slim to none. If you only looked at the obsessive beautiful man, you wont be interested in any other men.


    In fact, even when I dated the rather good-looking Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall, he didn''t make me feel anything.


    My exes? I don''t even remember their names. He was such an overwhelming unicorn of a man. Objectively speaking, yes.


    No, it wont happen. I don''t want any unnecessary murders.. I can''t see any other man but you. You''re so beautiful.


    Yes. Continue to think Im the only one who is beautiful, or nice, handsome, pretty, etc."


    The conversation moved to apletely different topic, but I was eager to express my heart in my own way. He persisted in asking me on the ride home.


    "I''m the only one who you will love?"


    Yes.


    "What if someone prettier than me appears?"


    "There has never been anyone like that in history. I dont think he will appear in another hundred years or so."


    We passed over the Ramblin'' Bridge, which stretched over the river, and entered the new city center. The car stopped on the side of the road for a while and then he turned and looked at me.


    You seem jealous. You are behaving like a child.


    I know.


    I looked at Noah, smiling and Noah turned his head away. The tips of his ears were red. The man who had been so fierce in exterminating all the men in the world had a vulnerable look on his face.


    I said in a somewhat rxed voice.


    You dont have to be jealous." (Diana)


    "I do, though." (Noah)


    I''m jealous of the pudding too. Its unfair. (Noah)


    "I''m sorry." (Diana)


    "Yes. So I want you to like me only. (Noah)


    That''s it. Youre my most favorite in this world." (Diana)


    At the time when I fell into an unfamiliar world, this man was the only person I could rely on, so I got myself abducted. In fact, it was safe to say that I was the one who abducted that man''s heart. Noah''s lips, which had been closed in a straight line, bent loosely like inertia.


    Most favorite in the world? That''s a nice expression to hear."


    Noah, who was humming to himself, started the engine again. He looked as pleased as a child who had found something new.


    ***


    After Noah and Diana had gone home, Queen Grace II slowly rose and looked at Baron Mason, who was standing nearby.


    Your Majesty, youre leaving?


    "Oh, yes. Im tired.


    Princess Erica, who had been sipping champagne and socializing with thedies, approached her mother and cautiously opened her mouth.


    "Did you perhaps order her to stay at the pce for my sake?"


    The Queen''s expression became somewhat stunned at the princess''s words.


    Have you not yet given up your unrequited love? Don''t you know very well that you can''t marry Noah?"


    There are probably other candidates for the Winter family session. Mother, I''m not so sure."


    Do you intend to end the era of the Spencer dynasty? This is not a seat that depends on your confidence. It is a fate that is forced upon us, a fate that we cannot avoid as long as we are born heirs to a legitimate line.


    Queen Grace''s tone was calm and cold.


    Erica looked like she was going to start crying soon, and her lips twitched, but she didn''t cry. She spoke in a low voice.


    "I want to marry someone I love."


    The Queen''s face, which had always been expressionless or monotonous with only a social smile, sank into a cold expression.


    For a woman to be the master of a country, youre greedy. You can use your power to keep him close to you, but a ruler should not do so. The Queen must live her life in the expectation and gaze of all people and be respected for the rest of her life.


    I don''t like it. It''s like bondage."


    Princess Erica shook her head sadly. The Queen moved her hand and gestured for her toe closer. As Princess Erica, looking a little frightened, approached, the Queen whispered to her in secret.


    It''s your power that they tell you they love you, not you. It was the same with me, I believed what the man* said about loving me. As it turned out, his love wasn''t me." (*The man was the Admiral. Celines father)


    "Noah is different."


    The Queen smiled bitterly at her words.


    Ah, your premise is wrong, my dear. He doesn''t even love you in the first ce.


    No. If it wasn''t love..then it would be odd since he dropped everything toe to Medea."


    It was a fact that everyone knew that it was for Diana''s sake, but the Princess didn''t know. She probably didnt want to ept it.


    "No. Hes"


    The way Noah looked at Diana was different. He just wanted one thing. All the same one.


    The Queen stopped speaking and closed her eyes in thought.


    Her lips twitched as she thought of a young man who had shone with his mere presence in the past. He had beautiful white blond hair and sapphire blue eyes. A man who gave a sharp impression, but when he smiled, he looked somewhat pure. He was a man who always made her heart throb, giving meaning to even the smallest action.


    It was a day when the sky was particrly clear and high. A nice young man in a uniform was standing against a field of wheat that was about to be harvested, looking at her. She thought he was like a prince from a fairy tale.


    <b><i>The day I met the Princess was the best day of my life.</i></b>


    <b><i>Did I do anything special that day? I don''t remember.</i></b>


    <b><i>It was the first time we saw each other. It was the best chance I ever had."</i></b>


    A momentter he confessed his love to her, the princess, as soon she felt he looked like a golden glow against the autumn field.


    <b><i>I think it''s fate. I want to give my all to the Princess. Rudely, I love you with all my heart, Princess."</i></b>


    She regretted that his sincere eyes were filled with the blue sky that stung her eyes.


    This was a long time ago, but the past haunted her for a lifetime, and she had to face it. Sometimes it came out of nowhere in the form of unrequited love, sometimes in the form of hate.


    The afterimages of memories that were no longer memories had once again been burned into the Queens mind in a different form. The more things you have, the more you hide behind them and the less you can truly love.


    The man approached her under the guise of love. Winston ire, now Admiral of the Belford Navy, was the Queen''s first love.


    She recalled meeting Noah, who was seven years old at the time, when she was kicked out after meeting with the Admiral.

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48


    The Past ().


    A long time ago at the residence of the Duke of Rothsilde on the outskirts of Progen.


    A woman and a young boy were strolling through the garden, nted with camellias that bloomed inte winter. The red camellia, the only flower in bloom in the garden, bows its head humbly, unable to bear the weight of the heavy snow.


    The boy dressed in well-cut luxurious clothes like a high-ranking aristocrat and wore a thick coat with fox fur. A beautiful woman with silver hair and silver-gray eyes, reminiscent of a winter queen, held the young boy''s hand affectionately.


    The woman was enjoying herself as she stepped on the snow that made a giggling sound, while the boy had a dull face that made him look cynical. The precocious, cold-hearted boy and the pure childlike woman had the same frosty hair.


    Silver-white hair, this was a unique Esatian trait.


    "Noah. The world turned white in a day. Isn''t it amazing?"


    "It snowed, of course it did.


    The young Noah replied indifferently. He had a brisk pronunciation and a mature tone that didn''t match his age. His plump cheeks were tinged red, but his eyes looked insensitive.


    Well, isn''t it beautiful?


    I don''t understand."


    At Noahs sardonic tone, Elisa Rothsilde, Duchess of Rothsilde, Noahs mother, stopped and pretended to be disappointed.


    Noah. In that case, you should answer yes, its beautiful. It''s how the other person feels."


    "Mother likes pretty snow.


    That makes me happy too. Did your father teach you that?"


    The Duchess chuckled and kissed Noah on the cheek. As she passed under the winter tree, sheughed at the white concave snow bird chirping on the branch this time. It was a round bird with white fur and a cute appearance.


    Isn''t that bird cute too? It''s so round.


    Yes, its cute too.


    Noah simply answered as his mother would have wanted him to.


    He could not understand how she could give the same meaning to the natural phenomena, such as the setting of the sun, the falling of the snow, and the rising of the stars.


    Nor could he understand, in a higher sense, that he should be a good boy. The line between good and evil was always too blurred for Noah to judge.


    When he asked Why can''t we kill him?, his mother would say Don''t you feel sorry for him?


    He could not understand how they made a child who thought differently from other people and remained in a higher dimensional way of thinking.


    Father was a good man, but he sat at the top and knew how to kill people efficiently.


    Mother was a kind person, but she cooked the pheasants and deer that the hunters killed and passed them around with a casual smile.


    So, the young Noah just watched and imitated the people around him and set the standard of what he would and would not do as he was taught. Since he was smart, he was quick to get the reactions and answers that they wanted to hear.


    The Duchess of Rothsilde was realistic in her education, saying things like, "Your loved ones can hate you or dislike you," and "If you do that, they will put you in jail."


    Fortunately, Noah was born into a great noble family, received a thorough education, and pursued a gentlemanly appearance himself, so he was able to integrate into society without difficulty in the future.


    Otherwise, he would likely have be a madman who thought death and horror were beautiful and pursued murder and ughter. The Duchess spoke in a sweet voice as she fiddled with Noah''s hand.


    A beautiful princess wille to our house tomorrow."


    "A princess?"


    Yes. She is Princess of Medea. She will stay in our house for a while. You have to behave politely and treat her as a gentleman, okay?


    Noah nodded. The Duchess then picked Noah up and said in a strained voice,


    "Oh dear. Did you grow again? It''s heavy."


    Please put me down if I''m too heavy.


    I don''t think I''ll be able to lift you next year, so I''ll hold you a lot now. How do you like that?"


    I will listen to mother."


    Noah''s words were cute, and the Duchess, her mouth covered,ughed like a little girl. Her silver-gray eyes, tinged with the hues of winter, curved beautifully.


    "In the future, when you grow up, will you give mother a piggyback ride?


    Yes.


    They finished their walk, entered the mansion, and shook off their snow-covered shoes.


    Shall we have some cocoa? Ill put some whipped cream on top.


    Yes.


    Noah didn''t like sweets, but he never showed it because his mother liked them.


    The Duchess, who had called her servant and asked her to bring a warm cup of cocoa, sat in an armchair in front of the stove and beckoned to her son. In her hand, she held a book of children''s fairy tales.


    "I will finish reading the fairy tale I read to you yesterday."


    Its okay, it''s obvious. I don''t even know why the prince is going to save the princess. I''ve never seen it before."


    "Maybe that''s how love begins. They fall in love and get married. Should I read you something different then? It''s about a fox and a prince."


    Noah, who was smarter than his peers and read mostly math and physics books, children''s stories were boring.


    "Yes. Because mother likes children''s books. I can do it with you since you like it.


    He nodded as if he had no choice. The Duchess opened the book of fairy tales and giggled. Noah turned to observe her expression in detail.


    He knew that his own mother had been separated from her parents at a very young age when she was trapped in an internment camp. He also knew that she was saved and survived by his father, the Duke of Rothsilde, in the Assatine Massacre, which was carried out in the past.


    Sometimes she would look out the window with a dazed expression. It looked like she was crying without sound.


    A servant came to the Duchess, who was reading the fairytale book, and told her the news that the Duke had returned.


    "Noah, your father is back.


    The Duchess took Noah down to the entrance floor and smiled as she looked at her husband.


    "Have youe?"


    As she held his hand, Noah''s dark blue eyes stared at his mother''s face as she looked at his father.


    "Im. Noah does not greet me again."


    Noah''s father, Duke Noel Rothsilde, deliberately made a stern expression, but it did notst long. Quickly holding his son in his arms, he began to rub Noahs cheek vigorously.


    "Why don''t you do it? Why don''t you say hello? Father is sad.


    Father, youre back.


    "I thought I''d kiss you if you didn''t do it again tomorrow."


    Noah quickly avoided his father''s face, who rubbed his cheek awkwardly. The three of them were a harmonious family.


    Noah read satisfaction, joy, and happiness on his parents'' faces. Especially when his mother and father were together, those emotions were overflowing on their faces.


    However, love could not be read because it was an emotion he did not yet understand. The Duke, who was having dinner in the dining room, cut up a te of mutton and began to talk.


    Honey, the princess will arrive at the capital of Progen tomorrow around noon. I wille pick her up.


    She will stay until after giving birth. I feel bad for her.


    Noah, who was eating while listening to their conversation, tilted his head and asked a question.


    A princess is pregnant with a child? She is not a queen or married.


    How on earth do you know the word pregnant?"


    The duchess looked at her husband with embarrassment at her sons words. The Duke ruffled his golden locks and smiled gently.


    Our son is very smart. He seems to be a lot like you, honey.


    I didnt study well. (Duchess)


    "That''s all right. In my eyes, youre clever. (Duke)


    The Duchess smiled shyly and wiped her lips with a napkin.


    After dinner, the Duke always took Noah to his study to answer questions in the book Noah had read at noon.


    Knowing that his wife, who was confined to a pigsty-like camp from an early age and had no ess to education, could not answer, the Duke would make time separately to teach Noah.


    In particr, since he (the Duke) had a head for physics, which was the search for the essence, he thought he might be a physicist one day, and he even met a retired schr who worked as a senior researcher in the technical development department.


    The Duke, who sat Noah on hisp, swept Noah soft silvery-white hair, gently advised him.


    It would be better not to ask the Princess about the father of her child, or some simr questions.


    Why?"


    The Princess will be sad. If the Princess cries, I think your mother will be sad too."


    Why is the Princess sad?


    She was betrayed. She even broke up with him. So you have to be nice and be a gentleman.


    It was Noah who did not understand the emotion of grief. Betrayal, separation. He had never experienced it, but he understood that it was negative.


    The boy nodded as if he partially understood.


    ***


    Princess Grace, who came to the mansion, was still a young girl with a child-like face.


    She was only 17 years old, pregnant, and was kicked out until she gave birth. Her body was thin despite her pregnancy, and her skin, which looked pale under her pitch-ck hair, made her seem even more pitiful.


    She wore a tubr dress without corset and petticoat, a cape, and low heeled shoes. She was inly dressed for royalty.


    Noah stared up at her, smiling with difficulty, and read a series of negative emotions.


    "Please make yourselffortable, Princess."


    The Duchess led her to her room, wrapping a warm nket around her shoulders. The Princess had note out of her room for several days since her arrival at the mansion, and only spoke for a few moments when the Duchess brought her her meals in person.


    At times a sobbing voice escaped from the room. Noah thought that the crying had something to do with betrayal and separation.


    Before going to bed, the Duke coupley down on the bed with Noah between them and talked in secret. The Duke patted Noah lightly on the back and sighed as he spoke.


    It seems the Princess didn''t let anyone know who the babys father is. That must be why she came here in secret."


    He''s a really bad man. The Princess is so young.  Poor thing.


    Yes. Are you worried?"


    Of course I am. I have a child, too. I can''t even imagine how upset the Princess must feel.


    The kind-hearted Duchess was sincerely worried about the Princess. Noah, who was lying between them, heard their conversation and, like a child, immediately fell asleep.


    If you feel sorry for her, why should you protect her? That was his question.


    The afternoon the next day.


    The weather was somewhat mild, with warm sunshine and a clear sky. Princess Grace, who had been cooped up in her room, went for a walk alone, wearing her thick scarf.


    Noah, who was ying in the attic, his secret ce, spotted her walking slowly through the garden outside his window. He hurried downstairs and followed her.


    A small boy called to the Princess with long braided down hair as ck as ebony.


    Princess Grace, star of Medea.


    Hello, Noah. You have a good Medea ent.


    The Princess turned around and smiled beautifully. Her light blue eyes looked warm in the sunlight. Noah, who rolled his tongue and tried to pronounce her name smoothly over and over again, replied indifferently.


    That''s a beautiful name.


    You may call me Gracie. It''s a nickname.


    May I call you Sister?"


    At the child''s abrupt and bold words, Princess Grace covered her mouth and smiled. For a woman with a high status, she was unusually uncharacteristic and sweet.


    Yes. You must be an only child.


    Yes."


    Will youe here?


    Princess Grace, hugged Noah in her arms, tried to ask, but gave up quickly after making a grunting noise.


    Why is are you so tall? You dont look like a seven-year-old."


    I look like my father."


    I see. The Duke is tall. You look so much like him.


    She giggled as she looked at Noah and said he was cute.


    I need an escort while staying here. How about Noah being my knight?"


    "If its an order, I will do that."


    Its not an order. You don''t have to do it if you don''t want to."


    "Ummm, then you''ll have to give me a separate honorary knighthood of Medeater. Otherwise I wont be a knight.


    Yes. Youre a smart kid.


    The Princess thought Noah was like a grown up in his 7 years old body. He had a strange atmosphere.


    From that day on, Noah became Princess Grace''s knight and followed her around. He followed her around and was with her when she ate and walked.


    He evenid out a handkerchief for her before sitting on a bench in the garden in a gentlemanly manner and escorted her in a usible manner. The Duke and Duchess were surprised but pleased, as they had never seen Noah''s consideration for strangers before.


    They felt sorry for the Princess, who hade here as an outcast, had no maids or knights for the purpose of maintaining secrecy.


    The poor Princess may never return to Medea again.

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49


    The Past (2/2)


    Duke Rothsilde, who had returned from putting Noah to bed in the other room, hugged the Duchess, who was lying in bed with him, and gave her a light pat on the back.


    Elisa, the King, Queen, and the Crown Prince of Medea have contracted an illness of unknown cause. They say the symptoms are simr to typhus, and they even had hemoptysis."


    "I don''t think royalty can get typhus. Are they all right?"


    It sounds serious. If even the Crown Prince dies, I think Princess Grace will be the next Queen."


    At the word "death," the Duchess''s white face went nk. Her husband was not one to judge death rashly. It was very likely that the doctors had given up.


    We must strengthen security at the mansion. Honey, you must also be careful. Noah must also be careful not to go deep into the forest. And we have orders not to tell the Princess about this."


    Yes, I understand. Are you all right? You are suspected of being the one who made the surviving Esatians flee to Cynthia.


    The Duchesss concern was for her own husband. The silver eyes glittered with sadness. The Duke looked slowly at his wife''s face and admired her.


    Of course. Don''t worry. But why are you always so beautiful?


    I''m an old woman with kids, but why are you.


    I am an old man with kids too. Honey, why dont we have a second child?


    He stroked his wifes long silver-white hair, and his eyes bent. The Duchess cheeks were slightly flushed like a girl''s as she covered her face with her hands in embarrassment.


    Elisa, don''t worry. I will protect you and Noah. You both are the most important thing to me."


    The gentleness and skillful seduction that Noah possessed today was the result of his father''s influence. The image of his parents that he saw in his childhood had a great influence on his life.


    The meaning of importance. He wanted to know it and pursued it deep in his heart.


    ***


    Progen winter had passed, and before long, spring arrived when all things came back to life.


    The garden of the Rothsilde family''s mansion was thick with green as it was naturally covered in spring colors, and violets and other flowers were blooming all over the ce. Snake strawberries grew here and there on the garden floor, raspberries in the bushes, and cherry peaches on the trees.


    The Duchess and Princess Grace spent their time picking cherry peaches and berries and walking along the edge of the garden pond. The Princess frowned as she tasted the raspberries on a wooden swing in the middle of the spring-scented garden.


    Its sour.


    It looks like it''s not quite ripe yet."


    The Duchess put the berry in her mouth and covered her mouth in shock.


    Oh, should I put some sugar on it? Its not ready to make a tart yet.


    Noah imitated them and put a berry in his mouth, frowning as the sour taste spread.


    Princess Grace enjoyed a leisurely and trivial life, unlike the life in the royal pce. The Duke and Duchess were like her parents and Noah was like her brother. Nothing could have been better.


    She loved to listen to music and even taught Noah to y the piano. Noah, who sat next to her ying the piano and listened to her performance, asked.


    "Princess, what is the title of this song?"


    "Every country has a different interpretation of the title. The original title of the song has double meaning. In Medea, they interpret it to mean that no other love is good enough."


    In Progen, what is it?"


    Theres no more love. Theposer titled it in a culturednguage."


    Princess Grace exined as simply as she could, and Noah nodded with an interesting look on his face. For he understood that the same sentence could have different meanings depending on the point of view and interpretation.


    Time flew by quickly, and it was Saturday, the first day of summer.


    Princess Graces belly was so big that her body became heavy and she staggered as she walked.


    Hydrangeas and roses bloomed in the summer garden, filling the mansion with the scent of flowers and evening primrose, which bloom only at nightfall. When the cool evening breeze began to blow, the Princess came with Noah to view the evening primrose.


    Fireflies flitted here and there, glowing brightly. The moonlight faintly illuminated the evening primrose as the clouds that had covered the moon were pushed away.


    The moon colored the evening primrose a bright yellow.


    A cool breeze blew in harmony with the sounds of grass insects and crickets, giving the scene a profoundly cool summer night.


    Do you know the legend of the evening primrose?"


    Princess Grace, dressed in a thin chemise and scarf, asked Noah as she touched the yellow flower with her hand.


    I don''t know.


    Noah, wearing a shirt and short pants with suspenders, was just thinking about the principle by which fireflies emit light. (*a genius boy here ?)


    He rubbed the firefly in his hand as it was, observing it, but there was no way the Princess could have known that.


    One of the nymphs loved the moon instead of the stars. Moreover, nymphs have always loved the stars.


    I see."


    That Nymph waited only for the night when the stars did not appear. He wanted to tell his love to the Moon Goddess. But the other nymphs told the god about it, and the God became angry and drove the Nymph away to a ce where there was no moon.


    Why?"


    Because he was different from them.


    A ck cloud blocked the moon. In an instant it became dark and her voice became clearer. The fireflies circling in the darkness were also clearly visible.


    The Moon Goddess knew the truth and wandered around looking for the Nymph who said loved her. In the end, they did not meet, and it was not until the Nymph was emaciated and died that they found each other. The flower that bloomed where the Nymph took hisst breath was the evening primrose."


    I see.


    Thenguage of this flower is waiting.'' Isn''t it sad?"


    Noah tried to understand theplex feelings of the story''s meaning and the sadness by looking at the expression the Princess was making.


    Did the Princess have someone you love, too?


    The Princess looked down at the yellow evening primrose with green beady eyes. Noah had never felt the emotion of sadness, but he knew what it looked like.


    Yes. It was love and it was sad."


    It seems that loved ones are important and that''s why they feel sad. Noah thought repeatedly in his mind.


    When can I meet the baby?"


    Noah asked as he carefully ced his little hand on the Princesss belly.


    It is going to be born in the winter. Probably around Christmas."


    "When she is born, give her to me. I think it''s a girl." ?


    "How do you know the gender? People are not things, you cant just have it. Why do you want it to be a girl?"


    "I think I know. And boys are noisy and they don''t wash their hands." ? oh Noah


    Did you have a dream? Is that why you think so?


    Noah crossed his arms and lifted his chin as if the Princess was asking the obvious.


    Of course. I''m a gentleman. My parents use the expression Youre mine a lot. I wish I had something important like that too."


    Hmmm. So you meant you want to get married?"


    Thats right.


    I see. Then, let''s do that. If the child to be born is a girl, be her knight and protect her like you did for me. That''s how you win her heart, fall in love, and get married."


    Noah rubbed his cheeks and looked a little embarrassed at Princess Grace''s words.


    I''m going to be a husband, aren''t I?


    Where on earth did you learn such words at such a young age?" And it doesn''t match your innocent expression."


    From that day on, Noah spent more and more time putting his ear to the Princess''s stomach and talking to her. The Duchess, seeing him, wondered why, and asked Noah, as hey in bed before going to sleep.


    "Noah, are you curious?"


    Yes. When shes born, I will protect her like a knight and marry her.


    The Duke who had given Noah an arm pillow covered his mouth andughed.


    I can''t believe youre going to marry royalty. You already have ns for the future. You are a man of ambition."


    The four had a good time waiting for the uing child. The friendly Duke and Duchess took good care of Princess Grace, who became pregnant at a young age.


    It was after summer, when the green trees had faded into distinct autumn colors and the sky was high. On Sabbath night, a messenger and Kingsguard arrived in a hurry from Medea.


    Princess Grace had no idea that the king and queen and her brother, the crown prince, were ill. They deliberately did not tell her because she worried that she would be shocked.


    They were on one knee and cried out.


    May God bless Your Royal Highness the Princess."


    The messenger delivered the news that the king and queen had passed away and that there did not seem to be much left for the crown prince.


    Your Highness must be the legitimate heir to the throne and the next Queen of Medea.


    If she failed to seed to the throne, a branch of a family like the Spencer royal family, the descendant of the Winters royal family, the top of the session order, may seed to the throne, and the sovereignty of the ruling power may change. The Princess decided to hide the fact that she had a child with a Belfordian and be Queen.


    Shortly after Princess Grace left the mansion and returned to Medea, the Crown Prince breathed hisst. This was the moment when Princess Grace Spencer was proimed the legitimate heir to the throne and crowned ruler of the United Kingdom of Medea.


    A few monthster, a cold winter came.


    On Christmas Day, full of white snow, they heard the good news that a Princess had been born. The Duke and Duchess of Rothsilde and Noah went to the Tempshire Pce in the capital of Medea to celebrate the happy asion.


    When the Duchess saw the little baby in her cradle, she blushed slightly.


    Oh my, it''s beautiful. Noah, it''s the princess you''ve been waiting for."


    Noah stood tall and peered into the cradle with curious eyes. Queen Grace, dressed in her maternity clothes, sat on her bed and looked sorry as she looked at Noah.


    Noah, you cant marry the Princess. Shes the only sessor.


    Noah, who had been staring at the baby in the gorgeous goldwork cradle, shook his head.


    I don''t want it.


    Everyone was surprised by his unexpected answer since he had been persistently asking to marry the Princess. The Duchess smiled kindly and asked.


    Why? You said you would only marry the Princess."


    "She''s not a princess. She doesn''t even look like the Queen, and she''s ugly." (*someone had already switched baby Princess Diana with baby Erica)


    Noah''s strange blue eyes studied the baby in the cradle. Some confusion and doubt oozed from the adults.


    He wasn''t sure why, whether it was a young childs intuition or the unfamiliarnguage of seeing a newborn baby, but Noah got the feeling that the baby was not the Princess he had been waiting for.


    Don''t say that, Noah. Apologize to Her Majesty.


    The Duchess urgently scolded Noah, but Queen Grace didnt mind, thinking it was only the words of a child. Instead, sheughed.


    It''s all right. Noah, I''m sure you were crumpled and ugly when you were just born, too."


    While the Duchess and the Queenughed happily, Duke Rothsilde looked into the cradle in detail with a nk expression on his face. He asked the Queen quietly.


    "Is Captain ire gone?"


    (*Admiral Winston ire who had the child (Diana) with Queen ire.


    Silence reigned for a while. Only the sound of the winter wind beating against the windows eased the weight of the silence. Queen Grace''splexion grew somewhat pale, but she nodded unconcernedly.


    Yes. He left at dawn the day his child was born. I do not intend to put his name in the family registry in the future. Ill make it clear that the Princess is the child of the second son of a Marquis, who had already died. He was a longtime friend of mine and apetent clerk."


    Queen Grace bit her lips painfully. Duke Rothsilde smiled bitterly as he watched the baby with blue eyes and fluffy hair.


    Noah will protect the Princess in the future. May God bless Her Majesty Queen Grace II."


    Later that day, the Duke and Duchess died in an unexpected ident on their way to Cynthia to help the Essatians they had rescued.


    Noah, who was 9 years old at the time, did not cry when he heard the news of his parents'' death. He just remembered what his mother had always said.


    <b><i>"Family is the only one on your side. You''re the most precious thing to my mom and dad."</i></b>


    <b><i>In our absence, your wife and children will be the only ones who matter to you. That is love. Families are born out of love."</i></b>


    Noah did not cry at his parents'' funeral. Because as a result, they put others first, not Noah, and even gave up their lives. Therefore, with no one to teach him about emotions, his life was always apanied by qualifiers such as evil, insanity, etc.


    Later, through the contact of a spy he had ced in Belford, Noah learned that the real Princess was there, and he formted an abduction n to bring her back again.


    This was not to keep his father''s will to protect the Princess and save Medea, nor to keep a promise he made to the Queen when he was a child.


    He just wanted to find his own "precious person.


    ***


    *Spoilers: So somehow Noah knew that the baby wasnt the real Princess Diana. Because a maid of the Queen had used Erica (the current Princess) to rece baby Diana. And that maid was Jeffreys mother. That was why when she died, she asked Jeffrey to protect the stolen Princess.

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50


    Celine sent a message to Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall asking to meet with him. Jeffrey made her wait quite a while, but did not reject her.


    Facing him in his mansion, Celine tried to speak calmly.


    She must have been Duke Rothsildes lover. That''s why she survived her abduction."


    Jeffrey remained seated at his desk in his study while Celine was still standing. Then he rested his chin on his hand and tapped the desk, looking down.


    Celine couldn''t tell if it was papers or other thoughts that his eyes were looking down at. Celine sat down on the couch, seeminglypletely unconcerned that he didn''t ask her to sit down or offer a cup of tea.


    "That''s why she turned her back on her country and left behind the Lieutenant Colonel''s efforts. I don''t know why Belford would leave her alone."


    So what do you want me to do?


    It was a rigid question from the Lieutenant Colonel. Celine raised her head slightly.


    "No matter how young my sister is, she hasmitted a crime so she must be punished ordingly. Or ask Medea to extradite her


    "Do you think its appropriate to ask for her punishment? Youre her family."


    Yes.


    Jeffreys cold blue eyes narrowed sharply and bent round. The corners of his mouth were clearly in the form of ridicule.


    Even your father thinks so.


    A suspicion came into Celine''s eyes at the sudden reference to Admiral ire. Diana had no family connections and had never once been put on a line ofparison, so it was surprising that it was so sudden.


    Everything my father does is for a reason. Morally, he should not kill people, but he is allowed to do so by order from the top."


    Are you saying that there is no reason for Diana''s actions?


    There must be but I don''t think it can be a valid reason, because whatever it was, it was greed that tempted the devil."


    Devilish greed.


    Nodding, Jeffrey mumbled as he reflected on the meaning. Greed, mere greed. So was him.


    Miss Celine. Do you think greed and lust are bad?"


    I don''t think all of it is bad. Perhaps it''s the driving force that allows people to act."


    It''s a subjective disposition."


    It was a vulgar conversation that felt extremely dry, but it was enough to grasp her selfish thoughts.


    You too have greed and desire, don''t you, Lieutenant Colonel? For example, honor and power. That''s why you saved Diana."


    You didn''t have to go rescue her.


    Celines expression seemed to say so in a glimpse. Jeffrey partly agreed with her on that point.


    As soon as he saw the fitted shoes and clothes that were cut to fit Dianas body, he felt that Colonel Noah Rothsilde cared a lot about Diana.


    Healthy fat cheeks, pinkplexion, and bright eyes. Nheless, he (Jeffrey) brought her back out of his personal greed. He believed he could do so himself.


    When he brought her home, he thought of her dry gray-green eyes. And the faint light shed and disappeared, like a bird that had just learned how to fly and was locked in its cage again.


    He thought that going to see her every week was nothing more than just going to feed the trapped bird. She looked helpless, and sometimes even bothered to live.


    He thought about gaining her heart and keeping her close to him, but he realized that as long as Celine and the Admiral were present, it was an ordeal to make herpletely his.


    The same thing that drove Diana into destitution and every danger pulled him to the front lines of battle.


    I wish her a happy life. It does not matter what that may look like. I don''t necessarily have to keep her by my side to see it. That''s about it.


    Celine felt strangely ufortable. What is that level of feeling? Her pink lips twitched as she looked at Jeffrey.


    Either too much or too little.


    Looking at her stiff face, Jeffrey asked.


    Do you believe your father? You seem to understand why he discriminates against Diana and why he is so cruel.


    Yes, I understand. He believes that my mother died because of Diana, and he resents her. My father thought Diana was the devil who trampled on our happiness. In fact, she behaved like the devil to me. She used you to make me feel terrible."


    That''s amazing."


    Jeffreyughed aloud. It was a spectator''s look at a funny skit.


    I understand too. It''s not totally different, but it''s totally wrong. I''ll tell you, since you seem to expect it."


    What?"


    Celine asks with a look of ignorance. Jeffreys eyebrows raised slightly as he swept his ck hair.


    The direct cause is your father. He wanted to abandon you and your mother when a woman of high status came to have a child of his own. That was the desire and reason of the Admiral.


    Celine''s eyes narrowed as she remained motionless and rigid. Her green eyes nced like the eyes of a snake.


    So, who do you think the devil is?


    Jeffrey asked.


    Celine''splexion suddenly became cooler. There was a watered-down silence between them. She spoke in an eerily somber voice.


    Why do you say that? Are you even afraid of militaryw?"


    "Yes. But you wont say it.


    The extremely calm tone that followed destroyed all of Celine''s usible excuses.


    Because you are an aplice too. Maybe it''s been like that for a long time."


    Aplice? Me? I didn''t do anything. Celine anxiously sped her hand on the sofa table.


    A little moisture pooled and disappeared under her hands. She eventually pressed her forehead as if the aftermath of the shock still lingered.


    <i> he knows the whole silent truth.</i>


    Celine had no use for using the military''s threat for what Jeffrey had said. His icy blue eyes looked directly at her.


    I know you''re smart. I also know that you just pretend to be very normal and sometimes pretend that you don''t know anything and live your life. I know that you are still calcting ways to get out of it.


    I know my mother was different. I don''t know anything else. She died from a mental illness that made her weak after giving birth to Diana"


    "Yes, thats how you always get away with it. The cycle of misery continues with the choice of greed. Now you can no longer stand by and watch or avoid it.


    The voice of the Lieutenant Colonel, piling low, bound her. I didn''t know, I don''t know, there must be a reason. That was Celines refuge.


    Jeffrey stood up and smiled at Celine as he approached her. He bent down and looked down at her with eerie eyes.


    You know everything now, don''t you?"


    Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall, an excellent officer, even blocked her retreat route. His subsequent words sounded like amand with force.


    Human greed knows no bounds, but you, his beloved daughter, can stop him. Make the right choice, Celine."


    It was an indirect pressure.


    She was not certain who Princess Medea is now, or if she has been reced by someone else, but Diana was the Queen''s daughter.


    So when her father discovered that he was found out by the Duke, he tried to kill Diana.


    After escaping from prison, Diana left the country.


    So, therefore!


    After thinking, reaching and concluding, Celines lips quivered and then closed tightly.


    That''s why Jeffrey saved Diana and took an interest. Because he was the second son of the Prime Minister, he must crave absolute power.


    You were greedy too, weren''t you?"


    With her chin raised, Celine turned the subject around and asked why Jeffrey did not tell Medea the truth about Diana when he knew who she was. Jeffrey didn''t reply as if it was his habit.


    When Jeffrey first learned of poor looking Diana''s existence, he could only specte about her and could not be sure.


    The subsequent actions of the Admiral and the Duke of Rothsilde were sufficient to corroborate the fact. He did not intervene directly by raising this fact with the Queen of Medea or informing the people around her.


    There was a reason for that, but he did not say it because he knew that the heir to the throne of the United Kingdom of Medea could not marry a person of another race. Colonel Noah Rothsilde also hid this fact.


    It was for the happiness of the two lovers.


    The Lieutenant Colonel''s intervention stayed on the line of warning to Celine to stop her father''s outbursts. It was because, as was typical of his straightforward nature, he prioritized the happiness of Diana, who had lived a lifetime of unhappiness.


    ***


    I was rushing back and forth in my room and packing my bags to stay at the Tempshire Pce when a thought urred to me. It was because I didnt ask how long I should stay at the Pce.


    Three days, two days?


    The maid, Lenny, was packing my spring clothes. It was still winter. I asked in astonishment.


    Um Lenny?'' Why are you packing spring clothes? It''s only February.


    I thought you would stay there for a few months, but I guess not. The guests staying at the pce can stay up to a year at the most. Especially the master, who was knighted by Medea


    No."


    Lenny opened her eyes wide at my urgent restraining word.


    What?"


    Anyway, I''m going to keep it simple.


    Oh, you can buy new clothes because there are many western clothing stores and grocery stores around that bring in thetest fashions.


    Lenny smiled, folded my underwear neatly, and finished it off properly. It was already midnight when I finished packing and arranging my room.


    Youre leaving early tomorrow morning, so sleep early. Good night, Miss.


    I don''t n on going to bed early."


    A familiar voice followed Lenny''s words as the door to my room opened. Noah, who had left in the morning to do his business, was standing at the door.


    He was holding a paper bag full of something. Perhaps because of Noah''s remark, Lenny couldn''t help but smile. She greeted him and left the room.


    What is it?"


    Noah chuckled at my question.


    I am the perfect man now.


    Why?"


    He sat on the edge of the bed, a paper bag in hisp, and beckoned me toe closer. I approached and sat down next to him and he pulled out one of the items in the bag.


    It was a small ss jar filled with pink pudding. He looked expectant as he held the pudding and the dessert spoon he had brought along. He seemed to be waiting for apliment.


    ''Thank you. It looks delicious."


    I got them all because I don''t know what vors you like."


    In the paper bag, there were about 10 puddings. Chuckling, I tried to open the lid of the ss jar containing the pudding, but he took it, opened the lid for me, and handed it to me again.


    Is it good?


    I haven''t eaten it yet." ?


    I scooped the pudding and put it in my mouth to examine the taste.


    Mmm, it''s delicious. Would you like to try some?"


    When I handed him a scoop, he opened his mouth and took it like a little bird. But as soon as he took it in his mouth, he hurriedly swallowed it and made a strange expression.


    This man does not like sweets. He shrugged and looked irresolute.


    It''s delicious.


    It''s okay if you don''t share my taste.


    Too sweet. I cant eat it.


    Right? You don''t have a sweet tooth."


    "I want to like the things the Princess likes, so I''ll try."


    How do you think you will change your taste? Ill eat it all.


    I ate three puddings in one go. Noah watched happily, elbows on his knees, chin propped up.


    "They are delicious just the way you eat them. I will buy them for you every day. I can do that much."


    "Not every day. Itll make me fat."


    Its okay. I am strong. I can give you a piggyback ride or carry you even if you get fat.


    Our conversation was mostly boring, but informative and fun. We learned things we didn''t know about each other, and weughed at the little things.


    I used to like to be alone and isted, but now I feel bored and empty without him. Noah, who had his elbows on his knees and his chin resting in his hands, chuckled.


    His blue eyes looked down at the ring on my finger.


    Do you remember when we first met?"


    "When you kidnapped me in Belford?"


    "No, that wasn''t the first time we met."


    It meant that we had met before I became this Diana person. Of course, that was not in the original story nor in my memory. Noah looked at me confused and smiled like it was nothing.


    Well, it''s only natural that you don''t remember.


    I was not the owner of this body, so I could not ask for details. He didn''t say anything else after that.

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51


    The next morning, I walked out to the front door of the mansion wearing a dress made of red velvet and a white mink cape.


    I was going to the Tempshire Pce. The servants took my luggage and put it in the trunk of a waiting ck car. In the driver''s seat of the car sat Vincent, the secretary I hadn''t seen in a long time.


    He greeted me with a still dull look on his face.


    It''s been a while, hasn''t it?


    Secretary Ford. How have you been?"


    "I''m 33 years old and I ran away from home, so. I''m sure my name must have been erased from the Ford family forever by now."


    While I hesitated, having nothing to say, Noah, who got into the carte, leaned his back against the seat and sighed.


    I don''t want to go.


    Why did he dress so nicely if he didn''t want to go?


    He wore a slim herringbone coat with a waistline and a coat belt around his waist. The different colors made it look like a uniform at first nce.


    His hair was swept back, revealing a smooth forehead. In addition, the frown and furrowed brow made even the overflowing decadence of his beauty even more primary, so I couldnt take my eyes off him.


    I coughed, thoroughly hiding the hint of fascination.


    You''re dressed beautifully."


    Noah, who was expressionless at the extremely temperatepliment, immediately smiled with his eyes. He lifted his chin and proudly replied, patting his neat tie.


    Ill be the Princesss husband, so I have to look good.


    "You also look good with your hair pulled back."


    Yup. They say if you brush your hair back, you look unimpressive, but do you like it this way?"


    He deliberately frowned, one side of his mouth lifted. I was wondering what looked better, when I heard Vincent''s dry voice.


    May I stay at the pce for a while too? I have to work with Mr. Rothsilde anyway.


    Vincent referred to Noah as "Mr. Rothsilde. Despite his timid disy of frustration, Noah seemed unconcerned.


    Yes.


    Noah nodded in reply, and a subtle joy was in Vincent''s wheat-colored eyes.


    Vincent murmured faintly. "My Queen ." (*Oh I forgot how Vincent was so fascinated with the Queen, lol)


    He happily departed the car.


    The area around the Tempshire Pce had indeed developed amercial district and distributed sophisticated, fashion-forward clothing.


    Perhaps it was fashionable to look intelligent, men dressed ssically with their hair up neatly and wearing sses, women dressed elegantly and luxuriously in clothes that did not focus only on mboyance but also on the functional aspects of daily lives.


    Due to the characteristics of an ind nation, trade and ships were well developed, so cultural properties would also develop quickly. There would be a lot of materials, so there would be a lot of things to make.


    As we passed the Kingsguard, dressed in red uniforms and standing like toy soldiers, and entered the pce, Baron Mason came to wee us.


    Was the trip alright? Let me show you around.


    Her eyes rolled smoothly toward Vincent.


    How do you do? I am Baron Zelda Mason, Her Majesty''s knight anddy-in-waiting.


    I am Vincent Ford, Mr. Rothsildes ountant, secretary, peer, ident management, and errand boy of all kinds. There is much more, but I will let you know when I get the chance.


    You do a lot of work. So do I."


    Vincent nodded with a serious expression at the Baron''s response.


    The baroque-style room she showed us was spacious and gorgeous to the point of dread. It was filled with polished mahogany wood furniture and had crimson satin curtains on the windows.


    Under the ivory wallpaper, there was a statue made of snow-covered snow ster. The patterned marble floor was also covered with a crisp, expensive-looking imported carpet.


    Despite the gorgeous room, Noah still looked dissatisfied.


    Why are there two beds?"


    Then sleep one day on the left and one day on the right. You can spend your timefortably. You may go out into the city to see themercial and tourist areas."


    Baron Mason answered Noah''sints with a beaming smile and left after telling him about the good restaurants and tourist attractions in the area. Noah, who had been looking around the room for a while, gave me a serious look.


    The bed on the right would be better today.


    .. yes.


    I was thinking of the bed on the left, not by the window, but Noah didn''t seem to be in the mood, so I meekly decided to go with his opinion.


    A short timeter, a servant of the royal court came in, greeted me and helped me unpack and organize my belongings.


    After finishing unpacking, I sat down on the bed and took out some of the puddings I had brought and emptied two of them in the blink of an eye.


    Noah sat down side by side with me and looked at me curiously.


    Its almost finished now. Let''s go buy some moreter."


    Okay.


    I smiled and took another pudding of a different vor. Noah opened his eyes and tilted his head in surprise.


    His hair, which had almost faded to a silver-gray color, swayed gracefully.


    Are you going to eat it again?


    Yes, why?


    Have some more in a little while. I want to check something.


    Noah looked at me kindly, our faces close together.


    The pudding in my hand had gone to his hand before I knew it. I clenched the hand that had been deprived of the pudding and put it on myp.


    What is it?"


    A man who couldnte up withmon ideas grinned. A pretty smile was drawn on his face. Then he spouted out shocking and tant words.


    "Can you take off your clothes?"


    I couldn''t believe my ears for a moment.


    Take off my clothes in broad daylight? What did I just hear?


    The words, without even a trace of hesitation, were neither high nor low; they were just one of those in-life conversations. I just stared at Noah, confused in my mind by his seemingly unconcerned appearance of pure curiosity.


    When I didn''t respond, he asked smugly.


    Should I undress you?"


    Noah stared at me with a harmless look on his face as if he had no agenda. I looked down at his neat tie.


    "Suddenly?"


    I finally pulled my voice out of my tight throat and asked, but he lifted both ends of his mouth without a care in the world.


    Not suddenly. I''ve been curious about it for a long time. It''s something I will see anyway."


    ''Its too bright.  And all of a sudden.


    I rubbed the back of my neck, looking around the room, which was bright with the sun shining. Noah sat facing straight ahead and smoothly unwrapped the tie.


    He folded the tie neatly and ced it neatly on the drawer next to the bed along with the paper bag containing the pudding, he said.


    "It should be bright so that I can see it well, right?


    So, I mean, why would he look at my body in the bright light? I held my arms in front of my chest, as if protecting myself.


    "No, you can''t. It''s embarrassing."


    And Im wearing a dress, of all things. The buttons are on the front."


    Noah, who was stroking the bottom of my chin and looking at me, seemed to be troubled for a while. A momentter he finished his worries and spoke inly.


    Just take off the dress. I have no other intentions."


    "You have only one intention: you want to take my clothes off.


    If you mean there is only one."


    His voice dropped in tone and his speech became slurred. His face, which had been aristocratic and graceful, took on a different, quirky color than before.


    He smiled sexily as he looked at me with narrowed eyes. I looked at his amused face and said vaguely.


    I''ll go wash then.


    It''s not such a big deal that you have to wash again. Shall we check in the bath then?"


    A dimple dug shallowly into Noah''s cheek as he smiled mischievously with a crinkle in his eye. I had made a mistake again, it seemed. I looked at him, embarrassed that he''d seen through my short-sighted, half-baked judgment.


    What is it you want to check?


    Your back.


    Okay.


    It seemed even weirder to me to overreact to the idea of only looking at the dorsal muscles when we were supposed to be married anyway.


    After he closed the curtains, he sat on the bed and looked at me as if in a state of stillness. I turned around and unbuttoned the front button of my dress, and the red velvet dress slid down to my feet.


    I saw Noahs shadow on the floor as he approached me as I stood there in my winter undergarments and corset.


    The shadow seemed to swallow me up with a swish.


    His breath fell around my shoulders, and my hair stood up. As if a feather gently tickled me.


    Noah tugged lightly at the corset straps with his fingers and made anguid sound.


    "Take this off, too."


    I can''t take it off by myself."


    Okay. I''ll help you."


    A numbness started to appear along my spine as he touched my shoulders. It was fortunate that my back was facing him.


    I was not sure if I was confident enough to show him my current hot face.


    He sighed as he untied the corset strings little by little with his delicate hands.


    I just don''t know why you have to wear such tight clothes.


    It has improved.


    Yes. It must be inconvenient for the men, too."


    His warm breath stuck tenaciously to my neck.


    It''s hard to take it off.


    My shoulders suddenly floated with the thrill that suddenly flowed through my neck. I squeezed my eyes shut at the words whispered to me like a stealthy suggestion.


    Even his gaze from behind became too much for me to handle, and I curled my body and screamed weakly.


    Hurry up!


    Its difficult. I have to solve 12 of them and I''ve already solved three."


    Noah let out a snortingugh. I stood there like a puppy holding back from running.


    Are you cold?"


    A little "


    I think he saw my goosebumps.


    Despite his rxed manner, he deftly and quickly undid theces and removed the corset. I was hugging my arms. At first nce it would appear that I was cold, but there was more to it than that.


    Looking at my bare back, he opened his mouth as he took a nnel gown from the bedside table and draped it over my shoulders.


    Yes, that''s right. I kept hearing about it.


    What is it?"


    Here."


    His fingers pressed lightly under my shoulder de. Even the shallowest sensation felt hypersensitive, and I flinched. Even my ears were stuffed, and I couldn''t control the pitch of my voice, so I yelled out.


    What the hell is it?


    "Here''s a scar-like mark. It''s not a scar, it''s like a spot. You''ve never shown it to anyone but the maids of the mansion, right?"


    Molly always helps me put on my corset. She says she has the strongest arms."


    From now on, don''t let anyone see it. Except for me and Molly.


    What are you talking about?"


    Is he talking about the spot on my shoulder? I asked as I turned back around, my body stiffening with embarrassment. It was because I realized that the gown was just only on my shoulders and wasnt closed in the front.


    Noah''s mysterious colored eyes stared at the gap, unfazed. He tilted his head as his gaze was fixed on the open gap.


    I thought you would only show me your back.


    His low voice made me dizzy from my neck to the top of my head.

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52


    A current of silence flowed between us. It was a moment, but it felt like we were trapped in an endless eternity.


    My face slowly reddened, unable to maintain a very nonchnt appearance. What was that reaction? I was the only one in an embarrassing situation. I crouched down and put my face in my knees, as if I were about to copse.


    Are you crying?"


    Noah crouched down beside me and patted me carefully on the back. I shrugged and looked up.


    I''m not crying.


    Yes, you''re not crying.


    Did you want me to cry?"


    Noah''s eyes seemed to sharpen in response to my resentment, but they quickly rxed. Still, it was cold, as if his gaze was cutting my skin.


    "Your expression looks like you''re about to cry. Are you afraid?


    No.


    Soon, a low voice gently and menacingly cloaked my ears.


    I was just looking at it, but I didn''t know you cried already. I haven''t done anything yet."


    The words whispered so close to me seemed to drain my soul. I didnt know how that low voice could feel so sensual. My heart was beating like crazy.


    It was a strange provocation, a wild and dangerous temptation. The smart manughed to reassure me. It was a sensuality that came out meshed with the predator''s look at food that he will eatter anyway. It was impossible to endure the sexuality that was in the air.


    How was it possible to create such an intense atmosphere with such a few words? It was still daytime though, even with the curtains closed. I shook my head and patted my dry face, trying to regain consciousness.


    I don''t cry over these things. I''m not even a crier by nature."


    Noah''s face grew more and more expressionless as I spoke. I don''t know why he looked so disappointed. He soon regained his smiling face.


    I am the same way. I haven''t cried since I was little. Are you the same way?


    No. I used to cry a lot as a child. It was mainly when I was angry.


    When I was a child, after my parents'' funeral, I would go into a deserted house and cry. I was more frustrated than sad because I felt like, Why should I be the only one who has to go through this?


    He watched me reminisce and seemed to sink into different thoughts.


    It was when I was little. That was before you were born.


    He said, showing me the size with his fingers.


    When I was seven years old, I promised my mother that I would give her a piggyback ride when I was older.


    Yes."


    My mother was from a concentration camp, so she was smaller than you are now. I thought I could give you a piggyback ride when I was 10 years old. But she died before that."


    It was a sad and lonely story, but Noah seemed to be indifferent. He didnt seem to miss it. I looked straight at him.


    "I''ve been trying to keep my word ever since. When I can keep it. I dont want it to be meaningless."


    He was a man of crazy execution. I even found myself facilitating an engagement ceremony when I suddenly realized it. He didn''t talk much about himself, but he continued his words smoothly.


    When my parents died in an ident, I didn''t cry. So many promises had be meaningless, and it was that much more heartbreaking. My parents never told me how to grieve, and I didn''t really know what expression I was supposed to make.


    They were kind parents.


    They told me I should smile at people. I was a weird kid. I could often smile socially with a gentlemanly demeanor andnguage, and made a kind face. And yet what do you think people said when they saw me?


    What did they say?"


    Noah chuckled at my question.


    They called me the devil. Because a nine year old smiled and did not cry on the day of his parents'' funeral. I was not like most people. Of course, no one calls me that now. I have been respected and praised for my efficiency in war."


    I thought his smile was the same as the one made by a nine-year-old child at a funeral. He always had a consistent smile.


    It was also as beautiful as an borately crafted silk artificial flower. Noah slowly turned his head and stared at me, as if he were looking at my feelings.


    I flinched as his sharp fingertips grazed my neck, and his lips turned up in satisfaction.


    There was a bit of pleasure in that smile.


    I''ve seen enough people cry already to know better. Pain, suffering, sadnessthese are negative things."


    So  you''re d I don''t cry?"


    No. At first I wanted to make you cry. Do you know that?"


    Yes, well, it''s in the past, and I don''t care."


    I rather not cry for such sadness and pain.


    It was not that I had no feelings. For a long time, I had lived my life like a pebble that had been shaped by the waves and changed into a rounded pebble, scraping myself with expectations, hopes, and even pride.


    It has just dulled me so that I was not only okay with most things, but I tried not to think about them, letting them drift far away. Noahs fingers, which had been trailing down my neck, slowly descended along my shoulder line of my nnel gown and stopped there.


    His low voice continued.


    But I don''t think that was what I wanted to see."


    It was still an unkind exnation.


    I don''t know if it''s the sadistic impulse I feel when I see something I like, or the school-minded desire to explore diverse expressions. My mind was confused as to how to respond to that unusual thought.


    I hope you will cry for me. Only in front of me.


    Seeing his cold colored eyes turn dark, I became a little scared, thinking that he had turned into an abnormal affection.


    I thought that I was a person whose first priority was myself, I should exclude men who hurt and regret no matter how much I liked them.


    To live with him for the rest of my life was like living with a high risk because human nature never changes. Being nice and forgiving for regretting things? It was low return because I had to live in fear of being hurt again.


    I warned indirectly that it would be a parting moment, namely.


    "Do you want me to be hurt and weep for you? I can show you. But I''m sure it''s only once."


    Noahs lips twitched oddly at my decisive reply. He exhaled a slow breath as if relieved, and covered his mouth andughed softly.


    The figure was graceful yet cold. The redness of his eyes seemed to be full of excitement at first nce.


    You''re not a child, and you tease the people you love? That is vulgar and ungentlemanly.


    I felt dizzy for a moment as I felt a firm arm wrapped around my waist.


    The trajectory of my spinning vision was fixed on the ceiling. The moment I realized that Noah had picked me up by the waist and walked to the bed, the bed sheets touched my back with a rustling sound.


    The side of the bed felt dented and shook shallowly, like an aftershock. In an instant, he was on top of me and smiled eerily and bizarrely.


    And yet he was calm and rxed. Under his faded gray hair, his thin, glowing eyes looked down at me.


    The sun leaking through the curtains illuminated his profile. My breath caught in my throat as that face, shadowed by this situation, seemed beautiful.


    He was looking down at me with me in his arms, locking me in, and his gaze followed me persistently.


    I closed my gown tighter and avoided his gaze like a weakling. He stared at me with eyes that were a perfect blend of insistent and tender, whispering quietly.


    Youll cry because I want you to like me enough to cry.


    I don''t know what it is to like it to the point of tears. First of all, I had never cried because of a man. I had never felt special about another person in the past.


    I had met them at random, without any expectations. Now, while I recalled it through my utterly useless and boring and trivial memories, Noah added to it.


    But if you leave or part from me again, then I will really torment you. It won''t matter then because we won''t have anything to do with each other."


    I lifted my mouth andughed because what he said was somewhat cute.


    How are you going to torment me?"


    "I will not let you eat the pudding you like until you ask to see me again."


    That''s scary.


    Keep you locked up in your room.


    No, that''s really scary.


    I shrugged my shoulders, feeling that the cute little words were gruesome.


    It would be okay to be locked up because of my homebody''s tendency, but I think it was cruel to not give pudding. ?


    He said it as if he was joking, but smiled sadly, as if he had some real feelings mixed in. Was it such a shock that I left before?


    He retreated to the side andy down next to me. He turned his body toward me and held me tightly. We were facing each other a breath away.


    "Every day Ill give you Bensho, without sugar and full of lemon. You didnt like it, did you?


    Oh, it pains me to even think about it."


    When I briefly kissed Noah, who drank the alcohol, it seemed savory and sweet, and I took a sip, the sourness wasn''t to my liking.


    Anyway, I don''t want to leave him either. Nope! We should never, ever break up. Itll be my loss. It''s only natural, falling into a world I don''t know, alone, with nowhere to turn and no one I know.


    I hate trouble. I am going to be a parasite, selfishly sticking to him, no matter what anyone says. That''s why.


    "On the other hand, Noah, what should I do if you ask me to leave you?"


    "I will give you a .32 caliber pistol and you can kill me. I deserve to be killed if I do that."


    He was a very extreme man. It was notparable to locking me up and not giving me the pudding.


    That''s how much I like you.


    He sounded serious. It wasced with a little pity. Sometimes, under the sharp eyes that glistened fiercely, they turned pitifully red.


    Diana, I like some things too. Perhaps I know it is simr to greed, but I also know it is important."


    Noah must have felt a kind of sameness from me. He was not a man without feelings either. I think that process was necessary so that we can find the unknown emotion and give it a suitable name.


    Maybe the reason this man craved affection as if it wascking was because he had few expressions and no change in facial expression. Because he observed people and read their thoughts.


    I tried tofort him and said softly.


    Well, I like you that much, too. If I say goodbye, you can lock me in a cell until Ie to my senses. I don''t want Bensho drink, though."


    Well, I''m going to be locked up with you too, and we''re going to eat pudding. We''ll always be together, and I''ll have a hard time with you.


    Noah bent his eyes. The words sounded like a crude ramble, but his expression was serious. I chuckled at the idea of struggling with him.


    "You tease me about it. Let''s suffer together."


    You said we need time to get to know each other before we can get married. If you suffer, we will suffer together, and if we like something, we will try to like it together. That way, I think I can understand you a little better."


    A strange man with a strange conversation. But we talked and he wanted to try to match my taste. That was why he tried the pudding even though he didnt like sweets.


    Lacking empathy, he has tried to understand me in his own way.


    I was suddenly curious about Noah''s intentions and thoughts. I had always thought he was odd, but I had never asked him about it because I didn''t want to care.


    Earlier, he had identified a mark on my back and didn''t tell me what it was. Nor did he borate on the fact that we had met before.


    Noah was hiding many things from me. I felt like all of this was making it hard for me to trust him.


    Noah, you still don''t trust me, do you?"


    He looked like an innocent little boy smiling.


    Because I don''t know. I can''t see your thoughts.


    "I dont see yours, but I believe you. The behavior you have shown so far has made it that way. So if there is something you are hiding from me, I know there must be a reason."


    This was a way of speaking that I had learned to master in my life. Normally, I would be thrilled to say this much and confide in him emphatically, but Noah was different.


    "Well, keep thinking that way.


    I certainly had never done anything to give him faith. I looked at him with embarrassed eyes. Noah stared at me with a rxed face. It was a little cute that his cheek was pushed up by his hand.


    Should we go for a walk? You wanted to see around here.


    I tilted my head at Noah''s suggestion and he chuckled.


    "If we stay longer, its going to be a big problem."


    I quickly read what he was talking about, and tightened my grip on my gown with a troubled expression. What I must do with this man from now on was to build mutual trust. Excessive trust may be poisonous in a lovers'' rtionship, but it would be right to build basic trust.


    However, despite ourmitments, our rtionship of trust was set back many steps when we met Princess Erica in the garden.

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53


    ***


    Noah and I took a quick stroll through the Tempshire Pce and the gardens.


    We went out into the garden, which was called the Rose Garden, but there were no roses, and walked among the frozen maple leaves. Frost had settled on the dry grass and made the entire ground look white. The red winter berries, barely hanging from the dead branches of the trees, looked as clear as if they had color.


    I wore a corset dress and a coat with a cloak. Noah spoke to me, patting me lightly on the back.


    Diana, I know this is inconvenient, but please keep what I just said an absolute secret.


    I understand.


    Noah said what was on my back, it could never be found out. And I shouldnt wear anything with strings in the front, not on the back. Or anything that I could do myself.


    However, I was curious.


    Noah, can you tell me why?"


    Noah saw my curious expression and stopped walking.


    "You''re going to marry me, aren''t you?"


    My head tilted involuntarily at the sudden question. What does my shoulders mark have to do with marriage?


    What? Yes."


    You may not be able to get married permanently. Perhaps you will marry another man. No, that wont happen.


    Noah continued to speak smoothly in a gentle tone.


    I''ll kill that man myself.


    I couldnt get married and there would be even bloodshed because of this scar-like spot? I frowned, caressing my back.


    Ah, it was still a period where people talked about differences in status. In fact, there must be a gap in status in any era, as modern people divide their status by capital differences.


    Is that the kind of situation where I can''t marry someone if they find out about my status difference?


    Noah''s silvershes danced mncholy at my guess. Convinced that he was looking down on me with pity with his eyes downcast, I covered my mouth.


    Was that why the Admiral had treated me like a ve? Was that really the reason Noah couldn''t tell me? I swallowed my breath as I felt like I had the moment when the secret of my hidden birth was revealed.


    "I''m from very?" (Diana)


    No, I would rather you did. Then I can buy you. (Noah)


    Noah, recited low, looked over the road at the gray squirrel running. A fat spotted cat chasing it looked foolishly at the red squirrel, who had quickly fled over a tall tree.


    In this day and age, titles are unimportant. All we need is a lot of high positions, power, and money that affect the national government. But it''s not easy to break the difference. (Noah)


    Difference?"


    Because it''s something that''s been cemented in society''s perception for a long time."


    Because I''m half-Medean and youre Progeny. (Diana)


    As a social custom here, I heard that Medea people value their lineage and prefer to marry people in the same country*. I carefully pointed out that the spot on my back might be a trace of a Medean, and held Noah''s hand.


    (*Just like a Chinese man just wants to marry a Chinese woman, not a woman from another country. Its NOT the blood rted siblings or rtives who had to marry each other. So the Medean royal family wanted their children to marry people who were born in Medea only, NOT from another country. And they DIDNT have incest rtionship but marrying their own familys members like amenter said. I just want to be clear about this A Medean has to marry a Medean part. So dont misunderstand.)


    I don''t care about that. If something like that happens, you can just run away to another country, right?" (Noah)


    Are you sure?"


    At that time, when I ran away, it wasn''t bad, like a romantic trip.


    Yes. But you dont have to run away. I''ll make a ce where we canfortably spend time together and no one will disturb or bother us."


    "You''ll build me a house? With a swing in the yard."


    I said excitedly as I swung Noahs hand. But I didnt know what Noah meant at the time.


    The sky was covered with clouds and clouded with an awful color, and it ended up raining. Raindrops fell and wet the winter grass, trees, and soil in the garden, making it smell like a blessed spring rain.


    Noah took off his coat and quickly put it over my head.


    It''s raining.


    It seems to rain a lot in this town.


    Around the time we entered the hallway together to escape the rain, Noah exined why he did not want toe to Tempshire Pce and why he was not happy.


    "There''s a lot of distractions here. Look over there. We already run into something thats bothering me.


    At the end of the straight, porcin-tiled hallway, a woman, seemingly "Princess Erica," was approaching. The sound of her heels on the porcin floor echoed loudly. Her piercing blue eyes turned to me. I remained bowing out of courtesy.


    I didnt know you woulde with Noah.


    The princess, immersed in paranoia, walked past with her own thoughts. I seized it and corrected it in a calm and high tone.


    Her Majesty''s orders were toe together. She was delighted at the news of our engagement and congratted me heartily. She even offered us a room to share.


    The sound of the Princess'' shoes ceased on the spot. Raising my head, I deliberately showed her the ring on my hand, and Princess Ericas eyes opened wide.


    After discovering the same thing on Noah''s finger, her face contorted ugly and she burst into a fit of rage.


    You have a good ability. The second son of a Duke in Belford (Jeffrey ) and a Duke in Progen (Noah). How can you be so selective and seduce only ducal men?"


    Second son of a duke?


    Wasnt he the Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall? He was already famous in Belford for the affectionate rtionship. I heard you went on a date with him every week.


    Noah, who had been standing still and listening to the Princess words, suddenly had a fierce expression on his face. His horrified eyes were not on me, but on Princess Erica.


    She gave Noah a quick nce with an agile gaze and spoke with strength in her voice with a rxed face, as if she thought she had sessfully made Noah angry by making me a dirty woman.


    I heard that you spent the night with Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall at Count Hunters residence. Youre a very thin-skinned woman.


    A chilling air current drifted through the corridor at the same time as Princess Ericas thorny voice. Noah''s lips closed in a straight line.


    The cold eyes grazed past me and stayed somewhere in the void as if pensive. It hurt where his gaze zed over, even though I didnt do anything wrong.


    I also wondered deeply when I had spent the night with Jeffrey in Belford.


    I remembered that I had lost my way in the deep forest of the Counts vast estate, where I went hunting for foxes. How in the world did Princess Erica know about that?


    The Princess'' eyes lit up with triumph when she saw the look of anguish on my face.


    Its very easy and amusing to demean someone one has hated, and spread false rumors.


    Isnt she awful?"


    Despite Noah''s difort, Erica lifted her chin proudly.


    Noah, this woman followed the Lieutenant Colonel herself, didn''t she? She was happy to spend her time with another man while she was in Belford.


    Noah, with a cold expression on his face, spoke informally, unlike when dealing with the Princess.


    "How do you know that?"


    "You''re so rude to speak informally now. You''re no longer a Duke or anything."


    I asked how you know about that."


    Huh, is that what you want to know?"


    Princess Erica put her hands on her hips, looking as if she had seeded in separating me and Noah.


    Everyone in Belford knows.


    Seeing the Princess who was so upset, Noah let out a cynicalugh.


    How do you know so much about the Lieutenant Colonel of Belford''s personal life?


    "It''s not strange, is it?"


    "Erica.


    Noah called her name in a cold voice.


    It was a name that was not princess, nor was it a designation of you. He had never called her a princess. Princess Ericas face flushed red, not with excitement, but with surprise and embarrassment.


    "You called my name?


    You asked me to call you by name sometime."


    I know, but it''s so sudden ."


    Princess Erica covered her face and avoided eye contact. I was jealous too, so I raised one eyebrow and stared at her.


    Looks like you''re Belfords spy.


    Noah''s voice scattered coldly. The Princess twisted her face in contemtion.


    What are you talking about? I would never do such a thing.


    If thats notmunication with the enemy, then what is it?


    Princess Erica crossed her arms with a brazen look of utter disapproval.


    No, that''s not true. Since I am a Princess, it is easy for me to do someone''s background check. It''s all true, and you''ll know it when you see it.


    Even if it''s true, it doesn''t matter.


    After closing his eyes for a moment, the awakened Noah answered shortly, like a sigh. Suddenly I felt an incredible thirst. My throat was burning and my mouth was parched. I wanted to drink from the many pools of rainwater that had umted in the long corridor''s waterways.


    "Of course it doesn''t matter because youre dating her. But I''m telling you because I think you should know.


    The Princess, under the illusion that it was my fault that Noah had abandoned everything and left his homnd, was still spouting the same old babbling.


    "I''ll do as I please, so don''t get involved in other people''s love affairs. And don''t insult my fiance. If you were someone else, I would have shot you right away. (Noah)


    You wanted to shoot me? However much I like you, there are limits to what I will tolerate. Do you think you are safe with such a statement?" (Erica)


    Do as you please. You''d better watch your mouth from now on. Unless you want to be locked up in a monastery for the rest of your life and die of old age on suspicion of havingmunicated with Belford. (Noah)


    While Princess Ericas anger was rising, Noah warned her in a calm tone. Her lips closed sadly. Noah''s murky blue eyes nced at her and then at me.


    Lets go. (Noah)


    I still have some things to say."


    Just as I was about to exin to the princess that it wasn''t true, Noah''s hand wrapped coldly around my wrist. He whispered softly in my ear.


    "She only listens to what she wants to hear. She may interpret it however she likes and delusionalize another story."


    Was he telling me not to feed the seeds of interest? I nodded in eptance. Princess Ericas pale face looked at me resentfully.


    Unlike the Queen, there was a bluish tinge to herplexion. She seemed to have applied a lot of cosmetics containing white lead and mercury. She was clutching the hem of her purple satin skirt tightly.


    "I''ll be on my way now. Princess."


    I greeted the Princess and was led away by Noah. He held my wrist tightly, not my hand.


    He didn''t say anything as we walked back to our room.


    It was hard to keep up with his fast steps because of the considerable difference in our heights. I was so engrossed in walking like him that before I knew it, I was in my room. Nheless, Noah did not let go of my wrist. His silver-gray hair swayed and he slowly turned around to look at me.


    Noah smiled uneventfully. I looked down at my captured wrist with a nk face. This will leave a bruise, I thought.


    Noah, don''t get me wrong. It''s not like that.


    "What happened with you and the ck Dog?"


    Noah''s face suddenly came close.


    It was a gentle tone, but his cold eyes that looked down at me were too fierce. I asked, struggling to meet his eyes.


    "What''s a ck dog?"


    The Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendall. There is a Progen breed called Grenendall. It is a ck shepherd often used as a military dog.


    I met him every week.


    Yes. I know that. I didn''t know about the other thing.


    It seemed that a nanny at the Admiral''s residence gave him the information. She was a spy for Noah, that was for sure. But Noah did not seem to have heard of what had happened in the hunting ground. No, maybe he knew it, but he was asking to test me.


    I answered honestly with a shrug of my shoulders.


    I think you mean about the time I went fox hunting in the Count''s hunting grounds. I lost my way then, but the Lieutenant Colonel came to my rescue. It was too deep into the night so we stayed there and we finally made it back in the morning."


    I see.


    Noah nodded his head and rxed his lips. I felt a sense of foreignness as he seemed to distort a glimpse of it.


    We didn''t sleep together if thats what youre thinking. He just came to help. I asked him toe see me every week so I could survive from my father."


    I did my best to exin. Noah''s brow gradually unraveled as it narrowed at the "He came to help." He sighed faintly and rubbed the back of his neck.


    "I should have gotten rid of him sooner." (Noah)


    By my standards, there was nothing more wrong than killing.


    Even if he took me away with a desire for honor, he made an effort to protect me after he took me. He was not a bad person." (Diana)


    That''s the problem." (Noah)


    It was a reasonable defense, but it seemed counterproductive. The more I spoke, the angrier he seemed to get, so I shut up and kept quiet. I didnt want to upset an angry man. If I put myself in his position, my mood will be tainted.


    I''ve heard stories of women who risked their lives to infiltrate enemy territory, only to spend the night with men every week.


    I remembered when I followed the Lieutenant Colonel on the day of our engagement ceremony.


    I think Noah was still stuck in the memories and insecurities of that time. That was why he was so nervous and couldn''t trust me. I never once asked him why and it never urred to me.


    "The reason I followed the Lieutenant Colonel was because I thought that you might get hurt by the Belford army who had sneaked into the garden."


    Yes, I understand."


    He still had a tight grip on my wrist. Force was applied. It hurt as it kept unraveling, but I didn''t even pretend to care.


    He grazed his lips over my ear and whispered softly.


    I don''t care if you sleep with another man. It will be that man who dies. Then it won''t mean anything and it won''t be worth worrying about. Right?

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54


    ***


    Noah''s sweet voice, gently winding down, sounded like a kind of threat. My head was cold as I remembered being held in Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Grenendalls arms in front of a dimly lit forest bonfire.


    I didnt sleep with him.


    Yes, Ive been concerned about the Lieutenant Colonel for some time. He''s been quiettely, so I let it go."


    This man wasnt listening to me. He just seemed to be thinking about how to get rid of the Lieutenant Colonel.


    "Are you going to kill him?"


    Noah''s mouth lifted at my question. It was a smile tinged with satisfaction, as if he was refreshed just thinking about it.


    I am the only one who protects the Princess.


    Yes, you are the only one.


    Do you not want to kill the Lieutenant Colonel?"


    He put me at a crossroads of two choices. He wanted to know how I feel about the Lieutenant Colonel. He (Noah) was ready to kill Jeffrey if I tell him (Noah) to do as he pleases.


    But If I tell him (Noah) not to kill, Noah would think Jeffrey meant a lot to me. And he (Noah) would go and kill him right now.


    The more I exined, the harsher the look in his eyes became.


    This man, who was tired of disregarding life because of the long war, was sure to take it as meaning to kill whatever I answered.


    He was a person who was born with such a tendency in an era where words such as "You shouldn''t kill people!" wouldnt work. I put on a piteous expression with the most mncholy voice possible.


    I''d rather discuss what to do on tomorrow''s date than who to kill and let live. I don''t know why we should be conflicted because of Princess Ericas words. If her intentions were something like this, it was a sess."


    Noah''s eyes, which had been pensive and looking elsewhere, slowly turned toward me.


    Her intention?"


    I nodded sadly, though frankly, I was trying to avoid this troubling situation.


    I dont trust her.


    I see.


    Noah slowly released my wrist from his grip. It left a red mark on my white wrist. He didnt know that my wrist hurt. I felt a little sad about that.


    Later, when my heart had cooled down, I was suddenly afraid that this man''s attitude would suddenly turn cold and his eyes would look at me indifferently.


    Even if he believed me now and was convinced, there was no guarantee that his current feelings and heart wouldst forever.


    History had proven that humans would change even if one promised to love and risk their life for someone, or marry someone with a promise of a lifetime.


    If I say goodbye, Noah can be greedy and hold on to me, but I wouldnt do that. Attachment and obsession are also possible only with the right amount of power and money.


    My character does not allow me to hold on to him in a pitiful and cunning way. If I know his heart has cooled, I am willing to leave first before I get hurt more.


    Regardless of trust, I felt depressed at the thought that this was too disadvantageous.


    You think only of my leaving, but that cannot be established. I have no one but you." (Diana)


    I had my anxieties too. In fact, I was the one who had to fear separation.


    Not only was I realistically ced in a much more dire situation, but I also had a vague idea of the path I would have to take with my life. I would be cast unprotected into an annoying hell by people who were eager to kill me.


    There would be limits to what Medea could protect. I made an effort toe up with practical problems to excuse myself, but in fact I came to one conclusion.


    I hade to fear loneliness. Thats right. Because the deeper my heart went, the more I sometimes felt rather anxious and lonely.


    A throbbing pain in the chest was more painful than the wrist. He has already been so deeply involved in my heart that he doesn''t need to be special.


    So I didn''t want to let anyone else into my heart.


    Noah''s breath and fresh scent came closer to my anguished face. His lips, which felt warm, gently pressed mine as if to melt my anxiety.


    The beautiful man who removed his ovepping lips was now facing me.


    I want you. (Noah)


    No one around me?"


    Yes."


    Noah smiled beautifully. That was the uniqueness and "I must be the only one" that he had emphasized so far. Of course it was possible. I didnt like to expand my rtionships either.


    But what if, after it happened, he got satisfied and fed up and left me? He was truly selfish yet kind.


    A normal person would have shown all of this to gain my infinite trust, but I had concluded that I would give him the appropriate distance. Of course, as the opposite sex, I did not try to provoke dangerous provocations that induce jealousy.


    My strategy was based on the assumption that this man was not ordinary. The expressions of likes may be the same, but the meanings he held within them were different. The meaning he conveyed was closer to earnestness and possessiveness.


    A proper sense of insecurity irritates the other person, so appropriate tactics to give him a sense of disappointment may be necessary. My feeling after living for more than twenty years was that you should not satisfy all of the other person''s greed and curiosity.


    Trust is important, but that doesn''t mean that you should give everything you have to them and say, "That person will never leave me." and the moment you be arrogant and have rtionship dominance, you will lose their earnestness and interest. This is especially true the more the other person upies dominance in all aspects of the rtionship.


    So it is outrageous. So keep on being concerned and interested in me, you mischievous man.


    I don''t want that."


    I replied once and for all. Noah''s face tilted at an angle at the word "no." It was a look of iprehension. There was a cold air around him as he smiled.


    You dont want to. (Noah)


    I was about to say, "That look wont work.


    Yes. I know many people who are willing to help me." (Diana)


    Am I not enough?" (Noah)


    Naturally you are the only person I like as the opposite sex, but I also want to make friends. ." (Diana)


    Actually, I didnt need friends, but I deliberately made a sad face. It should look like a firm determination that I needed friends. He changed his strategy and sounded sad and dreary.


    I''ll be all the acquaintances, the helpers, the friends, I''ll do everything with you. I''ll even share a cup of tea with you." (Noah)


    What is he talking about? I was puzzled by the strangepromise, but I tried to calmly exin my cause.


    "Everyone has their own roles, right? I need to have same-sex friends. I can meet my friends, drink tea, and spend time with them while you go to work.


    Noah often went out during the day for business.


    The business was the work he did with the chairman of a dark moneyundering bank, who was Lieutenant Colonels brother (Jace Grenendall). He also seemed to be doing something with his secretary, Vincent Ford, but he wouldn''t tell me, so I don''t know either.


    I would like to get to know thedies here while I am at Medea. (Diana)


    Then I will stay with you all day." (Noah)


    No, you can''t. You have to be rich again, right? Then you can also help me with the social activities." (Diana)


    Noah looked at me with resentful eyes and nodded as if he had no choice. He appealed to me repeatedly and emphatically.


    Dont make them more important than me. (Noah)


    I wont.


    The rain that had been falling all day finally stopped in the evening.


    The beautifully clear sky turned vermilion, and drops of water dripped onto the branches of the tree near the window.


    While we were eating dinner, Noah needed to be the most important. It started with the basic question of who you will save if I''m in danger.


    I thought that if Noah were to fall into danger, he would already have a rescue team in ce, but I gave him the answer he wanted to hear.


    Of course, Ill save you first.


    In fact, I had no intention of actively going out to socialize. It was just a way of showing off, but even with good timing, Baron Mason, who stopped by the detached pce where we were staying on her way home from work, and invited me to the afternoon tea party tomorrow.


    The message was I have to attend as it would be a gathering of the Queen and other upper ss and aristocraticdies.


    I thought you were just saying that to tease me, but it was true. I thought you liked being alone. (Noah)


    (*Earlier in the conversation, Diana was joking that she needed friends to hang out with, and somehow at the exact timing that Baron Mason came to invite her to the tea party. Thats why Noah said he thought Diana said that to tease him but it was really true.)


    Noah looked at me with a look that said how could you do that to me.


    It was really a coincidence.


    The next day, I got up early in the morning and started to prepare to attend the Queen''s tea party that Baron Mason had mentioned. My hair was short so I didn''t have to do anything to it, I didn''t wear much makeup, and I didn''t need the help of a maid either.


    The only problem was that, out of courtesy, I had to wear a corset under my dress, but I did not bring a corset to tighten from the front. But I didnt want to ask the maids to help because I had to keep my body a secret even if I wore a chemise underneath.


    I eventually stopped Noah, who was going to the Chamber of Commerce on the square.


    Noah, can you help me?


    Yes?"


    My cheeks flushed at the handsome face I saw in the morning, but I spoke nonchntly.


    I have to wear a corset, but I only brought something to tie behind my back.


    Yes."


    I put the untied corset over my cotton chemise and stood with my back to him.


    Come here.


    Noah gestured to me toe to the dressing table. For no reason at all, my back felt numb. I bent down and put my hands on the dressing table. Our reflection was reflected in the mirror. My posture was a little embarrassing. Noah''s eyes were downcast as if he was concentrating.


    Should I do it strong?


    What?"


    My voice rose in confusion at the subjectless words. Noah looked unconcerned.


    You don''t need it tight.You have a thin waist.


    Ah, yes.


    Hot breath danced down my neck. It was quite difficult to manage my expression as if I was being tickled softly with a feather.


    Ah!"


    And Noah was strong.


    My body was pulled gingerly by the strong force and I fell onto his chest. He seemed to crush my ribs with just the strength of his arms, it was as if the servants did their best to hold me in ce while stomping their feet on my back. He was much stronger than Molly.


    Noah, who caught me as I fell backwards, gave me an apologetic look.


    Did it hurt?


    I''m fine. I think I broke my ribs a little."


    I tried to be gentle. I''m sorry."


    He loosely rxed and looked at me in the mirror. It felt strangely arousing, and I endured it with my reddened face lowered.


    Noah fastened the corset expertly with his fast hands, then kissed me around my eyes.


    Have a good day. I''ll be back before dinner."


    The beautifully smiling man left the room. I was the only one left, and I couldn''t stop admiring the knot in my corset through the mirror.


    He was quicker than a skilled maid''s, but that didn''t make it any less neat, and it seemed to hang beautifully. He was a man with skillful hands and he was charming.


    "That''s why I can''t help but love.


    I stopped talking. I tapped the dressing table.


    <i>Pull yourself together! If I like him more, I''m done!</i>


    No one ever said it would end, but after living for over 20 years, I have thought about it. It would be the woman who would be unhappy in a rtionship that she loved more. Of course, this was a very subjective point of view, but it was true about 80% of the time.


    It was a human duty to tter him, who was notcking materially and mentally, but the feeling of love was different.


    It was not that I was ungrateful, but the circumstances had brought me into this body where I had nothing and had no luck, so I had no choice.


    Later I''m going to make him buynd full of coal reserves and turn him into a global oil tycoon, so I can be a little more brazen.


    I practiced my social smile a few times as I looked in the mirror and headed for the gardens tea room where the afternoon tea party would be held in time.

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55


    The outdoor tea room in the ss greenhouse had a clear view of the gardenndscape, and women had already arrived, dressed in morous and elegant attire. They were fashionably dressed in fine dresses made of expensive imported fabrics and not-so-over-the-top essories.


    Most were high-ranking aristocrats, a privileged ss included in the high official andndowner hierarchy. I had been briefed in advance through Lenny on their faces and features.


    Fortunately, there was no Princess Erica.


    They greeted me first, with their pitch-ck hair, small, white faces, and fine eyes and noses, just like Medean.


    Hello. Nice to meet you.


    Hello. I am Diana ."


    ire? Parsene? Allen? Why did I have so manyst names? I paused, troubled for a moment, but then opened my mouth again.


    ..Parsene. Call me Diana."


    The women smiled brightly at my brief introduction.


    It seemed to be trapped in a flower garden full of different flowers. My eyes fluttered, unable to adjust to the smell of perfume, powder, and a colorful feast.


    Soon, Queen Grace II, dressed in a light blue dress, entered with her attendants. Baron Mason was also with her.


    As she entered, the Queen looked at me and winked at me, smiling beautifully. Trouble. I didnt know what that wink meant, but it bothered me.


    The Queen sat gracefully in the chair the chambermaid pulled for her and asked me.


    How is life at the pce, Diana?


    Thanks to you, I am having a good time.


    All the women''s eyes turned to me at once. It was a burden. Not liking the attention, I smiled.


    Then a women-only conversation ensued. We talked about husbands, lovers, and about newly arrived luxuries.


    I asionally touched only the teacup awkwardly,ughing as theyughed.


    <i>I want to go home.</i>


    On a table with a pure white tablecloth, a sterling pot with an engraved floral pattern, teacups, and a strainer. I saw an antique, old-fashioned tea set that I used to buy and collect in modern times.


    A three-tier tray held scones, pastries, sandwiches, and choctes. It was a luxurious daily life for those who have it, drinking tea in fancy and expensive tea cups and enjoying leisure.


    "You must be interested in teacups."


    The Queen asked me with interest if I understood that I was looking at the teacups carefully. I nodded slowly.


    "Yes, it''s like Royal Porcin. It''s light, yet solid, and the pattern is delicate."


    "You have a good eye. I''m also interested in teacups. I also like collecting. It''s both a hobby and a leisure."


    It seemed that I had unavoidably formed the same hobby with the Queen.


    So do I. I am d to meet someone with the same interests. Your Majesty and Diana, why don''t youe to the tea party with us? Next time I want to show off my precious teacups."


    An elegant and graceful woman with rich wavy pitch ck hair, a round forehead, a straight nose, and long eyes, intervened in our conversation.


    She had pumpkin-colored eyes and appeared to be in her thirties. She looked like Rosalia  the Marchioness of Wales, wife of the Marquis of Wales, an advisor to the Privy Council and a member of the Senate.


    Very well, Marchioness of Wales. I wonder what kind of teacups you have. I would be happy to prepare some tea to go with it."


    Yes, Your Majesty. It is a beautiful teacup with a golden frame and cherry-red peach blossoms.


    I see, Diana, who is very interested in teacups, will be pleased."


    The sweet women had promised a tea party in the future while including me without asking for my will.


    As soon as the Marchioness finished her words, the otherdies broke in with enthusiastic speeches against the teacups and tes to be invited to the next tea party.


    This was what happened anyway. I didn''t want to get too much in the eye of the Queen and the Marchioness. But it seemed like I had already caught their attention.


    Anyway, your mother is a Medean, right?


    The Marchioness asked in a rxed manner. I nodded, thinking of the words of Noah and Lieutenant Colonel Grenendall, who were convinced that I was of Medea mixed blood.


    ''I am not sure, for I heard that she died as soon as I was born. I''ve never seen her.


    My answer made the faces of the Queen, the Marchioness, and several of the women hardened. I felt a heavy burden.


    You look a lot like someone.


    The Marchioness put down her teacup quietly and smiled at me. I refrained from saying as much as possible and just smiled awkwardly.


    The Queen and some others knew that I was the Admiral''s daughter. Even if Noah and I were in a rtionship, what reason was there to ept the daughter of an enemy soldier so readily, just because she has Medean blood in her veins?


    Medea''s love for her people runs deep. It doesn''t matter where you are from, so please don''t feel too ufortable.


    The Queen spoke in a gentle and firm tone, as if she had read my mind. It was true that in the world where I originally lived, there were mixed people returning to their original homes.


    Yes, thank you. Your Majesty."


    The Marchioness of Wales smiled and looked alternately at the Queen and me.


    "Let''s interact often from now on, Miss Diana. Her Majesty the Queen has taken quite a liking to you."


    Like? Why?


    I am honored."


    I hid my panic and nodded. Only my lips were smiling. The Queen covered her mouth and smiled gracefully as she watched my awkward smile.


    "I think youre still awkward here. How cute."


    Cute  yes, thank you.


    Everyone paid attention to me. They looked at me curiously, kept talking, and smiling. And every time I answered, they would cackle. I wanted to go home so badly.


    When a woman with light green eyesined that her husband presented a Peridot, not a diamond, there was a lot of attention even though she only said a few words quietly.


    "He must have thought of his wife when he saw the jewel. Because the color of your eyes is as beautiful as Peridot. Meaning matters."


    Oh, he feels that way? He couldn''t have"


    Her cheeks med red, and several of the women apuded in agreement.


    How romantic. Diana''s fianc seems very sweet too.


    Thus the subject of Noah, known as my fianc, was brought up. Thedies, still unmarried, enthusiastically joined in the conversation. It was mostly about how to seduce men and how to make them fall head over heels in love with them. I started with my experience in many rtionships and was distracted while conveying a reasonable strategy.


    Some were so impressed with what I had to say that they even tried to make ns with me to meet separately. I was in trouble. The Queen, cookie in hand, turned to the Marchioness and asked.


    "Ma''am, did Young Master Hessiane today too?"


    Yes, he is probably in the garden with Cledd right now. He ising to greet the Queen."


    "It''s a good thing I prepared the dessert that the Young Master likes."


    The Queen smiled a delighted smile as she raised her lips. She even had a glimpse of a flush on her cheeks. Who was this Young Master and why couldnt she hide such a pleased expression?


    While I was alone in my thoughts, a happy atmosphere was formed, and they all fixed their makeup and their dresses. The two-hour tea party, which felt like two years, was finally over.


    As I was dragging my tired body back to my room, I saw a slender man leaning against the wall with his arms folded at the entrance to the hallway. He turned his head toward me, and his hair, now almost back to its original color, swayed as he moved.


    Diana, I''m here to pick you up.


    Noah''s eyes narrowed gently as he looked at me. Women who were about to return to their homes passed by, smiling and greeting us like birds chirping at the sight of us.


    The women looked envious, thinking Noah was being kinding to pick me up, but this man must havee to spy on me. I purposely looked at Noah with sad flounder eyes.


    I havent made any friends yet.


    Joy drifted over Noah''s face at my words, and his lips curved in amusement.


    Thats why I came tofort you.


    I knew it! Iughed inwardly at how strangely happy he was when I didnt make any friends.


    But I did receive an invitation to another tea party. I agreed to meet them separately.


    Well  that''s good.


    "At this rate, I can make a lot of friends, right?


    At my words which I said on purpose, Noah looked openly unhappy. I felt victorious. While we were walking back to our room, Noah told me about a new caf that had opened in the square.


    "Let''s go together next time. The coffee at that ce is fun.


    Isnt it delicious?


    "The waiter there spilled my coffee about three times. It must be a differentiated strategy."


    I think the waiter saw Noahs face and tripped and spilled the coffee. It was so obvious that the scene was painted before my eyes. Because this man was too handsome. This was an objective judgment apart from being his fiance.


    Perhaps this man was bragging to me? I think he saw through my n to make him feel threatened.


    I doubted it in my mind, and about the time I entered the arched hallway that led to the central corridor, I saw a dark-haired boy of about 7 years old running fast this way.


    Contrary to what I thought he would pass me to look for his mother, the child flew like a bird and came hugging my legs.


    Who is it?"


    I trailed off to the words, bewildered by the unexpected embrace of a strange child.


    The child clutched my skirt tightly with his small hands and buried his face sadly. When the boy rubbed his head, static electricity rose and several strands of his hair stood up straight.


    The little shoulders, which hadn''t even stood up a bit, were shaking. A sob escaped from the child who buried his face in my skirt.


    I looked at Noah with panicked eyes and down at the child''s round head. Noah, who had been quietly looking down at the boy, made a serious sound.


    Hey, get away from my fiance. ?


    What on earth is this man saying to a child?


    The child, who was gripping the hem of my skirt and sniffling with tears and snot, raised his head.


    My God, he has ck hair, red eyes, and a very beautiful face that has alreadypleted his good looks. His moist red eyes, full of tears, looked up at me sadly.


    Despite Noah''s warning, the child''s small hands tightly held my skirt. The child buried his face in my skirt again, sniffed and rubbed like a puppy, and slowly raised his head.


    The words the beautiful boy said when he looked at me came out of the blue like the earth cracking in half.

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56


    Tears streamed sadly down from the child''s red ruby eyes. He sobbed and asked me.


    Mother, are you my mother? I have missed you so much."


    The child''s word "Mother" was clearly audible through the sobbing. Seeing the child''s vivid eyes looking directly at me, his words were sincere.


    I was stunned by the shocking words.


    What? Mother? Are you lost?


    My bewildered voice split all over the ce. I stood there and froze like an old tree frozen solid.


    Next to me, Noah looked at the child and me in silence. The child cried woefully and hugged my legs more tightly. The neatness of his fine satin clothes and his clean hands made him look like the son of a noble family. I could smell sweet cookies from his soft hair.


    I felt sorry for the poor little kitten, who cried out sadly as if he had encountered his parents who had been away for a long time, but I was worried.


    If Noah brought up the subject that I spent the night with the Lieutenant Colonel, and now I am a mother added to it, he might end it with me without being able to bargain.


    With a drop in trust that hits bottom, great mistrust piles up, and we might break up!


    I said in a decisive tone while maintaining my calm mind.


    What do you mean? I am not your mother.


    Mother said she would always protect me. That''s why you came back, right?"


    His speech was a little unclear, but for a child, he sounded brisk and still sad.


    Noah approached me with a saintly expression and gently touched my shoulder.


    "I understand. Let''s raise him well together." ?


    He had a given-up expression as if I was beyond his imagination.


    I looked at Noah with bewilderment, then turned my head and squeezed the soft cheek of the child hanging like a ko from my leg.


    How old are you? And what is your mother''s name?"


    Six years old. My mother''s name is Elizabeth.


    You look like seven years old, though. I am Diana, not your mother. Wheres your nanny?


    Yes, you are."


    I said no.


    You came down from the sky secretly, so youre afraid to be caught?"


    There is no such fantasy setting, kid. How could a kid from this world say that? In the middle of the argument, Noah approached and picked up the child.


    "I''m your stepfather. Please take care of me."


    Floating in the air, the child''s red eyes looking at Noah were confused and shocked.


    "No. My father is just too busy to see me. I don''t need a stepfather."


    "You have to ept reality. The world doesn''t go your way."


    Noah''s life advice made the child cry. He cried and pped his arms and legs, but Noah did not let him go.


    He held the child and observed here and there, then smiled mischievously. It was like the smile of a stepfather who was inevitably trying to open his stepson''s heart.


    Hmmm, he''s a lot like you. He has a big voice, so we can let him be a politicianter. Or he can be a physicist, which was my dream.


    How could I have had a six year old kid?


    I took the child from Noah with an absurd look on my face. He was heavier than I expectedpared to Noah''s light hold, so I quickly put him down and asked again.


    What is your name?


    Daniel Jean Hessen. Have you forgotten my name too?"


    The name suggested that he was the son of a very high ranking nobleman. Perhaps of royal blood.


    Ah, you are the son of the Duke of Hessen. You must be the young master.


    Noah chuckled and crouched down, locking eyes with Daniel. Daniel wiped the dewy tears from his eyes and nodded.


    I was a Duke, too. But you wont ept me as your stepdad?


    "I don''t want to. My father is busy, but he is still my father."


    I''ll buy you a car."


    I have a lot of them at home.


    A real car. I can give you a tour of the carpany, what do you think?


    The boys ruby red eyes seemed hesitant. Those words seem to be so powerful that he was having a hard time choosing which father to choose.


    From far away came the sound of tense shoes along with the voice of the Marchioness of Wales.


    Young Master! I was so surprised when you suddenly disappeared!


    The Marchioness looked, alternating between the sniffling Daniel and us as if wondering what happened.


    Well, he kept calling me mother..


    The Marchionesss face sank sadly as I shyly defended myself, as she seemed to think I made an innocent child cry.


    Im sorry. It seemed the Young Master misunderstood."


    Misunderstood?


    Miss Diana looks a lot like the gentle figure of the Duchess of Hessen. I''ve been thinking about it since a moment ago, but I didn''t say who she was."


    Sighing, the Marchioness approached me and whispered quietly.


    The Duchess died of illnessst year. It is a pity for such a young person, only 25 years old. Both the Duke and the Young Master are still struggling."


    I see. It is a pity.


    At present, the Duke of Hessen is in a state of shock and unable to take care of his surroundings, so I have been taking care of the Young Master. From today, I have decided to stay at the pce under the care of Her Majesty. I let him y with my son during the tea party.


    A boy of about 9 years old with a rubber ball rushed over and stood in front of the Marchioness. With the same pumpkin-colored eyes and looked terrified of being scolded, which was no doubt her son.


    Cledd! I told you to take good care of the Young Master! What in the world did the nanny go?"


    "Mother, I''m sorry. She suddenly disappeared while we were ying ball."


    The child, called Cledd, stared down, a look of regret on his face. Daniel approached the Marchioness and took her hand, looking up at her with moist, watery eyes.


    It''s my fault. Don''t be angry with brother and nanny.


    Oh, our kind-hearted master. This Lady is not the Duchess. Did you miss her very much?


    Yes, I miss her very much. I haven''t been able to see her since mother became ill. I couldn''t even see her off before she went to the sky.


    Daniel''s lips were shaking as he barely swallowed back his tears, and he covered his eyes with his sleeve and began to cry. I felt sorry for the child who lost his mother at such a young age.


    I too miss the Duchess. She was a kind and good person.


    The Marchioness eyes were also red hot as she hugged the little master.


    I thought my mother hade to see me."


    Under the child''s wet eyshes, red eyes turned to me. The pouty mouth and puffy cheeks were quite cute. He looked like a rabbit now. I smiled sweetly and made eye contact with him.


    Do we look alike?


    Isn''t it true?"


    I''m sorry, but no. We have different names and ages.


    Daniel rubbed the back of his head in disbelief.


    We have to go and greet the Queen, Young Master. She had prepared a cake that you like.


    The Marchioness of Wales said soothingly and hugged Daniel lightly. Mothers raising their children are very strong. Amazing.


    Daniel kept his face buried in her chest and did not raise his head. The Marchioness greeted us lightly and left busily holding the hand of her son named Cledd.


    Themotion was over, Noah and I stood still and watched them disappear. I wondered, so I asked in a cautious voice to Noah.


    "You know hes not right?"


    "I know. Its an unbelievable resemnce.


    Is he rted to me? Apparently, the Admiral and Celine are not my family. They don''t look like me at all. I''m sure they picked me up somewhere."


    "The Duchess of Hessen is from the Grand Duchy of Yorkshire. She is rted to the Queen."


    Then there is no possibility that shes rted to me.


    Noah chuckled at my words.


    I remembered the red, wet eyes of the child who had cried so sadly because he missed his mother. Bitterness drifted into my mouth as I realized that I had never missed my deceased parents.


    I had no good memories of them, so I never missed them because they never loved me.


    ***


    It was a beautiful Saturday morning. I normally got up around noon, so I didnt need to know what the weather was like. It was normal.


    Early in the morning on the weekend, a royal maid knocked on my door and woke me from my sweet sleep. Noah, who was in the military, woke up early and was just reading the newspaper after washing up.


    I waszy and had yet to get out of bed. Noah, who had talked to the maid in the guest room, came back into the bedroom and gently shook me under the covers.


    "Wake up, princess. The spoiled brat is here again.


    what?


    The Young Master Hessen.


    It seemed that Daniel had not given up and visited me again.


    I got up, brushed my teeth, washed my face with cold water, brushed my hair appropriately, and changed my clothes. I put a cashmere shawl over my shoulders and walked to the guest room.


    The Young Master, who looked like a little gentleman in a children''s suit with his hair swept back, sat upright on the sofa and looked up at me.


    "How may I help you? Young Master.


    I smiled grimly with my unawakened eyes. Daniel stood up from the sofa and took an escorting position.


    There is a ce I want to go with you today.


    Where?"


    I nned to stay in my room doing nothing today.


    I want to go to the square with me. We can go to the park together and have dinner. I''ll treat you."


    Noah, who was standing behind the sofa, raised his eyebrows at Daniel''s words.


    Are you asking her out on a date? No one, not even a child, is allowed to do that.


    Daniel pretended not to hear Noah''s objection and waited for my response. I looked puzzled.


    "I must tell you again, Young Master, I am not the Duchess. I am apletely different person."


    "I already know. What if I still want to go with you? I am asking for a date."


    I didnt know what kind of psychology it was, but he was simr to Noah. The way they insisted until I gave in. The boy was mischievous too. Noah shook his head and folded his arms.


    "You''re asking ady for a date the wrong way, Young Master Hessen. (Noah)


    "How do you do it?" (Daniel)


    "You don''t ask ady who has a fianc for a date. This is basic." (Noah)


    "Shes not married yet." (Daniel)


    Im taking her out for dinner today. (Noah)


    Daniel''s small lips pouted, as if he thought Noah was the wrong person to start an argument with in the first ce.


    Then let''s decide by duel. I read in a book that you have to do what the winner says. If I win, you will cancel the marriage today. And you have to buy me a car. (Daniel)


    "Okay, how do you want me to deal with you? I''m not going to let you off the hook, so try your best. The one who cries first loses. (Noah)


    Why are they suddenly fighting over me?


    This was a funny situation where two men, almost 20 years apart, were arguing. Was it hard for an adult to lose a little?


    Stop!"


    I immediately intervened between the two men and began to mediate. Noah might be angry and make the boy cry, and express his unpleasantness to the Duke of Hessen.


    Shall the three of us go together then?"


    Daniel shook his head at my suggestion.


    "I don''t want to go with him. He is too rude."


    I don''t like you either. I will only buy a car for the eldest son of the Marchioness of Wales. With a condition that hell never give you a ride. (Noah)


    Brother Credd will give me a ride too. He is kind." (Daniel)


    I feel my brain regressing at the childish bickering between the two men.


    I felt sorry that I could not refuse the young one''s request. In fact, I had a weakness for cute things. With my forehead on the edge of a headache, I approached Daniel, who was finally on the verge of tears, and quietly asked.


    Let the three of us go. I''m going to teach that rude man what gentlemanliness and manners are. What do you think?


    Ill do it. It will teach him exactly what the gentlemanliness of a Hessen man is."


    The little boy looked grim. What is it? He''s a little cute. I got a cute sub boy? I giggled and looked at Noah.


    "Let''s go together, Noah. What do you think?"


    "I don''t want to."


    "Then I''ll go with the Young Master.


    "No. Why dont you choose me?


    Noah, who asked how I could do that to him, picked up his coat with an expression of helplessness. He was dissatisfied, but he was willing to go with me.


    Young Master, would you please wait in the reception room? I will get ready quickly ande out.


    I will wait for you, so take your time. Diana.


    Daniel sat down neatly on the sofa and smiled quite maturely. After quickly getting ready, I headed to the square for a strange date with two men.


    ***


    *??? Noah finally met his opponent.

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57


    ***


    "Your Majesty, the United Kingdom of Medea has informed us that it is not possible to provide any more troops because of the high number of casualties on the North Front. I think it''s a sign that Medea is going to break up the alliance with us and the Western Union."


    Sitting on a morous sofa in the Imperial Pce Conference Hall, the Progen emperor, Meyer III, smiled as he stroked his chin at the foreign minister''s words.


    Previously, the Progen Empire, the United Kingdom of Medea, and the Duchy of Julius had formed a coalition alliance in terms of offering their advantages and cooperation. The allies of the three countries had also joined the war, sending troops and supporting supplies as allied forces.


    "This is what I had expected since they didn''t respond to my order for the wanted traitor." (*wanted traitor= Noah)


    The emperor, who was speaking, put down the crystal ss filled with brandy. The Brigadier General of the Operational Staff present at the meeting coughed several times before continuing his words.


    Now that the Queen has covered Noah Rothsilde, it is safe to assume that she has turned her back on Progen.


    She must think that young man got something great. Because all the ns and secrets of this ce must have been leaked by Noah Rothsilde, who betrayed his mothend."


    The emperor sneered boldly. The Brigadier general pointed to a map on the wall and began to exin.


    Currently, we are seeing Belford''s attempts to embrace the surrounding federal states and neutrals. The main focus is on the states that have broken the peace agreement with Plogen.


    It''s all because Mark Rothsilde did something useless. It was a ce to conquer anyway but he wanted a peace treaty.


    Emperor Meyer expressed his displeasure, recalling Noah''s grandfather, former Prime Minister Mark Rothsilde, who also served as chancellor of the empire, once used his superior international diplomatic skills to forge numerous alliances, treaties, and negotiated rtionships that resulted in peace agreements.


    His sessful alliances with powerful countries p, including Medea, wereter regarded as a historic achievement that united the Progen Empire.


    After his ession to the throne, however, Meyer III began his relentless ousting, removing and leaving behind many of the ministers and militarymanders who had spoken of peace. Peace was the most unhelpful element in his militaristic politics, a policy centered on force and subjugation.


    Marks son, former agent Noel Rothsilde (Noahs father), also had a history of secretly hiding and sending the remaining Esatians who opposed his genocidal policies to the Medea territory, the Cynthia Empire.


    The emperor, who was reminiscing, let out an unpleasant "tsk". Crown Prince Sebastian, who had been sitting quietly in the hall, cautiously opened his mouth. Although he did not express it outwardly, he had great respect for Noel Rothsilde.


    Your Majesty, it was an attempt to prevent the whole world against us, Progen, and I think it was for the good of the country. A powerful empire broke internationalw andmitted genocide against a weak national tribe.."


    The emperor''s face contorted viciously and a loud, angry shout erupted.


    Shut up, you ipetent! You are still as short thinking as ever. If you are overwhelmed with strong military might and force, any action you take will be reced by awe and authority. Helplessness and meekness are the reasons for being dominated. Irrationality is another word for truth."


    The emperor considered the crown prince useless because he was weak.


    The war between the two empires had now reached a lull in which a favorable armistice could be negotiated, and Meyer III had the far-reaching goal of acquiring the Beria Penins, upying the continent of Guiana, and rising to the top of the world.


    The madness of the war madman, who could not forget the pleasure of victory achieved with blood and iron, despite the fact that he had already exhausted much of his national strength, was something that could not be stopped.


    If things continue as they are, it is highly likely that all the countries in the order of their neutrality will turn against us.


    The emperor, roused, rose to his feet and struck the Crown Prince on the face. The ministers and generals in the conference hall all went silent in unison. There was a chill in the room.


    The angry emperor''s eyes were bloodshot.


    Are you against your father''s words? I don''t need the opinions of those ipetents who have failed to achieve any aplishments or results.


    The Crown Prince patted his swollen cheek, recalling the words of the former Duke of Noel Rothsilde, which he had heard as a child.


    <b><i>Crown Prince. It is up to you to decide whether you will remain a war criminal or be a great man who has achieved peace. Isn''t it a little horrifying that our children will have to live in a war-tainted world for the rest of their lives? When you have children, you will understand."</i></b>


    Sebastian didn''t know it at the time, but as an adult, after he married, and when the Crown Princess became pregnant, it was when the Dukes words were more deeply felt. A deep crease on the brow of Emperor Meyer as he gazed at his own son.


    Rather, if Noah Rothsilde had been his son, he would have taken Beria Penins long ago. Noah was his favorite of all the Rothsildes.


    Thinking of Noah, whom he had thought a perfect leader with hispetence and emotionlessness, the emperor, who had an unpleasant expression on his face, opened his mouth again.


    Keep in mind that all of this is a fine diplomatic move.


    Its ruthless violence, it is nothing but a crime.


    I am administering that violence appropriately. Only a world that works under the leadership of a powerful nation that shows off its strength is the way to achieveplete peace."


    .


    "The Emperor''s will is the will of the Empire, and Im sure the Crown Prince will understand in the future."


    One of the ministers agreed with the emperor''s words and the Crown Prince''s face turned white.


    <i>What should I do, General Rothsilde? My father went mad with war and even took advantage of your death. Everyone in Progen has gone crazy.</i>


    After the emperor faked the murder of the Duke and Duchess of Rothsilde as an ident, he dered war using their deaths, iming that it was the work of Belford''s federal kingdom of Elvia.


    The Belford issued a general mobilization decree to help the kingdom, while Progen issued a notification that they intended to regard this as a war between two empires. The couple''s deaths became the catalyst for a world war that has continued to this day.


    The emperor smiled happily as he sat down again, leaning backfortably on the sofa.


    Let the war nning begin. Our next opponent will be Medea. We will have to rest for a while for that. I will ept negotiations with Belford up to paragraph 5 so that we can reach a cease-fire agreement.


    At 7:00 a.m. on February 23, Belford and Progen, the two empires entered into a truce.


    ***


    Logan Field Square, where I went with two men, was in a festive mood.


    The streets were filled with people and gs and a city marchmemorating the victory of the Western Alliance Confederates and the cease-fire.


    Colorful confetti scattered about as the military band''s marching music echoed joyously. Fashionably dressed men and women across the square''srge fountain, soldiers in military uniforms danced with thedies.


    Lady, would you like to dance?


    Daniel bowed toward me and escorted me like a gentleman. Of course Noah would not remain silent.


    Diana has decided to dance only with me. It''s a non-aggression pact that no one can vite."


    Theres no such thing as that.


    Here we go.


    I was already tired of their fierce battle. I was left with a nk look on my face, sandwiched between the two men, my hands clutched in their hands.


    We should just hold hands like this and dance together, the three of us.


    The two men nced at each other, ufortable at my nonchnt suggestion. A big cat and a kitten seemed to be facing each other and growling.


    Oh my, you look like a married couple. Your little boy is really cute."


    A middle-aged woman who was selling white flowers approached and smiled as she looked at Daniel. She looked kind, with a hood on her head and an apron. She handed Daniel a basket of flowers.


    Boy, your mother will be pleased if you give them to her.


    How much are they?"


    Ill just give them to you. It''s a good day.


    I quickly waved my hand and pulled out my coin purse.


    No, I will pay the price."


    "Because it made me think of the old days. When my husband, who was a soldier, was alive, he went out like this with our son. I give it to you because I feel happy that the war is finally over."


    I felt sad to see the sad smile on the woman''s face. It was not the end of the war with a peace agreement, but an armistice. This was just a brief moment of peace.


    If the history that flows is simr to the world I lived in, we will not see the end of this war until the next generation.


    Thank you."


    A woman with a basket full of flowers smiled kindly at Daniel''s cute greeting and got up from her seat. Daniel, who had offered the flowers to me, has a reddened, embarrassed look on his face. The way his nose wrinkled when he smiled was beautiful.


    Please take it.


    Why is he so cute? I can smile like a beaming mother, even though I don''t like children very much.


    Thank you, Young Master.


    Daniel was embarrassed as he rubbed his pitch ck hair. Noah opened his eyes wide when he saw me kiss Daniels red cheek.


    He quickly approached the woman selling flowers and seemed to be talking about something, but then handed her money and brought the basket of flowers from her.


    Noah, who was looking at Daniel with a look of triumph, handed the basket of flowers to me and chuckled.


    Hurry up and do it to me, too.


    This is too much! Thank you. But, why are you so fast?"


    He gave me an expectant look and pointed to his cheek with his finger. Does he want me to kiss him?


    Kiss me as many flowers as I gave you.


    I don''t even know how many there were. Noah nodded his head in satisfaction as I lightly kissed him on the lips instead of his cheek.


    That should do it for the units.


    Noah gave Daniel a "you can''t beat me, little boy" look, and Daniel snorted snidely.


    We made our way to a restaurant in the center of the za. Daniel, even at his young age, not only ate alone, but his dining manners were impable.


    He used the cutlery in the correct order and wrapped his napkin neatly around himself. The way he tapped on the ss with a spoon to call the employees showed that he was a noble young master.


    Give me a ss of warm milk. One sugar cube, please."


    It was an educated and polite tone. I thought he was a wonder child, both mature and childlike.


    I asked Daniel.


    "Young Master, did you ask me out on a date because I look like the Duchess?"


    "I have long vowed to marry someone like my mother. Diana is the most beautiful person in the world because my mother is no longer in this world."


    He was only 6 years old now so when did he make that vow? And I was just amazed at how he could make such a goodment.


    Noah, holding his wine ss, said with a grim look on his face.


    Youre toote. Shes already engaged to me.


    "You don''t know until you walk down the aisle.


    "Where did you learn to say that? Kids these days don''t know.


    While I thought Noah''s childhood was even worse than that one, he continued.


    We were promised to marry before she was born."


    "Before she was born?"


    "Yes. I got Diana before she was born. So give it up like a man."


    Daniel bit his lips.


    "I''m confident I can do better than that. I will give you flowers and kiss you every day."


    Diana already likes me. Also, she has to wait 10 years to marry you, isn''t it too much? Listen to me if you want a car."


    I couldnt believe he would try to capitalize on a six year old child. I was taken aback, as if he were trying to force me to leave him while handing me a check.


    Then, lets be friends, Diana.


    What? Did he give up on me right away because Noah said he would give him a car? It was a little disappointing that he changed his mind so easily.


    I asked, pretending to be sad, as six-year-old Daniel smiled sadly at the material temptation.


    Oh, Young Master. Did you give up on me because of the car?


    "No, not at all! Lets start with being friends.


    Hahaha, just kidding. That''s fine."


    Be friends with me, Diana."


    Noah, elbows on the table, interlocked our fingers, looked displeased. Daniel and Noah looked at each other silently, exchanging a piquant nce.


    "Brother, it''s okay to have a friend, right?"


    "Brother what, I''m 24 years old. Theres not much age difference with your father."


    My father does not speak rudely like brother.


    They were still bickering.


    When we entered the caf Noah had mentioned earlier, the female employee really broke all the serving cups as soon as she saw us.


    The employee mumbled with a disappointed look on her face, then put away the broken cups and quickly brought the new ones.


    Daniel, who was sipping warm milk tea, held my finger and gave me a gentle rabbit-like expression.


    I think I''ll stay at the Tempshire Pce for a while. My father is stopping by the pce next week."


    He stopped speaking and lowered his head sadly.


    My father hasn''t wanted to see me since my mother died. He seems to hate me. When hees next week, I''ll try to sneak a look at him.


    "That can''t be true. How can he hate you when you are so kind and gentle? He will be pleased to see you."


    Daniel''s long eyshes raised my words. A wistful glint in his red eyes, a look that at the age of six already knew sorrow.


    I will take you to see the Duke of Hessen."


    For some reason, Noah, Daniel''s rival, willingly offered to help Daniel.

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58


    How? Are you going to make it up to me?"


    There was a hint of tion in the young boys voice, but there was also one twinge of doubt. He seemed very surprised as Noah, who had been fighting with him, offered to help him meet his father.


    Of course I was surprised too. Noah too had experienced the loss of his parents as a child, so I wonder if he empathized with Daniel.


    Noah nodded his head with his lips curled up. He rubbed the tip of his chin as if he hade up with a good idea.


    I will let you do whatever you want, be it reconciliation or negotiation. I hope the Duke of Hessen will take you away as soon as possible. Youre too much trouble.


    I knew it.


    There was no way that indifferent man would help someone so casually. Daniel bit his little lip and stared. It was childishly cute as he bit his lower lip gingerly, but I know I shouldnt do that, as it was clearly an action out of grief at being turned away.


    .. father is busy. There is no way he would take me."


    Noah gently lifted his eyebrows.


    Little Hessen. The important people don''t make time to see you, you make time to see them. Myte mother told me that."


    Is brother''s mother in heaven too?


    No, she is in the cemetery ording to the funeral arrangements."


    My mother is in heaven too! Maybe the three of them are looking down on us together."


    I hurt interrupted Noah''s childishly destructive remark. Daniel''s bright red, ruby-like eyes opened wide and headed toward Noah, then immediately shook like a wave.


    When you were young?


    Yes, my parents went to the sky when I was young.


    Oh. I''m sorry I spoiled it for you by saying I''m the only one having a hard time."


    "You''re still a child, I''ll tolerate that much."


    Noah, who had been pinched by me, pretended to be unconcerned and replied with a wave of his hand. Daniel, who was rubbing his eyes with his sleeve, looked at us as if he felt sorry for us instead.


    "Brother and Diana have missed your parents and grieved longer than I have."


    He can see it that way from a child''s point of view. Usually we think that the passage of time clouds our vision, and we live our lives pretending that the years have pushed us to forget.


    Grown-ups don''t cry. I didn''t cry when I was your age either."


    Noah put his coffee cup down quietly, took out a handkerchief and rubbed Daniel''s face messily.


    He looked ufortable for a moment as he looked at the handkerchief, as Daniel blew his nose into it. Then he picked it up with two fingers and ced it appropriately on the table. Daniel asked, touching his red eyes with his fingers.


    How can I not cry? My father doesn''t like it because I cry often. But whenever I think about my mother, I keep crying.


    Just cry, it''s normal. You should have seen it right after birth, all babies do is cry.


    This man can''t he please speak at the child''s level? But despite the directness of Noah''s expression, Daniel deeply understood.


    I see. Then I''ll meet with him and ask him."


    Yes. I will contact the Duke of Hesse in advance, and if he says he will not meet with you, make sure you respond strongly that you will live with your stepfather.


    Does that make me a stepmother?"


    Noahughed at my yful question with a strange suspicion.


    "Yes. Wouldn''t you rather be that way, since it would radically block the possibility of you and the young master getting married? And hes smart, so whatever. We won''t have to worry about our old age."


    He seemed to be looking too far into the future, and I just smiled.


    I only have one mother and one father. I found out the day after I met Diana."


    Daniel gave an outrageous look as he stared at Noah. Noah was silent for a moment, then turned his head away and looked at me, speaking in a hushed tone.


    Diana, it seems that our n to gain Duke Hessens property has been discovered.


    (*Noah is making a joke because he said he would be Daniels stepdad and Dianas is Deniels stepmother so it means they can take over the property, which is a joke. And Daniel said he only has one mother and one father, who were his biological parents).


    Daniel is looking at us with his mouth closed and his eyes wide open.


    "Hes always been such a good joker.. Don''t mind him, Young Master.


    I did my best to make an excuse for Noah.


    ***


    The weather continued to be rainy, as was typical in Medea. Although we were approaching the season when the chill had retreated and the fragrance of spring was thinly seeping into the air.


    This was one of the Hessen ducal residences, an outlying area bordering the Great Forest of Estoria, a constituent of Medea. After the death of his wife, Duke Jean Hessen shut himself away from the capital and retreated into seclusion in his mansion in the suburbs.


    He had hair as ck as ebony, as was typical of the descendants of the great Medea nobility.


    He was a handsome man who was courted by many women in his unmarried days. Requests for remarriage were still pouring in, but he refused all of them because he could not forget histe wife.


    The Duke''s face was hard and cold, like a man who lived without any hope in the world.


    His eyes darkened under the loss and looked exhausted, but the women considered this was the charm of a wounded man.


    The butler approached the duke, who was sitting on the sofa in his study, which was dimly lit, and handed him a letter.


    A look of agitation came over the Dukes expressionless face as he cut the sealing wax with a paper knife and opened the letter. His red eyes repeatedly scanned the short sentence, written in a beautiful script, from side to side.


    <If you have a child, take responsibility for him. -Noah Rothsilde.>


    The Duke of Hessen tilted his head at the brief letter, which Noah had written as if he were a parent after a one-night ident.


    ''What does this mean, that I am to take responsibility for the child?


    He asked the butler who had given him the letter, and the butler put his hand over his mouth and coughed.


    ''I think it means that you shoulde and see the young master.


    What has that got to do with the Duke of Rothsilde?


    He is no longer a Duke of Progen. He is now a Count by Medea title.


    Did he lose his title? Did he have another ident? Did he gamble with his title?


    The Duke of Hessen did not even know that Noah had fled to Medea, because ever since he lost his wife he did not have time to keep an eye on the outside world.


    Treason.


    A groundbreaking madman indeed.


    The Duke was not particrly surprised.


    I hear that the young master is very much in ordance with Count Rothsildes lover, and that they are staying together at the Tempshire Pce at the moment. So he has sent you a letter."


    Daniel followed her? What kind of woman is she?


    That


    The older butler lowered the hand he had brought to his mouth, gathered it meekly, and hesitated.


    She looks a lot like thete Duchess.


    Elizabeth?


    The Duke of Hessens eyes grew wide. Elizabeth was the only daughter of the Grand Duke of Yorkshire, so the woman (Diana) could not be her sister.


    Elizabeth was somewhat simr in personality and facial features to her rtive, the Queen of Medea, but she didnt have any other rtives who looked like her.


    The young master would love to see you the next time you visit the Tempshire Pce"


    The Duke of Hessens brow dug deep as the butler effortlessly cut in. He couldn''t even care for his young sons life after the death of his wife, drinking all day every day, plus his heart ached every time he saw his son, who looked so much like his wife that he could never bring himself to see him.


    I promised I would take good care of him. I just don''t have the confidence to see my son."


    He is only six years old. He is still old enough to need his parents'' care.


    After the butler courteously reminded him, the Duke of Hessen raised his head and leaned back on the sofa to look at the ceiling.


    His head rang again as he remembered his wife smiling brightly as she held Daniel in her arms, and his de-like headache hit him like a pitch-ck nightmare.


    <i>Eli, I</i>


    I don''t know how to live without you. The Duke of Hessen, who had recited in his mind like a monologue, covered his eyes in agony.


    ***


    It was the day of the Duke of Hessens visit to Tempshire Pce.


    Outside the window, a blessed rain fell like nectar with hints of spring, wetting the trees and the ground in the garden. Daniel came to visit us in our room, dressed in a fashionable suit and looking like a gentleman with his hair swept up.


    He seemed nervous because he was about to meet the Duke of Hessen. I overslept again and greeted him with swollen eyes.


    I haven''t seen my father in a long time. So I practiced not crying the whole time."


    I didnt know what Noah wrote to the Duke, but he responded that he would see Daniel on his way to visit the Tempshire Pce.


    When I got dressed and went out to the parlor, I saw the two men, Noah and Daniel, sitting close together on the parlor couch. The two men were talking with serious expressions on their faces, as if they had something important to say to each other.


    I can y the violin.


    I can y the violin, too. I can also y the piano. It is essential for an educated man.


    Please teach me the piano, too.


    I don''t want to.


    "Why are you so disagreeable, brother?"


    They seemed to have unexpectedly good chemistry even though they were arguing.


    Diana, you wear a pink dress. It''s beautiful."


    Daniel, who had found me standing in a daze, eavesdropping on their conversation, approached me with a bright face and hugged me.


    I was embarrassed for no reason and patted the cute young master twice on the back. In the future, whoever woman, who would take care of this delicate and beautiful little boy was very blessed.


    No, she is beautiful no matter what she wears."


    The beautiful man corrected Daniels words while tousling his silver-white hair. I smiled. Is this how you feel looking at a ck kitten and a big white cat?


    Daniel squeezed my hand nervously. The chubby cheeks raised as he asked again.


    Does my father like me?


    Of course he does. Duke Hessen must have been heartbroken.


    Daniel seemed a little relieved at my answer. As I lowered my head he gave me a kiss on the cheek. Noah looked at me with a disgruntled look on his face and a lifted eyebrow.


    I''ll be off then.


    The pretty boyughed.


    Shortly after Daniel went to see the Duke of Hessen, I thought it was quite warm and suggested a walk to Noah.


    As we walked out of the room together and along the white birch path that lined the perimeter of the pond in the outer garden, I saw Daniel walking alongside a tall, well-built man.


    Noah tugged on my hand lightly.


    He must be the Duke of Hessen. I don''t want to say hello, so well pretend we didn''t see him and go the other way.


    That man was the Duke of Hessen. He too had eyes like Daniel. The ck hair and eyes were the same, but the appearance was not so simr. Unlike Daniels pretty appearance, he was a beautiful man with a tough impression.


    Despite Noah''s wish not to be seen, Daniel waved his hand toward us first.


    The Duke of Hessens red eyes grazed me for a moment and froze as it was. His fingers were white as he clenched his fist.


    It was probably because I resembled the dead duchess. I smiled awkwardly and bowed to him. The Duke looked at me and bowed, then looked alternately at Noah and me.


    Father, father, this is Diana.


    Daniel introduced me in a buoyant voice.


    The Duke of Hessen appeared to smile thinly at his son, but somehow I felt a wall between them. He looked apologetic as he stared at me.


    Its a pleasure to meet you, Miss Parsene. I heard that you took good care of Daniel. Im sorry for the rudeness.


    No, Duke. I rather enjoy it because the young master is very kind and gentle."


    You know him well. Hes too much trouble, so take him home with you quickly.


    Noah, who was standing with his arms folded, interrupted, and the Duke of Hessen replied with a nk expression.


    You are still the same.


    Did the two of you know each other?"


    Yes.


    Noah nodded at my question, and Duke Hessen smiled.


    We have known each other since we were very young. Our fathers were close to each other."


    But we were not close.


    Werent we close? You even broke my arm with a wooden sword. It still hurts when it rains.


    Duke Hessen red at Noah. I didnt think they were close either. Daniel, standing alongside the Duke, lowered his gaze and looked only at his shoes. Noah brought up the subject directly.


    "Why didn''t you want to meet your son? Did you get sick of it now?"


    He got straight to the point without an introduction. The Duke of Hessen sighed shallowly, touching his forehead.


    No, it''s because my wife is dead and I can''t evenpose myself.


    Little Hessen. Your father doesn''t hate you. We solved it, didn''t we?"


    Noah looked at Daniel and looked refreshed as if he had solved his problem coolly. I suggested it to the rich man who looked very awkward.


    Why don''t you and the young master go to the za today and have dinner and spend some time together?


    I will try to do that. Is that okay, Daniel?"


    Yes, that''s great."


    Daniel''s expression finally rxed. His mouth rose prettily and his shoulders, which had been hanging limp, soared. The Duke of Hessen nced at my hand and Noahs, and congratted us.


    I have heard that you have promised to marry. I congratte you in advance."


    Yes, thank you. I will send you an invitation before the wedding.


    I wille if I can.


    The Duke looked friendly and took Daniel''s hand first.


    Now if you''ll excuse me.


    The Duke bowed lightly, and I also bowed to him. Noah still kept his arms crossed and his chin up.


    Now take him home with you, wont you?


    "Next time. I''m behind with work right now.


    The Duke of Hessen replied indifferently. Daniel, who was still holding his fathers hand tightly, looked at me and smiled calmly.


    The eyes of the seemingly awkward Duke grazed me a bit and turned back. The look in his eyes as we passed each other was filled with an unspoken feeling of mncholy. Noah stared at the back of the Duke and Daniel. There was something very grim about his face.


    I think I made a mistake."


    He mumbled to iprehensible words himself.


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